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HCI - produce the perfect user interface
The Bachelor of Technology in Computer Systems degree is designed to increase the breadth and depth of knowledge and practical skills of computer professionals, assisting them in widening their job opportunities or advancing along their career paths. Graduates are awarded a credential that is highly valued by the industry.
The Bachelor of Technology degree in Computer Systems has two components. The technical component is made up of 48.0 credits of coursework and major projects. This includes core courses, specialty courses (depth in a specific area), technical electives (breadth in additional areas), and management electives. The major projects allow the student to apply specialty knowledge in a real-life project, study, or applied research project. The second component consists of 12.0 credits of Liberal Studies coursework.
The Bachelor of Technology in Computer Systems is offered in a flexible delivery format to serve the needs of working professionals. Candidates can take course loads ranging from a minimum of three courses per year to an equivalent of a full-time program of studies. Most courses are offered in the evening or on weekends. Some are offered online through Web-based courses or during the day (depending on demand). Applicants can apply to the program at any time through the year.
The Bachelor of Technology in Computer Systems is also offered in a full-time format.
program entry
Entrance requirements
The entrance requirements for the Bachelor of Technology in Computer Systems are:
** Equivalence will be determined based upon assessment of the student's academic background by the assistant program head or program head. All required bridging courses are offered through Part-time Studies at BCIT.
BC provincial exams
For programs beginning in August 2007 or later which require Grade 12 Math and Science courses, BCIT will not require the applicant to write the provincial exam. Provincial exam marks will still be required for English 12, Communications 12, and Technical and Professional Communications 12.
Apply to program
Potential BTech students who are not CST or CIT Diploma graduates should complete a pre-entry evaluation prior to submitting an application. To complete the pre-entry evaluation, please contact the Program Assistant at cstbtech@bcit.ca.
The outcome of this evaluation will indicate which, if any, pre-entry courses are needed to achieve equivalence to the BCIT CST/CIT diploma core. An official list of required pre-entry courses will be sent to you once your information is assessed. All required pre-entry courses must be completed prior to applying for formal admission to the BTech program.
Please review the BTech Computer Systems Admissions Procedures [PDF, 37 KB].
The pre-entry evaluation does NOT apply to BCIT CST/CIT Diploma holders. BCIT CST/CIT Diploma graduates should apply directly to BCIT Admissions, online or by mailing an Application for Admission [PDF, 261 KB].
Application processing
Ongoing throughout the year.
courses
Click here for a list of the Management Electives.
Program matrix
| 1. Core Courses (9.0 credits) |
Credits |
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COMP 7036 |
Applied Research Methods in Software Development
Introduces principles and procedures of standard research methodologies in the context of software development and includes the relationship between software development and fields such as MIS, systems analysis and design, data processing, knowledge engineering, and decision theory; theories, paradigms and frameworks in software development; the role and importance of models, theories and conceptual frameworks; (prescriptive and descriptive models; scientific tradition; inference; deductive, inductive and abductive reasoning), traditional empirical research methods survey, experiment, case study and implementation (generate and test); measurement and evaluation, reliability, validity; literature exploration and criticism.
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3.0 |
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COMP 7081 |
Technical Issues in Software Development
This course presents critical technical methods for software development. The course is oriented towards the industry practitioner with examples drawn from industry experience.
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3.0 |
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COMP 8081 |
Management Issues in Software Engineering
Presents topics important to managing software development projects. Concentrates on understanding and applying state-of-the-art management techniques, to improve software productivity. Emphasizes management issues- project leadership, communication, critical thinking and problem solving skills. Please note that COMP 8081 is offered only twice a year in January and September. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 7081
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3.0 |
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| 2. Specialty Courses (9.0 credits) |
Credits |
| Human Computer Interface |
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COMP 7021 |
Graphics in User Interface Design
This course covers a number of User Interface Design areas. These, drawn from a number of disciplines, come together to provide a working understanding of an elegant and highly usable User Interface. Subject matter includes topics such as: screen layout, navigation, color, human factors and user-centered design methodologies. These topics are covered from a combination of practical and theoretical viewpoints allowing students to become comfortable with using design guidelines and principals as well as with the analyses required to make decisions on their own. Projects and exercises also expose the student to tools and prototyping techniques.
