Bachelor of Information Technology

The world of information technology is always evolving. What is now commonplace was once a breakthrough. As a student in one of the Bachelor of Information Technology programs, you will acquire the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to address the IT issues of today and the possibilities of tomorrow.

The Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) offers four distinct programs:

Information Resource Management (IRM) Interactive Multimedia and Design (IMD) Network Technology (NET) Optical Systems and Sensors (OSS)

These programs are offered jointly by Carleton’s School of Information Technology and Algonquin College. You will graduate with a Bachelor of Information Technology degree from Carleton University and one of a Library and Information Technician diploma (for IRM students), an Advanced Diploma of Applied Arts (for IMD students), an Advanced Diploma in Technology (for NET students) or an Advanced Diploma in Photonics and Laser Technology (for OSS students) from Algonquin College.

Co-op and graduate employers

Information Resource Management (IRM) students have been employed at Canadian Coast Guard, Department of National Defence, Employment and Social Development Canada, National Research Council Canada and Statistics Canada.

Interactive Multimedia and Design (IMD) students are employed at Adobe, Sony, ImageWorks, Ubisoft, Electronic Arts, MPC, Shopify, Magmic, Image-Engine and IBM Cognos.

Network Technology (NET) students are employed at Bell, Ericsson, Health Canada, IBM Cognos, Nokia, Ottawa Paramedic Service, Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Statistics Canada.

Optical Systems and Sensors (OSS) students are employed at Ciena, Mitsubishi, Nokia, OZ Optics, the RCMP and Viavi Solutions

Career paths

Information Resource Management (IRM)

• Data analytics
• Data visualization
• Digital information management
• E-commerce
• Library services (academic and public)
• Web design and development

Interactive Multimedia and Design (IMD)

• Computer animation
• Game design and development
• Human-computer interaction
• User interface experience/design
• Visual effects
• Web application and software development

Network Technology (NET)

• Business enterprises requiring network design, management and operation
• Educational institutes
• Finance companies
• Government
• Health institutes
• Network design and management
• System integration
• Telecom operation

Optical Systems and Sensors (OSS)

• Autonomous vehicles
• Defence and security
• Industrial automation
• Laser industry
• Medical imaging/biosensors
• Optical communications
• Optical component design

Explore Information Technology at Carleton University

• Information Resource Management (IRM)
• Interactive Multimedia and Design (IMD)
• Network Technology (NET)
• Photonics and Laser Technology (PLT)

Welcome to Carleton University, Canada’s Capital University!

Carleton University, Canada’s Capital University, is a dynamic and innovative university with a strong commitment to teaching, research and learning. Our academic programs, campus community, capital location and global possibilities provide countless opportunities for learning to happen both inside and outside of the classroom.

Carleton University is located in Ottawa, a G7 capital city, which offers opportunities you won’t find anywhere else. Known primarily as the seat of Canada’s federal government, Ottawa is that and so much more. It is home to over 130 embassies and high commissions from around the world, as well as numerous national organizations and museums. A large percentage of Canada’s major medical, clinical and life sciences research centres are located in the Ottawa area, as well as a technology industry comprised of over 1,900 companies.

Ottawa is also one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, with a great number of neighbourhood parks and tranquil green spaces, waterways that wind through the city, and historical and architectural landmarks. The magnificent Gatineau Park, which features 165 km of hiking trails, is located in the National Capital Region.

Situated on a beautiful campus just minutes from downtown, Carleton has earned a reputation as one of the foremost universities in the fields of international affairs, commerce, journalism, and high technology. The wide range of nationally and internationally renowned programs offer the flexibility to choose the degree that suits your interests.

The best learning environments unite theory and practice. Research shows that experiential learning contributes to student engagement, deeper learning, improved academic outcomes, and enhanced work and life skills. At Carleton, we strive to provide students with real-life experiences that bring the classroom to the world and the world to the classroom. We emphasize hands-on research, community engagement, work experience and immersive learning.

Many of our programs feature co-op or practicum options, allowing students to develop their skills in a workplace environment. We also encourage undergraduate research, entrepreneurship initiatives and Community Service Learning. Having the paid "real-world" experience serves to complement all that is taught in the classroom and opens doors of opportunity upon completion of the undergraduate degree.

Carleton has a long history of attracting international students to our welcoming and inclusive campus. Today the university has approximately 4,500 international students from 150 countries, creating a diverse and supportive academic community. We are committed to giving back through education while pursuing contributions to the common good. These founding values are at the heart of the university’s focus on research, community partnerships and teaching excellence.