Program code : (BIS)
This program seeks to provide a solid grounding on concepts, principles and processes in the development of information systems with a focus on data communications and networking, database systems, software systems for both desktop and mobile, and decision support systems. The implementation of this program is also seen as a contribution the Department of Information Systems could make in developing a research ethos within the University in accordance with its strategic plan.
The Information Systems Department aims to provide the workforce of Papua New Guinea with professionals who are competent to assist, and provide leadership in, the use, development and maintenance of electronic digital technology, particularly as it impacts
1 Department of National Planning and Monitoring, (2004). The Medium Term Development Strategy 2005-2010, ‘Our plan for economic and social advancement’, Port Moresby.
Department of Prime Minister and NEC, (2009). Papua New Guinea Vision 2050, ‘We will be a Smart, Wise, Fair, Healthy and Happy Society by 2050’, Port Moresby.
Department of Education. (2004). A National Plan for Education 2005-2014, ‘Achieving a better future’, Department of Education, Port Moresby. 4
corporate and service sectors of the national economy. The program is within the discipline area commonly known as Information Systems, which studies computer applications in-sofar as they support the flow of electronic information in the business and service functions of organizations within a modern technological society. It is to be distinguished from the discipline of Computer Science which is more concerned with the underlying scientific and mathematical principles of electronic digital technology. It is also to be distinguished from the discipline of Computer Technology which has a focus on electronic digital hardware.
The program aims to provide students with values, attitudes, knowledge and skills in Information Systems and Technology and their management that enable them to contribute significantly to the understanding and ethical management of the developing Information Systems and Technology infrastructure of modern PNG, both within the home or small office and within larger organisations. It aims to serve society through quality teaching, learning, research and community engagement in a Christian environment. The program is aligned with strategic plans of the University and PNG Vision 2050 and Higher Education Plan III.
Emphasis is placed on the management of computer and communications technologies in contemporary organizations. The program aims to prepare students for the emerging employment opportunities in the fields of communications, distribution processing, computer and mobile networks, database systems and desktop and mobile software systems.
The program aims to produce graduates with leadership skills including personality development and articulate public presentation abilities, provide leadership and management skills in the implementation and development of information systems in a modern business environment, describe, explore and ethically critique modern information systems and the accompanying technology, apply the principles of data communication and networking and to design local and wide area networks, use effectively standard office software applications suites and assist others to do so in a business environment. They also should be able to maintain, support and troubleshoot PC hardware and standard operating system.
It is anticipated that the University will accept an intake of 28 students each year into this program, given present resource allocation. As staffing, lecture room, laboratory and other facilities increase; the number of students in the incoming class may be permitted to rise.
Entry to Bachelor degree program Applicants to the degree program are required to have completed 4 years of secondary school or equivalent from a recognised institution.
A minimum grade of “B” in English, a grade “C” in Mathematics A as well as “B’s” in all other subjects are required at the Grade 12 level of secondary schooling for entry into the BIS program.
Special Entry Applicants whose educational qualifications do not satisfy the requirements for admission to these programs, but who have a sound and sufficient basis for application supported by documentation, may be granted admission if they satisfy special admission criteria, determined by the Academic Board of Divine Word University
Credit may be given under certain circumstances. Provision exists within the University for recognition of prior learning. Students applying for transfer of credit or recognition of prior learning must follow the proper processes and procedures of the University. The maximum credit that may be allowed in any program is half of the program units.7