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Advanced Program Course Descriptions

The Certificate in Advanced Web and Digital Technologies Program is an instructor-led program that is delivered online over approximately 510 hours. The four courses in the program are as follows:

WDT202: Introduction to PHP Programming (Part 1 of 2)

120 hours

This course will give you a solid introduction to the latest trends and best programming practices with PHP7x. You will acquire the skills needed for practical programming applications, and you will learn how to put these skills to use in real world scenarios, such as calculating payment amounts for shopping carts, randomizing web page content, automating date calculations, etc. Best of all, the basic programming principles that you learn here will be valuable in future when you learn other programming languages.

  • Understanding the role of scripting in web development
  • Understanding PHP and web server configurations
  • Creating basic PHP scripts
  • PHP data types and operators
  • Functions and control structures
  • Manipulating strings
  • Working with files and directories
  • Manipulating arrays

WDT204: SQL and Advanced PHP (Part 2 of 2)

150 hours

This course will give you a solid introduction to using MySQL database with PHP programming language to build database-driven websites. You will learn the SQL language and how it works with PHP and master database design principles. You will acquire the basic skills to create three-tiered data applications such as websites that require user login/authentication, websites with automated web content and basic CRUD (Create Read Update Delete) functionality, interactive websites, spam control, and a whole lot more.

  • Understand and create databases
  • Understand how to manage databases
  • Understand the basics of relational database design
  • Publish MySQL data on the web using PHP
  • Understand the SQL language and how it works with PHP

WDT208: Tools for SEO

120 hours

This course focuses on search engine optimization (SEO), an often overlooked aspect of successful website development. Among the many tools and techniques you will discover is Wordtracker, a tool which helps you rank higher in search engines to gain ground on your competition. You will learn how to improve a website’s organic ranking through techniques such as boosting keywords, backlinking, and writing high-quality content. You will also learn how search engines operate and share information. Other essential topics in this course include the strengths and weaknesses of the major search engines, key SEO page elements, competitive analysis, link popularity, and a whole lot more!

By completing this course you will be able to:

  • Understand how various search engines operate, including their similarities and differences
  • Ensure your websites meet all the basic requirements for a thorough indexing and solid ranking on major search engines such as Google and Bing
  • Achieve improved website rankings and exposure to your target markets, or those of your clients
  • Utilize the keyword tool Wordtracker, one of the most robust keyword research and competitive analysis applications available today

WDT209: Blogging for Business ~ WordPress CMS (Practicum)

120 hours

Online businesses today need to ensure they are reaching their target market effectively. Blogging is a valuable tool for reaching and captivating your market with ongoing information about your products and services. It is a great way to develop trusting relationships with customers and business partners. In this course you will learn about content management systems (CMSs) and blogging platforms. You will also learn a number of ways to market your blog content through social media. Focusing largely on WordPress, you will learn how to configure it in a blog format or as a conventional website. Get ready to start networking, communicating, and sharing ideas!

By completing this course you will be able to:

  • Understand what blogging is and how to set one up in WordPress
  • Understand WordPress' native features, themes, and plug-ins
  • Understand the dynamics between blogging and social media
  • Understand the benefits of business blogging and how that differs from other types of blogging
  • Write and form good content in your blog posts to optimize for best exposure, visibility, and archiving
  • Set up Google Analytics and understand how to read its data to interpret the effects of your blogging efforts