Overview

Our Software Development diploma program equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to become a versatile full-stack developer. No background in software development or engineering is needed.

You will learn to work on front-end and back-end components of software systems, including web, mobile and desktop applications. You'll become a collaborative team player and critical thinker who has what it takes to stay current with industry trends.

As a student, you will:

  • develop secure and user-centric software solutions by integrating user requirements effectively
  • gain expertise in the software development lifecycle, including designing, modelling, testing and implementing software solutions
  • learn to recognize and apply software architectures, design patterns, frameworks and emerging technologies in software development
  • make decisions that impact scalability and maintainability
  • learn the basics of software development platforms, operating systems and cloud-based infrastructure
  • develop troubleshooting skills, essential to diagnose problems and implement effective solutions
  • refine your business communication skills and work ethic 
  • cultivate professionalism, social responsibility and ethical awareness to thrive in the world of technology
  • collaborate with stakeholders to complete a project and problem-solve to meet their needs.

Software developers play an integral role in managing and improving business processes, making decisions that shape how users interact with products, interfaces and applications. As a graduate, you will be ready for various career and professional development opportunities.

Job opportunities include junior software developer or programmer, software tester, quality assurance specialist, database administrator, web developer, or desktop support specialist.

Become part of the next generation of software development professionals. With this diploma, you can contribute practical knowledge and business value to the ever-evolving tech landscape. 

Software developers are innovative, methodical and directive.

You need:

  • logical thinking to analyze complex problems and create and verify solutions
  • patience and persistence when developing applications
  • attention to detail to avoid errors that cost time and money
  • the ability to interpret user needs
  • possess basic computer literacies, including the ability to use word processing and communication software
  • speaking, listening and writing skills
  • interpersonal and teamwork skills.

You should enjoy learning new computer languages and programming styles, solving problems creatively, being precise in your work and taking a structured approach to tasks and projects. 

You can complete an optional work term between your first and second year. This work placement includes full-time paid employment. 

Upon successful completion of this program, you'll be awarded a SAIT Software Development diploma.

Download program info

Careers and opportunities

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Associated National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes: 21230, 21232, 21233, 21234.

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Career counselling and support

Unsure which career path is for you? SAIT offers career planning services to help you decide your future.

You can also get started by taking our online career finder quiz, which can help you narrow down your search based on your current skills and interests.

Finally, you can also head to Alberta alis for various tools and resources, including additional quizzes and labour market information to help you narrow down a career path.

Courses

The Software Development diploma requires 60 credits (20 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with two to three semesters in the first year (depending on if you do the cooperative work term) and two semesters in the second year.

View classes by semester

Course Credits

This course is designed to develop technical writing and presentation skills to ensure workplace readiness. Students will learn how to evaluate communication situations, analyze documents, assess research sources and develop organizational skills to apply in their work. They will learn about and practice designing, formatting and writing a range of professional documents. Students will also develop confidence (through practice) in the development and delivery of effective and engaging presentations.

3

This course will introduce students to the fundamentals of network systems. Students will learn about networking basics and architecture, networking and software development, networking protocols, troubleshooting, and configuring virtual machines, Windows and Linux servers. Students will also learn about the functions of Active Directory in servers and performing socket programming with scripting language.

3

This course builds on the concepts and languages you learned previously. You'll explore object-oriented concepts using an industry-identified programming language. Topics include object-oriented design concepts, graphical user interfaces (GUI), polymorphism, inheritance, exception handling, serialization , database connectivity and recursive techniques.

Pre-requisites:
  • CPRG 216
3

This course introduces the fundamental concepts and technologies required for website development, beginning with examining how websites function by creating a static webpage using standard elements and logical document structure. Emphasis is placed on style rules and standards and their application on a webpage. Additional exposure to the use of advanced page scripting for the inclusion of interactivity on a website will be reinforced through hands-on website deployment.

3

This course explores the evolution of computer programming and examine common problem-solving techniques. Emphasis is placed on examining code reuse in functions, scoping and abstraction. Additional topics will be explored such as, version control, and you'll use classes and object-oriented programming principles to create applications using an industry-standard programming language.

Equivalents:
  • CPRG 2160
3

This course focuses on the fundamentals of database design using conceptual, logical and physical models. Application of concepts will be completed using a structured database language to create a database from a physical model, write queries and create data manipulation language commands. Emphasis will be placed on applying knowledge to designing a database, populate that database and generate reports based on user requirements.

3

This course introduces you to mobile technologies, mobile application development, and mobile application design and architecture. You'll also explore the features offered by platforms such as the Google Play Console, iTunes Connect and Apple Developer to test app quality, stability and performance.

