George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
Computer Systems Technology
(T190)
Program Details
- Program Code: T190
- Credential: Ontario College Advanced Diploma
- Duration: 6 Semesters
- Method of Study: Full-time
- Starting Months: January, September
- Domestic Tuition: $4,101.00 *
- International Tuition: $19,335.00 **
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | Open | Open |
| Winter 2027 | Open | Open |
| Spring 2027 | Not Available | Not Available |
- PGWP Eligible: No
Program Description
Leadership Claims
Our Cisco Networking Academy has won the Premier Partner status for two years in a row for our contributions to the success of students and instructors. We support over 35 other Cisco Networking Academies in North America and are one of only a few academies that have an Instructor Trainer status.
Program Overview
The Computer Systems Technology three-year advanced diploma program will give you what you need to meet the high demand for skilled employees in the tech industry. Designed with extensive input from our industry partners, this program offers two optional specializations in your third year of study. Plus, you’ll get to work on exciting, hands-on projects developing IT solutions.
Full Description
The three-year Computer Systems Technology advanced diploma program is designed with extensive industry input and offers two optional specializations in its third year:
- The Networking specialization focuses on network security, voice-over-IP (VoIP) and wireless LANs.
- The Systems specialization focuses on mail server administration, content management systems (Collaboration), database administration and computer security.
Both specializations include core courses on infrastructure virtualization (through the VMWare IT Academy) and cloud computing, along with best practices in Information Technology (IT).
In your third year, you'll have the opportunity to apply your knowledge in real-life projects or case studies. These can be completed independently with an industry partner or George Brown’s Office of Research and Innovation. This hands-on experience, which often involves working in teams to develop proposals, plan, set schedules and achieve specific goals in information technology, is a key part of our program. Through these projects, our students have contributed to the development of IT solutions for hospitals, large corporations, and major IT and telecommunications service providers, including Bell Mobility, Rogers Communications, Cogeco Data Systems and many other well-known companies in the GTA.
This program covers all courses of the official Cisco CCNA Routing & Switching curriculum. The curriculum also prepares students to write several other examinations leading to industry certifications, such as the Certified Wireless Network Administrator (CWNA) and Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate.
Our college is committed to providing the best learning environment. We invest in up-to-date networking, wireless, radio frequency, VoIP and security lab equipment, ensuring that all students gain hands-on experience in installation and configuration of equipment ranging from small offices to enterprise-class hardware and software. This commitment has been recognized by Cisco, who designated George Brown as an Area Support Centre and Instructor Training Centre, making us part of a very select group of Cisco Networking Academies in Canada. This recognition and our industry partnerships underscore the quality and relevance of our program.
Note: Students who start the program in January (winter term) will be required to attend classes during the summer months (May to August).
Technology Requirements
You'll need to have access to a personal computer with the following specifications:
- 16 GB RAM minimum
- 256 GB SSD Hard Drive (500+ GB is optimal)
- quad-core i7 2.4GHz or better
- video card (2GB RAM minimum/4GB RAM recommended)
- webcam
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Opportunities to receive transfer credits toward further study to attain a degree are available.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| COMP1151 | IT Essentials: Computer Hardware Fundamentals |
| COMP1234 | Introduction to Web Development |
| COMP1236 | Fundamentals of Computing Logic |
| COMP1238 | Introduction to Data Management |
| MATH1162 | Mathematics for Computer Technology I |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMP1176 | Introduction to Networks - Ccna 1 - Essential Networking Technology |
| COMP1250 | Introduction to Programming |
| COMP3044 | Linux Essentials |
| COMP3105 | Enterprise Desktop Operation Systems |
| GSSC1027 | Personal Finance |
| MATH1172 | Mathematics for Computer Technology II |
Semester 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMP2064 | Identity Management Services |
| COMP2148 | Professional Workplace Competencies |
| COMP2155 | Network Automation |
| COMP3066 | Linux System Administration |
| COMP3136 | Network Infrastructure |
| GNED | General Elective |
Semester 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMP2102 | Wireless Technology Fundamentals |
| COMP2141 | Windows Server Network Infrastructure |
| COMP2156 | Devops for System Administration |
| COMP3061 | Cyber Security Fundamentals |
| COMP3138 | Enterprise Networking & Automation |
| GNED | General Elective |
Semester 5
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMP3093 | Infrastructure Virtualization |
| COMP3103 | Scripting for Sys Mgmt Scripting for Systems Management |
| COMP3106 | AI for System Administrators |
| COMP3114 | Database Administration |
| COMP3125 | Cybersecurity Operations |
Semester 6
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMP3099 | Capstone Project |
| COMP3108 | Cloud Computing Infrastructure |
| COMP3109 | Project Management for IT Professionals |
| COMP3110 | Sys Network Mgmt Trouble Systems/Network Management and Troubleshooting |
| COMP3116 | Penetration Testing/Ethical Hacking |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Identify, analyze, design, develop, implement, verify and document the requirements for a computing environment.