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3.0 |
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COMP 8021 |
Comparative Studies in GUI Principles
In this course, students will develop skills for GUI design and UI evaluation. Online discussion and presentation of GUI trends and criteria set the premise for research and debate. Through case studies of GUI examples, a project will emulate the real world practice of improving or remedying an analyzed problem in existing software. For instance, methodologies including but not limited to: Task flow charts, low/high fidelity prototyping, action analysis, walkthroughs, and user testing, in an applied mode, will increase awareness of user-centred GUI design issues. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 7021
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3.0 |
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COMP 8521 |
Selected Topics in Advanced Interface Design
This course examines selected topics in Advanced User Interface Design. Participants will be required to develop prototype interface designs for reduced versions of different applications: (egs: an E-mail program, Browser, Museum Kiosk Display, cell phones/PDA wireless devices, DVDs, Video Games, etc.). These assignments focus on creating an effective and intuitive user interface with coherent navigational logic. In addition to the GUI design techniques covered in COMP 7021, COMP 8021 students will be further exposed to advanced issues and alternative approaches in Human-Computer Interaction. Simulated assignment/product development cycles will facilitate participant's keener awareness of real world time pressures. Some prefabricated elements may be used to expedite construction, integration and testing of beta interface prototypes. Participants at this stage will be developing their visual and other non-textual multisensory communication, innovation and problem solving skills. The final project offers the participants a powerful opportunity to integrate all of their newly acquired knowledge and skills in a supportive, flexible and potentially inspirational manner/environment. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 8021
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3.0 |
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| 3. Technical Electives (6.0 credits required) |
Credits |
Students must complete 6.0 credits of technical electives selected from the Specialty Electives and/or Non-Specialty Electives listed below. Courses from the student's chosen specialty area cannot be used as technical electives. The advanced and selected topics to be covered in the non-specialty electives may differ from session to session.
- Each course selected from Specialty Electives must be from different specialty areas.
Specialty Electives: Data Communications |
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COMP 7005 |
Computer Networks and Protocols
This course will cover the advanced elements of Data Communication and Network Architecture. The TCP/IP protocol suite and its application within the Internet architecture will be examined in depth, and in a practical manner. Also covered will be advanced topics such as ATM networks, Wireless Data Communication, and Security Protocols. Students will be introduced to the Berkeley socket API, and the basics of Client/Server programming will be introduced. Prerequisites: COMP 2654
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3.0 |
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COMP 8006 |
Network Administration and Security 2
This course builds on the foundations established in Comp 7006 and covers more advanced topics in network security and intrusion detection. In depth coverage of perimeter protection and firewall designs. Advanced intrusion detection and IDS signature and analysis. Students will be familiarized with network monitoring and security tools. Introduction to VPN design. Please note that COMP 8006 is offered only once a year in January. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 7006
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3.0 |
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COMP 8505 |
Special Topics in Network and Security Development
This course is a study of topics of particular interest to advanced B. Tech students in the area of Network software development and Network security. The focus will be on the research and application of advanced TCP/IP programming techniques and covert channels. Please note that COMP8505 is only offered once a year in April. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 8005
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3.0 |
| Distributed Systems |
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COMP 7061 |
Distributed Systems Principles
This course examines the principles & paradigms underlying distributed systems. Labs are focused on concurrent & distributed programming. Distributed object-based clients and servers are developed and deployed using CORBA & Java RMI. Students develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles, architectures & issues of distributed systems. Prerequisites: COMP 2611 or COMP 2613
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3.0 |
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COMP 8061 |
Distributed Systems Applications
Focuses on Client-Server based systems and Distributed Systems that include database servers. Students develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of principles, architectures, and issues of client-server based systems. Various Web frameworks will be examined. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 7061
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3.0 |
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COMP 8561 |
Advanced Topics in Distributed Systems
This course discusses advanced topics in Client/Server systems, Distributed Systems, and Network Computing. The focus is on examining strategies and algorithms to achieve design goals such as performance, reliability, scalability, consistency, and security in a distributed system. Topics include: Parallel Processing and Scheduling; Performance Modelling; Concurrency Control, Recovery in multi-user and distributed data servers; Security and Fault Tolerance; Embedded and Real Time distributed systems; Multimedia Storage and Transmission. Please note that COMP 8561 is offered only once a year in April. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 8061
