VIU ITAS students work on their final projects

Information Technology and Applied Systems (ITAS)

What is ITAS?

ITAS combines two of the fastest growing sectors in Canada and around the world: information technology and information systems. VIU’s ITAS diplomas are known for their hands-on approach and use of current technology. We work with industry to ensure graduates complete the diplomas with the skills employers look for. 

You don’t need tech experience for these IT programs. You don’t even need your own computer. We train the fundamentals first and get you using technology tools quickly. And we provide a workstation to use while you’re in the program. 

ITAS diplomas

Systems Administration and Cybersecurity Diploma

Systems and network cybersecurity specialists are essential to today’s IT workforce. These professionals manage and secure the core technologies that keep organizations running – including servers, operating systems, network equipment, virtualization platforms, cloud infrastructure, and cybersecurity tools. 

Systems Administration and Cybersecurity Diploma

Revised Web and Mobile Development Diploma

We plan to offer a revised version of the Web and Mobile Development Diploma beginning in September 2026. The program is expected to be renamed Business Information Technology Systems Diploma. In this diploma you’ll learn developer skills for secure websites and software applications with an emphasis on AI, cybersecurity and user interface/user experience. 

Sign up to learn more about the revised program

“My experiences in the ITAS program gave me the skills and confidence I needed to excel in my chosen career. The instructors provided one-on-one attention and were passionate about teaching students and helping students to reach their career goals. The small class sizes allowed me the opportunity to get to know my fellow students and instructors and build lasting friendships with both. The ITAS program definitely gave me the best education possible!”

-- Bradley Olsen

Systems Administrator, TimberWest Forest Corp.

What to expect in an ITAS program

These IT diplomas are cohort based, which means you learn with the same group of people in a dedicated classroom. This mirrors a team-based workplace. You can expect:

  • project-based classes that prepare you for industry roles
  • hands-on learning to develop practical career-ready skills
  • experienced instructors teaching the latest technologies
  • supportive professional community to guide your career

ITAS includes a 120-hour practicum experience, giving you a chance to gain workplace experience. You also do a team-based student project at the end of your second year. 

ITAS Student Project Fairs

The Student Project Fair showcases the year-end projects created by our students. ITAS students work in teams to develop a technology tool from idea to implementation.

Student Project Fair 2025

 

Student Project Fair 2024

Student Project Fair 2023

ITAS information session 

After you complete either ITAS diploma, you can ladder into the third year of various IT and IS degree programs. You’ll also be prepared to write some industry certifications.

Apply

To become a student in the ITAS Systems Administration and Cybersecurity diploma or the ITAS Web and Mobile Development diploma , apply to VIU.

No prior IT experience is required to enter our diploma programs.

Image gallery

We are looking down a row of VIU ITAS students who are working on their laptops. The student in the foregound is smiling and looking directly at the camera with his hands on his keyboard. We are looking down a row of VIU ITAS students who are working on their laptops. We are looking over the shoulder of a VIU ITAS student while they solder part of their final project. A group of three VIU ITAS students sit side by side. They are holding up parts of their final project. The person in the middle is laughing and the other two are looking at him smiling. A female VIU ITAS student is sitting in front of her laptop which is flanked on each side with a large monitor. Her laptop is covered in stickers and full of personality. A VIU ITAS student shows a guest to the ITAS Project Fair their final project. VIU ITAS student describes their final project to an attendee of the ITAS Student Project Fair. A row of VIU ITAS students are sat in front vertical computer monitors. An instructor stands amongst them and is guiding their work. Two students sit side by side working on their Student Project Fair projects.