Computer Programming

Overview

The Computer Programming (CP) program follows an experiential learning approach to education by offering courses that parallel the software development practices used in the modern workplace. Throughout the program, CP students apply concepts learned in the classroom to solve programming problems. They learn to work in project teams, in which they design, develop, and test applications.

The CP program is a two-year program in which students learn a wide variety of skills, ranging from basic programming practices to problem-solving, software design, critical thinking, and application development. Over the duration of the program, students will learn to write programs for desktop and web platforms. Students are taught multiple programming languages, including C#, C++, PHP, MySQL, JavaScript, and Java, and are equipped with the skills to learn other languages. Graduates of the Computer Programming program are eligible to pursue further studies in the Computer Programming and Analysis program at Kingston Campus, with admission into the third year of the Advanced Diploma program.

Program Details

• Program Code: 1135
• CIP Code: 11.0201
• Start Date: January 2026, January 2027, September 2026
• Credential: Ontario College Diploma
• Campus: Cornwall
• Program Length: 2 Years
• Delivery: Full-Time
• Open for International Students: Yes

Program Highlights

The program provides students with skills in:

• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Software / application development
• Operating systems
• Writing computer programs
• Intranet/internet applications
• Graphical User Interface (GUI) applications
• Web development
• Object-oriented programming
• 2D game development
• Database design and management

Program Outline

Semester 1

• COMM 1007 - Technical Communications
  A foundational course designed to equip students with the skills necessary for effective communication in technical settings, focusing on written, oral, and visual techniques leveraging Office 365 software.
• MATH 1004 - Technical Mathematics
  Covers core principles and operations of algebra and trigonometry, emphasizing fluency and conceptual understanding through practice.
• COMP 1016 - Introduction to C++ Programming
  Introduces the syntax and use of C and C++ languages, teaching a disciplined approach to program development.
• COMP 1017 - Networking 1
  An introduction to networking terminology, mediums, and fundamentals of simple network operations.
• COMP 1020 - Databases 1
  Offers an overview of essential data concepts and relational database modeling.
• GENE - General Education Course

Semester 2

• COMP 1012 - GUI Application Development with C#
  Introduces C# for desktop application development, focusing on object-oriented programming and critical thinking.
• COMP 1014 - Intermediate C++ Programming
  Expands on previous coursework in C++, focusing on program design, testing, and debugging.
• COMP 1021 - Web Programming 1
  Explores client-side and server-side scripting in web application development adhering to MVC architecture.
• COMP 211 - Program Design
  A language-independent introduction to programming logic using structured and object-oriented principles.
• COMP 205 - Web Development
  Introduces web development using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• GENE - General Education Course

Semester 3

• CARE 10 - Career Strategies for Computing Professionals
  Prepares students for a career in IT, emphasizing job search, resume wording, and interview skills.
• COMP 2019 - PHP Programming
  Introduces server-side programming with PHP, building projects that integrate functions and classes.
• COMP 2001 - Object Oriented Programming using C++
  Expands knowledge of object-oriented programming principles and technologies.
• COMP 2013 - Web Programming 2
  Advances knowledge from earlier courses to develop complete web applications.
• COMP 2008 - Introduction to Game Programming
  Covers fundamental concepts of game development and basic programming principles.
• COMP 1011 - Intermediate Databases
  Focuses on structured query language using MySQL and database design principles.
• GENE - General Education Course

Semester 4

• COMP 2006 - Applied Machine Learning with Python
  Introduces machine learning concepts and algorithms, teaching implementation using Python-based frameworks.
• COMP 2020 - Java Application Development
  Builds Java programming skills for diverse desktop applications.
• COMP 2009 - Database Administration and Design
  Introduces database management concepts, focusing on SQL and relational databases.
• COMP 2018 - Special Topics in Computer Programming
  Provides exploration of emerging topics and trends in programming.
• COMP 2017 - Cloud and Centralized Computing
  Introduces cloud computing fundamentals and operative skills in Linux and mainframe environments.
• QUAL 2000 - Quality Assurance
  Covers software quality assurance topics and methodologies.
• COMP 1027 - Capstone
  A hands-on simulation of real-world work placement, emphasizing project development and application of skills learned.

Requirements

Admission Requirements

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including:
  • Grade 12 English at the C, U, or E level
  • Grade 11 Math

Students missing prerequisite courses may enroll in the Career/College Prep program, free for Ontario residents aged 18 and older.