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3.0 |
| Computer Graphics |
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COMP 7011 |
Introduction to Computer Graphics
This course offers an introduction to the theory and practice of computer graphics. Emphasis is placed on understanding the principles underlying interactive computer graphics, as well as gaining hands-on experience in programming with OpenGL. Core topics include: Introductions to CG, CG Hardware, Intro to OpenGL, 2D algorithms, scan conversion, filling, clipping, antialiasing, 3D representations, transformations, 2D and 3D splines, Hidden surface/hidden line removal, Shading models, Ray tracing, Color, and Scene-graph languages. Prerequisites: COMP 2618
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3.0 |
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COMP 8011 |
Selected Topics in Computer Graphics
This course focuses on selected topics in computer graphics. Students will work on independent projects allowing supervised research in areas such as 2D/3D graphics for computer games, visual simulation, data visualization and animation. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 7011
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3.0 |
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COMP 8511 |
Advanced Topics in Computer Graphics
This course is a directed study in computer graphics providing opportunity for additional study in one or more specialized areas such as advanced rendering techniques, ray tracing and radiosity, optimization techniques for real-time systems, optimization techniques for off-line rendering, non photo-realistic rendering. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 8011
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3.0 |
| Database |
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COMP 7071 |
Database Design
This course offers an in-depth study of the Relational Model and Database System Architectures including, query processing, query optimization, transaction processing, concurrency control, recovery, parallel databases and distributed databases. Design of storage and file structures including different indexing and hashing organizations are also discussed. Assignment will reinforce learning through designing and constructing a database in Oracle and running queries against it. Prerequisites: COMP 1630
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3.0 |
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COMP 8071 |
Advanced Database Application
The course is divided into the following three parts: 1. Fundamentals of designing large data warehouses 2. Design of a Data Warehouse using Oracle Warehouse Builder (OWB) 3. Discussion of different high performance data analysis techniques. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 7071
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3.0 |
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COMP 8571 |
Selected Topics in Database
This course is focused on emerging object-oriented database technology. Object-oriented design and development is discussed with specific emphasis on database systems. Topics on handling large objects (LOBs) and database-web integration are also included. Please note that COMP 8571 is offered only once a year in April. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 7071
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3.0 |
| Network Administration and Security |
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COMP 7006 |
Network Administration and Security 1
Introduction to networking and cross platform file sharing using Win32 and Linux tools. Students will learn the basics of NFS, SAMBA, Apache, NIS and DHCP. In depth coverage of TCP/IP and "real world" network traffic analysis using tools such as packet sniffers and tcpdump. Introduction to intrusion detection, attacks and defences.
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3.0 |
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COMP 8006 |
Network Administration and Security 2
This course builds on the foundations established in Comp 7006 and covers more advanced topics in network security and intrusion detection. In depth coverage of perimeter protection and firewall designs. Advanced intrusion detection and IDS signature and analysis. Students will be familiarized with network monitoring and security tools. Introduction to VPN design. Please note that COMP 8006 is offered only once a year in January. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 7006
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3.0 |
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COMP 8506 |
Special Topics in Network Design and Implementation
Students will apply the skill acquired in the previous level 1 and 2 courses in the design and performance analysis of networks. Detailed and complete LAN designs will be discussed and analyzed. Focus will be on performance and security issues. Students will learn to identify vulnerabilities in LAN designs and understand how these holes can be exploited and how to protect networks against attacks. Please note that COMP 8506 is offered only once a year in April. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 8006
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3.0 |
| Wireless and Mobile Applications Development |
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COMP 7031 |
Wireless and Mobile Applications Development 1
This course focuses on developing and deploying wireless applications on (2.5G or above) cell phones and PDAs. Popular data applications involving text messaging, web-browsing and email access for cell-phones & PDAs will be developed. This is a lab-based course in which students gain hands-on experience by developing the said applications using J2ME and related Java APIs on emulators. Prerequisites: COMP 2617 and COMP 2611