- Diagnose, troubleshoot, document and monitor technical problems using appropriate methodologies and tools.
- Analyze, design, implement and maintain secure computing environments.
- Analyze, develop and maintain robust computing system solutions through validation testing and industry best practices.
- Communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure effective working relationships.
- Select and apply strategies for personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
- Apply project management principles and tools when responding to requirements and monitoring projects within a computing environment.
- Adhere to ethical, social media, legal, regulatory and economic requirements and/or principles in the development and management of computing solutions and systems.
- Investigate emerging trends to respond to technical challenges.
- Analyze, plan, design, implement and administer computer systems and cloud solutions.
- Research, design, deploy, configure, troubleshoot, maintain, upgrade and decommission computing system infrastructures.
- Select and apply scripting tools and programming languages to automate routine tasks.
- Install, monitor, optimize and administer a database management system in response to specified requirements.
- Design, implement and administer technical support processes for computing system infrastructures that align with industry best practices.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
$4,101.00 *
International Tuition
$19,335.00 **
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2026 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2026. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. This program is available for funding through our partnership with Passage, who provide student loans to qualified international student applicants. To find out more about this opportunity, and if you may qualify, visit our Passage page.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Course exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Computer Technology
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4287
Email: computertechnology@georgebrown.ca
The office hours are:
Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Program Co-ordinator: Jorge Olenewa
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 6809
Email: jolenewa@georgebrown.ca
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
The Computer Systems Technology program is offered through our School of Computer Technology from our Casa Loma Campus at 146 Kendal Avenue, Toronto. Sign up for an information session or campus tour to learn more about George Brown College and the program. You can also explore our virtual tour.
Program Description
Leadership Claims
Our Cisco Networking Academy has won the Premier Partner status for two years in a row for our contributions to the success of students and instructors. We support over 35 other Cisco Networking Academies in North America and are one of only a few academies that have an Instructor Trainer status.
Program Overview
The Computer Systems Technology three-year advanced diploma program will give you what you need to meet the high demand for skilled employees in the tech industry. Designed with extensive input from our industry partners, this program offers two optional specializations in your third year of study. Plus, you’ll get to work on exciting, hands-on projects developing IT solutions.
Full Description
The three-year Computer Systems Technology advanced diploma program is designed with extensive industry input and offers two optional specializations in its third year:
- The Networking specialization focuses on network security, voice-over-IP (VoIP) and wireless LANs.
- The Systems specialization focuses on mail server administration, content management systems (Collaboration), database administration and computer security.
Both specializations include core courses on infrastructure virtualization (through the VMWare IT Academy) and cloud computing, along with best practices in Information Technology (IT).
In your third year, you'll have the opportunity to apply your knowledge in real-life projects or case studies. These can be completed independently with an industry partner or George Brown’s Office of Research and Innovation. This hands-on experience, which often involves working in teams to develop proposals, plan, set schedules and achieve specific goals in information technology, is a key part of our program. Through these projects, our students have contributed to the development of IT solutions for hospitals, large corporations, and major IT and telecommunications service providers, including Bell Mobility, Rogers Communications, Cogeco Data Systems and many other well-known companies in the GTA.
This program covers all courses of the official Cisco CCNA Routing & Switching curriculum. The curriculum also prepares students to write several other examinations leading to industry certifications, such as the Certified Wireless Network Administrator (CWNA) and Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate.
Our college is committed to providing the best learning environment. We invest in up-to-date networking, wireless, radio frequency, VoIP and security lab equipment, ensuring that all students gain hands-on experience in installation and configuration of equipment ranging from small offices to enterprise-class hardware and software. This commitment has been recognized by Cisco, who designated George Brown as an Area Support Centre and Instructor Training Centre, making us part of a very select group of Cisco Networking Academies in Canada. This recognition and our industry partnerships underscore the quality and relevance of our program.
