Calgary's technology industry is one of the city's fastest-growing sectors and is expected to grow further. has faced and adopted transformative technologies. That’s why it’s no surprise that there will be several homegrown successful startups and businesses that will put Calgary on the list of thriving cities in terms of technology. With a free-flowing stream of IT-related opportunities, tons of institutions are offering recognized IT courses and programs. Read on to know more about the most recognized IT courses in Calgary.
| Institution | Program | Duration | Cost (CAD) | Main Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SAIT | BTech – Software Development | 2 years | 25477 | Advanced programming and security |
| SAIT | Diploma – Information Technology | 2 years | 22957 | IT fundamentals and cybersecurity |
| Bow Valley College | Software Development Diploma | 2 terms | 9189 | Coding and applications |
| Bow Valley College | IT Systems Diploma | 4 terms | 18578 | Systems and infrastructure |
| University of Calgary (Continuing Education) | Full Stack Bootcamp | 450 hours | 5995 | Front-end and back-end development |
| University of Calgary (Continuing Education) | Data Science Certificate | 4 months | Varies | Data analysis and big data |
| Mount Royal University | Computer Information Systems Diploma | 4 years | 22242–25228 | Software and systems |
| Mount Royal University | Cybersecurity Certificate | 10 months | 3045 | Security and risk management |
Comprehensive Guide to IT and Programming Programs in Calgary
The thing about IT is that there’s always something new to look forward to. That's why for this industry, learning never stops. Unlike programs in history and mathematics, IT-related programs are subject to constant updates to remain more competitive and value-adding.
The constant need to update skills and knowledge is one of the main reasons there’s a wide range of topics and concepts for IT professionals to learn. These types of courses also rely on skills and real-world applications rather than just theoretical knowledge, catering to a range of career aspirations.
Are you living in Ontario? Discover the best IT Toronto courses and great IT programs in Ottawa.
In 2025, Calgary ranked fifth among startup hubs in the country, driven by a 30% growth rate. And, according to the latest Global Startup Ecosystem Index by StartupBlink, the city ranks 92nd worldwide. In addition, Calgary has experienced a 78% increase in tech job postings over the past five years. 1
If you’re looking for the best IT training and courses, here are some of them:
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)
The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology offers academic programs in different fields. And when it comes to IT, its School for Advanced Digital Technology offers a Bachelor of Technology – Software Development that focuses on advanced IT programming, while its Diploma in Information Technology provides training in information security and emerging technologies.
By combining theory and hands-on learning, students develop real-world skills for their future careers, giving them a competitive edge and creating a training ground closer to industry standards.
Bachelor of Technology (Software Development)
- Course content: Programming, web development, database design, software testing and security.
- 2-year duration
- Prerequisites: English proficiency, SAIT information technology diploma or equivalent, 2.3 cumulative GPA (67% or C+).
- Total cost: $25,477.20
- Career outcomes: Business systems, computer and Information systems and computer systems developers
Diploma in Information Technology
- Course content: IT fundamentals, cloud services, information security and emerging technologies.
- 2-year duration
- Prerequisites: English proficiency, 50% in Math 30-1, or 60% in Math 30-2; 55% in English Language Arts 30-1, or 60% in English Language Arts 30-2.
- Total cost: $22,957.20
- Career outcomes: Computer and information systems, data scientists and cybersecurity
Unique Features
- More than 250 industry partnerships with national technology companies.
- Applied and practical learning model focused on real-world projects.
- Research opportunities, access to modern laboratories, internships and apprenticeships, and state-of-the-art facilities.
- Career-focused curriculum designed to prepare students for in-demand technology positions.
🔗 Learn more about the SAIT IT courses.
Undergraduate programs and certification courses are not the only ways to learn IT concepts and skills. Discover the best IT programming courses in Edmonton.
Bow Valley College
Bow Valley College is a public college that has been opensince 1965 and has since offered more than 30 programs and courses to students from all over the world. It is part of the Campus Alberta South collaboration to facilitate and support integrated learning in IT programming Calgary.
They offer diplomas, post-diploma certificates, and continuing education certificates ininformation technology. Their Software Development Diploma focuses on programming, application design and software testing, while their Information Technology Systems Diploma focuses on systems administration and IT infrastructure.
Software Development Diploma
- Course content: Coding principles, systems analysis.
- 2-term duration
- Prerequisites: Completion of a diploma or degree, credit in Math 30-1 or Math 30-2.
- Total cost: $9,189
- Career outcomes: Software development, computer applications development, database management and mobile development.
Information Technology Systems Diploma
- Course content: Computer hardware and operating systems, system administration and cybersecurity.
- 4-terms duration
- Prerequisites: English 30-1, or 65% in English 30-2; Math 30-1 or Math 30-2.
- Total cost: $18,578
- Career outcomes: Junior IT tech, service desk analyst, junior IT support analyst
Unique Features
- Hands-on learning and projects focused on real-world situations.