Pre-requisites:
  • CPRG 211
3

This course explores advanced object-oriented programming concepts, including object-oriented design, integrating software components, recursion and abstract data types (ADT). Introduction to data structures and algorithms for sorting and searching towards the creation of complex programs as a complete client-focused.

Pre-requisites:
  • CPRG 211
3

In this course, you'll examine all facets of software testing, including what it is, how it is performed and how automated testing is incorporated into testing plans. As well, you'll explore the processes and procedures involved in the deployment of an application and where it fits into the software development lifecycle. You'll also be introduced to formal testing and quality assurance methodologies.

Pre-requisites:

One of:

  • CPRG 304
  • CPRG 311
3

This course builds on the fundamentals of full stack web development and includes topics such as web application architecture, front-end frameworks and back-end technologies. Students will gain hands-on experience combining front-end and back-end technologies as they develop and deploy a full stack web application.

Pre-requisites:
  • CPRG 213
3

This course builds on the programming skills students have already learned, with a focus on database-specific structured languages and embedding data requests into these languages. Students will also explore the importance of efficient code creation using an industry-identified database vendor language. Other topics include basic programming structures, advanced concepts in database programming and events.

Pre-requisites:
  • CPRG 250
3

This course introduces the theory and practice of software development, focusing on the requirements gathering, analysis and design phases of the software development life cycle. You'll also learn how computer-aided software engineering (CASE) programs can aid in the analysis and design processes.

Pre-requisites:
  • CPRG 216
3

This course introduces the fundamentals of designing user interfaces for software applications, with a focus on producing end products that are functional and are designed from a user perspective. Topics include usability engineering, human-computer interface design standards, screen mock-ups, documentation and prototype creation. Information gathering and user interview techniques are also emphasized.

3

This course builds on earlier courses to develop a thorough understanding of computer operating systems. Students will examine the fundamental principles and management of operating systems, including mechanisms for process management, memory management, storage management and protection management. The basics of cloud computing and virtualization will also be explored.

Pre-requisites:
  • CPRG 304
3

This course explores key project management concepts in software design and code management. Application of learning will be emphasized through team projects and collaboration.

Pre-requisites:

One of:

  • CPSY 200
  • PROJ 304
3

Software development is a dynamic industry that is constantly and rapidly evolving. In this course, you'll examine emerging technologies and how they have affected the industry and will continue to shape it into the future. Using an investigative and research-based approach, you'll build important skills in the identification of emerging trends, which you'll apply through proof-of-concepts.

Pre-requisites:

One of:

  • CPRG 211
  • CPRG 251
3

This course provides a comprehensive overview of software security, covering the key concepts and techniques necessary to build secure software systems. Topics include secure coding practices, web security, cross-platform security, incident management and emerging threats. Students will develop the skills and knowledge needed to build secure software systems.

Pre-requisites:
  • CPRG 304
  • CPRG 306
3

Mathematics for Technologists will provide learners with concepts in algebra, trigonometry, arithmetic of complex numbers, linear algebra, exponential and logarithmic functions, rates of change and statistics. This course provides foundational mathematics skills for engineering technologists. It covers a variety of mathematical models for solving application problems.

3

The purpose of this course is to introduce you to fundamental skills in critical thinking. You will develop skills in identifying fallacies, evaluating formal arguments, and diagnosing the appropriate form of argumentation in a variety of areas, including science and morality. Your skills in argumentation will be honed both in evaluating others' arguments and in making your own.

Equivalents:
  • PHIL 1011
3

In this capstone course, you will investigate issues across many different subject areas or domains of knowledge, may connect with community issues or problems, and create a solution. Your project should demonstrate the technical and professional skills learned in the program and beyond. You are expected to apply your creativity and problem-solving abilities to a real-world context.

Pre-requisites:

One of the following sets of pre-requisites, as applicable to your program of study:

Information Technology Services

  • CPNT 300, CPSY 302, CPSY 350, INTP 301, and ITSC 300

Software Development

  • CPRG 303, CPRG 304, CPRG 306, CPRG 307, and CPSY 301

Information Systems Security

  • ITSC 203, ITSC 301, ITSC 304, ITSC 307, and ITSC 309

Film and Video Production

  • FVDO 300, FVDO 302, FVDO 303, FVDO 304, and FVDO 308

New Media Production & Design

  • MMDA 300, MMDA 303, MMDA 323, MMDA 324, and MMDA 326

Interactive Design

  • COMM 238, CPRG 218, DSGN 221, DSGN 227, MMDA 203, PHIL 241, and PMGT 200
3

Course Credits

This cooperative work term course provides the opportunity to apply your classroom learning in a practical workplace setting, as well as gain valuable industry experience. This course is optional.