Other Requirements

Technical Requirements

Students are recommended to have their own Windows laptop computer with the following specifications:

• CPU: i5 minimum; i7 or AMD Ryzen recommended
• RAM: 12GB minimum; 16GB recommended
• Hard Drive: 256GB SSD minimum; 512GB recommended
• Camera and Microphone (built-in or external)
• Operating System: Windows 11

Fees

Canadian Students

• Tuition: $3,451.68 CAD
• Program Fees: $30.00 CAD
• Ancillary Fees: $991.59 CAD
• Total: $4,473.27 CAD

International Students

• Tuition: $17,427.60 CAD
• Program Fees: $30.00 CAD
• Ancillary Fees: $1,753.96 CAD
• Total: $19,211.56 CAD

Career Opportunities

The demand for CP graduates is notably high in Eastern Ontario as well as across Canada and internationally. Graduates typically find employment immediately after graduation and often transition from junior to senior positions throughout their careers. Opportunities in information technology are robust, with graduates finding roles in computer programming, web development, systems development, data modeling, quality assurance, mobile computing, game programming, serious game development, and cybersecurity. Employment settings span the public and private sectors, including education, healthcare, military, finance, research, and consulting.

Careers:

Here are some career opportunities for graduates of the Computer Programming program:

• Computer programmer
• Web developer
• Systems developer
• Data modeler
• Quality assurance specialist
• Mobile computing developer
• Game programmer
• Serious game developer
• Web services developer
• Database administrator
• Cybersecurity specialist

Our graduates are employed in both the public and private sectors such as:

• Education
• Healthcare
• Military
• Financial
• Research
• Industry
• Consulting
• The program is open to international students.
• The program is two years in length.
• The program is delivered full-time.
• The program provides students with skills in problem-solving and critical thinking, software/application development, operating systems, writing computer programs, intranet/internet applications, GUI applications, web development, object-oriented programming, 2D game development, and database design and management.
• The program has a strong focus on experiential learning.
• Students in the program have the opportunity to work on real-world projects.
• The program prepares students for a career in the information technology field.
• Graduates of the program are in high demand.
• The program has a strong industry focus.
• The program is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of the industry.
• The program is accredited by the Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS).
• The program is a member of the Association of Computing Machinery (ACM).
• The program is a member of the IEEE Computer Society.
• The program is a member of the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).

St. Lawrence College (SLC) is a publicly funded college of applied arts and technology located in Eastern Ontario, Canada, with campuses in Kingston, Brockville and Cornwall. Established in 1967 as part of the Ontario college system, SLC has served its communities for more than 50 years, combining modern, expansive facilities across three vibrant eastern Ontario cities with the advantages of small-town living and genuine personal attention to every student. With more than 140,000 alumni worldwide, over 5,500 student placements annually and more than 55 programs, SLC remains one of Eastern Ontario's most trusted and dynamic post-secondary institutions.

St. Lawrence College is situated on the traditional lands of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples. SLC is always grateful to live and learn on these lands.

Founding history

St. Lawrence College was born out of the broader creation of Ontario's college system in 1967, a vision championed by Premier William Davis — now regarded as the father of the Ontario College System — who responded to growing demand for technical education by establishing colleges of applied arts and technology across the province.

Cornwall and Kingston were selected to serve six counties in the Eastern Ontario region: Frontenac, Leeds, Grenville, Dundas, Stormont and Glengarry. In Kingston, the 59-acre former Ontario Psychiatric Hospital farmland at King Street and Portsmouth Avenue was acquired from the provincial government for one dollar. By September 1969, students were attending classes in the campus's first permanent building — a white steel structure comprising a gymnasium, cafeteria, administrative office and student lounges — while Dundas and Stormont Halls were still under construction around them. The first programs included Business Administration, General Business, Home Economics, Early Childhood Education, Engineering Technology and Electronics Technician.

In 1968, Cornwall Classical College, a private Catholic school, was purchased and renamed Moulinette Hall. Brockville was formally recognised as a third campus in 1970, acquiring Ontario Hospital farmland on Parkedale Avenue, also for one dollar. By its tenth anniversary, St. Lawrence College had established itself as a strong and creative force in its region, and has continued evolving ever since to meet the needs of students seeking skills that lead to a better quality of life.

Three campuses

• Kingston (main campus): 100 Portsmouth Avenue, Kingston, Ontario K7L 5A6 — Phone: 613.544.5400. The largest campus, set on the original 59-acre site, with modern facilities across multiple buildings and full access to student services, athletics, residences and libraries.
• Brockville: 2288 Parkedale Avenue, Brockville, Ontario K6V 5X3 — Phone: 613.345.0660. Located on the hill of Parkedale Avenue on the former Ontario Hospital farmland, serving the Brockville community and region.
• Cornwall: 2 St. Lawrence Drive, Cornwall, Ontario K6H 4Z1 — Phone: 613.933.6080. Built around the heritage Moulinette Hall site, serving Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry counties in the francophone and bilingual heart of Eastern Ontario.