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3.0 |
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COMP 8031 |
Wireless and Mobile Applications Development 2
This course builds upon the foundation of Wireless Mobile Application Development 1. Applications utilizing advanced wireless services such as Multi-Media Messaging and location services; and advanced features of cell-phones such as Bluetooth cards, Infra-red ports, high-resolution displays, game-consoles, GPS (Global Positioning System) and still picture cameras will be developed. Applications with ambient intelligence will be developed using advanced APIs such as MMAPI (Multi-Media API), BTAPI (Bluetooth API), IR (Infrared communication), and 3D graphics related packages. This is a lab-based course in which students gain hands-on experience by developing the said applications using emulators. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 7031
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3.0 |
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COMP 8531 |
Special Topics in Wireless Mobile Applications
This course will cover a broad selection of topics in mobile computing architectures and protocols. Students will learn the principles of Mobile Computing and its enabling technologies, and explore solutions and paradigm shifts. The solutions and paradigm shifts address the issue of limited bandwidth and unreliability of wireless medium while taking advantage of mobility. The focus is on examining strategies and algorithms to achieve design goals such as performance, reliability, scalability, consistency and security in wireless mobile applications. The course will have a project component in which students will develop multimedia applications involving real-time communications as well as data storage for WLAN (Wireless Local Area Networks), WPAN (Wireless Personal Area Networks) or MANET (Mobile Ad-hoc Networks) platforms. Prerequisites: 60% in COMP 8031
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3.0 |
Non-Specialty Electives: |
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COMP 7401 |
Advanced Topics in Programming Methodology
The topic will be Developing Intelligent Robots with LEGO NXT. This course introduces students to Java programming in a small computing environment by programming LEGO NXT robots. Each student will create several robots to perform specific tasks, such as interacting with their environment via sensors, use mapping algorithms to navigate unfamiliar terrain, and play games. This course is offered in the Winter term.
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3.0 |
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COMP 7481 |
Selected Topics for Combined Electives
This course is a cross listing of either COMP 7401 (Advanced Topics in Programming Methodology) or COMP 7615 (Selected Topics in Computer Systems) or COMP 7881 (Advanced Topics in Software Engineering). Only CST Btech students who wish to take multiple offerings of either of these courses should register into this course. Students will not be given credit for taking the same topic twice. For more information, please call the program assistant for the Bachelor of Technology program in Computer Systems at 604-432-8644.
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3.0 |
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COMP 7615 |
Selected Topics in Computer Systems
The topic for the Summer 2010 term is Network Exploits and Vulnerabilities. This course covers a broad range of topics in network security in a practical, hands-on environment. Familiarity will be gained with common exploits and attacks. Students will analyze and understand commonly available malicious code, hacking tools, and reconnaissance tools. Students will be familiarized with network monitoring and security tools.
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3.0 |
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COMP 7881 |
Advanced Topics Software Engineering
Focuses on advanced software engineering issues such as those related to developing quality, cost-effective, often complex software. Specific topics vary from term to term. Please refer to the Course Outlines for information on the specific topics being offered in each CRN.
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3.0 |
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| 4. Management Electives (6.0 credits) |
| Students are required to complete 6.0 credits of Management electives. Please note that courses used for entry into the Bachelor of Technology program (i.e. courses required as part of the BCIT CST Diploma program) may not be transferred into the degree program for the Management electives courses. |
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| 5. Major Projects (18.0 credits) |
Credits |
| Students are to apply their specialty knowledge towards a real-life project, study or applied-research project under the supervision of a committee. The major project should contain some elements, which are deemed to be innovative, experimental or exploratory in nature. Major project information and guidelines are available upon request. |
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COMP 8045 |
Major Project 1
Provides for practical application of computing knowledge and skills preferably in a workplace setting and with projects that involve applied research or technology transfer. Should produce a product that is innovative, experimental or exploratory in nature. Ranges from directed study projects to the preparation of proposal or project plan and includes the development of formal deliverables, including a final report. The contact hours are approximate and will vary from student to student. Please refer to the policy and requirements for the major project as described in: http://technology.cas.bcit.ca/btech/Documents/MajorProjectsGuidelines.pdf To view examples of past proposals and final reports you may schedule an appointment with the Program Assistant 604-432-8644. Prerequisite: Completion of all 7000 and 8000 level Bachelor of Technology courses, with the exception of the last 8000 level specialization course, which can be taken concurrently, and permission of the Program Head.
