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Grad cap icon Diploma
icon International applicants welcome - PGWP eligible | CIP code 11.0801

This is an academic credit program offered through the Faculty of Arts, Science and Management. 

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Location

Length

Delivery

Comox Valley
Fall
2 years In-person
Full-time or part-time

Applications open.

Overview

You'll learn:
  • A foundation of programming, including HTML, CSS and WordPress
  • Website, iOS and Android app development
  • Front-end programming using JavaScript
  • Knowledge of Xcode and Android Studio IEDs to develop smartphone apps
  • Professional workflows and applications

After graduation, you can kickstart your career with the diploma or take the next step by transferring to a Bachelor’s program to deepen your expertise.

Apply now     

Requirements and courses

Supplies

You’ll have access to iMac and Mac mini workstations with all the software you need, plus a scanner and printer. While an ergonomic mouse or drawing tablet is optional, it may be useful to have a laptop for work on and off-campus.

Here are the minimum specs recommended:

  • Processor: x86_64 CPU architecture; 2nd generation Intel Core or newer, or AMD CPU with support for a Windows Hypervisor 
  • Operating system: 64-bit Microsoft Windows 10 
  • RAM: 16 GB or more 
  • Graphics card: Minimum Direct 3D DDI Feature Set: 10. For Intel GPU, drivers released in 2014 or later are necessary. 
  • Hard disk space: 8 GB 

  • Processor: ARM-based chips, or 2nd generation Intel Core or newer with support for Hypervisor Framework 
  • Operating system: MacOS 10.15 (Catalina) or higher 
  • RAM: 16 GB or more 
  • Graphics card: GPU with Metal support; 2 GB+ of GPU memory 
  • Hard disk space: 8 GB  

 

Careers

Our program graduates are prepared to work as mobile app developers, web developers, game developers and other similar fields in the computer programming industry.

$76,583*

Annual median estimated earnings for web developers and programmers.

Career profile
*based on WorkBC data

Costs

Check the table below for estimated costs for the full program.

Curious about funding?

Financial support is available. Learn more about financial aid and awards.

How to apply

Frequently asked questions

No prior experience is required. The program is beginner-friendly, but having basic computer skills will be helpful. 

Yes, there are many options in the design and development programs, including certificates and diplomas, differing mainly in length and focus. Certificates typically take about a year, while diplomas last two years or more. Certificates cover foundational topics like web development, mobile apps, and graphic design, while diplomas build on these foundations and allow for specialization in areas like web development or design. To choose the best fit for your goals, consider speaking with a member of the Future Students team.

Yes, the program includes optional co-op placements to help you gain real-world experience and build connections in the industry. 

It's better to apply for the diploma straight away to avoid two separate applications, but if you completed the certificate program and then want to upgrade to the diploma you can apply and discuss more with an educational advisor for course planning. International students please reach out to our international team to get the most up-to-date requirements.

NIC offers flexible learning options, including online and hybrid courses, to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences. Pre-requisites and admissions requirements are still required for online courses. Reach out to a member of the Future Students team for more information.

Yes – students enrolled in general University Studies can take courses in this program, but seats are prioritized for full-time Digital Design and Development students. Earned credits will count toward the program if you decide to join, but prerequisites and co-requisites still apply. 

No, you will need to complete a Bachelor's degree before taking the NIC post grad programs. After completing this program, you can transfer to another institution to finish a Bachelor's degree. The BC Transfer Guide has detailed information on tradfer credits. A member of our educational team can help plan your education path with you too.

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Still have questions?

Get in touch with our Future Students team.

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