BSc Business Information Systems with a Year in Industry

Key details

BSC BUSINESS INFORMATION SYSTEMS WITH A YEAR IN INDUSTRY

Start Year

2021

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Bachelor of Science

UCAS course code

GN55

Entry Requirements

BBB or ABC

Duration (years)

This course will ensure you’re fully equipped for a career in business information systems and are totally up to date on what the industry needs right now.

This programme combines in-depth teaching on the capabilities of business systems and a thorough grounding in the operations of contemporary businesses. By studying these crucial and exciting subjects you will also develop skills applicable to the wider employment sector, such as critical thinking, problem solving, communication, organisation, and time keeping.

The relatively recent move to more iterative computer systems development methods has had a knock on effect on the skills and knowledge required from developers. As a developer, you are now expected to be able to work in small multi-skilled teams alongside your business users. That means you don’t just need technical competence but also the ability to be flexible, creative and a good communicator.

Above all you need to be able to speak your customer’s language – with an understanding of businesses and how they operate. Our external visiting speakers emphasise this point again and again – so we ensure that our business information systems courses give you this important mix of skills.

In your first year you will get a thorough grounding in systems development, programming and databases, while also learning about business and organisational behaviour. Over the next two years you’ll explore systems analysis, operations strategy and management, systems engineering and organisational information systems.

You will also be able to select from a wide range of optional modules, allowing you to tailor your own degree to concentrate on your computing expertise or your business knowledge – or more often than not, a valuable balance between the two.

Popular options include project management, software engineering, consulting, marketing, and information retrieval. You can also opt to take a module in statistics, allowing you to gain partial accreditation from the BCS (The Chartered Institute for IT).

In your year in industry you’ll put what you’ve learnt to practice, gaining new skills and building links with potential employers such as Aviva, Bloomberg and IBM. Another benefit is that you’ll pay a much reduced tuition fee for your placement year and you’ll be paid – a great way to help fund your studies.

In your final year you’ll complete a final year project pulling together the business and computing aspects of your degree. You also have the option to work together with an external company on this project.

About

All modern businesses depend upon sophisticated information systems. They are used to support day-to-day operations, to plan strategically for the future, and to manipulate gathered data to gain a competitive advantage.

On this course you will study computing, information technology and business. You will cultivate the knowledge, skills and experience needed for a career designing and implementing computer-based systems in a business environment. You’ll also be well equipped for a career as a consultant or manager, with expertise in information systems and their use in business.

You’ll also spend a year in industry, giving you first-hand knowledge of how your chosen field operates as well as valuable career-building contacts.

Throughout your course, you’ll benefit from the combined expertise of the School of Computing Sciences and Norwich Business School. Our flexible approach enables you to choose subjects that interest you and that are aligned with your career aspirations.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.

Assessment for Year 1

We’ll use a wide range of methods to assess your learning – including project work, programming assignments, essays, written reports, oral presentations, laboratory exercises, and seminar presentations. Which one we choose will depend on the module content and learning objectives. You will also complete group-based coursework.

Most modules are assessed through a mixture of coursework and exams (usually 40% examination and 60% coursework), while some are entirely assessed by coursework. In your final year, you will be assessed particularly on your understanding and how you integrate knowledge from different areas of the subject.

Structure

This four-year course will give you a strong grounding in computing, business and information systems before giving you the chance to shape your degree based on your interests and career aspirations.

In your first year you’ll follow a programme of compulsory modules designed to establish and develop your skills in computing, business, organisational behaviour, databases, programming and information systems.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

In all your modules you’ll have lectures and some also include smaller group teaching – helping you explore the material or experience it first-hand.

On the more technical modules (such as programming or databases), you’ll have computer lab sessions to practise what you’ve been taught yourself. In other subjects you’ll do exercises or discuss topics in more detail during seminars. Some modules have both labs and seminars.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn and practise professional skills such as report writing and oral presentations. In your Systems Analysis module you’ll work on a real-world project to make recommendations around analysis, design and implementation to UEA or a local organisation.

