Public Works and Government Services CanadaCanada wordmark
Skip navigation links
Français Contact Us Help Search Canada Site
PWGSC Home About PWGSC Services Canadians Businesses
The Institute
Institute What's New Institute Site Map Institute Home
white line
University Courses
Seminars
College Courses
Distance Learning
PWGSC Employee Courses
Mailing Lists
Services
Resources
FAQ
Feedback
About Us
white line

FAQ arrow

Commonly asked questions about The Institute's university-level programs and seminars.

Contact us with any additional questions or comments.

What does The Institute (TI) offer?
The Institute offers both intensive education and just-in-time training in Software Engineering (foundation, software technology, telecommunications), project management, business essentials for IM/IT professionals and GOL readiness.

How are courses and seminars delivered?
As a rule, programs are presented at The Institute's classrooms at Place du Portage, Gatineau, during working hours. The university-level courses, certificates and graduate degree are taught by university instructors, include homework and exams, and often contain a lab component. Most seminars are classoom-based and presented by industry or academic specialists in an interactive format. As well, a series of XML seminars are available online.

Back to Top

How long are the courses and seminars?
Courses:
Typically during the fall (September) and winter (January) semesters, a three-hour class is held once a week, for 14 weeks, including final exam. The Spring Semester runs four hours a week for 11 weeks, including exam. Labs and homework are in addition to classroom hours. Other programs follow different formats.
Seminars: One to six days.

How much homework do university-level courses require?
Successful students spend at least two hours on assignments and reading for every hour of class.

Can I submit tests, assignments or exams in either official language?
Yes, for most courses.

How do TI programs differ from university courses and private seminars?
Programs, wherever possible, are customized to the government environment and are taught in an adult learning atmosphere.

Who can take a TI course?
Public servants from federal, provincial and municipal levels of government.

Do I have to be a CS to take these courses?
No. Institute courses appeal to a wide range of roles including: project managers, IT practitioners, IM specialists and business and management professionals.

Back to Top

Who pays for TI courses?
Usually, your organization's training budget. Government employees require training authorization approval from their supervisor.

What does the course fee pay for?
Seven day access to a computer lab; expert instruction with individual attention; notes and handouts; library access and Special Student status at various universities.

Does the fee charged per University course include text books?
No, textbooks are extra, unless otherwise noted.

Is there a fee charged for text books for seminars?
No.

Is there a curriculum advising service?
Yes. The Institute can help you understand prerequisites and select courses.

Who are The Institute's community partners?
DPI and AFCEA (Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association).

Back to Top