Monash University: University Handbooks: Undergraduate Handbook 2003: Units indexed by faculty
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Bachelor of Information Systems


Introduction

Course code: 2358 + Caulfield campus + Director of studies: Ms Chris Gonsalvez

The Bachelor of Information Systems (BIS), previously known as the Bachelor of Information Management and Systems (BIMS), is offered by the School of Information Management and Systems. The aim of the BIS is to prepare students for careers in the management of information and the development of information systems. It provides students with the skills needed to solve information problems and take advantage of information- related opportunities in business, government and the community. These are critical areas for the functioning of a modern society.

The core information management and systems units offered in the degree introduce students to the nature of information flows in organisations and society, the nature of computer-based information systems and products, and systems analysis and design methodologies. In addition, core units in project management and technical and professional communication provide students with the fundamental concepts and skills needed for leadership roles in the information technology field.
In all years, students undertake studio-based units in which they will gain practical experience in the tools and processes required for the development of information products, services and systems and the basic business skills required by information practitioners. The studio aspect of the BIMS is a strong distinguishing feature of the degree.
Students may select a specialisation stream associated with one of the identified career outcomes of the degree. A specialisation stream consists of the core degree units and particular selections of elective units at each year level. School staff can assist students in selection of appropriate electives. The generalist path through the degree provides for a free choice of electives at all year levels.
Graduates from the degree will have a variety of skills related to the uses of information. These include the development of systems which meet organisations' information needs, and the impact and implications of information and information management practices for individuals and organisations. Additionally, they may have a concentration of skills focused on the particular career outcome associated with their unit choices.

Aims and objectives

The course will educate information professionals to meet the needs of business and society for information systems, services and products in all media. It aims to produce self-reliant professionals able to work in a range of roles, as an employee, team member, contractor or self-employed practitioner.

Course structure

The pass degree takes three years of full-time or six years of part-time study.

First -year comprises of first-year core studio (12 points), four first-year core units (24 points) and two elective units (12 points)
Second-year comprises of second-year core studio (12 points), four second-year core units (24 points) and two elective units (12 points)
Third-year comprises of third-year core studio (12 points), four third- year core IMS units (24 points) selected from a range of IMS third-year units, and two elective units (12 credit points)
The degree must comprise of 144 points which meet the following requirements:

The honours degree takes one year full-time or two years part-time after the pass degree. It comprises one unit, IMS4000 (Information management and systems - honours).

First year

Students will study:

Second year

Students will study:

Third year

Students will study:

Honours year

The honours year consists of one unit, IMS4000 (Information management and systems - honours). This unit includes both coursework (taken from existing postgraduate-level units offered by the School of Information Management and Systems and in exceptional cases units from outside the school) and a minor thesis or project. The head of school must approve each student's course of study in IMS4000. The aim of the BIS (Honours) is to prepare students for advanced professional practice in information management and systems and also to prepare students for postgraduate research in the area.

Entry requirements

Applicants will be required to have successfully completed the VCE (or equivalent) with a minimum study score of 25 in English (any) in units 3 and 4. Credit transfer and admission with advanced standing will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

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