Business Information Systems - BSc (Hons)
Course Content
The course offers specialist pathways in:
BSc (Hons) Business Information Systems
BSc (Hons) Business Information Systems with Multimedia
BSc (Hons) Business Information Systems with Networks
BSc (Hons) Business Information Systems with Data Security
You will study a range of modules that includes:
Systems Analysis and Design Techniques
This module aims to introduce the student to a systems approach to problem solving and use of structured methods for systems development. It will introduce the software life cycle of a system: the stages, activities in each stage, and outputs from each stage. Additionally it will look at data modelling techniques: definition of entities and their relationships, approaches to data modelling, including logical and relational techniques.
Introduction to Databases
This module aims to provide an introduction to data modelling and an insight into the use of commercial DBMS packages. The module will teach you to create an ER model for a given context and apply relational DBMS software to implement a relational model.
Introduction to Multimedia and the Internet
This module provides an overview of Multimedia and the Internet and their role in the information society. At the end of the module you will be able to identify the uses of multimedia in society and use key design and usability ideas. You will also be able to identify and use the main digital media files and implement multimedia editing tools for basic editing and compression of media.
Fundamentals of Computer Technology
This module aims to provide an overview of Networks and Information Technology (IT) and their role in the information society. At the end of the module you will be able to recognise the main components of a computer system and describe their function and operation. And discuss the main functions of an operating system. Additionally, you will be able to outline the basic concepts of data communications and computer networks and discuss the importance of data security.
Introduction to Information Systems
This module aims to introduce the subject of managerial levels, department organisation and information systems in a typical organisation. It will teach you to explain the technological, human and organizational components of an information system and appreciate how computer systems and technology are used to support information systems.
Event Driven Programming
This module introduces students to the concepts of event driven programming and should give them a full understanding of the Human Computer Interface (HCI) and the part it plays in the construction of software. You will be able to produce programs to the desired standards and design User Interfaces using appropriate HCI guidelines.
Programming Fundamentals
This module introduces the stages of software implementation and also provides the student with the basic skills necessary to develop structured software. At the end of the module you will be able to determine what is required from a specification and construct and implement a structured design using an appropriate programming language through using appropriate functions and procedures.
Business Applications
This module aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills to use modern office application software. You will learn to create and use spreadsheets to perform data analysis, and produce graphical representations and use presentation software and electronically distribute documents. At the end of the module you will be able to create macros to perform automation and Integrate information from various office application sources and understand the use and development of databases in the office environment
Academic Skills for Business
This module aims to develop and reinforce in students those skills which are needed for success during their academic studies and in the world of business. It underpins and complements the other first-year modules within the programme by aligning with their contents and assessments.
Management Theory & Practice
The intention of this module is to provide students with an understanding of the theory behind managing organisations and how human behaviour as well as other factors can influence their outcomes. The module has been designed to give students an appreciation of different types of organizational structure and culture, language and communication and the effectiveness of the role of management within the business environment. It covers a range of themes including motivation, communication, personality, attitudes & perceptions as well as control and conflict. It emphasizes the complex nature of the relationships between individual and group behaviour and gives the students the opportunity to put these theoretical approaches into practice through an assessed training day at an outward bound centre.
Career Potential
The aim of this degree is to equip you with the knowledge and skills you will need to manage, develop and use information systems in a modern business environment.
Graduates will find a wide variety of career opportunities in management and information technology related areas, with the demand for technically skilled employees in both the private and public sector continuing to rise
Work Placements:
The provision of work-placements as an assessed part of your academic programme of learning is so important that we provide you with the opportunity to undertake a placement as part of your second year studies. We have strong links with the computing and information technology community and the work-placement programme is designed to enhance your future employability prospects.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should have a minimum of five GCSEs grades A-C including English Language and Mathematics (or equivalent), plus 240 UCAS points from one (or a combination) of the following:
- At least two A Levels / Scottish Advanced Highers to include grades CC, at least one to be in a relevant subject
- BTEC Diploma in a relevant subject
- Irish Leaving Certificate at Highers to include a relevant subject, minimum C2 grade counted towards points offer
- Welsh Baccalaureate to include grades CC at A Level or equivalent, Core counted as third subject
- Pass Access with 45 credits at Level 3 within a relevant subject
We are delighted to receive applications from students who have studied Computer Science at GCSE or A-Level (often called Computing by the examination boards) and we will give due consideration to them. Currently, only a minority of students have had a chance to study Computer Science (especially at GCSE), so do not worry if you have not had the opportunity.
If your qualification is not listed above, please refer to the
UCAS website.
Applicants holding an Edexcel Higher Award (HNC/HND) with a significant Business or Computing content may be able to complete the course within two years. It is possible to top-up from an ordinary to an honours degree if you have a UWIC awarded degree. Please contact the Admissions Tutor if you wish to enter via these routes.
Key Facts
Accredited by:
The programme is accredited by the British Computer Society: The chartered institute for IT.
UCAS Codes:
This course offers the following study pathway specialisms and the relevant UCAS code should be used on your application:
Three years full-time:
Business Information Systems - BSc (Hons): G5N1
Business Information Systems with Multimedia - BSc (Hons): G450
Business Information Systems with Networks - BSc (Hons): G420
Business Information Systems with Data Security - BSc (Hons):
Four years full-time (Sandwich):
Business Information Systems - BSc (Hons): I200
Campus: Llandaff
School: Cardiff School of Management
Course Length: Three years full-time / Four years full-time (Sandwich)
Also available for part-time study and can take between three to six years to complete. Attendance is usually one evening and one afternoon per week over a 30 week period; please contact us for further information.
Assessment:
In addition to formal examinations, you will be continuously assessed throughout the course. Most modules are assessed primarily by a combination of coursework and unseen written exams, generally weighted 50/50 at the end of the year.
How to Apply:
Applications for this course should be made online to UCAS at http://www.ucas.com/
For further information please visit our How to Apply pages at www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/howtoapply
International Applicants:
Before making an application, international students (those outside of the EU), should contact the International Office at Cardiff Met to discuss the necessary procedures in relation to studying with us. For further information visit www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/international
Selection Procedure:
Selection for this course is primarily based on the receipt of a completed UCAS application that fulfills the above entry criteria. We are especially interested in applicants who can demonstrate an interest in business computing and information systems and the relevance of technology in the modern world.
Tuition Fees and Financial Support:
For up to date information on tuition fees and the financial support that may be available please refer to www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/fees.
Bursaries & Scholarships:
The university also offers a bursary and scholarship scheme to help students whilst at university. To see if you are eligible, visit www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/scholarships.