Business Information Systems

Program Overview

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Business Information Systems

Diploma

School of Computing and Digital Innovation

Information technology, business software, mobile platforms—information systems are reinventing the way we do business. Computer-savvy people with programming and development skills are in demand in the business world. When your skill set includes training in business solution development, you’re a hot commodity.

Start Date and Length

• Start date: September
• Length: 64 weeks

Locations

• Moose Jaw
• Regina

Overview

The Business Information Systems program provides both business and information technology. Graduates of this program understand how to leverage technology to enable business strategy.

Business Information Systems is a two-year diploma program offered full-time at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Moose Jaw, and Regina campuses.

The Business Information Systems program provides a solid foundation in business basics with a focus on information technology functions and learning how to use them to develop meaningful business solutions. This includes training in:

• Software development using a variety of languages and frameworks.
• Business in intelligence and machine learning platforms.
• Information technology infrastructure, including networking principles and cloud computing.
• Database management systems and enterprise data architecture.
• Traditional and agile project management, systems analysis and requirements management, and technical writing, diagrams, and presentations.
• Business skills, including business mathematics, business communications, change management, workplace professionalism, and career development.

If enrolled in the Co-operative Education concentration of the Business Information Systems program, you can develop on-the-job skills, introduce yourself to different employers, and test-drive different types of jobs over the year in paid Co-operative Education work terms.

This training in business and technology provides graduates with in-demand training that will make them an asset to organizations operating in today’s tech-driven economy.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

You’re job-ready at graduation. You could work as a software developer, systems analyst, programmer analyst, web/mobile app developer or help desk support. As you gain experience, explore opportunities in IT management or build specialized skills in database administration, advanced web development, project and network management. You could also build a name for yourself as a private consultant or independent contractor.

Potential Careers

• Artificial intelligence (AI) designer (Data scientist, 21211)
• Business analyst, computer systems (Business systems specialists, 21221)
• Database administrator (DBA) (Database analysts and data administrators, 21223)
• Software developer (Software developers & programmers, 21232)
• Web developer (Web developers & programmers, 21234)

Admissions

Admission Requirements

• Grade 12 with any 30-level mathematics course or with ICTC FIT (Information and Communication Technology Council Focus on IT) certificate
• English Language Requirement

Alternative Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.

• ACCUPLACER:
  • 250 Arithmetic
  • 254 Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics
  • 247 Reading
  • 243 Writing
• Post-secondary:
  • Some programs allow applicants to meet the admission grade level requirement using 15 approved post-secondary credits.

Admission Method

• First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA)

Tuition and Fees

• Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as approximate cost for books and supplies.
• Year 1: $8,150
• Year 2: $6,210

International Students

• View tuition rates for international students.

Courses

The program follows this academic and co-operative education schedule. Courses are outlined below by semester.

Year 1 - Semester 1

• BCOM-120 Business Communications 1 (4 credits)
• CAPL-103 Professionalism and Career Readiness (3 credits)
• COMP-116 Introduction to Programming for Information Systems 1 (3 credits)
• COMP-117 Introduction to Programming for Information Systems 2 (3 credits)
• COMP-123 Introduction to Business Computing (4 credits)
• COMP-215 Web Application Development 1 (4 credits)
• STAT-120 Business Statistics (4 credits)

Total semester credits: 25

Year 1 - Semester 2

• ANLT-100 Introduction to Data Science (3 credits)
• BUS-104 Introduction to Business (4 credits)
• CNET-123 Introduction to Networking and Cloud Services (4 credits)
• COMP-233 Programming Concepts (4 credits)
• COMP-234 Data Management Systems (4 credits)
• COMP-235 Web Application Development 2 (3 credits)
• COMP-266 Web Application Development 3 (3 credits)

Total semester credits: 25

Year 2 - Semester 3

• ANLT-202 Machine Learning and Deep Learning (4 credits)
• CCMP-200 Cloud Computing (4 credits)
• COMP-214 Project Management (4 credits)
• COMP-237 Systems Analysis and Requirements Management (3 credits)
• COMP-258 Data Structures and Frameworks (4 credits)
• COMP-267 Enterprise Application Development 1 (3 credits)
• COMP-268 Enterprise Application Development 2 (3 credits)

Total semester credits: 25

Co-operative Work Term 1

• COOP-100 Cooperative Work Term (0 credits)

Co-operative Work Term 2

• COOP-200 Cooperative Work Term (0 credits)

Co-operative Work Term 3

• COOP-300 Cooperative Work Term (0 credits)

Year 2 - Semester 4

• ADMN-209 Organizational Change (4 credits)
• BCOM-121 Business Communications 2 (4 credits)
• CLTR-200 Culture and Diversity (2 credits)
• COSP-200 Capstone: Initiating and Planning (3 credits)
• COSP-201 Capstone: Executing and Closing (4 credits)
• CWEB-201 Cross Platform Web Development (4 credits)
• FIN-204 Budget Management (4 credits)

Total semester credits: 25

Get Credit for What You Know

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.

• Advanced standing at most Canadian universities and colleges toward courses leading to various degrees, management certificates and/or professional accounting designations
• Admission to the Post-Diploma Bachelor of Science Program in Computer Science, University of Regina
• Direct entry to the Post-Diploma Bachelor of Management program, University of Lethbridge
• Direct entry to the Bachelor of Commerce Degree Completion program, University Canada West

Student Awards

Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.