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9.0 |
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COMP 8046 |
Major Project 2
Provides for practical application of computing knowledge and skills preferably in the workplace setting and with projects that involve applied research or technology transfer. Should produce a product that is innovative, experiment or exploratory in nature. Ranges from directed study projects to the preparation of proposal or project plan and includes the development of formal deliverables, including a final report. The contact hours are approximate and will vary from student to student. Please refer to the policy and requirements for the major project as described in: http://technology.cas.bcit.ca/btech/Documents/MajorProjectsGuidelines.pdf To view examples of past proposals and final reports you may schedule an appointment with the Program Assistant 604-432-8644. Prerequisite: COMP 8045 and permission of the Program Head.
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9.0 |
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or |
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COMP 8045 |
Major Project 1
Provides for practical application of computing knowledge and skills preferably in a workplace setting and with projects that involve applied research or technology transfer. Should produce a product that is innovative, experimental or exploratory in nature. Ranges from directed study projects to the preparation of proposal or project plan and includes the development of formal deliverables, including a final report. The contact hours are approximate and will vary from student to student. Please refer to the policy and requirements for the major project as described in: http://technology.cas.bcit.ca/btech/Documents/MajorProjectsGuidelines.pdf To view examples of past proposals and final reports you may schedule an appointment with the Program Assistant 604-432-8644. Prerequisite: Completion of all 7000 and 8000 level Bachelor of Technology courses, with the exception of the last 8000 level specialization course, which can be taken concurrently, and permission of the Program Head.
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9.0 |
| and 9.0 credits of degree-level COMP courses, two of which must be in the 8000 series. |
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| 6. Liberal Studies Component (12.0 credits required) |
Credits |
| Mandatory Courses: (6.0 credits) |
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LIBS 7001 |
Critical Reading and Writing
Develops advanced skills in critical analysis, close reading and composition through lectures, discussion and group activities in which students analyse and evaluate materials from various disciplines. Readings might come from professional journals, reports, newspapers, magazines and literature. Multimedia such as video, music and the Internet may also be included. Prerequisite: equivalent of three credits of university/college composition or six credits BCIT Communication.
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3.0 |
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LIBS 7002 |
Applied Ethics
Fosters abilities and values required for ethical decision making at work. Develops skills in logical analysis, a working knowledge of moral principles and theories, and the ability to diagnose and resolve moral disagreements commonly found at work. Examines and applies moral principles to historically famous cases in manufacturing, human resources, management, engineering, health care, and computing. Prerequisite: Equivalent of three credits of university/college composition or six credits of BCIT Communication.
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3.0 |
Elective Courses: (6.0 credits) All students will be required to achieve these credits in accordance with the BCIT policy on Liberal Studies course requirements. Information regarding topic areas and/or eligibility for transfer credits may be obtained from the Advanced Placement and Degree Programs office at 604-432-8230. |
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| Total Credits: |
60.0 |
Check current availability of courses for this program.
Transfer credit
Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if
they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's
Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.
program details
Program length
Students are required to complete the Bachelor of Technology degree program within seven (7) years starting from the date of their first technical degree-level course or the date of acceptance to the bachelor program, whichever comes first. Management electives cannot be older than five (5) years from the date of acceptance to be used toward the degree.
Grading
A minimum passing grade of 60 per cent is required for all COMP courses at the 7000 and 8000 level.
Additional program options
Program structure
| Technical/Management Component |
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Core Courses |
9.0 |
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Specialty Courses |
9.0 |
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Technical Electives |
6.0 |
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Management Electives |
6.0 |
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Major Projects |
18.0 |
| Liberal Studies Component |
12.0 |
| Total credits: |
60.0 |
graduating & jobs
Graduate employment outcomes
The following link takes you to graduate outcome survey results containing mostly labour market results from the 2007-2009 BCIT Outcomes Surveys of 2006-2008 Graduates. Note: The survey results will be displayed in a separate browser window. To view these results, you need to have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in your Web browser.
As BCIT strives to keep our programs current, programs and courses are subject to change without notice.
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Big Info Session March 31
Join us on March 31 from 5-8 p.m. for our Big Info Session and Program Expo.
Find out more >
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