Program overview
Learn the general principles of computer information systems and their applications with the online University Certificate in Computing and Information Systems. You will also gain essential programming and web development skills.
Computer science and information systems come together in the discipline of computing and information systems (CIS). CIS differs somewhat from other purely academic disciplines in that it combines theory and practice into comprehensive skill sets. The University Certificate in Computing and Information Systems will give you the opportunity to develop a sound understanding of the general principles of computer information systems and their applications.
You will learn about
- programming languages
- algorithms
- data structures
- operating systems
- computer networks
- database management
- systems design and analysis
Through this program you will be able to demonstrate a general understanding of each of these major subject areas that define the discipline, as well as the relationships that exist among them.
Also, with Athabasca University’s selection of elective courses, you can develop specialized skills in areas such as
- system administration
- design and analysis of algorithms
- computer programming
- human-computer interaction
- distributed computing
- web development
Routes and options
Ladder to a degree
Completing this certificate puts you on your way to achieving a Bachelor of Science, Computing and Information Systems Major.
Completion times
Finish this program in as little as 1 year of full-time study, or work at your own pace and take as long as you need. There is no time limit for completion.
Admission requirements
There are no formal admission requirements for this program. All you need is to be 16 years of age or older. You can enrol anytime and start right away, regardless of your previous education.
However, to ensure success in the program, you should be certain that you have a basic understanding of computers and reasonable skills in mathematics. Are you ready to start a School of Computing and Information Systems program or course?
How to apply
You can apply to AU online any time. Once you’ve completed the online application form and paid the one-time general application fee, you’re officially an AU student and can start registering in courses.
You should enrol as an unclassified (non-program) student if you want to take the English Language Proficiency Program.
Make sure we get your transcripts if you want us to consider your previous post-secondary education for transfer credit.
Transfer and advanced credit
If you have previous post-secondary education or significant life and work experience that relates to this program, you may be eligible for transfer credit or Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR). This could mean fewer courses to get your AU certificate.
If you transfer credit, you must complete a minimum of 18 credits at AU.
Keep in mind, if you completed your computer science courses more than 5 years ago you will need to provide proof you are current in the field in order to be considered for transfer credit. This proof can be in the form of a current resumé and letter of employment showing activity in the field in the past 5 years. Other evidence may be accepted if a letter of employment and resumé cannot be supplied.
Science courses that are over 10 years old will only be accepted for transfer credit if you can provide evidence of employment in a science or engineering field.
Program requirements
To complete the program you will need to fulfill all the requirements of the certificate.
Our program plans can give you an idea of what courses you need to finish this program, and how to plan the order you’ll take them in. If you’re feeling stuck, our academic advisors can help.
Required courses
Detailed information about courses in this program can be accessed using the following link:
Tuition and fees
Once you have paid the initial application fee, tuition is pay-as-you-go for each course registration. Course fees vary depending on your location and other factors.
You can estimate your total program cost by multiplying the cost of a 3-credit course by the number of courses you need to take for the program. Remember that tuition costs may increase each year.
Program learning outcomes
As a result of completing this program, you will be able to
- Apply a structured approach to the analysis of information systems
- Design, build, and manage computer networks
- Configure systems software and hardware
- Apply principles of computer science in the development of computer software
- Use and manage database systems to address business needs
- Ethically and legally design and manage computer systems
- Design, build, and evaluate usable and accessible computer systems
- Apply appropriate and efficient algorithms and data structures in the design of computer software
- Adopt effective approaches to the management of security and privacy in computer systems
- Integrate knowledge and skills gained on the course to the design and implementation of computer-based projects
Possible career options
Though job titles vary widely, graduates might typically be hired at an entry-level position as a
- Computer Information Systems Developer
- Programmer
- Computer System Analyst
- Web Designer