May 08, 2024  
PUBLISHED 2024-2025 Credit Catalog 
    
PUBLISHED 2024-2025 Credit Catalog

Software Development

Location(s): Blended (Main Campus & Online)


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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. 

Traits, skills and aptitudes


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. 

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities


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

Credential


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

Program length


2 years

Accepts international applicants - PGWP-eligible


This program accepts international applicants and meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, as long as the student is registered in on-campus classes or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for blended options). 

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. 

Not eligible for CAJG


This program is not eligible for the Canada Alberta Job Grant

Related careers


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

Potential careers (NOC):

  • Computer systems developers and programmers (21230)
  • Software developers and programmers (21232)
  • Web designers (21233)
  • Web developers and programmers (21234)

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.

Admission requirements - Applicants educated outside of Canada


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.

Program outline


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.

Optional courses


Suggested schedule of study


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 > 

Books and supplies


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.

Advanced Digital Technology program advising


For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School for Advanced Digital Technology.

Phone: 403.284.8543
Email: sadt.advising@sait.ca 

Program outcomes


  1. Business communication - demonstrate the professional written, verbal, and technical communication skills required to succeed within a development lifecycle.
  2. Professional acumen and work ethic - demonstrate professionalism and social and ethical awareness.
  3. Project management - apply recognized project management frameworks and best practices as a project team member.
  4. Business foundations - explain the integral role of the software developer in managing business processes.
  5. Client experience - exemplify a service mindset focusing on client satisfaction and the ability to problem solve with the customer needs in mind.
  6. Solution design - demonstrate knowledge of the software development lifecycle in designing, modelling, testing and implementing software solutions.
  7. Solution development - develop secure, user-centric software solutions by incorporating user requirements.
  8. Software architecture - recognize software architectures, design patterns and frameworks, and emerging technologies when developing software solutions.
  9. IT infrastructure - understand the basics of software development platforms, operating systems and cloud-based infrastructure.

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