Computer Programming & Analysis (CPA)

Co-op Option (CPAC)

Start in January, May, September

PGWP-eligible Program

Study Option

Full-time & Part-time

Credential

Ontario College Advanced Diploma

School

School of Computer Programming & Analysis

About the Computer Programming & Analysis (CPA) Program

Launch your software development career with this comprehensive advanced diploma program. Develop deep expertise in programming languages, program design and system analysis while gaining cutting-edge skills in artificial intelligence integration — which is critical in today's tech landscape.

You'll dive deep into both the practical applications and theoretical foundations of software development through specialized coursework and flexible professional options tailored to your career goals. In your final year, you’ll put your learning into practice and demonstrate your readiness to employers by working on a capstone project with a real-world industry partner.

Built on open-source development principles, this program equips you with the highly employable skills that today's software development teams demand.

Skills

Throughout this program, you will develop the ability to:

Develop software and applications for multiple operating systems using object-oriented and procedural code
Apply AI theory and techniques to solve real-world software development challenges
Design and build full-stack web applications and databases using modern frameworks and tools
Design, analyze and test software systems using industry-standard methodologies
Lead projects using industry-standard IT project management methodologies and tools
Implement efficient data structures, algorithms and quality assurance processes
Communicate technical concepts clearly and collaborate effectively in digital workplaces

Program Duration

Study at your own pace: In this program you’ll have the flexibility to choose how many courses you want to take each term. Students who study full-time can complete this program in as little as three years (six semesters). Duration will depend on the number of courses taken each term. See courses for more information.

Maximum completion time: In accordance with ministry requirements, all students must complete the program within six years of being admitted.

Work Experience

Optional Co-op

This program offers the option to complete a co-op work term, providing valuable hands-on experience in your field of study. If you are interested in completing a co-op work term, apply to the PROGRAMNAME program.

If you select the co-op stream you will have the opportunity to participate in a co-op term(s) if eligibility requirements are maintained. You will have the flexibility to transfer to the non-co-op stream at any time. The co-op term(s) is typically a full-time paid position completed between two academic semesters. The co-op search is student-driven and participation in the co-op stream does not guarantee that a work position will be secured. However, you will receive guidance and support through in-class career workshops and one-on-one coaching to help prepare for the co-op term. Additional fees are required for those participating in the optional co-op stream, regardless of success in securing a work position. For more information, see fee details.

The co-op work term can be completed in person, online or in a hybrid format, depending on the hiring organization.

Review eligibility requirements for work-integrated learning.

Start in	Study Option	Location	Availability
Jan. 2027	Full-time	Newnham	Open
Jan. 2027	Part-time	Newnham	Open
May 2027	Full-time	Newnham	Open
May 2027	Part-time	Newnham	Open
Sept. 2027	Full-time	Newnham	Open
Sept. 2027	Part-time	Newnham	Open

Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

Start in	Study Option	Location	Availability
Jan. 2027	Full-time	Newnham	Open
May 2027	Full-time	Newnham	Open
Sept. 2027	Full-time	Newnham	Open

Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

This program meets Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility requirements. (CIP code: 11.0201)

International students: Studying part-time is not an available option as this will impact your study permit and PGWP eligibility. Review the requirements before choosing your program and study option.

Program and Course Delivery

This program is offered in Seneca's hybrid delivery format with some courses available in Seneca's flexible delivery format. Some coursework is online and some must be completed in person. Students will need to come on campus to complete in-person learning requirements.

In courses delivered in the flexible format, using interactive learning spaces, professors teach in person to students in a physical classroom or lab and stream to students online at the same time. Students have a choice of coming to campus for an in-person experience or learning online.

Learn more: Seneca’s program delivery options and how courses in this program will be delivered each term.

International students planning to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): You must maintain full-time status and if you are in a flexible delivery course, you must attend classes in person. Review the PGWP requirements before choosing your program delivery options as studying online may affect your PGWP eligibility.

Your Career

Graduates of the program can explore the following career options:

AI-integrated software developer
cloud application developer
database developer
DevOps specialist
full-stack web developer
mobile application developer (iOS/Android)
quality assurance specialist
software team lead
systems analyst
technical support specialist

International Partnership

Seneca Polytechnic’s partnership with Continental Institute for International Studies (CIIS) offers an exciting pathway to students in India. Students can start their studies in India at CIIS and then transfer to study in Canada at Seneca to complete their Advanced Diploma.

Learn more about the partnership

Technology Partner

Seneca Polytechnic is proud to partner with Microsoft to bring cutting-edge AI platforms, innovation and industry-aligned curriculum into the classroom. With early access to the latest Microsoft AI technologies, students gain valuable hands-on experience to help set them up for success in emerging job markets. Learn more about our Microsoft partnership.

The Seneca Polytechnic Difference

This is where university meets college. Where theory meets practice. Where ambition meets flexibility.

Experiential Learning

Graduate career ready and world ready. This program has an optional co-op to help you hone essential skills for the workplace.

Degree Pathways

Every Seneca diploma has a degree pathway. You have the opportunity to continue your studies and complete a degree at Seneca or a partner institution.

Prior Experience

Earn credit for previous studies, work experience or training through Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition and transfer credits.

Career Support

Seneca Works offers students and graduates lifelong access to an exclusive job board, career coaching, networking and more.

What Our Graduates Say

Aliraza Versi

Graduate, Computer Programming & Analysis

“The CPA program provided me with opportunities to network with industry professionals and foster valuable connections for my academic and career growth. I also had the opportunity to be part of the Seneca Hackathon organizing team for two consecutive years, which allowed me to enhance my skills in event coordination, collaboration and innovation.”

Computer Programming & Analysis (CPA)

Campus

Delivery

Duration