As well as learning from our academics, you’ll have the chance to meet IT professionals and talk to them about their experience of systems development as part of one of our modules.

Independent study

We strongly encourage you to spend time going over your lecture notes and reading around the topics independently to prepare for your seminars and lab sessions in advance. This may involve researching a particular topic, reading articles, watching videos, or having a go at certain exercises. The more you prepare in this way, the more you’ll get out of your course.

Your final year individual project is your ultimate opportunity to show how well you can take on a problem, research it, prepare a plan, manage yourself and achieve your objectives. You will have a project supervisor to guide you and to bounce ideas off, but essentially the project is your own work. It is an excellent opportunity to put into practice what you have learned throughout your time at university and is often instrumental in your job interview success.

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Assessment for Year 2

Structure

In your second year, you’ll study two compulsory modules, focusing systems analysis and operations strategy and management. Your remaining modules will be optional – so you’ll take your pick of topics ranging from software engineering and networks to business ethics, marketing and human resources.

You’ll also start to put your CV together, explore placement opportunities and prepare for selection processes.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

In all your modules you’ll have lectures and some also include smaller group teaching – helping you explore the material or experience it first-hand.

As well as learning from our academics, you’ll have the chance to meet IT professionals and talk to them about their experience of systems development as part of one of our modules.

Independent study

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Assessment for Year 3

Structure

Subject to successfully passing your company of choice’s selection procedure, you will spend 9-12 months working in industry to gain real life experience of working within the field of Business and IT. Our well-established commercial connections throughout the UK and beyond will help you secure the best possible placement for you. Positions are usually paid, but the amounts may vary.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

In all your modules you’ll have lectures and some also include smaller group teaching – helping you explore the material or experience it first-hand.

As well as learning from our academics, you’ll have the chance to meet IT professionals and talk to them about their experience of systems development as part of one of our modules.

Independent study

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Assessment for Year 4

Structure

In your final year, you’ll study organisational information systems and systems engineering alongside a wide range of optional modules. Your independent project will give you the chance to bring all your knowledge together to focus on a real-world issue, potentially involving external companies. Alternatively you might prefer to take on a research project – for example, examining the acceptance of a new piece of technology.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

In all your modules you’ll have lectures and some also include smaller group teaching – helping you explore the material or experience it first-hand.

As well as learning from our academics, you’ll have the chance to meet IT professionals and talk to them about their experience of systems development as part of one of our modules.

Independent study

Admissions Live Chat

Virtual Open Day

Assessment for Year 1

Compulsory Modules

WEB-BASED PROGRAMMING

Code CMP-4011A

Credits 20

In this module you will be introduced to some of the tools used for web development. You will then build a substantial dynamic web site using the current HTML family of standards. An understanding of the underlying mechanisms of the technologies used in the Internet and World Wide Web is essential for any computing science student. Therefore, in the latter part of the module you will learn about these technologies and undertake a practical approach to exploring them. You will learn about issues of cyber security.

SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

Code CMP-4013A

Credits 20

The complexity of Computer Based Systems, appropriate development approaches, and their inherent activities will be discussed using case studies and guest speakers where appropriate. Emphasis will be placed on the processes involved with systems requirements, creative designs, and careful development, in a professional manner, ensuring that issues such as project management, safety, security and data protection are taken into account. The module will include a number of modelling techniques to support the systems development process. These will be put into practise during the group exercise that will run throughout the semester. There are also opportunities for students to hone their transferable skills through literature searching, report writing, seminar discussions and presentations.

PROGRAMMING FOR APPLICATIONS

Code CMP-4009B

Credits 20

You will be introduced to a number of programming concepts at the start of your programming career, using a modern programming language common to many digital industries. We structure learning through lectures, delivering core materials, and tutor supported exercises to reinforce learning, preparing you for programming in your following studies.

DATABASE SYSTEMS

Code CMP-4010B

Credits 20

This module is based on the relational model and will introduce you to important aspects of databases, database manipulation and database management systems. You will explore the tools and methods for database design and manipulation as well as the programming of database applications. You will use a modern relational database management system to gain practical experience. You will also develop programming experience using SQL, and using a high level programming language to write applications that access the database.

