This document outlines the course requirements for a degree in Business Information Systems. In year 1, students take compulsory modules that introduce them to the systems development lifecycle, different types of information systems, data modeling, and how organizations and businesses function. In year 2, compulsory modules focus on database design, decision support systems, systems analysis and design, and research skills. The final year includes a compulsory IS project module and optional modules on social/ethical issues, innovation/technology management, and strategic management. The goal is to equip students with theoretical and practical skills for information systems roles.

1. Year 1
 Business Information Systems in Practice (30 Credits)
- Compulsory
This module aligns the theoretical underpinnings of Business Information
Systems to the practical elements of the systems development lifecycle. It
exposes students to the multi-disciplinary nature of business information
systems by creating an awareness and understanding of the various issues
relating to the development and deployment of those systems. Students
will actively participate in the various stages of the systems development
lifecycle, and engage in activities associated with the various professional
roles in business information systems in an organisational context.
Information Systems Foundations (30 Credits) - Compulsory
This module provides students with an understanding of the different
types of information systems that underpin the global business
environment, and their respective capabilities and functions. Students will
appreciate the value of aligning these information systems with business
needs at strategic and operational levels. Through practical tasks and
assignments, students will also gain an understanding of data and process
modelling, and system development methodologies. The module aims to
give students the knowledge and skills to develop and manage
information systems effectively, in order to support business processes,
improve management decision-making and gain competitive advantage.
 Information in Organisations (30 Credits) – Compulsory
To be able to differentiate between data, information and knowledge in an
organisation. To investigate efficient ways of storing, preserving,
searching, retrieving and displaying information in an organisation. To
visualise and conceptualise information in organisations through
knowledge of modelling techniques. To design and implement a database
system, and to utilise a mark-up language, to reflect the information in an
organisation. To be proficient in SQL in an Oracle 11g environment in
particular be able to complete the Oracle Database 11g SQL
Fundamentals exam necessary to pass Oracle Database PL/SQL Certified
Associate ODCA .

2.  Introduction to Business and Organisations (30 Credits) -
Compulsory
This module aims to equip students, as prospective information systems
professionals, with an understanding of how modern organisations and
businesses function in a global environment. Students will gain an
understanding of the major business processes that occur within
organisations, and how these are supported by information systems and
technologies. The module presents key models and concepts of
management, organisations and business, which students will apply to
current case studies and scenarios. Students will gain an understanding of
the potential benefits of aligning organisational goals with information
systems, as well as a critical awareness of the challenges, risks and issues
involved.
Year 2
 Database Design (30 Credits) - Compulsory
his module focuses on deepening students understanding of database
design and implementation, and the efficient use of facilities provided by
a modern Database Management System. While the module emphasises
the design of business systems using the relational model, other
conceptual models, including object-oriented and object-relational, are
also introduced. Both theoretical and practical topics relating to database
modelling and use are covered, including technologies and tools for
rendering databases for backend and frontend data processing purposes.
This will enable students to construct dynamic web-based data queries
which access back-end databases.
 Decision Support Systems (30 Credits) - Compulsory
This module aims to provide students with an understanding of the
decision-making process in business contexts, and an appreciation of how
Decision Support Systems DSS may help in solving business problems.
The module covers a range of technologies used in DSS and how these
can be applied to solve semi structured problems. The module will enable
students to develop skills in building basic tools that can be used in a
DSS.

3.  IS Analysis and Design (30 Credits) - Compulsory
This module aims to provide a firm grounding in business systems
analysis and design using the Unified Modelling Language UML to
model information systems, and the Unified Process a disciplined
approach to assigning and managing tasks and responsibilities in a
development environment. On satisfactory completion of the module,
students will have an understanding of information systems modelling
and associated development lifecycle issues, and the skills to apply these
techniques to real-life scenarios.
 Information Systems Research (30 Credits) - Compulsory
This module provides a foundation for the final year project by
developing a range of research skills. You will learn how, and when, to
use quantitative and qualitative techniques to investigate different
research questions. You will practice and apply these techniques by
producing research questions, conducting literature reviews, data
collection, analysis and interpretation, including the use of specialist
computer packages. You will be expected to present the results in a
report. You will be given the opportunity to appreciate the importance of
ethical, legal, organisational and environmental issues while conducting
business research. In addition, you will practice how to apply skills
needed to work successfully as a member of a project team.
Final year
 IS Project (30 Credits) - Compulsory
The primary aims of the module are to consolidate and deepen the student
s knowledge and skills gained from other parts of the programme, and to
provide a tangible demonstration of the student s scholarship and ability
work in a sustained, systematic and professional manner.
 Social, Professional and Ethical Issues in Information Systems
(30 Credits) - Optional
With the growing use of information systems in all areas of life it is
increasingly important for today s graduates who are tomorrow s
professionals - to understand and appreciate the ethical implications and

4. social impact of current technologies, to have a working knowledge of
the legislation that applies in this area, and to apply their expertise in a
professional way. This module encourages students to develop an
awareness of their role in the implementation of new technologies, and
the knowledge and skills necessary for a professional approach. The
module takes an ethical perspective to computer technology, focussing on
UK legislation and standards as they relate to IS practice in various
different domains. The module will also include considerations for
design, and the responsibilities and requirements of the IT profession for
example, as identified in the British Computer Society Code of Conduct.
- Promote equal access to the benefits of IS by all groups in society -
Have regard for the legitimate rights of third parties - Promote public
understanding of IS - its benefits and pitfalls - Have knowledge and
understanding of relevant legislation, regulations and standards
 Innovation and Technology Management (30 Credits) -
Optional
This module aims to provide the student with an understanding of the role
of innovation and management of technological expansion in information
sciences. The module will provide students with an understanding of the
use of technical,
organisational, standardisation and user knowledge as a catalyst for
innovation. It will also innovation with respect to societal changes. able
students to evaluate technical
 Strategic Management and IS (30 Credits) - Optional
This module aims to provide the student with an understanding of the
peripheral issues that impact on information development and
management including consensus, strategic alignment and change
management. The module provides students with an understanding of the
framework within which information assets are used to enhance
organisational decision making.