Accreditation

• Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS)
• Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL Canada)

Related Programs

• Computer Engineering Technology
• Computer Networking Technician
• Computer Systems Technology
• Technology Management

School of Computing and Digital Innovation

Program Outline

This program equips students with the skills and knowledge to bridge the gap between business and information technology. Graduates of this program understand how to leverage technology to enable business strategy and can pursue various careers in the tech-driven economy.

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Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the evolving technology landscape.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by engaging in real-world projects and simulations.
• Foster collaboration and communication skills through teamwork and group assignments.
• Prepare graduates for diverse careers in the IT field, including software development, systems analysis, project management, and database administration.

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Program Description:

The BIS program provides a comprehensive curriculum that blends business and technology. This program covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Software development: Students learn various programming languages and frameworks, gaining experience in coding, debugging, and software design.
• Database management systems and enterprise data architecture: Students gain expertise in designing and managing databases, including relational and non-relational models.
• Project management and systems analysis: Students develop the skills to plan, execute, and manage complex IT projects, ensuring efficient resource utilization and successful project completion.
• Technical communication and presentation: Students learn to effectively communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences, honing their written and oral communication skills.

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Additional Features:

• The BIS program offers an optional Co-operative Education concentration, allowing students to gain valuable work experience and build professional networks through paid internships.
• The program curriculum aligns with industry standards and incorporates the latest technological advancements.
This program provides a strong foundation for future success and equips students with the knowledge and skills to become valuable assets in today's tech-driven organizations.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• The BIS program consists of 64 weeks of full-time study, typically delivered over two academic years.
• Students are required to complete a total of 25 courses, covering various business and technology-related topics.
• The program follows a semester-based structure, with two semesters per academic year.
• Each semester typically consists of five courses, with a mix of lectures, labs, and group projects.
• The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the key principles and skills needed to succeed in the IT field.

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Program Structure:

• Year 1: Focuses on foundational business and technology concepts, including programming fundamentals, database management systems, networking principles, and business communication skills.
• Year 2: Builds upon the knowledge gained in Year 1, introducing advanced topics like machine learning, cloud computing, enterprise application development, project management, and organizational change.
• Co-operative Education Option: Students can opt to complete three co-operative education work terms, gaining practical experience in real-world work environments.

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Course Schedule:

• The specific course schedule varies each year and may be subject to change.
• The program follows a standard semester schedule, with classes typically held during weekdays.

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Individual Modules:

• Each module within the BIS program is designed to cover a specific topic or area of expertise.
• Modules typically consist of multiple lectures, labs, and assignments, allowing students to gain both theoretical and practical knowledge.
• Examples of individual modules within the program include:
• Business Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Cloud Computing
• Enterprise Application Development
• Project Management
• Data Structures and Algorithms

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• The BIS program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning and achievement.
• These methods include:
• Exams (written and practical)
• Assignments (individual and group projects)
• Quizzes
• Presentations
• Lab exercises
• Participation in class discussions

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Assessment Criteria:

• The specific assessment criteria for each course or module are outlined in the course syllabus or module description.
• These criteria typically focus on factors such as:
• Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• Communication and presentation skills
• Teamwork and collaboration abilities
• Technical proficiency and software application skills

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Feedback and Evaluation:

• Students receive regular feedback on their performance throughout the program.
• Instructors provide written and oral feedback on assignments, projects, and exams.
• Students can also request individual meetings with instructors to discuss their progress and receive additional guidance.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The BIS program utilizes a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and engage students effectively.
• These methods include:
• Interactive lectures
• Hands-on lab exercises
• Group projects and presentations
• Case studies and simulations
• Guest speakers from the industry
• Online learning resources

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Faculty:

• The BIS program is taught by experienced and qualified faculty members with expertise in their respective fields.
• Faculty members maintain active research interests and industry connections, ensuring that the program curriculum incorporates the latest advancements and industry trends.

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Unique Approaches:

• The BIS program incorporates several unique approaches to enhance the learning experience:
• Co-operative Education option: Provides students with valuable work experience and industry connections.
• Industry-standard software and tools: Students gain hands-on experience using the same tools and technologies used in real-world IT environments.
• Project-based learning: Students work on real-world projects, simulating the challenges and rewards of working in a collaborative team environment.
• Personalized learning: Students receive individualized attention and support from faculty members, allowing them to reach their full potential.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Graduates of the BIS program are qualified for a variety of careers in the IT field, including:
• Software developer
• Systems analyst
• Programmer analyst
• Web/mobile app developer
• Help desk support
• Database administrator
• Network administrator
• Business intelligence analyst
• Graduates of the BIS program are well-positioned to find employment in various sectors, including:
• Finance
• Healthcare
• Government
• Education
• Manufacturing
• Retail

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Career Outcomes:

• Graduates of the BIS program have a strong track record of securing employment in their chosen field.
• The program prepares students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in entry-level and mid-level IT positions.
• Many graduates go on to pursue further education or certifications, advancing their careers and earning higher salaries.
• The BIS program is accredited by the Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS), ensuring that it meets industry standards and prepares students for professional success.
• Students can participate in various extracurricular activities and events relating to the IT field, providing them with opportunities to network, build their resumes, and develop additional skills.
• The program offers opportunities for students to study abroad, gaining international experience and expanding their cultural horizons.

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Overall Conclusion:

The Business Information Systems diploma program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic provides a comprehensive and engaging learning experience that prepares students for successful careers in the IT field. The program offers a strong blend of business and technology skills, equipping graduates with the knowledge and abilities to thrive in today's dynamic and ever-evolving technology landscape.