CSI Undergraduate Programmes 2025
CSI Undergraduate Programmes 2025
Programmes
Yearbook 2025
The Department of Computer Science and Informatics offers two undergraduate qualifications with
several learning programmes:
Contact details
Prof. Eduan Kotzé (Head of Department) Mathematical Sciences Building, Room 312
Tel: 051 401 3707
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.ufs.ac.za/csi
Computer Science and Informatics
INTRODUCTION
The Department of Computer Science and Informatics specialises in the training of students who want
to apply their knowledge of technology in scientific environments (Computer Science) or in the
corporate world (Informatics). The department delivers highly trained individuals with technical skills in
data science, programming, system design and analysis as well as database and network
management. The department is dedicated to producing top quality graduates, equipped for a
professional career in national and international companies.
Specialists in Computer Information Systems design, build, and implement software solutions that are
the driving force in every business, non-profit organisation and government department. They analyse
existing systems and discover new ways to optimise performance. This programme focuses on
practical applications of technology to support organisations while adding value to their services.
Some of the technical Computer Science modules found in the B.Sc. streams are not included in this
programme. Instead, it covers topics that are specifically tailored for the corporate world, for example
analysis and modelling of workflow in an organisation, the use of tools to develop customised
software, integration of infrastructure, ethical procedures, etc. In addition, modules from the Faculty
of Economical and Management Sciences, such as Business Management, Entrepreneurship, Digital
Marketing, Industrial Psychology, and Labour Relations Management, are taken.
Data Science
Discipline 1 Science Science Science Science Science Science
(CSIS) (CSIS) (CSIS) (CSIS) (CSIS) (CSIS)
Mathematical Business and Mathematics (MATM)
Chemistry Mathematics Physics
Discipline 2 Statistics Management & Mathematical
(CHEM) (MATM) (PHYS)
(STSM) (B&M) Statistics (STSM)
This programme prepares students for a career in research laboratories and teaching at schools or
universities. Students will be well-equipped for careers in the food and mining industries, or
engineering firms concerned with chemical activities. Careers pertaining to natural products, structural
elucidations, polymer- and/or new material development, catalysis, speed of reactions, analytical
chemistry and electrochemical energy transformations may also be considered.
This learning programme has been specifically customised to train students to apply their Computer
Science knowledge and skills by analysing data in order to reach conclusions that will empower
organisations in their decision-making process. A thorough knowledge of statistical concepts is highly
recommended for a career in Computer Science
This learning programme is recommended for students who wish to develop a sound mathematical
base for their career as computer scientist, mathematical analyst, financial mathematician, lecturer or
teacher. The combination of Computer Science with Mathematics will enable a graduate to do
modelling of real-world objects and scenarios and simulate potentially dangerous or expensive
environments before implementation.
This programme is well-suited to students who want to follow careers in the manufacturing industries
or engineering firms that are concerned with mechanical, civil, telecommunication and/or electronic
and electrical activities. Careers in design, energy production, advanced instrumentation
development, research laboratories, modelling and teaching are possible.
The science and commercial sectors often overlap. This learning programme provides students with
the opportunity to learn and to experience the best of both worlds as it prepares them for careers in
the public and private sectors. The Computer Science content is exactly the same as for the above-
mentioned streams, but it is combined with modules such as Accounting, Economics, Business
Management, Entrepreneurship, Industrial Psychology, and Labour Relations Management.
This programme is specifically tailored for students who want to become a data scientist. Data
scientists combine their computing and statistical skills to collect, analyse and interpret large amounts
of data (big data) to identify ways to help improve operations and gain a competitive edge over rivals.
A data scientist can pursue a career in the technology, marketing, corporate, consulting, health care,
financial services, government, academia, retail and gaming sectors.
Those who are analytical, good at problem solving and have the ability to pay attention to detail might
enjoy a career in Computer Science or Information Systems.
• Applications software developers design and produce software and games that make them useful.
• Business intelligence developers design and develop strategies to assist business users in quickly
finding the information they need to make better business decisions. Extremely data-savvy, they
use BI tools or develop custom BI analytic applications to facilitate the end-users’ understanding of
their systems.
