Overview
Train to become a computer systems security professional and gain a solid understanding of programming, operating systems, networking and strategy — using practical applications of defensive and offensive technologies.
With technology being a ubiquitous aspect of our everyday lives, computer and system security play a critical role in protecting users and organizations from cyber attacks. When the systems work, our data is protected and secure, but when they fail, it can be catastrophic. Businesses know they need systems in place to ensure the security of their data, and nation-states are focused on the security of their people.
The Information Systems Security program prepares you for entering the computer system security field with confidence and solid fundamental knowledge. You will use a wide variety of defensive and offensive tools while learning the fundamentals of networking, tool construction, and operating systems.
The first year of the program delivers a strong base of fundamental skills in programming, operating systems, networking, and strategy. The second-year moves into the more practical applications of defensive and offensive strategies, cumulating with a capstone project in which students apply the sum of their learning in the program.
Is this a good fit for me?
Students who experience success in this program and profession:
- embody curiosity and strong problem-solving skills
- make their education a priority by demonstrating excellent working habits and focus
- have higher secondary and/or post-secondary grades
- are dedicated to the life-long learning that is critical to professional success
- possess basic literacies in computer networking and 'C' language programming.
Credential
Upon successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT diploma in Information Systems Security.
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Career opportunities
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities as an information systems analyst in:
- penetration testing
- log analysis
- threat analysis
- risk management
- network security
- Internet of Things hardening
- physical security
- quality assurance
- malware analysis
- security audits
Related careers include:
- information systems consultant
- software engineer
Tuition and fees
Domestic 2022/23
- Year 1: $15,209
- Year 2: $15,209
International 2022/23
- Year 1: $29,974.10
- Year 2: $29,974.10
Final costs are dependent on the number of course credits a student takes per semester.
Requirements
You will be offered admission to this program through direct entry if you meet the admission requirements and space is available.
When do classes start?
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year-end date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2022 | Sept. 6, 2022 | April 28, 2023 |
| Winter 2023 | Jan. 9, 2023 | Aug. 18, 2023 |
| Spring 2023 | May 8, 2023 | Dec. 15, 2023 |
| Fall 2023 | Sept. 5, 2023 | April 26, 2024 |
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Admission and selection
Application dates
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Winter 2023 start: applications are accepted from March 30, 2022.
- Spring 2023 start: applications are accepted from June 13, 2022.
- Fall 2023 start: applications are accepted beginning Oct. 5, 2022.
Program requirements
Completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- At least 65% in Math 30-1 or at least 70% in Math 30-2 AND
- At least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1, or at least 65% in English Language Arts 30-2.
All applicants must demonstrate English Language Proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission. If you don't meet the requirements, consider Academic Upgrading.
SAIT evaluates international documents for admissions. After you've applied, consider our international document assessment service if your education is from outside of Canada. SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions. Find more information here.
Direct entry: four-step process
Step 1: Read the program information to see the qualities needed for student success.
Step 2: Ensure that you meet all of the admission requirements listed above.
Step 3: Apply to Information System Security and submit your transcripts.
- Admission will be extended on a first-qualified, first-offered basis until the program is full.
Step 4: Continue to monitor changes to your application status through mySAIT.ca.
You must submit final transcripts/grades to show you have completed the courses and met the minimum admission requirements by the transcript deadline or your seat will be rescinded.
This program meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program for international students as long as the student is enrolled in the on-campus delivery mode or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for the blended option). International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies.
Communication during admission
Email is the primary source of communication during the selection process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications. We recommend you add the sadt.advising@sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.
Courses
Program outline
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
First Year
Semester 1
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| COMM-256 | Professional Communication and Presentation Skills | 3.0 |
| ITSC-200 | Network Protocols and Security | 3.0 |
| ITSC-201 | Military and Strategic Studies | 3.0 |
| ITSC-202 | Secure Programming Essentials | 3.0 |
| STAT-245 | Statistics for Engineering & Tech l | 3.0 |
| Semester 1 Total | 15.0 | |
Semester 2
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ITSC-204 | Computer Architecture - Exploitation and Security | 3.0 |
| ITSC-205 | Operating Systems Internals | 3.0 |
| ITSC-206 | Advanced Networking for Offensive and Defensive Environments |
3.0 |
| ITSC-302 | Web Application Security | 3.0 |
| LAWG-200 | Security Practice and the Canadian Legal System | 3.0 |
| Semester 2 Total | 15.0 | |
Co-op Work Term (Optional)
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CPWK-225 | Cooperative Work Term (optional) | 0.0 |
| First Year Total | 30.0 | |
Second Year
Semester 3
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ITSC-203 | Scripting for Tool Construction | 3.0 |
| ITSC-301 | Wireless Security | 3.0 |
| ITSC-304 | Operating System Exploitation | 3.0 |
| ITSC-307 | Compliance and Encryption | 3.0 |
| ITSC-309 | Social Engineering | 3.0 |
| Semester 3 Total | 15.0 | |
Semester 4
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ITSC-303 | Malware Analysis | 3.0 |
| ITSC-305 | Internet of Things Systems | 3.0 |
| ITSC-306 | Computer Forensics | 3.0 |
| ITSC-308 | Security Policies and Operations | 3.0 |
| PROJ-309 | Capstone Project | 3.0 |
| Semester 4 Total | 15.0 | |
| Second Year Total | 30.0 | |
| Program Total | 60.0 | |
Progression
Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Transfer options
The opportunity to advance your education through transfer in, within or on from SAIT is available. Visit transfer options to learn more.
