Frequently Asked Questions

Students in the following programs undertake ISSP projects. Depending on the ISSP Option Term, some students have completed their programs while others are still in their learning process — some students learn and apply their skills in the projects simultaneously. For student skills and specializations, see the following program matrices:

• Computer Systems Technology (CST) Diploma (this is an example matrix of the Client/Server Option; click to view other options in Computer System Technology
• Computer Information Technology (CIT) Diploma
• Computer Systems Technology Bachelor of Technology Degree
  (this is an example matrix of the Network Security Administration option; click to view other options in
  BTech in Computer System Technology

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The ISSP program runs three times a year: in September, January, and April. There are a variety of durations depending on the program the students are in. Please see the ISSP options table to get a better idea.

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Any IT and software development projects are welcome for consideration. Projects for Proof-of-concept, engineering or research development are also suitable. See also the list of project areas. However, consider there is no guarantee on when/if a project will be selected or on the success of the project, time sensitive or mission critical projects might not be suitable.

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Students tend to select projects that have appropriate scope and well-defined, achievable goals. These projects should also offer enough challenge to be rewarding and allow students to apply their knowledge and possibly learn new skills. Evidence that the sponsor has sufficient knowledge to answer technical questions about the project also helps. When you complete the Submission Form, remember the following recommendations may increase the chances of selection:

• Clarify the domain specific terms or use “layman’s” terms. Describe the domain.
• Add some details and/or examples of what you are looking for. If possible elaborate on any listed components, features or functions.
• Clarify the scope of the project; possibly separate the project into more than one project, and/or state willingness to work with scope and to divide the project into smaller parts as appropriate once students begin.
• Specify the technologies to be used or suggest several options.
• Assure the students that one or more people with technological and domain knowledge will support them during the project.

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It is best to be conservative. If you suspect that the project is too big, it almost certainly is. If your project is selected, the first priority of the initial meeting with the student(s) will be to negotiate the feasible scope.

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We ask all sponsors to meet with your team once per week, generally for about an hour.* If you think it’s important to connect more or would like to be more involved in project supervision, please discuss it with your students.
*in the compressed May five-week project term, this is accelerated to multiple connections per week.

This depends much on the current state of the project. If it is well enough documented and the students (possibly a different team) can be up to speed in a week, then a project continuation is feasible.

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While the students do not get paid for the execution of the projects, there is a $500 (+tax) Participation Fee for each selected project. An invoice will be sent to the sponsor of each of the selected projects for this fee. In the event multiple projects by the same sponsor are selected, or a project is worked on in multiple terms, the Participation Fee will be charged per project, per term. The fee will be waived for charity and not-for-profit organizations (Charity registration number or official NPO status will be required).

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According to BCIT’s Intellectual Property Policy, creators (i.e. students in an ISSP project) are owners of the IP. BCIT does not require the students to enter any non-disclosure agreement (NDA) or sign away the IP in the ISSP program. However, if the sponsors require so, they should indicate it in the project submission form or in the initial meeting with the students. BCIT provides a standard Student Practicum Confidentiality Intellectual Property Agreement (please contact us to obtain a fill-able copy).

While many students are amenable to such an agreement, they have the option to select another project if they do not agree with the terms.

In general, the Confidentiality Intellectual Property Agreement should:

• Allow the student to present their work to faculty, sponsor and other students in a final presentation
• Allow the students to include their work in their portfolio
• Not exclude the students from employment in any industry

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Computer Information Technology (CIT) Internship Option: If your team or company needs individual contributors for project or operational roles, CIT students also have the option of doing an individual practicum in place of one of the team-based projects. The individual practicum is for students in the final term of CIT, and requires at least 100 hours of work (paid or unpaid) with a company for 10 weeks or more. If you have a position for a student, or if you would like to know more, please email us.