Regulations for The Graduate Diploma in Information Sciences - GradDipInfSc

Official rules and regulations for the Graduate Diploma in Information Sciences. These regulations are for the 2025 intake to this qualification.

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Qualification Regulations

Part I

These regulations are to be read in conjunction with all other Statutes and Regulations of the University including General Regulations for Undergraduate Degrees, Undergraduate Diplomas, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas, and Graduate Certificates.

Part II

Admission

1. Admission to the Graduate Diploma in Information Sciences requires that the candidate will:

(a) meet the University admission requirements as specified; and

(b) have been awarded or qualified for an undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification.

Qualification requirements

2. Candidates for the Graduate Diploma in Information Sciences shall follow a flexible programme of study, which shall consist of courses totalling at least 120 credits at 200 level or above, comprising:

(a) at least 120 credits from courses listed in the Schedules for the qualification;

(b) at least 75 credits at 300 level or above;

and including:

(c) any compulsory courses listed in the Schedules for the qualification;

(d) attending Contact Workshops, block courses, field trips, studios, workshops, tutorials and laboratories as required.

Specialisations

3. The Graduate Diploma in Information Sciences is awarded without an endorsement.

4. Notwithstanding Regulation 3, the following endorsements and joint endorsement are available in accordance with transitional provisions outlined in Regulation 9: Computer Science; Data Science; Information Systems; Information Technology; and Software Engineering.

Student progression

5. In cases of sufficient merit, the Graduate Diploma in Information Sciences may be awarded with distinction.

Completion requirements

6. Any timeframes for completion as outlined in the General Regulations for Undergraduate Degrees, Undergraduate Diplomas, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas and Graduate Certificates will apply.

7. Candidates may be graduated when they meet the Admission, Qualification and Academic requirements within the prescribed timeframes.

Unsatisfactory academic progress

8. The general Unsatisfactory Academic Progress regulations will apply.

Transitional provisions

9. Subject to any Maximum Time to Completion and Abandonment of Studies provisions specified in the Part I qualification regulations, candidates enrolled in the Graduate Diploma in Information Sciences prior to 1 January 2023 may complete the Graduate Diploma by fulfilling the requirements of Schedule B, including endorsement requirements for those candidates enrolled in an endorsement. These transition arrangements expire 31 December 2025.

10. Subject to any Maximum Time to Completion and the Abandonment of Studies provisions specified in the Part I regulations for the diploma, candidates enrolled in the Graduate Diploma in Information Sciences prior to 1 January 2024 may substitute 158222 if successfully completed for 297201 and 158333 if successfully completed for 297301. This includes students enrolled in the Data Science endorsement under transition regulations.

11. These transition arrangements expire 31 December 2026.

Schedule for the Graduate Diploma in Information Sciences

Course planning key

Prerequisites
Courses that need to be completed before moving onto a course at the next level. For example, a lot of 200-level courses have 100-level prerequisite courses.
Corequisites
Courses that must be completed at the same time as another course are known as corequisite courses.
Restrictions
Some courses are restricted against each other because their content is similar. This means you can only choose one of the offered courses to study and credit to your qualification.
Key terms for course planning
Courses
Each qualification has its own specific set of courses. Some universities call these papers. You enrol in courses after you get accepted into Massey.
Course code
Each course is numbered using 6 digits. The fourth number shows the level of the course. For example, in course 219206, the fourth number is a 2, so it is a 200-level course (usually studied in the second year of full-time study).
Credits
Each course is worth a number of credits. You combine courses (credits) to meet the total number of credits needed for your qualification.
Specialisations
Some qualifications let you choose what subject you'd like to specialise in. Your major or endorsement is what you will take the majority of your courses in.

Subject courses (Choose 120 credits from)

Computer Science and Software Engineering courses

Course code: 159201 Algorithms and Data Structures 15 credits

An introduction to the analysis and implementation of algorithms and data structures including linear data structures, trees, graphs, hash tables, searching algorithms, sorting algorithms, optimization problems and complexity analysis. The course includes a significant practical component covering the implementation and application of important data structures and algorithms.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159271

View full course details
Course code: 159234 Object-Oriented Programming 15 credits

An introduction to the principles of object-oriented programming. It covers both object-oriented programming techniques and their application to program design including classes, objects and objects lifecycle, abstraction, encapsulation, inheritance, polymorphism and generic programming, as well as some advanced programming features. The course includes a significant practical component involving designing and implementing object-oriented programs in Java.

