Bachelor of Commerce in Information Systems

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to provide learners with integrated knowledge of computer science and information systems, including the most prevalent concepts, models, theories, principles, skills, and research methodologies. Learners are to develop applied competence enabling them to pursue rewarding careers in the dynamic environments of computer technology, informatics and/or teaching within the national and international context.

Rationale

There is an urgent need in South Africa for more managers, researchers and technologists in the field of information systems and computer technology to promote innovation and multi-disciplinary approaches, as is evident from surveys of employers, who emphasise the importance of general applied competencies within a business context. This qualification emphasises enquiry, innovation, and research within social development, and develops generic skills such as observation, problem-solving, effective communication, analysis and critical thinking. Learners develop competencies suitable to different employment sectors, such as industry and business, research and development, local and national government, development and planning, management, and education.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution accepts that the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) does and should take place within the normal, existing policy of admission, as well as the granting of credits to prospective or existing learners from this or another institution in a valid, creditable and reasonable way.

A learner who cannot provide formal proof of compliance with the prescribed admission requirements but with prior learning and relevant work experience may be admitted to the Bachelor of Commerce studies after the procedure for RPL in terms of the institution's policy has been completed successfully.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• National Senior Certificate (NSC), NQF Level 4 with a Bachelor endorsement.

Or

• National Senior Certificate Vocational (NC (V)), NQF Level 4 with a Bachelor endorsement.

Or

• Senior Certificate with endorsement.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF Level 5, 6 and 7 totalling 404 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 5,140 Credits

• Financial Accounting 1, 16 Credits.
• Financial Accounting 2, 16 Credits.
• Academic Literacy, 12 Credits.
• Business Management, 12 Credits.
• Visual Programming, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Management and Management Process, 12 Credits.
• Basic Micro- and Macro-economics, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Economics, 12 Credits.
• Intro to Computers and Programming, 12 Credits.
• Calculus and Linear Algebra, Probability and Inference, 12 Credits.
• Introductory Statistics, 12 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 6, 140 Credits

• Object Oriented Programming, 16 Credits.
• Introduction to Databases, 16 Credits.
• Intro to Networks and Open Systems Interconnection (OSI), 16 Credits.
• Electronic Business, 16 Credits.
• Intro to Information and Network Security, 16 Credits.
• Computer Organisation, 16 Credits.
• Business Information Systems, 16 Credits.
• Understanding the Economic World, 12 Credits.
• Systems Analysis and Design, 16 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 7,124 Credits

• Artificial Intelligence, 16 Credits.
• Computer Networks and Cryptology, 16 Credits.
• Project Management for Information Systems, 16 Credits.
• Information Systems Project, 16 Credits.
• Database Systems, 16 Credits.
• Applied Ethics, 12 Credits.
• Business Wireless and Mobile Networking Systems, 16 Credits
• Management of Information Technology, 16 Credits.

1. Apply systematic and integrated knowledge and understanding of, and an ability to analyse, evaluate and apply the fundamental terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories;
2. Apply appropriate discipline-related methods of scientific inquiry and independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of information;
3. Demonstrate critical reflection on, and understanding and application of, appropriate methods or practices to resolve complex discipline-related problems and thereby introduce change within related practice;
4. Demonstrate professional and ethical behaviour within an academic and discipline-related environment, with sensitivity towards societal and cultural considerations;
5. Effectively communicate scientific understanding and own opinions/ideas in written or oral arguments, using appropriate discipline-related and academic discourse as well as technology;
6. Demonstrate effective functioning as a member and/or leader of a team or a group in scientific projects or investigations, with self-directed management of learning activities and responsibility for own learning progress.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be assessed in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes

• Apply integrated knowledge and a good understanding of information systems, computer science and management sciences.
• Compare different perspectives on practices performed in the field of computer technology, information systems and management sciences in order to develop a personal philosophical framework for functioning in business.
• Demonstrate an understanding of a range of methods of enquiry suitable to specific investigations; and an ability to select and apply a range of methods to resolve problems or introduce change within a practice.
• Identify, address and evaluate complex problems, applying evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments in the context of computer and management sciences.
• Apply ethical and professional behaviour in business and/or education practices with the ability to justify decisions based on appropriate ethical values and approaches.
• Develop and apply appropriate processes to access, process, validate and manage relevant information and communicate insightful and creative academic and professional ideas and arguments effectively;
• Manage information systems processes in unfamiliar and variable contexts, recognising that problem solving is context and system-bound, and does not occur in isolation;
• Investigate, analyse, understand and solve complex problems in a coherent manner, demonstrating advanced use of critical thinking in a self-directed manner; and take responsibility for his or her work, decision-making and use of resources, and limited accountability for the decisions and actions of others in the varied and dynamic world of information systems and computer technology.

Integrated Assessment

Continuous formative assessment in the form of class tests, homework, written assignments (integrated formative assessment) and semester tests (also integrated by nature) gives the learner feedback on his/her progress in the achievement of specific learning outcomes, and mostly adds 50% or more to the module mark. Summative assessment (integrated assessment), in the form of a 3-hour written examination, judges the extent in which the learner has attained the exit-level outcomes of the qualification.