UNDERSTANDING THE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT

Code NBS-4106A

Credits 20

This module helps you to explore the dynamic and ever-changing world of business and provides insights into the managerial role. Understanding the Business Environment explores key environmental drivers and the basic functions of organisations. It is designed to provide essential core knowledge for Year 1 Business students on how organisations are managed in response to changes in the business environment and what is the role of its functional divisions in implementing strategic responses. In addition, the module also explores some of the current issues faced by organisations such as sustainability, corporate social responsibility and internationalisation. Core business theory is introduced in lectures and applied practically with the use of examples in seminars. By the end of this module you will be able to understand and apply key business concepts and a range of analytical tools to explore the business environment. Introduction to Business facilitates study skills development that is essential across all three years of the undergraduate degree by developing academic writing, presentation, team working and communication skills effectively.

MANAGING DATA IN A DIGITAL WORLD

Code NBS-4104B

Credits 20

This module is about how data is central to business and to the academic study of business. This module will explore what is meant by data, the variety of forms that data takes, and the origin and lifecycle of data. The module considers the tools that organisations use to gather, store and manipulate data, including the use of spreadsheets. The module will introduce basic statistical concepts used in business research. Finally, the module will explore the interpretation of data in business and research contexts.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.

Assessment for Year 2

Compulsory Modules

SYSTEMS ANALYSIS

Code CMP-5003A

Credits 20

This module considers various activities associated with the development of computer based systems including business strategy, project management, feasibility, investigation methods, stakeholder management, analysis, the links to design and implementation, and managing change. Its main focus, however, is on the early stages, in particular requirements investigation and specification including the use of UML. It makes use of a number of analysis and design techniques in order to produce readable system specifications. Students are introduced to a number of development methods including object orientated, soft systems, structured, participative, and agile approaches.

Optional A Modules

(80 credits)

SOFTWARE ENGINEERING 1

Code CMP-5012B

Credits 20

Software Engineering is one of the most essential skills for work in the software development industry. You will gain an understanding of the issues involved in designing and creating software systems from an industry perspective. You will be taught state of the art phased software development methodologies focusing on the activities of initial class model design to actual operational software systems. These activities are complemented with an introduction into software project management and development facilitation.

DATA STRUCTURES AND ALGORITHMS

Code CMP-5014B

Credits 20

The purpose of this module is to give the student a solid grounding in the design, analysis and implementation of algorithms and in the efficient implementation of a wide range of important data structures.

PROGRAMMING 2

Code CMP-5015A

Credits 20

This is a compulsory module for all computing students and is a continuation of 1M0Y/1X04. It contains greater breadth and depth and provides students with the range of skills needed for many of their subsequent modules. We recap Java and deepen your understanding of the language by teaching topics such as nested classes, generics, swing and threaded programming. We will also broaden your programming knowledge by giving you a basic grounding in Matlab and C++.

INFORMATION RETRIEVAL

Code CMP-5036A

Credits 20

In this module you will learn about the development of the technologies which are the basis of search on the Web. Search engine development has been driven by large increases in online documents and the need to provide better results. You will learn about a range of techniques for improving search results and how to evaluate their impact.

NETWORKS

Code CMP-5037B

Credits 20

Explore how networks are designed and implemented to provide reliable data transmission. You will take a layered approach to the study of networks, with emphasis on the functionality of the OSI 7 layer reference model and the TCP/IP model. You will examine the functionality provided by each layer and how this contributes to overall reliable data transmission that the network provides, with a focus on the practical issues associated with networking such as real-time delivery of multimedia information (e.g. VoIP) and network security. Labs and coursework are highly practical and underpin the theory learnt in lectures.

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING FOR ACTUARIES

Code CMP-5040Y

Credits 20

In taking this module you will learn the necessary basic financial accounting skills/knowledge required by Actuaries.