Prerequisites: 159102

View full course details
Course code: 159236 Embedded Programming 15 credits

A study of embedded programming using low-level programming languages. The course covers the hardware architecture of an embedded system and the techniques needed to write programs for simple peripherals such as switches, LEDs, timers and accelerometers.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159233, 159270

View full course details
Course code: 159251 Software Engineering Design and Construction 15 credits

A study of techniques, methods and tools used to design and construct high-quality software systems.

Prerequisites: 159234

View full course details
Course code: 159272 Programming Language Paradigms 15 credits

An introduction to different programming paradigms with a focus on the functional paradigm – lists, recursion, lazy-evaluation, higher-order functions, currying and lambda expressions. The course includes a significant practical component designing and implementing functional solutions to problems using both pure and multi-paradigm languages.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159202

View full course details
Course code: 159302 Artificial Intelligence 15 credits

An advanced study of the principles and techniques used in developing Artificial Intelligence applications. The course includes the implementation and application of a range of AI methods including state-space representation and search, knowledge representation, constraint satisfaction, game playing, logic systems and machine learning.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159234 Restrictions: 159372

View full course details
Course code: 159336 Mobile Application Development 15 credits

The course covers many practical aspects of designing, creating, testing and publishing mobile applications. Students will develop mobile applications using a real software development toolkit and have the option of publishing their applications to an app marketplace.

Prerequisites: 159234 or 159235

View full course details
Course code: 159341 Programming Languages, Algorithms and Concurrency 15 credits

Advanced study in models of computation, programming languages and algorithms with a specific focus on concurrent programming. The course includes models of computation, programming language paradigms, programming language design, algorithm analysis, processes, threads, synchronisation and parallel programming.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159202 Restrictions: 159331

View full course details
Course code: 159342 Operating Systems and Networks 15 credits

A detailed study of operating systems and network communication protocols. The course covers the technologies that underpin modern computer systems including the architecture of operating systems and their structures and methods along with computer network design, protocols and associated technologies.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159234 Restrictions: 159334, 159335, 159354, 159355

View full course details
Course code: 159352 Advanced Web Development 15 credits

A study of the programming and scripting languages, frameworks and tools used to develop web and distributed applications with a consideration of the security issues involved in these technologies.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159234 Restrictions: 159339

View full course details

Data Science courses

Course code: 158337 Database Development 15 credits

A study of enterprise data models, including how data storage and retrieval methods have changed over time. Modern techniques for handling relational and non-relational data and their implications in transactional and analytical processing are evaluated. Students will gain practical skills in designing, creating and querying databases using database management systems.

Prerequisites: One of 1582xx or 1592xx Restrictions: 158247

View full course details
Course code: 161250 Data Analysis 15 credits

Biology, psychology, and other sciences require statistical methods for analysing and visualising data. This course is designed to be accessible to students from any discipline, first building a deeper understanding of fundamental statistical concepts, then teaching a range of practical approaches for exploring statistical relationships, testing hypotheses, evaluating models, and presenting conclusions.

Prerequisites: 1611xx or 297101 Restrictions: 161220

View full course details
Course code: 161251 Regression Modelling 15 credits

Common data analysis and regression techniques for application in science, business and social science. Topics include simple and multiple regression; linear models with categorical explanatory variables; model diagnostics; inference for linear models; polynomial regression; models for time dependence; methods for variable selection; non-linear and weighted regression.

Prerequisites: 1611xx or 297101 Restrictions: 161221

View full course details
Course code: 161323 Multivariate Analysis 15 credits

This course teaches methods to understand patterns and structures inherent in data sets containing many variables. The fundamentals of data visualisation, clustering, and dimension reduction with examples taken from a range of applications.