- Learning spaces designed for collaborative, technology-enhanced education.
🔗 Learn more about Bow Valley College courses.
University of Calgary Continuing Education
The University of Calgary is a public research university located in Calgary, Alberta. It is one of the most prestigious universities in Canada. In fact, in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023, it was ranked between 201 and 250 worldwide and between 8 and 10 in Canada.
Regarding continuing education, the University of Calgary offers hundreds of courses and seminars, as well as dozens of certification programs for professional development in the technology industry. For example, through its Full Stack Development Bootcamp, students will learn Front-End and Back-End technologies. And through the Data Science and Analytics Certificate, they will focus on statistical data analysis and big data management.
Full Stack Development Bootcamp
- Course content: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, User-interface libraries, Databases, file storage systems, webservers.
- 450 hours
- Prerequisites: No prerequisites required.
- Total cost: $5,995
- Career outcomes: Digital media designer/developer, full-stack developer, website developer, programmer, UX/UI designer
Data Science and Analytics Certificate
- Course content: Data and visualization, statistical data analysis, statistical modelling with data and big data management.
- 4 months duration
- Prerequisites: Graduate Certificate in Fundamental Data Science and Analytics
- Total cost: Depends on your profile.
- Career outcomes: Business, retail, e-commerce, advertising and healthcare.
Unique Features
- Classes designed for active professionals.
- Teachers with industry experience and practical knowledge.
- Practical curriculum tailored to industry needs.
🔗 Read more about the IT continuing education programs of the University of Calgary.
Mount Royal University
Named twice as the best post-secondary institution in the city, Mount Royal University has consistently ranked among the country’s best universities for quality education and overall university experience. The university offers certificates and diplomas for several fields. Its technology programs are designed to prepare students for applied careers in information systems and cybersecurity. For example, the Computer Information Systems Diploma and the Cybersecurity Certificate prepare graduates for entry-level roles in the tech sector.
Computer Information Systems Diploma
- Course content: Software development, systems analysis and project management
- 4-year duration
- Prerequisites: Five Grade 12 courses; English Language Arts 30-1 - 60%, Mathematics 30-1 - 60%.
- Total cost: $22,242 - $25,228
- Career outcomes: Information technology, business systems and tech entrepreneurship.
Cybersecurity Certificate
- Course content: Security and risk management, asset security, security architecture and engineering
- 10 months total duration (Cyber Security Fundamentals Certificate + Advanced Cyber Security Certificate).
- Prerequisites: Understanding of basic technology concepts.
- Total cost: $3,045
- Career outcomes: IT manager, project manager and project consultant.
Unique Features
- Small classes and personalized teaching
- Focus on practical skills.
- Applied learning with industry-relevant courses.
🔗 Read more about the Mount Royal University tech programs.
Private Institutions and Bootcamps
Did you know that, in addition to the courses and programs mentioned in IT, Calgary also has private institutions and bootcamps that offer technology education? For example, Jungle Coders and HACC Tech Club offer great training for children or networking opportunities for professionals. In addition, since these programs focus on acquiring practical skills, they are also good, accessible options for beginners.
- Jungle Coders is a Canadian organization dedicated to STEM education that offers technology programs and real-world projects to introduce children to Python and Scratch programming.
- HACC Tech Club is a Canadian organization that supports learning related to information technology, networking, and collaboration between students and technology professionals. It provides a platform that offers events, technical sessions and classes on emerging technologies.
Discover the best IT courses in Montreal.
Tech Meetups and Community Groups in Calgary
Participating in local technology communities can also open doors to better academic and career opportunities, as well as networking opportunities. As mentioned, Calgary's growing technology ecosystem draws technology professionals to gather, share knowledge, and explore emerging technologies.
YYC Dev
YYC Dev Meetup is a tech community based in Calgary whose members meet monthly to network and learn from the software development technical community. They offer talks in various languages and discussions covering a wide range of programming systems.
Calgary Dev Meetup Group
The Calgary Dev Meetup Group is a community of developers, engineers, and technology enthusiasts who seek to explore topics related to software development, DevOps, the cloud, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and data engineering. It is a space designed for beginners and masters of code to network and learn in a practical way.
Tech Connect Alberta
Tech Connect Alberta is a community of technology professionals and students from across the province. Its meetings aim to help members connect, share knowledge and network within an inclusive, collaborative technology ecosystem. They organize workshops, meetups and networking events where aspiring and experienced professionals can build lasting relationships.
Those with busier schedules can opt to hire IT professional tutors in Vancouver or another Canadian city.
References
- Lewis, R. (2025, May 21). Calgary Emerges as Canada’s Fastest-Growing Startup Ecosystem in 2025. Calgary.Tech. https://calgary.tech/2025/05/19/calgary-fastest-growing-startup-ecosystem-in-canada-2025/
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