• Computer and information systems managers oversee the computer activities of organizations or
companies. They implement technology that can help these entities meet their goals. While some
employers hire job candidates with a bachelor's degree, many prefer those with a master's degree
in Business Administration (MBA).
• Computer systems analysts assist their employers with the efficient and effective use of computer
technology. Many employers prefer to hire job candidates who have bachelor's degrees and for
more complex jobs, some require a master's degree.
• Computer software engineers design, test, construct and maintain computer programs to meet
users' needs. They specialise in either software applications or software systems. Most employers
prefer job candidates with an honours degree in Computer Science.
• Computer hardware engineers conduct research, design, develop, test and oversee the
manufacture and installation of computer chips, circuit boards and computer systems. They also
work with computer peripherals.
• Without computer programmers who write programs that enable computers to perform specific
functions, computers would merely be pieces of plastic.
• Computer support specialists help customers and/or staff to solve computer-related problems.
They assist computer users who experience difficulties with software programs, operating
systems, computers or peripherals.
• Data analysts examine, transform and manipulate large data sets to identify trends, develop
charts, and create visual presentations to help businesses make more strategic decisions.
• Data engineers develop, construct, test and maintain architectures, such as databases and large-
scale processing systems to perform batch processing or real-time processing on collected and
stored data sets.
• Data scientists implement scientific computerised methods and processes, machine learning
algorithms and data models to extract knowledge and insight from large structured and
unstructured datasets that can be used to explain past events or forecast future events.
• Database administrators use database software to store and manage information. They set up
database systems and are responsible for the efficient operation of those systems (usually referred
to as database performance tuning). They also ensure that the data they store is backed up
regularly, stored effectively, and is secured from unauthorized access. Ensuring the availability of
data by maximising database uptime is also an important function of the database administrator.
• Machine learning engineers design and develop machine learning and deep learning systems that
are used to automate processes like text classification, speech recognition, and market
forecasting.
• Machine learning scientists research new data approaches and algorithms that are used to design,
develop or improve machine learning and deep learning models.
• Natural language processing engineers transform natural language data into useful features using
NLP techniques to feed classification algorithms.
• Network systems analysts analyse, design, test and evaluate network systems including local and
wide area networks (LANs and WANs).
• Systems software developers create operations software to run computers and other devices.
• Web developers are responsible for the proper functioning of websites. They tend to technical
aspects of websites.
• Web masters maintain websites and tend to tasks such as design, analysis of user data and
responding to user feedback.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
A B C D E F
HG 8 7 6 5 4 3
SG 6 5 4 3 2 1
• Use the following flow chart to identify the programmes for which you qualify.
A module is indicated by a code, consisting of four letters and four digits, e.g. CSIS2634.
• The letters indicate the department and discipline, e.g. CSIS stands for Computer Science and
Information Systems.
• The first digit indicates the year of study. CSIS2634 is a second-year module.
• The second digit indicates the NQF level. Undergraduate modules range from NQF level 5 to 7.
CSIS2634 is on NQF level 6.
• The third digit indicates the semester. First: 1,3,5,7; Second: 2,4,6,8; Year module: 0 or 9.
CSIS2634 is presented in the first semester.
• The fourth digit indicates the number of credits. Multiply the digit with 4. Every credit supposes 10
hours of exposure, including lecture time, practicals, study, writing tests and exams. CSIS2634 is
a 16-credit module and supposes 160 hours of exposure. To obtain a Bachelor's degree, you
need at least 360 credits with a minimum of 120 credits on NQF level 6 and a minimum of 120
credits on NQF level 7.
LIST OF MODULES
• Additional modules may be taken only if it does not cause timetable clashes.
Core Modules
The following modules are compulsory for all B.CIS. and B.Sc.(IT) students:
1 You are exempted from EALN1508 and AGAN1508 if you obtained at least 65% for the National
Benchmarking Tests (NBT) for Language.
2 Students who obtained 60% or more for Information Technology (IT) or 70% or more for Computer
Applications Technology (CAT) in Grade 12 are exempted from CSIL1511 and CSIL1521.
