Lincoln University
Software and IT
New Zealand’s specialist land-based university
Where you want to be. With the IT industry constantly changing there’s increasing demand globally for IT graduates. This demand is projected to continue growing for the foreseeable future. The applied nature of Lincoln University’s Bachelor of Software and Information Technology degree, together with other areas studied, means our graduates are very employable in New Zealand as well as overseas. The broad range of opportunities they can access includes programming, software support, engineering, user support, database design and implementation, systems analysis, network design, website development, and end-user computing. Lincoln University graduates can be found right across the economy, in areas as diverse as science, tourism, accounting, marketing, resource studies and transport and logistics. Employers range from technology focused manufacturers through to companies that require in-house IT expertise. Recent graduates have been employed at Alchemy, Contec, Gen-i, Jade Corporation, SunGard, PGG Wrightson, Mainfreight, Trimble, Christchurch Medical School, Regional Councils and many other public and private organisations in New Zealand and overseas.
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Software and IT
Five reasons to choose our specialist university We focus on understanding and evaluating existing techniques and theories and applying them to solve real world problems. Our software and Information Technology degree combines theory with hands-on practice in our modern computing suites.
You’ll have access to highly qualified staff with a wide range of industry experience and expertise. Our small classes and open door policy means you will soon get to know your lecturers and feel happy to approach them for support and advice.
We offer a wide range of topics within the degree such as programming, systems analysis, databases, operating systems, networking, end-user computing, web technologies and software engineering.
Because our Bachelor of Software and Information Technology (BS&IT) is such a flexible degree, you can include a major or minor from other disciplines such as commerce, resource studies and science.
We work hard to stay on top of industry demands. Our Department of Applied Computing receives excellent feedback from employers in the Canterbury region and maintains great relationships through its Computer Industry Liaison Group.
The Programmes Bachelor of Software and Information Technology Diploma of Software and Information Technology
Bachelor of Software and Information Technology
Course of Study Schedule A COMP 101
Lincoln University’s Bachelor of Software and Information Technology is a three year degree made up of 24 courses. All students take courses that cover computer programming, algorithms, data structures and end-user application software. These courses are the ones listed in Schedule A and are compulsory. Students must complete four courses from schedules B and C with at least three from schedule B. Most students choose to take more computing courses than this. The degree structure is flexible, allowing you to also study courses from other areas such as commerce, science, resource and environmental studies, mathematics and statistics, conservation and ecology, transport or tourism. Most IT jobs will see you applying your skills to other areas of expertise, so including other courses in your degree can be a good idea. At Lincoln University you can include a minor (normally five courses) or major in another subject. For example, you might include a minor in Marketing, Parks and Outdoor Recreation, Business Management or Tourism.
Computing
This course focuses on the use of application packages such as spreadsheets and databases and looks at the social implications of using information technology. It also includes an introduction to website design and development.
COMP 102
Computer Programming
This course is an introduction to programming concepts and techniques including object-oriented programming and graphical user interface design.
COMP 110
Fundamental Concepts of Computing
This course focuses on concepts that are essential for further study in computing. These include discrete mathematics, algorithms and data representation.
COMP 202
Computer Concepts and Organisation
This course studies the structure and function of computer hardware and operating systems and how they affect performance and functionality. It also provides an introduction to data communications and security.
COMP 203
Problem Solving with End-User Tools
This course studies end-user application software and its use to effectively solve a variety of real problems.
See www.lincoln.ac.nz/majorsandminors for a full list of majors and minors available.
COMP 205
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Development of Effective Programs
This course focuses on program development from problem definition to user interface design and testing in an objectoriented environment, incorporating the choice of appropriate data structures and algorithms.
Schedule B COMP 302
Schedule C Analysis & Design of Information Systems
This course studies structured techniques for the analysis of information systems requirements. It also looks at aspects of design, including interface design and protolyping.
COMP 303
End-User Computing
This course focuses on the advanced use of end-user software for developing reliable applications for use within an organisation and deployment over the internet. It also studies current issues in end-user computing.
COMP 311
Operating Systems
This course studies the structure and functions of modern operating systems, system configurations and performance as well as the implications for system management.
COMP 312
Computer Networking
This course focuses on the structure and function of computer networks, network configuration and the implications for network design and management.