Prerequisites: One of 161222, 161220, 161221, 161250, 161251, 233214 Restrictions: 161762

View full course details
Course code: 161324 Data Mining 15 credits

A practical approach to data mining with large volumes of complex data; prepare, cleanse and visualise data; supervised and unsupervised modelling; ensemble and bundling techniques; use of leading software tools.

Prerequisites: One of 161122, 297101, 161220, 161221, 161250 or 161251 Restrictions: 161223 and 161777

View full course details
Course code: 297201 Data Wrangling and Machine Learning 15 credits

An introduction to the data science workflow involving the acquisition, processing, transformation and integration of data from disparate sources having inherently different data structures, from which actionable insights can be extracted. Entry-level machine learning and statistical techniques for analysing and extracting knowledge from data will be covered. Particular emphasis will be placed on attaining competency in using a high-level programming language for conducting data-driven problem solving and appreciating the necessary agility such tools afford.

Prerequisites: 297101 or 161122 or (one of 159101, 159100 and one of 1611xx, 160101, 160102) Restrictions: 158222

View full course details
Course code: 297301 Applied Machine Learning and Big Data Processing 15 credits

An in-depth exploration of methods for developing intuition and insights about data that enables effective problem formulation and its solution through data-driven methods. A broad range of advanced machine learning and data mining algorithms will be used to build predictive models from real-world contexts. A particular emphasis will be on developing data-products, rapid prototyping and effectively communicating their value through visual storytelling and interpretable summaries. Practical skills for processing large datasets will be taught.

Prerequisites: 158222 or 297201 Restrictions: 158333

View full course details

Games Programming courses

Course code: 159235 Programming for Computer Graphics 15 credits

An introduction to the programming principles, methods and techniques of computer graphics. The course covers general graphics methods and techniques, graphics transformations, drawing algorithms, 3D rendering and animation. These are implemented using basic approaches as well as modern shader-based pipelines.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159360

View full course details
Course code: 159261 Games Programming 15 credits

An exploration of a range of essential topics for implementing computer games including fundamental computer graphics, games software architecture and game physics systems. The course contains a significant practical computer lab component where students are guided through the games development process.

Prerequisites: 159101

View full course details
Course code: 159361 Advanced Games Programming 15 credits

This course continues the study of games programming by exploring the development of computer games using a modern game engine. The development of games and specific game systems within a modern architecture are covered with a significant practical component.

Prerequisites: 159261

View full course details

Information Technology courses

Course code: 158225 Systems Analysis and Modelling 15 credits

A study of methods used to capture, analyse and model system requirements. Students will acquire practical skills through case study work utilising techniques and software tools used by industry.

Prerequisites: 157150 or 157151 or 115107 or 1581xx or 1591xx Restrictions: 158254

View full course details
Course code: 158235 Networks, Security and Privacy 15 credits

A study of the basic principles of digital communications, Internet technologies, communications software, local area network design, client-server system design, middleware and available wide-area network services from the viewpoint of a software engineer/designer developing networked information systems.

Prerequisites: 1581xx or 1591xx or 157150 or 157151 or 115107

View full course details
Course code: 158244 Software Quality Assurance and Testing 15 credits

A discussion of testing concepts and techniques that can be applied to all software projects. This course explores a selection of topics relevant to the design and implementation of test plans in software including web-based applications. The course also looks at activity design to ensure that the project conforms to stakeholder expectations. This course will be of assistance to students who would like to become a Certified Tester through International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISQTB) foundation level exams.

Prerequisites: One of 1571xx or 1581xx or 1591xx

View full course details
Course code: 158258 Web Development 15 credits

An introduction to web-based application development. Students will gain practical experience in the use of modern techniques relevant to the design and development of web-based systems.

Prerequisites: 1581xx or 1591xx Restrictions: 158256

View full course details
Course code: 158326 Software Construction 15 credits

An advanced study of methods used to model, design, build and test robust software artefacts. The course provides an in-depth study of multiple techniques to support software design and implementation. It takes a practical approach using current methods and tools.