FOUNDATIONS OF DATA SCIENCE

Code CMP-5046B

Credits 20

In this module you will study the key concepts, processes, techniques in the data science workflow. There will be coverage of data collection, storage, key statistical and machine learning techniques, and presenting the results of analyses.

QUANTITATIVE EVIDENCE IN DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5002A

Credits 20

Throughout the study of international development, it is important to weigh our theoretical ideas and policy recommendations against the available evidence. This module deals with the use of quantitative evidence. The aim is to enable students: i) to understand quantitative analysis encountered in other modules; ii) to become critical readers of published quantitative data analysis; and iii) to gather, analyse and Interpret quantitative evidence themselves in support of their own study of development questions. The module deals with research design, a review of descriptive statistics and a number of inferential methods. Techniques taught include simple tests for group differences such as the t-test, analysis of variance and multiple regression.

INTRODUCTION TO ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE

Code NBS-4101A

Credits 20

This module provides a foundation in the theory and practice of accounting and an introduction to the role, context and language of Financial Accounting, Management Accounting and Finance. The module assumes no previous study of accounting and is aimed at non-specialists. It is designed as a standalone course for those students following a more general management pathway.

PRINCIPLES OF MARKETING

Code NBS-4105B

Credits 20

This module is a general introduction and foundational grounding to Marketing. It is concerned with marketing functions of an organisation and seeks to develop awareness and understanding of marketing as an integrated and business activity. It focuses on the theoretical frameworks which underpin an organisation's responses to market demand. Additionally, it considers examples of marketing strategy and planning for a variety of organisational contexts to provide an industry perspective to theory. It is suitable for all UEA students and is a stand-alone module.

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Important Information

Assessment for Year 3

Compulsory Modules

YEAR IN INDUSTRY

Code CMP-6011Y

Credits 80

This module is for students who are enrolled on undergraduate programmes that combine academic study with an opportunity to gain experience by working for a year in industry.

INDUSTRIAL PROJECT REPORT

Code CMP-6014Y

Credits 40

This module provides an opportunity for students to undertake individual project work during their industrial training placement.

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Important Information

Assessment for Year 4

Compulsory Modules

SYSTEMS ENGINEERING

Code CMP-6003B

Credits 20

This module draws together a wide range of material and considers it in the context of developing modern large-scale computer systems. Topics such as Systems Thinking, Causal Loop Diagrams, Systems Failure, Outsourcing, Quality, Risk Management, Measurement, Project Management, Software Process Improvement, Configuration Management, Maintainability, Testing, and Peopleware are covered in this module. The module is supported by well documented case studies and includes guest speakers from industry.

ORGANISATIONAL INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Code NBS-6924B

Credits 20

You will explore the key assumptions surrounding the use of information in contemporary organisations. You will examine the issues within a modern philosophical framework, while focusing on a critical reflection of the methodology and organisational models that form the basis of organisational systems.

Optional A Modules

(40 credits)

BUSINESS INFORMATION SYSTEMS PROJECT

Code CMP-6012Y

Credits 40

This module will give you experience of independent project work and, via the lecture programme, will provide a primer on the law, ethical and professional behaviour, project management, reporting and other aspects of being a business information systems professional. You will be allocated a supervisor and will be expected to work closely together on a mutually agreed project.

COMPUTING PROJECT

Code CMP-6013Y

Credits 40

This module will give you experience of independent project work through the development of research and application involving a significant amount of computing science knowledge and skills, for example, in design/implementation of algorithms, software, or hardware systems. It will also provide, via the lecture programme, a primer on the law, ethical and professional behaviour, project management, reporting and other aspects of being a computer scientist. You will be allocated a supervisor and will be expected to work closely together on a mutually agreed project.

Optional B Modules

(20 credits)

HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

Code CMP-6039A

Credits 20

Human Computer Interaction (or UX) covers a very wide range of devices, including conventional computers, mobile devices and “hidden” computing devices. In this module you will learn about interactions from a variety of perspectives, such as cognitive psychology, ethnographic methods, security issues, UI failures, the principles of good user experience, heuristic and experimental evaluation approaches and the needs of a range of different audiences.

INTRODUCTION TO CYBER SECURITY

Code CMP-6044A

Credits 20

This module will provide you with a broad understanding of the key topics and issues relating to cyber security. In the module we will use real-world examples and case studies to illustrate the importance of security. You will learn about a variety of cyber security topics including: the value of information and data, vulnerabilities and exploits, tools for defence and mitigation and the human elements of cyber security. Security is fast becoming an essential part of all aspects of our daily lives and this module will provide you with the fundamental skills and knowledge for working in a range of industries.

INNOVATION MANAGEMENT

Code NBS-6012A

Credits 20

Innovation is at the centre of the modern economy. It is convincingly argued that the development of individuals, business, cities and whole nations increasingly relies on their capacity to develop not only new products and processes, but also new technologies, new organisational structures and new cultural forms. This module will introduce you to key concepts and topics in innovation management research from a critical perspective. You will then explore the application of those ideas to management practice.

MANAGEMENT CONSULTING AND DEVELOPMENT

Code NBS-6914A

Credits 20

You’ll be introduced to the tools, techniques and the practical frameworks associated with management consulting, as well as examine how organisational development is implemented by management consultants. Ideally, you’ll be considering a career in management consulting and/or have an interest in organisational development.

Optional C Modules

(20 credits)

INFORMATION RETRIEVAL

Code CMP-5036A

Credits 20

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING FOR ACTUARIES

Code CMP-5040Y

Credits 20

In taking this module you will learn the necessary basic financial accounting skills/knowledge required by Actuaries.

HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION

Code CMP-6039A

Credits 20

INTRODUCTION TO CYBER SECURITY

Code CMP-6044A

Credits 20

QUANTITATIVE EVIDENCE IN DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5002A

Credits 20

INNOVATION MANAGEMENT

Code NBS-6012A

Credits 20

MANAGEMENT CONSULTING AND DEVELOPMENT

Code NBS-6914A

Credits 20

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Important Information

Entry Requirements

A Levels

BBB or ABC including one A level in Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics or BBC including one A level in Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics with an A in the Extended Project A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. Science A-levels must include a pass in the practical element.

BTEC

DDM acceptable in an IT or Science-based subject. Excludes BTEC Public Services, BTEC Uniformed Services and BTEC Business Administration

Scottish highers

AABBB including either Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics

Scottish highers advanced

CCC including either Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics

Irish leaving certificate

2 subjects at H2 and 4 subjects at H3 including either Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics

Access course

Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 45 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in either Mathematics, Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics

European Baccalaureate

European Baccalaureate 70% overall, including 70% in one subject from Mathematics, Computing Science, Physics, Electronics, Business, Economics.

International Baccalaureate

31 points including HL5 in either Mathematics, Computing, Chemistry, Physics, Economics or Business

GCSE offer

You are required to have English Language at a minimum of Grade C/4 or above and Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above at GCSE.

Additional entry requirements

Science A-levels must include a pass in the practical element.

A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.

You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C/4 or above at GCSE.

If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for this course, our partner INTO UEA offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a foundation programme. Depending on your interests and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:

INTO UEA also offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:

UEA recognises that some students take a mixture of International Baccalaureate IB or International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme IBCP study rather than the full diploma, taking Higher levels in addition to A levels and/or BTEC qualifications. At UEA we do consider a combination of qualifications for entry, provided a minimum of three qualifications are taken at a higher Level. In addition some degree programmes require specific subjects at a higher level.

Students for whom english is a foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):

IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)

We also accept a number of other English language tests. Please click here to see our full list.

If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:

Pre-sessional English at INTO UEA

English for University Study at INTO UEA

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some students an interview will be requested. You may be called for an interview to help the School of Study, and you, understand if the course is the right choice for you. The interview will cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a convenient time.

Gap year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.

Intakes

This course is open to UK and overseas applicants. This course's annual intake is in September of each year.

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University Taster Events

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Course Reference Number: 1545453

BSc BUSINESS INFORMATION SYSTEMS WITH A YEAR IN INDUSTRY