Higher Diploma in Business (Business Information Systems)

Course details

The central objective of this programme is to prepare graduates for employment in an IT-related business context. The course is designed for graduates, normally holding primary degrees in disciplines other than business and information technology, who are interested in pursuing a career in business with an IT orientation or who wish to develop significant business and IT knowledge and skills.

The programme will be intensive and will present a significant challenge to participants. The intention is to provide students with an appropriate combination of academic theory, practical business applications and skills to assist their transition to the world of business. This will be accomplished through the content of courses offered, the range of learning processes employed and the mix of lecturers contributing to the programme. The lecturing team will consist of persons who combine appropriate academic qualifications with a wealth of practical experience in business and IT. Key

Features of the Programme

• The programme combines an intensive introduction to core business disciplines and practical skills with a significant grounding in information technology concepts and applications.
• IT subjects represent about 60% of the programme content and subjects range from fundamental computing concepts and skills to more in-depth areas of information technology, including software development, computer programming and Internet web-page design.
• The programme will develop conceptual knowledge and understanding of business and IT disciplines, but with a greater emphasis on the practical application of such knowledge to real world business scenarios. Students will systemically develop the ability to blend conceptual understanding with practical application, particularly in IT related areas.
• Students are provided with the opportunity to gain 4 months practical work experience.

Entry Requirements

To be considered for admission, applicants must hold:

• A primary honours degree award of at least pass level in a non-cognate discipline from a recognised third level institution or equivalent qualification
• An IELTS score of a minimum 6.0 or equivalent, where full-time study has been conducted in a language other than English or applicants whose first language is not English

Programme Content

Full-Time Programme Content

The Higher Diploma in Business (Business Information Systems) with optional Work Placement programme has the following content.

Semester 1

• Management & Strategy
• Business Information Systems (including databases and spreadsheets)
• Principles of Programming
• Communication Skills
• The Economic Environment
• Marketing Principles

Semester 2

• Programming for Business Applications
• Web Design & Development
• Database Design & Development
• Human Resource Management
• Accounting & Finance
• Networks & Communications Management

Part-time Programme Content

Semester 1

• Management & Strategy
• The Economic Environment
• Business Information Systems (including databases and spreadsheets)
• Principles of Programming

Semester 2

• Accounting & Finance
• Communication Skills
• Programming for Business Applications
• Database Design & Development

Semester 3

• Marketing Principles
• Human Resource Management
• Web Design & Development
• Networks & Communications Management

Assessment

Student assessment will be based on a combination of continuous assessment and end of semester examinations. Continuous assessment will involve a number of assessment methods, including research essays, analysis of case studies, practical assessments and projects. For the purpose of continuous assessment students will be required to work individually and in groups. End of semester examinations will usually be closed book, timed constrained written examinations which will feature a range of question styles.