Prerequisites: 158256 or 158258 or 159234 or 159270

View full course details
Course code: 158335 The Internet of Things and Cloud Computing 15 credits

This course involves participants in solving problems whose solutions require active, sensing and connected “things” augmented with Cloud Computing capabilities. Students will design and implement things that participate in the Internet of Things (IoT) and Cloud Computing environments.

Prerequisites: 158235 and (158212, 158256 or 158258)

View full course details
Course code: 158345 Professionalism in the Information Sciences 15 credits

This course provides an advanced study of social and professional issues in the information sciences. It will involve the exploration, through appropriate resources, of issues relevant to practitioners, including ethics, legal issues, communication, teamwork and professional contexts.

Prerequisites: 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details
Course code: 158359 User Experience Design 15 credits

The course will move from conceptual analysis to the design, prototyping and implementation and evaluation of user interfaces. It will emphasise development processes that result in interfaces that provide a superior user experience. Examples of real-life interfaces, from sources such as desktop, multimedia, web, novel, and mobile technologies will be used. There will be a significant practical work component.

Prerequisites: 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details

Information Systems courses

Course code: 157216 Management, Analytics and Decision Making 15 credits

Introduction to techniques and issues involved in using data to support organisational decision making.

View full course details
Course code: 157240 Social Media Networks for Business 15 credits

Students will be introduced to using social media for business success and will examine current issues in the rapidly developing area of social media using a socio-technical approach.

View full course details
Course code: 157241 Technology Trends for Organisations 15 credits

A comprehensive study of major technology trends and organisational contexts within which information systems are developed and used from user, manager, organisational and societal perspectives.

Restrictions: 157242

View full course details
Course code: 157340 Organisational Knowledge Management 15 credits

An examination of the role of information systems in creating business value in a knowledge economy.

Prerequisites: 1142xx or 1522xx or 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details
Course code: 157350 Technology Governance and Risk Management 15 credits

Designing and managing technology-based solutions for realising organisational strategy.

Restrictions: 57301, 157373, 157341

View full course details
Course code: 157394 Managing Technology Projects and Programmes 15 credits

Agile project management and design thinking as methodologies for implementing technology projects and programmes.

Prerequisites: 1142xx or 1522xx or 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details

Schedule B: Graduate Diploma in Information Sciences Available under Transition Arrangements

Computer Science (90 credits)

No new enrolments

This qualification is not accepting new enrolments.

At least 30 credits from

Course code: 159201 Algorithms and Data Structures 15 credits

An introduction to the analysis and implementation of algorithms and data structures including linear data structures, trees, graphs, hash tables, searching algorithms, sorting algorithms, optimization problems and complexity analysis. The course includes a significant practical component covering the implementation and application of important data structures and algorithms.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159271

View full course details
Course code: 159234 Object-Oriented Programming 15 credits

An introduction to the principles of object-oriented programming. It covers both object-oriented programming techniques and their application to program design including classes, objects and objects lifecycle, abstraction, encapsulation, inheritance, polymorphism and generic programming, as well as some advanced programming features. The course includes a significant practical component involving designing and implementing object-oriented programs in Java.

Prerequisites: 159102

View full course details
Course code: 159235 Programming for Computer Graphics 15 credits

An introduction to the programming principles, methods and techniques of computer graphics. The course covers general graphics methods and techniques, graphics transformations, drawing algorithms, 3D rendering and animation. These are implemented using basic approaches as well as modern shader-based pipelines.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159360

View full course details
Course code: 159236 Embedded Programming 15 credits

A study of embedded programming using low-level programming languages. The course covers the hardware architecture of an embedded system and the techniques needed to write programs for simple peripherals such as switches, LEDs, timers and accelerometers.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159233, 159270

View full course details
Course code: 159251 Software Engineering Design and Construction 15 credits

A study of techniques, methods and tools used to design and construct high-quality software systems.

Prerequisites: 159234

View full course details
Course code: 159261 Games Programming 15 credits

An exploration of a range of essential topics for implementing computer games including fundamental computer graphics, games software architecture and game physics systems. The course contains a significant practical computer lab component where students are guided through the games development process.

Prerequisites: 159101

View full course details
Course code: 159270 Hardware-Oriented Computing 15 credits

A study of programming in a hardware-oriented language such as C and the construction of object-oriented software solutions using C++. The course has a practical focus based on concepts such as pointers, memory allocation, objects, classes, operator overloading, inheritance, and polymorphism. It addresses techniques such as structuring programs, software testing and debugging techniques, and the use of microcontrollers.

Prerequisites: 159100 or 159101 or 159172 Restrictions: 159236

View full course details
Course code: 159272 Programming Language Paradigms 15 credits

An introduction to different programming paradigms with a focus on the functional paradigm – lists, recursion, lazy-evaluation, higher-order functions, currying and lambda expressions. The course includes a significant practical component designing and implementing functional solutions to problems using both pure and multi-paradigm languages.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159202

View full course details

At least 60 credits from

Course code: 159302 Artificial Intelligence 15 credits

An advanced study of the principles and techniques used in developing Artificial Intelligence applications. The course includes the implementation and application of a range of AI methods including state-space representation and search, knowledge representation, constraint satisfaction, game playing, logic systems and machine learning.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159234 Restrictions: 159372

View full course details
Course code: 159336 Mobile Application Development 15 credits

The course covers many practical aspects of designing, creating, testing and publishing mobile applications. Students will develop mobile applications using a real software development toolkit and have the option of publishing their applications to an app marketplace.

Prerequisites: 159234 or 159235

View full course details
Course code: 159341 Programming Languages, Algorithms and Concurrency 15 credits

Advanced study in models of computation, programming languages and algorithms with a specific focus on concurrent programming. The course includes models of computation, programming language paradigms, programming language design, algorithm analysis, processes, threads, synchronisation and parallel programming.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159202 Restrictions: 159331

View full course details
Course code: 159342 Operating Systems and Networks 15 credits

A detailed study of operating systems and network communication protocols. The course covers the technologies that underpin modern computer systems including the architecture of operating systems and their structures and methods along with computer network design, protocols and associated technologies.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159234 Restrictions: 159334, 159335, 159354, 159355

View full course details
Course code: 159352 Advanced Web Development 15 credits

A study of the programming and scripting languages, frameworks and tools used to develop web and distributed applications with a consideration of the security issues involved in these technologies.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159234 Restrictions: 159339

View full course details
Course code: 159361 Advanced Games Programming 15 credits

This course continues the study of games programming by exploring the development of computer games using a modern game engine. The development of games and specific game systems within a modern architecture are covered with a significant practical component.

Prerequisites: 159261

View full course details

Data Science (90 credits)

No new enrolments

This qualification is not accepting new enrolments.

Compulsory courses

Choose 45 credits from
Course code: 158337 Database Development 15 credits

A study of enterprise data models, including how data storage and retrieval methods have changed over time. Modern techniques for handling relational and non-relational data and their implications in transactional and analytical processing are evaluated. Students will gain practical skills in designing, creating and querying databases using database management systems.

Prerequisites: One of 1582xx or 1592xx Restrictions: 158247

View full course details
Course code: 297201 Data Wrangling and Machine Learning 15 credits

An introduction to the data science workflow involving the acquisition, processing, transformation and integration of data from disparate sources having inherently different data structures, from which actionable insights can be extracted. Entry-level machine learning and statistical techniques for analysing and extracting knowledge from data will be covered. Particular emphasis will be placed on attaining competency in using a high-level programming language for conducting data-driven problem solving and appreciating the necessary agility such tools afford.

Prerequisites: 297101 or 161122 or (one of 159101, 159100 and one of 1611xx, 160101, 160102) Restrictions: 158222

View full course details
Course code: 297301 Applied Machine Learning and Big Data Processing 15 credits

An in-depth exploration of methods for developing intuition and insights about data that enables effective problem formulation and its solution through data-driven methods. A broad range of advanced machine learning and data mining algorithms will be used to build predictive models from real-world contexts. A particular emphasis will be on developing data-products, rapid prototyping and effectively communicating their value through visual storytelling and interpretable summaries. Practical skills for processing large datasets will be taught.

