Bachelor of Electronic Commerce

• General information
• Introduction
• Aims and objectives
• Structure
• Length of course/workload required
• Admission requirements
  • Credit provision
• Fee structure

General information

Course code: 2563 Berwick campus Full-time On-campus mode only Course director: To be advised

Introduction

Electronic commerce involves the use of information technology for buying and selling and for managing the supply of goods and services between organisations. Electronic commerce systems and applications have been in existence for many years. However, the use of electronic commerce systems is becoming widespread in developed economies. This is reflected by the recent exponential growth in the use of the internet.
Currently, there is a very strong demand for expertise in electronic commerce, primarily because many business organisations are exploring how to best take advantage of the opportunities offered by the growth of the internet. There is a significant shortage of the necessary skills and expertise, and this situation is expected to continue. This program complements the Bachelor of Business and Electronic Commerce offered at the Gippsland campus and by distance education, but it has a greater focus on the development of systems, as opposed to their management. Nevertheless, the degree retains a strong business emphasis. This cross-disciplinary approach reflects the view that electronic commerce requires the integration of people, processes and systems via the enabling information technologies.

Aims and objectives

On completion of this degree, students should have:

• a sound knowledge and understanding of relevant business principles, processes and practice
• a general understanding of information technology, including the organisation and operational principles of computer hardware and software, databases, data communications and distributed information systems
• an understanding of the internet and multimedia technology and applications
• the ability to analyse user and organisational requirements in relation to inter-organisational and online commerce and design appropriate solutions
• the capacity to work at a professional level within a business environment in which a background in information technology and electronic commerce technologies is required
• an understanding of the principles and techniques needed to coordinate and manage projects
• a knowledge of the technologies, standards and protocols underlying electronic commerce systems
• an understanding of the requirements for electronic commerce systems and transactions, and the techniques and protocols available to meet such requirements
• an understanding that electronic commerce involves the integration of people, processes and systems via the enabling information technologies
• an appreciation of social, ethical and legal issues in relation to electronic commerce, and an awareness of the laws and regulations which apply
• the skills required for logical, independent and critical thinking, including independent learning, innovative and creative thinking, and research skills
• the ability to effectively communicate and cooperate with others, both within and organisation and outside of it, and to work within, and contribute to, a team environment.

The course will also encourage in students enthusiasm for the field of study; a concern for accuracy; a willingness to assess their performance objectively; an awareness of social values; a commitment to strive to enhance the quality of life of those affected by their work; and an appreciation of the importance of considering the needs of others in the community.

Structure

In their first year, students complete eight six-point subjects designed to provide a foundation in the areas of business environment, electronic commerce, information systems and information technology for later years. The subjects include a business environment subject, introduction to electronic commerce, computer programming for business, management, marketing, professional communications and information systems.
In their second year, students undertake further studies in a business discipline area chosen from a list of relevant business subjects, as well as core studies in systems analysis and design, project management, trading systems and commercial aspects of electronic commerce, including security and control issues. A full-year 12-point electronic commerce laboratory subject allows students to apply the theory they are learning to the design and development of practical applications and systems, while fostering skills in human communication, teamwork and project management. Two elective subjects are also selected, at least one of which will be from subjects offered by the Faculty of Business and Economics.
In their final year, students take core subjects in logistics and supply chain management, inter-organisational systems and information law. A full-year electronic commerce laboratory subject enables further development of professional skills in the development of practical electronic commerce solutions and systems. Student projects undertaken in this subject provide opportunities for interaction with clients in business and industry. Final-year students also complete a further three elective subjects in business, electronic commerce, or information technology.

Length of course/workload required

The course is completed over three years of full-time study.

Admission requirements

Completion of the VCE or the equivalent, with a study score of at least 25 in English units 3 and 4, plus any VCE mathematics units 1 and 2. Articulation pathways from TAFE programs will be developed. Normal university admission policies apply for international students and Australian fee-paying students.

Credit provision

Students entering the course with appropriate previous tertiary study may be eligible for some advanced standing. Some electronic commerce subjects offered in the Bachelor of Business and Electronic Commerce may be credited to the Bachelor of Electronic Commerce.

Fee structure

Australian students: HECS band 2. International student fee -- $15,500 per EFTSU. Australian fee-paying students -- $14,250 per EFTSU.

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