Pre-requisites:

One of the following sets of pre-requisites, as applicable to your program of study:

Information Technology Services

  • CPNT 224, CPRG 217, CPSY 204, CPSY 206, and PHIL 241

Software Development

  • CPRG 211, CPRG 250, CPSY 200, CPSY 202, and PHIL 241

Information Systems Security

  • ITSC 204, ITSC 205, ITSC 206, ITSC 302, and LAWG 200

New Media Production & Design

  • MMDA 225, MMDA 237, MMDA 243, MMDA 244, and MMDA 247

Film and Video Production

  • FVDO 250, FVDO 252, FVDO 254, FVDO 256, and FVDO 258

Journalism

  • JOUR 251, JOUR 254, JOUR 258, PHOT 256, and PUBL 261

Interactive Design

  • CPRG 218, DSGN 221, DSGN 227, MMDA 203, and PMGT 200

Integrated Artificial Intelligence

  • ARTI 407, ARTI 408, ARTI 409, DATA 480, and PROJ 407
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Progression

You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure > 

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Explore your options!

Some courses in this program are available through Open Studies. You can complete courses via Open Studies to get a head start on your education, reduce your course load once accepted into a credentialed program, or determine which career path best suits you before you fully commit. 

You may also take courses for general interest or personal and professional development.

Admission requirements

Applicants educated in Canada

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:

  • 50% in Math 30-1 or 60% in Math 30-2, and
  • 55% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 60% in English Language Arts 30-2.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

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Academic Upgrading

Missing an admission requirement for this program? Upgrade your prior education to help you receive admission into one of SAIT's career programs.

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English language proficiency

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Transfer agreements

At SAIT, we evaluate post-secondary credit you have previously earned and apply it to your SAIT credential. Explore our formal transfer agreements available for this program.

We can evaluate your prior education, even if we don't have a formal agreement in place.

Submit a transfer credit application

There are no formal transfer agreements currently in place for this program.

Transfer options for graduates

Build on the knowledge you’ve learned at SAIT. The opportunity to advance your education at an accredited post-secondary institution may be available.

🔗 Visit Transfer Alberta search tool for all transfer agreements in Alberta (including UCalgary, MRU and BVC).

If there are transfer agreements with other institutions outside of Alberta, nationally or internationally, they will be listed below.

Griffith University

Program name
Bachelor of Information Technology
Available credits:
45

Upon successful completion of this program, you'll be eligible to receive up to 45 credits (1.5 years) toward Griffith's Bachelor of Information Technology program.

This degree is a three-year program with intakes offered in February and July each year.

Available intakes

Winter 2025

Start dates:

Domestic students: Waitlisted
  • Application deadline: Oct. 25, 2024
International students: Closed
  • Application deadline: Sept. 30, 2024

Spring 2025

Start dates:

Domestic students: Open
  • Application deadline: April 30, 2025
International students: Open
  • Application deadline: March 28, 2025

Fall 2025

Start dates:

Domestic students: Open
  • Application deadline: June 30, 2025
International students: Open
  • Application deadline: May 30, 2025

Costs

2024/25 tuition and fees

The following estimated costs are effective as of July 1, 2024.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year Number of semesters Tuition fees Additional fees Total per year
1 2 $9,630 $1,608 $11,238
2 2 $9,630 $1,608 $11,238
Total cost:
$22,476

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year Number of semesters Tuition fees Additional fees Total per year
1 2 $23,580 $1,608 $25,188
2 2 $23,580 $1,608 $25,188
Total cost:
$50,376

Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 per full-time year.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a power-user computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.

The recommended hardware and software requirements are:

  • Processor: i7
  • RAM: 32GB 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

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore's website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date. Can't find your program or course? The bookstore didn't receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they're still refining course details or if you're in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.

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Financial aid

Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.

Application process

Ready to apply?

Follow our step-by-step guide to submitting a successful application.

Learn how to apply

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.

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Begin your application

Apply now using the online application portal. 

Ensure you have a valid Visa or Mastercard to pay the non-refundable application fee of $120 for domestic applicants or $175 for international applicants. 

Information sessions

Prepare for a strong start in your chosen program or get the details you need to decide your future path.

Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:

  • What sets SAIT apart
  • An introduction to the program and area of study
  • Admission requirements
  • Future career paths
  • Information on the earning potential and graduate employment rates.

Contact us

School for Advanced Digital Technology Advising

Phone
403.284.8543
Email
sadt.advising@sait.ca

International Student Advising

Phone
403.284.8852
Email
international@sait.ca
a view of the moutains and stream in between

Oki, Âba wathtech, Danit'ada, Tawnshi, Hello.

SAIT is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Îyârhe Nakoda of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney.

We are situated in an area the Blackfoot tribes traditionally called Moh’kinsstis, where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. We now call it the city of Calgary, which is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta.