Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Information Technology
Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Information Technology programme is offered from the Pietermaritzburg and Westville campuses. Computer Science focuses on the theoretical foundations and development of computing systems, including software and algorithms while Information Technology (IT) focuses on the practical application of computer systems and networks to meet the needs of businesses and organizations, including managing and maintaining those systems. The programme has a duration of three years.
SAQA
NQF LEVEL
DURATION
CAO CODE
KN-P-BSU
KN-W-BSU
CLOSING DATE
30 September
DISCIPLINE
Entry Requirements
- Applicants are eligible to apply to register for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Information Technology provided they have a NSC (Bachelor’s pass),
- an APS score of no fewer than 28 points;
- Mathematics at Level 4 and Physical Science, Life Science or Agricultural Science at Level 4.
Modules
Semester 1
- Introduction to Computer Science – COMP100 (16 Credits)
- Introduction to Calculus – MATH130 (16 Credits)
- Introduction to Statistics – STAT130 (16 Credits)
- Level 1 elective (16 Credits)
Recommended electives are given below:
- Mechanics, Optics and Thermal Physics – PHYS110 (16 Credits)
- Introduction to Statistics – STAT130 (16 Credits)
- Principles of Microeconomics – ECON101 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
- Computer Programming – COMP102 (16 Credits)
- Calculus and Linear Algebra – MATH140 (16 Credits)
- Development and Applications Fundamentals – ISTN103 (16 Credits)
- Elective (16 Credits)
Recommended electives are given below:
- Foundations of Computer Science – COMP107 (16 Credits)
- Statistical Methods – STAT140 (16 Credits)
- Principles of Macroeconomics – ECON102 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 1
- Object- Oriented Programming – COMP200 (16 Credits)
- 16cr from any Level 2 MATH modules (16 Credits)
- Level 2 module from second major (16 Credits)
Recommended Level 2 MATH modules for core elective and electives are given below:
- Advanced Calculus & Linear Algebra – MATH212 (16 Credits)
- Mechanics – MATH235 (16 Credits)
- Discrete Mathematics with Applications – MATH236 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
- Data Structures – COMP201 (16 Credits)
- Level 2 elective (16 Credits)
- Level 2 module from second major (16 Credits)
- Level 1 or Level 2 elective (16 Credits)
Recommended Level 2 MATH modules for core elective and electives are given below:
- Further Calculus and Introductory Analysis – MATH251 (16 Credits)
- Introduction to Numerical Mathematics – MATH243 (16 Credits)
- Mathematical Modelling – MATH246 (16 Credits)
- Computer Organisation and Architecture – COMP204 (16 Credits0
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 1
Pietermaritzburg Campus
- Computer Systems – COMP313 (16 Credits)
- Advanced Programming – COMP315 (16 Credits)
- 32 credits from Level 3 modules from second major (32 Credits)
Westville Campus
- Advanced Programming – COMP315 (16 Credits)
- Any Level 3 COMP module (16 Credits)
- 16 credits from Level 3 modules from second major (16 Credits)
- 16 credits from Level 3 modules from Computer Science major or second major (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
Pietermaritzburg Campus
- Artificial Intelligence – COMP304 (16 Credits)
- Theory of Computation – COMP314 (16 Credits)
- 32 credits from Level 3 modules from second major (32 Credits)
Westville Campus
- Theory of Computation – COMP314 (16 Credits)
- Any Level 3 COMP module (16 Credits)
- 16 credits from Level 3 modules from second major (16 Credits)
- 16 credits from Level 3 modules from Computer Science major or second major (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
What do they actually do?
Graduates can work in a wide range of computing and IT roles. Their responsibilities may include:
Information Security Analysts – Protect organisations’ networks and systems from cyber-attacks, monitor security breaches, conduct penetration testing, implement firewalls and encryption, and develop security policies.
IT Consultants – Advise organisations on planning, designing, and implementing IT systems to improve efficiency and solve business problems.
Software Developers – Design, develop, test, maintain, and upgrade software applications for web, desktop, and mobile platforms.
Systems Analysts – Analyse business processes and computer systems, recommend improvements, and design system specifications to enhance efficiency.
Web Developers – Build and maintain websites, ensuring they are functional, accessible, and user-friendly (front-end, back-end, or full-stack development).
Computer & Information Systems Managers – Oversee IT departments, manage technical projects, evaluate technology needs, supervise staff, and manage system upgrades.
Computer Network Architects – Design and build data communication networks such as LANs, WANs, and intranets for organisations.
Computer Programmers – Write and test code to create applications, games, mobile apps, and enterprise systems, and maintain existing software.
Database Administrators – Design, configure, secure, and maintain databases, including backup, recovery, performance monitoring, and troubleshooting.
Data Scientists – Use mathematical, statistical, and AI techniques to analyse structured and unstructured data to extract meaningful insights.
Areas of Employment
Graduates may be employed in:
Telecommunications and Cellular Companies (e.g., Siemens, Vodacom, MTN, Huawei)
Government Departments and Municipalities
Financial Institutions (Banks and Insurance Companies such as FNB, Old Mutual, Nedbank, ABSA)
Retail Organisations
Software Development Companies (e.g., 2Cana, Derivco, Entelect)
Investment Companies
Consulting Companies (e.g., McKinsey, Bain & Co)
Entertainment Companies (Broadcasters and Streaming Content Companies)
Large Enterprises and Multinational Companies
Universities and Large Institutions
Any organisation with a web or social media presence
Independent private work / freelance opportunities
Apply today and take the next step toward your future.