BSc Computing and Information Systems (CIS)

Aimed at:

This degree is for you if you want to learn how to develop systems that can grow to meet new and changing needs in modern business environments and in arts, media and cultural applications. It also provides a route to a variety of higher degrees in the computing and information systems sector.

The programme aims to give you a wide appreciation of the subject, rather than just an understanding of existing commercial approaches, so that your knowledge can evolve and adapt to meet contemporary needs.

You will develop skills in:
· various aspects of programming
· computer systems development and project management
· design of database management systems, e-commerce, computer security and information systems management.

Entry Requirements:

(Pre-registration with the University of London external system is required)
In order to satisfy the entrance requirements you must normally be at least 17 years of age at the time of registration and have passes in:
• either two subjects at GCE ‘A’ level and at least three further subjects at GCSE/GCE ‘O’ level at Grade C or
above

• or three subjects at GCE ‘A’ level (with one ‘A’ level at not less than Grade D)
• or three subjects at GCE ‘A’ level and one further subject at GCSE/GCE ‘O’ level at Grade C or above
• or two subjects at GCE ‘A’ level, plus two further subjects at GCE ‘AS’ level

English language requirement

The language of instruction, reading and assessment is English; success requires a good level of English competence. Any candidates in doubt as to their abilities in written and/or oral English are strongly advised to undertake English language courses and tests before enrolling on the programme.

Required standard

Candidates will usually be considered to meet the English language requirements on the basis that:
• their first language/mother tongue is English;
• or they provide satisfactory evidence showing that they have had:
- substantial (minimum of 18 months) education (secondary or higher) conducted in English; or
- substantial (minimum of 18 months) work experience conducted in English; or
- passed acceptable examinations in English equivalent to GCSE/GCE ‘O’ Level English Language grade C (please see page 37 of the full Undergraduate Laws prospectus); or

- passed, at an appropriate level, a test of proficiency in English acceptable to the University (please see page 37 of the full prospectus).

Course Structure:

The traditional degree in which 11 subjects (units) and 1 compulsory project are taken in three stages:

First Year (Level 1):

• Mathematics for Computing
• Information Systems: Foundations of E-business
• Introduction to Java and Object-oriented Programming
• Introduction to Computing and the Internet.

Second Year (Level 2):

• Database Systems
• Programming: Advanced Topics and Techniques
• Data Communications and Enterprise Networking
• Graphical Object-Oriented and Internet Programming in Java
• Software Engineering, Algorithm Design and Analysis

Third Year (Level 3):

Six half subjects (units) chosen from the following:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Neural Networks
• Software Engineering Management
• Human Computer Interaction
• Mathematical Techniques of Operational Research
• Accounting Information Systems
• Information Systems Management
• Decision Support and Executive Information Systems
• Electronic Commerce
• Data Compression
• Computer Security
PLUS
• A Compulsory project: Project (full unit)

Method of Assessment:

Each unit is assessed by unseen written examination and coursework. A project must also be taken to complete the BSc degree.

Progression:

On completion of this course students may pursue studies in computer science or information technology at postgraduate level leading to a Master of Science (MSc).