COMP 314
Software Engineering
This course looks at the professional development of large software projects including design, testing and project management.
COMP 315
Computer Modelling and Simulation
This course focuses on using computer simulation to analyse systems in the natural sciences, commerce and engineering. It studies the development and validation of models and use of simulation systems.
Concepts & Organisation of Databases
This course covers the design and implementation of databases with particular reference to the relational model.
COMP 307
COMP 308
COMP 313
Computer Graphics
This course studies the underlying concepts of computer graphics as well as developing applications using industry standard software to generate realistic images of 3D scenes.
ERST 310
GIS and Applications in Natural Resource Analysis
This course studies the use of GIS and spatial analysis tools for resource applications, problem solving, decision-making and planning for environmental issues and sustainable management of natural resources.
Diploma of Software and Information Technology If you’re interested in software and information technology but don’t have the time to do a full degree, you might want to consider the Diploma in Software and Information Technology. This is a one year programme of eight courses which includes at least four courses from schedule A.
Web Development
This course studies how to develop web applications and includes web architecture, server side scripting, database integration, web services and security considerations.
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Other study options
Other areas of study at Lincoln University
So you’re keen to further your study?
If you are interested in Software and Information Technology, you may also be interested in some of the other programmes on offer such as:
There is a range of graduate and postgraduate qualifications offered at Lincoln University that challenge you to achieve new levels of thinking, study and research.
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Agricultural science
Qualifications options include:
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Applied science
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Commerce
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Environmental policy
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Horticultural science
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Landscape architecture Ma-ori and indigenous planning and development
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Natural resources management and ecological engineering
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Parks, recreation, leisure and tourism management
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Resource studies
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Science
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Social science
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Viticulture and oenology.
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Graduate Certificate
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Graduate Diploma
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Honours Degree
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Postgraduate Certificate
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Postgraduate Diploma
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Masters Degree
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PhD.
You can include many of these areas as a named minor or major within your Bachelor of Software and Information Technology. For further information contact us on 0800 10 60 10.
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www.lincoln.ac.nz
Software and Information Technology Knowledge and skills are only relevant when they are applied to real world issues, social or business related. At Lincoln University, we endeavour to equip you with a variety of transferable software and information technology skills which you can then apply to real world problems. We provide postgraduate courses in: •
Software engineering and data management
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Data visualisation
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Image processing and computer graphics
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Interaction design
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Neural networks and computer modelling.
Our focus in these courses is on understanding and evaluating existing theories and techniques and applying them to solve real problems. For further information contact us on 0800 10 60 10.
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Look where they’ve landed
MICHAEL TRENGROVE BACHELOR OF SOFTWARE AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY GRADUATE TECHNICAL SERVICES SPECIALIST, TRIMBLE NAVIGATION
Bachelor of Software and Information Technology graduate Michael Trengrove wanted a qualification that taught him the practical skills needed in the workplace. “Lincoln University seemed to be the only university with the hands-on approach I was after.” As Technical Services Specialist at Trimble Navigation he is part of a software team creating cutting edge mobile GPS applications. Trimble turns over $1.3 billion USD in revenue annually and employs 230 people in the Christchurch office. In his spare time he works for his own company, Software Without Borders, creating software to teach literacy and numeracy skills to illiterate children and adults. For this project, he works out of the Canterbury Innovation Incubator, of which Lincoln University is a founding partner. During his studies he says he learnt how to work in a team, communicate effectively, keep to deadlines and manage his time efficiently. “The supervisors at Trimble want people who can hit the ground running and I believe the degree at Lincoln has enabled me to do this.” Adding to this he says that the style of teaching matched his learning style, lectures followed by hands-on time during tutorials in the labs. “I enjoyed the practical projects which involved real world situations. Also, after the first year class sizes are generally small which means lots of one-on-one time with lecturers and time to ask questions. The lectures are all recorded which really enhances study time for tests and exams and if you can’t make a lecture you can watch it later.” ICT is fast becoming one of New Zealand’s biggest exports and Michael wanted to be a part of it. “The pay rates are great and the industry provides opportunities to work worldwide.”
“The in-depth technical knowledge I learnt at Lincoln I use every day in my job!”
