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Next information session
All courses in this program will be delivered online (OA, OS, OR) for the Fall 2021 semester.
Learn more about our course delivery options
Overview
Train to enter the computer and systems security profession with a mastery of programming, operating systems, networking and strategy — using practical applications of defensive and offensive technologies.
This program is undergoing review and is subject to change effective for the 2022-2023 intakes.Computer and systems security is an integral part of our everyday lives. When the systems work it is transparent but when they fail it can be catastrophic. Not only are businesses focused on the security of their data, nation states are focused on the security of their people. Terrorism, rogue states, organized crime and low level cyber-warfare are all part of today’s threat landscapes.
The Information Systems Security program prepares you for entering the security profession with confidence and solid fundamental knowledge. You will use a wide variety of defensive and offensive tools while learning the fundamentals of: networking, malware analysis, reverse engineering, tool construction, operating systems internals, forensics, legal/ethical issues, social engineering and military strategy.
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 technologies, cumulating with a capstone project in which students apply the sum of their learning in the program. Underscoring the rigorous nature of the training, a selection of courses are conducted in a unique lab environment that is designed to contain and control the possible spread of the malware being analyzed.
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 (an asset, but not required).
Credential
Upon successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT diploma in Information Systems Security.
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 per year*
Year 1: $14,686
Year 2: $14,686
Year 1 (International): $29,075
Year 2 (International): $31,547
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change
Requirements
You will be offered admission to this program through direct entry if you meet the admission requirements and space is available.
When can you apply?
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Applications for winter 2022 open March 31, 2021.
- Applications for spring 2022 open June 14, 2021.
- Applications for fall 2022 are open on Oct. 6, 2022.
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year end date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2021 | Sept. 7, 2021 | April 29, 2022 |
| Winter 2022 | Jan. 10, 2022 | Aug. 19, 2022 |
| Spring 2022 | May 9, 2022 | Dec. 16, 2022 |
| Fall 2022 | Sept. 6, 2021 | April 28, 2022 |
Admission Requirements
Admission and selection
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Winter 2022 start: applications open March 31, 2021.
- Spring 2022 start: application open June 14, 2021.
- Fall 2022 start: applications are open Oct. 6, 2021.
Admission requirements
Completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- At least 65% in Math 30-1 or Pure Math 30, or at least 70% in Math 30-2 or Applied Math 30, 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.
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 and/or anticipated final grades.
- Admission will be extended on a first-qualified, first-offered basis until the program is full.
Step 4: Find out how to monitor your application status after you apply.
Communication during selection
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 ict.info@sait.ca and the sait.ca domain to your safe sender's list or you risk missing critical email messages.
Courses
Program outline
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
This program is undergoing review and is subject to change effective for the 2022-2023 intakes.
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-203 | Offensive and Defensive Tool Construction | 3.0 |
| 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 |
| LAWG-200 | Security Practice and the Canadian Legal System | 3.0 |
| CPWK-225 | Cooperative Work Term (optional) | 0.0 |
| Semester 2 Total | 15.0 | |
| First Year Total | 30.0 | |
Second Year
Semester 3
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ITSC-301 | Wireless Security | 3.0 |
| ITSC-302 | Web Application Security | 3.0 |
| ITSC-303 | Malware Analysis | 3.0 |
| ITSC-304 | Operating System Exploitation | 3.0 |
| ITSC-305 | Reverse Engineering of IoT Systems | 3.0 |
| Semester 3 Total | 15.0 | |
Semester 4
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ITSC-306 | Computer Forensics | 3.0 |
| ITSC-307 | Payment Card Industry Compliance and Encryption | 3.0 |
| ITSC-308 | Security Policies and Operations | 3.0 |
| ITSC-309 | Social Engineering | 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 to, within or from SAIT is available with the following universities and colleges:
- Business Academy Aarhus
- Griffith University
- NAIT
Visit Transfer Options to learn more.
Costs
2021/22 Domestic Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $13,353 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $14,686 |
| 2 | $13,353 | $792.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $14,686 |
2021/22 International Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $27,742 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $29,075 |
| 2 | $30,214 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $31,547 |
*Fees and tuition are based on a two-semester full course load structure. There may be additional fees for practicums and terms held outside this time frame.
SAIT Fees
Campus athletic and recreation Fee: $183.20
Universal transit pass (UPass): $310 - Check eligibility here.
Student support fee: $150
Student technology fee: $150
Health and Dental Fees
Domestic Students
- Health Plan: $122
- Dental Plan: $130
- For students with existing health and/or dental plans, please refer to the Saitsa website for information on opting out.
International Students
- Health and Dental Plan: $252
- For more information on Health and Dental Benefits for International students please contact the International Centre.
Books and supplies*
- For an estimate of the costs associated with purchasing a device that meets the standard hardware and software requirements, see our computers and laptops page.
- Find out 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.
Fall 2021
Orientation
Your program orientation will take place on Sept. 2 online. Check your schedule in mySAIT for the time and location details.
Learn more about your orientation.
How to register for classes
You'll follow a fixed block registration process to enrol in your classes. Learn how to register on our registration and schedules page.
Computers and laptops
This is a bring your own device program with custom hardware and software requirement. 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.
Preparation courses
To support your success, you’ll be automatically registered in two short courses to 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 D2Lbefore the first day of classes.
Required textbooks
Required textbooks will be discussed in class. You will not need to purchase them ahead of time.
Contact
Phone: 403.284.8543
ict.techstudents@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.
Student Guidelines
Review the student guidelines to learn about the School of Information and Communications Technologies' expectations before you start your studies.