Note: Students who start the program in January (winter term) will be required to attend classes during the summer months (May to August).
Technology Requirements
You'll need to have access to a personal computer with the following specifications:
- 16 GB RAM minimum
- 256 GB SSD Hard Drive (500+ GB is optimal)
- quad-core i7 2.4GHz or better
- video card (2GB RAM minimum/4GB RAM recommended)
- webcam
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Opportunities to receive transfer credits toward further study to attain a degree are available.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| COMP1151 | IT Essentials: Computer Hardware Fundamentals |
| COMP1234 | Introduction to Web Development |
| COMP1236 | Fundamentals of Computing Logic |
| COMP1238 | Introduction to Data Management |
| MATH1162 | Mathematics for Computer Technology I |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMP1176 | Introduction to Networks - Ccna 1 - Essential Networking Technology |
| COMP1250 | Introduction to Programming |
| COMP3044 | Linux Essentials |
| COMP3105 | Enterprise Desktop Operation Systems |
| GSSC1027 | Personal Finance |
| MATH1172 | Mathematics for Computer Technology II |
Semester 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMP2064 | Identity Management Services |
| COMP2148 | Professional Workplace Competencies |
| COMP2155 | Network Automation |
| COMP3066 | Linux System Administration |
| COMP3136 | Network Infrastructure |
| GNED | General Elective |
Semester 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMP2102 | Wireless Technology Fundamentals |
| COMP2141 | Windows Server Network Infrastructure |
| COMP2156 | Devops for System Administration |
| COMP3061 | Cyber Security Fundamentals |
| COMP3138 | Enterprise Networking & Automation |
| GNED | General Elective |
Semester 5
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMP3093 | Infrastructure Virtualization |
| COMP3103 | Scripting for Sys Mgmt Scripting for Systems Management |
| COMP3106 | AI for System Administrators |
| COMP3114 | Database Administration |
| COMP3125 | Cybersecurity Operations |
Semester 6
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMP3099 | Capstone Project |
| COMP3108 | Cloud Computing Infrastructure |
| COMP3109 | Project Management for IT Professionals |
| COMP3110 | Sys Network Mgmt Trouble Systems/Network Management and Troubleshooting |
| COMP3116 | Penetration Testing/Ethical Hacking |
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
$4,101.00 *
International Tuition
$19,335.00 **
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2026 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2026. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. This program is available for funding through our partnership with Passage, who provide student loans to qualified international student applicants. To find out more about this opportunity, and if you may qualify, visit our Passage page.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Course exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Identify, analyze, design, develop, implement, verify and document the requirements for a computing environment.
- Diagnose, troubleshoot, document and monitor technical problems using appropriate methodologies and tools.
- Analyze, design, implement and maintain secure computing environments.
- Analyze, develop and maintain robust computing system solutions through validation testing and industry best practices.
- Communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure effective working relationships.
- Select and apply strategies for personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
- Apply project management principles and tools when responding to requirements and monitoring projects within a computing environment.
- Adhere to ethical, social media, legal, regulatory and economic requirements and/or principles in the development and management of computing solutions and systems.
- Investigate emerging trends to respond to technical challenges.
- Analyze, plan, design, implement and administer computer systems and cloud solutions.
- Research, design, deploy, configure, troubleshoot, maintain, upgrade and decommission computing system infrastructures.
- Select and apply scripting tools and programming languages to automate routine tasks.
- Install, monitor, optimize and administer a database management system in response to specified requirements.
- Design, implement and administer technical support processes for computing system infrastructures that align with industry best practices.
Contact Us
School of Computer Technology
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4287
Email: computertechnology@georgebrown.ca
The office hours are:
Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Program Co-ordinator: Jorge Olenewa
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 6809
Email: jolenewa@georgebrown.ca
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
The Computer Systems Technology program is offered through our School of Computer Technology from our Casa Loma Campus at 146 Kendal Avenue, Toronto. Sign up for an information session or campus tour to learn more about George Brown College and the program. You can also explore our virtual tour.
Visit Casa Loma
Book campus tourVisit Casa Loma
Our Virtual Tour showcases the following areas:
- Campus Facilities
- Student Services
- Applied Learning Environments
- Labs & Classrooms