Students who pass the proficiency test for CSIL1511 and CSIL1521 at the beginning of the specific
semester with at least 60% are exempted from class attendance, assignments and tests, but must
still register and pay tuition fees.
Information Systems
Code Content
BCIS1513 Introduction to Information Systems
BCIS1623 Introduction to Software Design
BCIS2614 Systems Analysis and Design
BCIS2624 Systems Infrastructure and Integration
BCIS3714 Information Systems in Organisations
Chemistry
Computer Science
Students who initially did not register for B.Sc.(IT) and who passed CSIS1534 and CSIS1644 may
change to B.Sc.(IT), but must note the following:
- Until 2009, RIS134 is acknowledged as equivalent to CSIS1614 (formerly RIS114) and RIS144
as equivalent to CSIS1624 (formerly RIS124).
- Since 2010, CSIS1534 + CSIS1644 (formerly RIS134 + RIS144) (32 credits) is acknowledged as
equivalent to CSIS1614 (formerly RIS114) (16 credits).
Economics
Business Management
Industrial Psychology
Physics
Statistics
Mathematical Statistics
• BCIS1513
Introduction to Information Systems
Introduction to information systems; Information systems in organisations; Hardware: input,
processing, output; Software: systems and application software, organisation of data and
information, telecommunications and networks, the Internet and Intranet; Transaction processing
systems, management information systems, decision support systems, information systems in
business and society, systems analysis, systems design, implementation, maintenance and
revision.
• BCIS1623
Introduction to Software Design
The student obtains the ability to specify, visualise and document the components of a simple
business software system through flow charts, class diagrams, use case diagrams and other
means.
• BCIS2614
Systems Analysis and Design
Systems analysis. Systems design: construction; application architecture; input design; output
design; interface design; internal controls; program design; object design; project management;
system implementation; use of computer-aided development tools.
• BCIS2624
Systems Infrastructure and Integration
An overview of the infrastructure and integration of computer systems in an organisation.
• BCIS3714
Information Systems in Organisations
Information systems in organisations, social and ethical responsibilities, the role of the
Informatician; IT end-user relationships; IT management.
• CSIS1534
Introduction to Programming Part 1
This module provides an extended introduction to the world of computer programming and is
aimed at students who do not intend to take CSIS modules in the second or third year of study.
The module deals with aspects that include the origin and development of the computer, the basic
working of a computer, computerised problem solving and an introduction to algorithms, control
structures, classes, objects, properties and methods by using a high-level programming language.
inside the PC, input/output devices, miscellaneous hardware, troubleshooting, customer service
and support.
• CSIS1644
Introduction to Programming Part 2
This module deals with the use of control structures, classes, objects, properties and methods to
do computerised problem solving in a high-level programming language.
• CSIS1664
Introduction to the Internet and Web Page Development
This module deals with various web aspects and technologies. This includes the working of the
Internet, graphical interfaces, Internet protocols and web page development.
• CSIS1683
Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) with the focus on Excel
This module covers concepts to insert text strings as macros; automate frequently performed
tasks; automate repetitive operations; creating a custom command, toolbar button, menu
command, front end, new worksheet functions; create complete macro-driven applications.
• CSIS2664
Software Design
This module entails an introduction to UML and design patterns (or class types). Various patterns
are discussed and analysed in detail. Various sub-patterns will also be covered. Practical work
includes the implementation of patterns in various applications.
• CSIS3744
Computer Networks
This module provides the student with an overview of network concepts. Aspects that are covered
are network architecture, low level network technologies, coupling techniques, internet concepts,
end-to-end protocols, security, standards and models, transmission basics, and network
applications.
• CSIS3754
Data Science
This module will equip the student with the skills to collect, analyse, visualise and interpret large
amounts of data (big data) through scientific methods and methodologies.
• CSIS3784
Work Integrated Learning
This module provides students with the opportunity to visit industry and take part in a real-life
project to gain industry experience. The module is a selection module and students will be
selected to take part in this modules on a selection bases according to their academic
performance throughout their academic career and available space in industry.
The figure below shows the sequence of modules through the various years of study. A module
cannot be taken if all prerequisites are not met.