Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)

  Institution: Private: Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

Programme Description

Computer Science at USM began with a course in programming in 1974. It has since developed into a specialisation in Computer Science under the Bachelor of Science (Mathematics) honours degree, and eventually the Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) (B.Sc. (Comp.Sc.)) degree with honours was offered.  Beginning in the 1983/84 session, after a complete revamp of the curriculum, the Bachelor of Computer Science (B.Comp.Sc) degree with honours was offered to replace the B.Sc. (Comp.Sc.) degree.

USM B.Comp.Sc. (Hons) has achieved significantly in producing highly qualified graduates that have been widely accepted by both the public and the private sectors.  An important contributing factor to this success is its strong curriculum, which always strives to achieve a balance between the teaching of the theory of computing and exposure to practical aspects.  The curriculum has been continually updated in accordance with current technology.  For instance, in the 1992/93 session a new curriculum which was more up-to-date was implemented, and in the 1994/95 session, it was further modified to conform to the University Academic System (SPU).  Beginning with the 1996/97 session, the curriculum had been adjusted to reduce the minimum period for graduation from 4 years to 3 years under the Three Year Academic System (SPTT).  In 2000/01 session a new curriculum was introduced and adapted to conform with the recommendation made by the National Higher Education Council on SPTT (SPTT(M)).  In 2006/07 session, a new revised curriculum was introduced.  The degree programme has been adjusted in 2009/2010 to revert the minimum period for graduation to 4 years (Four Year Academic Systems) (Sistem Pengajian Empat Tahun) (SPET).

The School of Computer Sciences was the first school in USM to offer a collaborative programme with private colleges at the diploma level since 1995 and also the first to offer the USM external degree programme beginning 1997.

The aims of the Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) degree programme are to produce high-quality graduates with the necessary professional skills to practise as successful computing professionals and compete effectively in a world of rapid technological change.

General Educational Goals and Objectives

The general educational goal of the Bachelor of Computer Science degree programme is to produce high-quality graduates with the necessary professional skills to practice as successful computing professionals and compete effectively in a world of rapid technological change. Therefore the objectives of the programme are to produce quality graduates in computer science who are:

• Knowledgeable and competent in the fundamental areas of computer science (programming, theoretical foundations, algorithms, software and hardware) as well as one specialisation area of computer science.

• Analytical, logical and critical thinkers who are adept in continuing intellectual and professional development through the integration of theory and practical knowledge.

• Capable to develop (analyse, design, and implement) and support computing solutions using scientific, engineering and sustainable approaches.

• Effective and good in communication and leadership skills, and gainfully employed in the diverse and challenging world of computing, serving the needs of the local and global community.

• Able to successfully engage in self-directed professional development, technopreneurship, postgraduate studies and life-long learning.

Programme Outcomes

Graduates should be able to apply the core knowledge of computer science together with a specialised area of computer science by:

1.Mastering theory and abstraction through analytical, logical and critical thinking as well as scientific and engineering approach in developing and implementing robust and useful computing solutions (Knowledge).

2.Using scientific and engineering decisions and considerations in developing (analysis, design, implementation, evaluation, project management) high quality computer-based systems (Technical Skill, Practical Skill, Psychomotor).

3.Mastering skills in managing, planning and administering computer-based systems (such as security, maintenance, installation) as well as applying and choosing appropriate technologies (Thinking Skill and Scientific Approach).

4.Mastering communication skill such as in analysing, presenting and negotiating in computing practices (Communication Skill).

5.Carrying out tasks in team in computing practices including decision making and planning (Social and Responsibility Skill).

6.Possessing ethical attributes and professionalism in professional activities in computing (Profesionalism, Value, Attitude and Ethics).

7.Possessing abilities to search and manage information, adapt to current changes, realise life-long learning and proceed to higher level studies (Life-long Education and Information Management).

8.Participating in technopreneurship and practising sound management such as in decision making and planning (Management and Entreprenuership Skill).

9.Possessing leadership attributes such as participating in, playing a role in, and leading computing and community projects (Leadership Skill).

Source : Universiti Sains Malaysia