Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science

Purpose

The purpose is to train Computer Science graduates scientifically in an outcomes-based programme that will ensure their immediate employability nationally as Computer Scientists and programmers in different organisations, ready to commence with Master of Science (MSc) studies in Computer Science. The advanced training in Computer Science is based on a sound undergraduate programme in Computer Science, which conforms to the requirements of occupational prospects and labour requirements in South Africa. The learner is also trained in research methodology with the intention of continuing with MSc studies and further specialisation.

Rationale

There is an urgent need in South Africa (and also worldwide) for more scientists and information technologists and the proportion of students enrolled in science and technology programmes in Higher Education should increase. There is a strong need to produce computer scientists and information technologists with specific skills and Government and employers have recognised this. The learners will do very well in the workplace (industry) or further their studies at tertiary level.

This qualification provides an opportunity to establish curricula that emphasise enquiry, innovation and science within social development, and which develop skills such as observation, problem-solving, effective personal and inter personal communication, analysis, entrepreneurship and critical thinking.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

An applicant who cannot provide formal proof of compliance with the prescribed admission requirements for the Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours in Computer Science, but with prior learning and relevant work experience may be admitted to the Honours Degree study after the procedure for Recognition of Prior Learning in terms of the institution's RPL policy has been completed successfully. Such recognition is within the sole discretion of the institution and within the context of faculty requirements. This qualification requires that the entrant will already have a BSc or an equivalent standard qualification in the field of Computer Science at the institution or equivalent institution. The institution subscribes to the principles underlying outcomes-based, source-based and lifelong learning. In this context, considerations of articulation and mobility play an important role. The institution endorses the view that Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) constitutes an essential element in deciding on admission to and awarding credits in an explicitly selected teaching-learning programme at honours level.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement is

• Bachelor of Science with Computer Science passed at Level 7 with at least 60%.

This qualification consists of compulsory and elective modules at Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 8: 32 Credits

• Project, 32 Credits.

Elective Modules at Level 8: 96 Credits (Select 4 modules)

• Alogrithms and Data Structures, 24 Credits.
• Programming Languages and Objects, 24 Credits.
• Operating Systems, 24 Credits.
• Net-Centric Computing, 24 Credits.
• Databases Systems, 24 Credits.
• Artificial Intelligence, 24 Credits.

1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of computational scientific principles, bodies of content and conceptual issues.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the techniques and strategies involved in scientific enquiry and computing problem-solving.
3. Think critically and creatively, while working as an individual, in teams and in multidisciplinary environments, showing leadership and performing critical functions.
4. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with scientific and lay audiences using suitable modern technology.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the professional and ethical basis of scientific enquiry.
6. Identify and analyse problems in computer based systems.
7. Execute research work, interpret collected data and information in scientific literature of computer development and programming.

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

• Demonstrate a systematic and integrated knowledge and understanding of, and an ability to analyse, evaluate and apply the fundamental terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories.
• Apply appropriate discipline-related methods of scientific inquiry and independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of information.
• 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.
• Demonstrate professional and ethical behaviour within an academic and discipline-related environment with sensitivity towards societal and cultural considerations.
• Effectively communicate scientific understanding and own opinions/ideas in written or oral arguments, using appropriate discipline-related and academic discourse as well as technology.
• 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.

Integrated Assessment

• Formative or continuous assessment serves as a monitoring instrument to enable learners to determine their progress in the learning process and to enable lecturers to determine the effectiveness of their teaching. This will also enable lecturers to make timeous adjustments to ensure that the teaching and learning process is more effective.

Formative Assessment

• Class tests, homework, written assignments, report writing, practicals, class discussions, semester tests.

Summative Assessment serves to determine whether the learners have achieved the different module and Exit Level Outcomes.

Summative Assessment

• Written exam papers and oral presentations.