Costs 2022/23
Domestic tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $458
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $13,740 | $916 | $553 | $15,209 |
| 2 | 2 | $13,740 | $916 | $553 | $15,209 |
International tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $950.17
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $28,505.10 | $916 | $553 | $29,974.10 |
| 2 | 2 | $28,505.10 | $916 | $553 | $29,974.10 |
*Maximum fee. Actual fees may be less and are based on the number of credits a student takes per semester and whether they opt-out of health and dental benefits.
SAIT fees
- Campus athletic and recreation fee: $196
- Universal transit pass (Upass): $320
- Student support fee: $200
- Student technology fee: $200
Saitsa fees
Student Association fee
- Maximum: $291
This is the maximum amount the student will pay. Actual fees may be less and are based on the number of credits the students take per semester.
Health and dental fees
- Health plan: $127
- Dental plan: $135
Students with existing health and/or dental plans can opt-out. Please refer to Saitsa's website for information.
Books and supplies*
For an estimate of the costs associated with purchasing a computer that meets the program's hardware and software requirements, see our computers and laptops page.
Learn more about tuition and financial aid.
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change.
Next steps for incoming students
Have you been accepted to this program? Here's what you'll need for your first day of classes.
Orientation
Your program orientation (ORNT 118) will be held online on Aug. 30. Check your schedule in mySAIT for the time and location details.
Learn more about campus orientation.
How to register for classes
Course registration opens on Tuesday, Nov. 15 for Winter 2023.
You’ll receive an email from us indicating what registration process you’ll use to enroll in your classes.
Learn more about how to register and the different registration methods used at SAIT.
Computers and laptops
This is a bring your own device program with power-user hardware and software requirements. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
The recommended hardware and software requirements are:
- Processor: i7
- RAM: 16GB RAM or greater
- Storage: 512 GB SSD or greater
- Video card: onboard integrated
- Screen size: 15" or greater
- Screen resolution: 1920 x 1080 or greater
- OS: Windows 10 Pro 64-bit with antivirus/malware protection
Required equipment/tools*
Students will require their own:
- TP-Link N450 wireless access point
- SunFounder Raspberry Pi starter kit
- Sensor kit
- Cloud computing services subscription is approximately $800 - $1,200 per year.
*Please wait for instructors to provide further direction before purchasing equipment.
Preparation courses
To support your success, short courses are available to you to help prepare you for the academic year:
PERS 050: Student Rights and Responsibilities
This course is designed to introduce you to student rights and responsibilities at SAIT. You will learn about SAIT's rich and diverse community, become familiar with guidelines and procedures that create a safe, respectful learning experience for you, and gain practical tips for how you can engage in the SAIT community in a positive and responsible way. PRES-050 must be completed within 30 days from the start of the semester.
PREP 100: The SAIT Experience
Get tips and insider information on time management, exam preparation, effective notetaking and more through this free, online short course for new students. Plus, learn about discussion boards, online communication and submitting assignments online. Course completion is recommended by the end of your first semester.
Both courses can be accessed through Brightspace (D2L) before the first day of classes.
Students taking a full-time course load, or more than nine (9) credits per semester, will be automatically enrolled in these courses.
They are optional for students taking a part-time course load (9 or fewer credits per semester). Part-time students can register by emailing academic.coaching@sait.ca.
Required textbooks
Required textbooks will be discussed in class. You will not need to purchase them ahead of time.
Contact
Phone: 403.284.8543
sadt.advising@sait.ca
Academic chair
Jessica Ager, Academic Chair
jessica.ager@sait.ca
Next steps for all students
Here's what else you'll need to do to get ready!
Next steps for accepted students
Important dates and deadlines
Find important dates applicable to all students, including your transcript and tuition payment deadlines on our Important Dates page.