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LU YE BACHELOR OF SOFTWARE AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY GRADUATE TUTOR, DEPARTMENT OF APPLIED COMPUTING AT LINCOLN UNIVERSITY
Lu Ye says that when the tutoring opportunity came up it was a great chance for her to put into practice the things she had learnt. “Basically, what I do daily is assist the examiners with the preparation and administration of laboratory exercises, projects, tests and exams and distribution of teaching material.” She also leads laboratory sessions and assists with administration tasks such as maintaining class web pages for courses. The advice she has for starting students is to choose the area of study you are most interested in. “Don’t choose one just because it’s popular, ask many questions and find out what will be offered in a particular area of study before doing it.” Lu decided to study Software & Information Technology because of the information-based age we are living in: “For most jobs out there, good computing skills are a requirement.” She says she enjoyed the small classes and friendly people at Lincoln and recommends new students get involved in activities and events such as the garden party. “I made lots of friends here and they will last for a lifetime.” “Whether or not I carry on in computing education or move into the IT industry I don’t know but I do know that wherever I work, here or maybe back in China, I will always be using the skills that I first got with my degree at Lincoln.”
“... wherever I work, here or maybe back in China, I will always be using the skills that I first got with my degree at Lincoln.”
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Frequently asked questions
What do Software and Information Technology students study?
Can I do Software and Information Technology without excelling at maths at school?
You’ll study programming, software engineering, computer networking and operating systems, end-user computing, web technologies and information systems. The focus is on understanding and evaluating existing techniques and theories and applying them to solve real problems.
Even if you’ve had a bad experience with maths at school, that doesn’t mean you’ll find studying Software and Information Technology hard, although people who are good at maths are usually good at computing. What is really important is that you enjoy solving problems.
What is different about Lincoln’s degree?
Are there certain courses that I have to study?
Our degree is very flexible so you can study courses from another discipline. You can include a major or minor in a number of areas including commerce, science, environmental management or any other subject area taught at Lincoln University. Employers especially value this breadth of knowledge in our graduates.
The Bachelor of Software and Information Technology has relatively few prescribed courses. There are three compulsory 100 level and three compulsory 200 level computing courses. You must also study at least four 300 level computing courses.
What is the difference between Computer Science and studying Software and Information Technology? Software and Information Technology emphasises solving real world problems using the most appropriate techniques. Computer Science emphasises developing rather than applying techniques. Computer Science generally has a more technical focus than our Software and Information Technology programme. Can I study Software and Information Technology without having studied computing at school? Yes, you can. Our courses are designed so that previous experience is not required. In particular, computer programming is taught starting from first principles.
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How long will it take me to complete a BS&IT if I have an existing degree? If you have a recognised degree in another discipline you should be able to complete this degree in two years. You might also want consider our Graduate Diploma in Software and Information Technology. This very popular programme can be completed in one year and is available to graduates of all disciplines. What subjects should I study at school to best prepare me for this degree? Studying maths, English and computing at school is recommended, but not essential.
www.lincoln.ac.nz
Want to know more? Phone 0800
10 60 10 in New Zealand or +64 3 325 2811 if you’re calling from overseas.
Text LAND to 5900 with your email or mobile details so that we can contact you, or email us at land@lincoln.ac.nz You can also visit the Lincoln University website - www.lincoln.ac.nz - to find out more about: Scholarships Accommodation options Enrolment and Semester dates Fees And more ...
Lincoln University New Zealand’s specialist land-based university
Disclaimer Every effort is made to ensure that information in this publication is correct at the time of printing, but the content may be subject to change. Lincoln University reserves the right to make changes, amendments or deletions - including the withdrawal of courses should circumstances change. Lincoln University does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any express or implied liability whatsoever to any party for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions, whether these errors or omissions result from negligence, accident or any other cause.
Environmental Statement This Prospectus is printed on Sumo which boasts ISO 14001 status (International Organisation for Standards), which has established performance objectives and environmental management systems to prevent pollution, ensure compliance with regulations and achieve continual improvement. Acid Free Element Chlorine Free (ECF) ISO 14001 Well Managed Forest.
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Want to ďŹ nd out more?
www.lincoln.ac.nz
0800 10 60 10 in New Zealand +64 3 325 2811 international