Business Information Systems BSc (Hons)

First year

Core modules:

• Information Systems Development - This module gives an insight into the many tasks that must be carried out during the development of a modern information system. It aims to provide you with a practical, integrated overview of the Information Systems (IS) development process
• Mathematics and Business Management - This module introduces the basic techniques for data collection, summary and presentation. You will develop an understanding of basic concepts associated with the analysis and interpretation of statistical data, and use a variety of relevant software such as Minitab, Excel, and The Management Scientist
• Visual Web Development - This module introduces the fundamentals of programming, and aims to provide you with a sufficiently detailed, generally applicable background in programming; no previous knowledge or experience is expected
• Devices and Networks - You will learn about computing fundamentals from data representation to computer components, covering theoretical and practical aspects including desktop virtualization, mobile computing, traditional PCs, thin clients, and cloud services
• Introduction to ICT - This module explores the context of computing, starting with your own experience and then exploring issues, conflicts and social changes brought about by ICT. You will be introduced to the social, political, economic and legal context of ICT.

Second year

Core modules:

• IT Service Management - This module is an extensive introduction to the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL), the industry framework for IT Service Management. You will be able to understand the ITIL service lifecycle and its key components, holding the knowledge necessary to pass the ITIL V3 Foundation Certificate examination - a qualification recognised throughout the world and in addition to this degree
• Agile Methods and Development – You will develop the skills of producing an application(s) that delivers required features in the context of on-going negotiation between business clients and the development team. Working both individually and in groups, you will build applications using an object-oriented framework for data-driven web development
• Object-Oriented Systems Analysis and Design - Object technology is playing an increasingly important role in the development of software systems and this module introduces the basic concepts of the OO paradigm and the RAD development approach. It also examines the means by which systems requirements can be captured and modelled
• Database Design - An essential skill for the computer professional is to be able to design and implement a database in order to meet client requirements. During this module you will be provided with an introduction to data modelling, using commercially realistic scenarios, which are then implemented using SQL with database management systems such as Oracle, MySQL  or Microsoft SQL Server
• Systems Thinking - This module introduces the key concepts and tools for engaging in systems thinking in an organisation. Its critical purpose is to enable you to think in a holistic manner which treats an organisation as a whole, and enables an understanding to develop complex activity systems within which ICT systems develop and reside 
• Introduction to Research

Third year

Core modules:

• Computing Project - The final year project provides you with the opportunity to carry out a significant piece of work involving critical analysis and reflection to provide an effective solution to a given technical and/or research-based problem
• Computing Ethics and Privacy - The aim of this module is to provide you with an opportunity to explore the concepts of ethics in the context of IT, IS, Software Engineering and other related disciplines. It considers in detail how the development of systems might encompass computer ethics
• Systems Building: Methods and Management - These modules covers two important aspects of Information Systems Development; the selection and evaluation of methodologies and the management of the Systems Development process. A variety of ISD paradigms and methodologies will be considered, including 'hard' approaches, both Object-Oriented and Structured, 'soft' and participative approaches, and 'heavyweight' and 'agile' methodologies

Optional modules:

• Project Management PRINCE 2 – This module examines the life cycle model applicable to projects, including traditional, evolutionary, prototyping and DSDM models. The generic life cycle model of 4Ds: Define, Design, Do and Develop will be central in the module, in conjunction with analysis of real world projects
• Information Systems Strategy and Services - The central role of the information systems department in an organisation is to provide applications, technology and services to support the business functions and contribute to the organisation's strategic goal. This module takes a service view of information systems in which the IS departments role concerns the provision of services and support for the information technology (IT) function
• Database Management - Following the year 2 modules on databases and computer programming, this module will provide you with further training on the essentials of advanced database management and programming, developing the skills of producing a user defined data type from a business perspective to meet stated requirements using realistic scenarios
• Privacy and Data Protection - Whilst the potential to breach privacy continues to increase, organisations are subjected to a considerable amount of legislation governing privacy and data protection. This module examines the balance between maintaining business effectiveness, legal  compliance and professional practice in the field of IT/IS
• Research Methods - This module will provide you with a grounding in the essentials of research methods and methodologies, for example the different characteristics and aims of quantitative versus qualitative research. It will develop your ability to consider the stages of research, in line with a Final Year Project; pilot different methodologies such as questionnaires and interviews, and give you the skills to apply these to your original research
• Data Mining

A variety of learning and teaching methods are used, including lectures, tutorials, computer laboratory sessions and independent study. 

The final year of the course includes an individual project, completed by all students and a range of modules, which allow you to pursue your own career interests. The choice varies from technical subjects, such as web information management, to more business oriented topics, including information systems strategy and services, information security management and data mining. 

Assessments are via individual assignments, group work, projects, tests and exams.

You will normally attend around 12-16 hours of timetabled taught sessions each week, and are expected to undertake at least 24 further hours of directed independent study and assignments as required.

This course is run in partnership with Hewlett Packard (HP), which provides 25 per cent of the teaching input. HP offers a personal mentoring scheme, preferred placement opportunities and professional qualifications. This ground-breaking partnership allows you to benefit from DMU’s world class academic research, leading-edge information technology facilities and industry standard professionalism exemplified by HP’s renowned business solutions and services.