Overview of CS/IS Courses

The Computer Science Department offers two degree streams at the undergraduate level, in Computer Science and in Information Systems, as well as providing specialist subjects for engineering students in aspects of computer science. The two degree streams are distinguished in the following ways.

Computer Science

Computer Science is offered as a major in a Bachelor of Science. It may also be taken by Arts students to meet the general studies requirements of the degree, and could form part of a major/minor degree. Computer Science 1 does not require a mathematical background, but some second- and third-year units do have such a requirement.

Computers and their use are studied from a scientific perspective, in which the detail of the inner workings of operating systems and technical software are examined. Graduates will have detailed software design and construction skills.

Information Systems

Information Systems is offered as a major in a Bachelor of Arts. It may also be taken by Science students to meet the general studies requirements of the degree, and could form part of a double-major degree. No mathematical background is assumed in Information Systems, though some elective units in common with Computer Science will be much easier if Mathematics has been studied in first year. The study of computers is broader than with Computer Science.

The emphasis is on how information can be processed and accessed by computers, how computer systems aid in decision making, and how computer systems can be designed to meet organizational needs.

There is necessarily some overlap between the two disciplines, as is indicated by several units being available at second- and third-year to both degree streams.

Both streams include instruction in computer programming and on the use of personal productivity tools like word processors and spreadsheets. The Computer Science course develops the programming ability to a much greater extent, while the Information Systems stream examines how computer systems fit into and meet the needs of organizations. A major/minor degree covers the whole spectrum and is a powerful qualification.

Course Structures - Computer Science and Information Systems

Refer to current University Handbook for Subject and Unit details

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