Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Information Technology and Computer Sciences
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose:
The purpose of the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is to equip learners with the knowledge, practical skills, and competencies to understand and apply Computer Science principles. The qualification will prepare learners for a position involving the design, development, and implementation of computer software. The qualification will further prepare accountable and knowledgeable learners about the interplay of ethical issues, technical problems, and aesthetic values that play an important part in the development of computing systems. The qualification provides an ideal opportunity for the school to grow its offering, aimed at individuals and matriculants who are interested in pursuing a career in Computer Science and related aspects. It will prepare the learner for entry into postgraduate study in computer science or related fields.
Qualifying learners will be able to:
- Apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the programme learning outcomes and the discipline.
- Think critically, analyse a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution.
- Function effectively in teams to accomplish a common goal.
- Comprehend professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities.
- Analyse the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organisations, and society.
- Communicate effectively to a range of audiences.
- Use theoretical knowledge, research methodologies, current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.
Rationale:
There is a demand for 829,800 highly skilled computer scientists in South Africa across a wide range of occupations specifically 178,400 among professionals. The professionals' business needs include computer science professionals and graduates with skills to implement and maintain modern business applications. The situation regarding the computer science skills gap is made more complicated as technology evolves at an accelerating pace but this rapid rate of innovation is necessary and desirable if the country is to remain competitive. Hence, to stay abreast of new technology, knowledge workers need to be provided with appropriate training and qualifications such as software development to stimulate research and innovation.
Industry and other higher education international partners who form part of the school's curriculum advisory committee confirmed the need for the introduction of the proposed qualification and knowledge areas. The qualification is intended to ensure that industry, business government and relevant structures have suitable computer scientists with critical, analytical, and organisational skills. The qualification is therefore designed to provide a simulated environment for learners to gain insight into how theory is applied in practice, which should increase the employability of learners and stimulate research through relevant postgraduate studies.
Learners will major in mathematics and computer science. South Africa needs a highly skilled workforce with sound computer knowledge to take advantage of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Hence this qualification is going to produce much-needed skills and expertise to deal with these challenges. The qualification meets the needs of the Information Computer Technology (ICT) sector by ensuring learners graduate with more knowledge and practical skills related to modules covered in the undergraduate qualifications. The qualification can further open doors in the field of Big Data and machine learning which will help learners to be positioned for the fourth industrial revolution career opportunities. This qualification is for learners who wish to enter a computing profession, such as software development, network engineering and Artificial Intelligence (AI) specialist. Also, learners who intend to pursue higher qualifications will find that a deeper level of knowledge in the qualification is essential for them to commence with Honours studies in Computer Science.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate the ability to model, design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or programme to meet desired needs.
- Demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline.
- Demonstrate the ability to think critically, analyse a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution.
- Demonstrate the ability to function effectively in teams to accomplish a common goal.
- Demonstrate the ability to comprehend professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities.
- Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively to a range of audiences.
- Demonstrate the ability to analyse the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organisations, and society.
- Demonstrate the ability to recognise the need for and engage in continuing professional development.
- Demonstrate the ability to use theoretical knowledge, research methodologies, current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Perform procedural and non-procedural design to meet desired needs within standards and legislation.
- Explain design and evaluation techniques of human-computer interaction.
- Demonstrate interactivity of user interfaces through prototypes.
- Develop a computer-based solution.
- Create and execute test cases.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Analyse foundations of mathematics, logic, and statistics.
- Apply knowledge of digital logic and computer organisation.
- Use mathematics, natural science, and computer sciences to solve computer problems.
- Examine basic data structures and their representation.
- Relate mathematics concepts with computability.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Formulate and decompose problems into components.
- Solicit and formulate requirements specifications.
- Construct a mathematical model of the problem.
- Solve computer-related problems in familiar and unfamiliar contexts.
- Estimate resources required for the proposed solution.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Apply emotional intelligence in team activities.
- Organise and complete assignments to meet deadlines.
- Take initiative and work independently.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Discuss security issues in computer systems.
- Respond to ethical dimensions of professional relationships.
- Function within the code of professional conduct in computer science.
- Act according to best practices, industry standards, and professional ethics.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Write technical reports.
- Deliver oral presentations.
- Communicate scientific understanding effectively.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
- Explore the impact of computing technology on individuals, organisations, and society.
- Analyse and reason about advances in computing technology.
- Document and communicate research results effectively.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
- Summarise research and technical knowledge.
- Learn new skills and apply them to solve problems.
- Assess performance objectively.
- Understand the social consequences of information technology.
- Pursue lifelong education in the discipline.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
- Apply current tools and platforms for computing and software development.
- Use different systems development methodologies for computing practice.
- Critically analyse research literature and conduct a literature review.
- Conduct independent research using appropriate methods and techniques.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree
- NQF Level
- 07
- Min. Credits
- 360
- SAQA Source
- More Information
Education Cost Calculator
This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.