Areas of study and programs

SLC offers more than 55 full-time programs across nine areas of study, available on campus, online, in hybrid formats and through fast-track delivery options:

• Apprenticeships
• Business
• Community and Social Services
• Design (Arts, Media and Design)
• Graduate Certificates
• Health Sciences
• Justice Studies
• Science and Technology
• Skilled Trades

Programs are available as certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, graduate certificates and four-year degrees. Online and part-time learning options extend access to working professionals, career changers and lifelong learners across Ontario and beyond. Credential types and delivery formats are designed to fit different stages of life and career.

Recent milestones and new programs

SLC has achieved several significant milestones in 2025 and 2026. Its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program received a seven-year accreditation from the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN), making SLC the first college in Ontario to achieve Path B accreditation for a standalone BScN degree — the maximum accreditation term possible, applying to the BScN program across all three campuses as well as the Practical Nurse to BScN Bridge program.

SLC also expanded its specialty nursing portfolio with three new certificate programs for registered nurses seeking advanced skills in high-demand healthcare areas: Mental Health Nursing, Registered Nurse Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU), and Registered Nurse Perianesthesia Nursing (PACU). All three programs are offered online with flexible delivery to allow nurses to study while continuing to work. In 2026, SLC launched The Next Wave, a new brand campaign and platform that reimagines its iconic wave logo as a symbol of momentum, leadership and collective impact.

Graduate certificates

Graduate certificates are a key strength of the SLC portfolio, offering diploma and degree holders a focused pathway to gain specialised, industry-driven skills in a shorter timeframe. Programs are designed around real-world learning opportunities and current employer needs, providing a fast track into advanced or specialist roles across many of SLC's program areas. The Communicative Disorders Assistant graduate certificate, for example, prepares graduates to work alongside Registered Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists in a variety of settings, and is available in both in-class and online formats across Ontario.

Student support services

• Academic and Student Success: academic advising, tutoring, learning supports and success coaching
• Student Wellness and Accessibility: mental health services, counselling, and accessibility accommodations under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
• Indigenous Services: dedicated cultural and academic support for Indigenous students, including connections to Elders and community resources
• Career Services: job search support, resume assistance, employer connections and placement partnerships
• Housing: campus residences available at all three campuses, providing a safe and convenient home-away-from-home for students
• Athletics and Recreation: varsity and recreational sports, fitness facilities and wellness programming across campuses
• International Student Services: dedicated advising, study permit guidance, orientation, homestay coordination and community integration support
• Libraries: campus libraries with digital and physical collections and student study spaces
• Student Governments: student-elected governments at each campus representing students' interests and organising campus life programming
• Financial Aid: OSAP, bursaries, scholarships (donor-supported and SLC/government-sponsored), Ontario Learn and Stay Grant eligibility, and the Better Jobs Program

Belonging, equity, diversity and inclusion

SLC is committed to creating a campus community where every student, staff member and faculty member belongs. Its Belonging, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (BEDI) framework guides institutional practice and programming, complemented by the School of Contemporary Teaching and Learning, which supports the ongoing development of educators and teaching practices across the college.

Sustainability

Sustainability is an embedded institutional commitment at SLC, with a dedicated Sustainability strategy guiding decisions across campus operations, curriculum and community partnerships. SLC's approach to sustainability reflects its responsibility to the communities and lands it serves across Eastern Ontario.

Pathways and credit transfer

SLC actively supports students in building on their SLC credentials. Credit transfer, pathway and articulation agreements allow eligible SLC graduates to continue into degree programs at partner universities, with recognised transfer credits reducing duplication and shortening time to degree completion. Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) allows students to receive credit for skills and knowledge gained outside the classroom. Dual Credit programs for high school students create early pathways into college-level study.

International students

SLC welcomes international students to all three campuses, offering dedicated admissions support, English proficiency guidance, study permit assistance, and a comprehensive international student services office. Cost information for international students, payment guidance and placement agency partner listings are all published on the SLC website to support students and agents through the admissions process.

Why St. Lawrence College

1. A publicly funded Ontario college with more than 50 years of history, 140,000+ alumni worldwide and a consistent track record of preparing graduates for real careers in Eastern Ontario and beyond
2. Three campuses in Kingston, Brockville and Cornwall, combining modern facilities with the personal attention and community connection of smaller-city life
3. More than 55 programs across nine areas of study, from apprenticeships and skilled trades through to four-year degrees, graduate certificates and online and part-time options
4. The first college in Ontario to receive seven-year CASN accreditation for its BScN program — the maximum term possible — across all three campuses
5. Over 5,500 student placements annually, with career services, placement agency partners and strong employer connections embedded across all program areas
6. Comprehensive student support including wellness and accessibility, Indigenous services, athletics, housing, financial aid and dedicated international student services.
7. The Ontario Learn and Stay Grant and other provincial funding options support students who study and remain in the region, addressing Eastern Ontario's priority workforce needs