Prerequisites: 158222 or 297201 Restrictions: 158333

View full course details

Specialisation courses

Choose at least 15 credits from
Course code: 159201 Algorithms and Data Structures 15 credits

An introduction to the analysis and implementation of algorithms and data structures including linear data structures, trees, graphs, hash tables, searching algorithms, sorting algorithms, optimization problems and complexity analysis. The course includes a significant practical component covering the implementation and application of important data structures and algorithms.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159271

View full course details
Course code: 160211 Linear Algebra 15 credits

Vector spaces, linear transformation, matrix representation, inner product spaces, isometries, least squares, generalised inverse, eigen theory, quadratic forms, norms, numerical methods.

Prerequisites: 160102, 160112, 160133 or 228172

View full course details
Choose at least 15 credits from
Course code: 161323 Multivariate Analysis 15 credits

This course teaches methods to understand patterns and structures inherent in data sets containing many variables. The fundamentals of data visualisation, clustering, and dimension reduction with examples taken from a range of applications.

Prerequisites: One of 161222, 161220, 161221, 161250, 161251, 233214 Restrictions: 161762

View full course details
Course code: 161324 Data Mining 15 credits

A practical approach to data mining with large volumes of complex data; prepare, cleanse and visualise data; supervised and unsupervised modelling; ensemble and bundling techniques; use of leading software tools.

Prerequisites: One of 161122, 297101, 161220, 161221, 161250 or 161251 Restrictions: 161223 and 161777

View full course details
Choose at least 15 credits from
Course code: 158326 Software Construction 15 credits

An advanced study of methods used to model, design, build and test robust software artefacts. The course provides an in-depth study of multiple techniques to support software design and implementation. It takes a practical approach using current methods and tools.

Prerequisites: 158256 or 158258 or 159234 or 159270

View full course details
Course code: 159302 Artificial Intelligence 15 credits

An advanced study of the principles and techniques used in developing Artificial Intelligence applications. The course includes the implementation and application of a range of AI methods including state-space representation and search, knowledge representation, constraint satisfaction, game playing, logic systems and machine learning.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159234 Restrictions: 159372

View full course details
Course code: 161323 Multivariate Analysis 15 credits

This course teaches methods to understand patterns and structures inherent in data sets containing many variables. The fundamentals of data visualisation, clustering, and dimension reduction with examples taken from a range of applications.

Prerequisites: One of 161222, 161220, 161221, 161250, 161251, 233214 Restrictions: 161762

View full course details

Information Systems (90 credits)

No new enrolments

This qualification is not accepting new enrolments.

Specialisation courses

Choose at least 30 credits from
Course code: 157216 Management, Analytics and Decision Making 15 credits

Introduction to techniques and issues involved in using data to support organisational decision making.

View full course details
Course code: 157240 Social Media Networks for Business 15 credits

Students will be introduced to using social media for business success and will examine current issues in the rapidly developing area of social media using a socio-technical approach.

View full course details
Course code: 157241 Technology Trends for Organisations 15 credits

A comprehensive study of major technology trends and organisational contexts within which information systems are developed and used from user, manager, organisational and societal perspectives.

Restrictions: 157242

View full course details
Choose at least 60 credits from
Course code: 157340 Organisational Knowledge Management 15 credits

An examination of the role of information systems in creating business value in a knowledge economy.

Prerequisites: 1142xx or 1522xx or 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details
Course code: 157350 Technology Governance and Risk Management 15 credits

Designing and managing technology-based solutions for realising organisational strategy.

Restrictions: 57301, 157373, 157341

View full course details
Course code: 157394 Managing Technology Projects and Programmes 15 credits

Agile project management and design thinking as methodologies for implementing technology projects and programmes.

Prerequisites: 1142xx or 1522xx or 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details
Course code: 158337 Database Development 15 credits

A study of enterprise data models, including how data storage and retrieval methods have changed over time. Modern techniques for handling relational and non-relational data and their implications in transactional and analytical processing are evaluated. Students will gain practical skills in designing, creating and querying databases using database management systems.

Prerequisites: One of 1582xx or 1592xx Restrictions: 158247

View full course details
Course code: 158359 User Experience Design 15 credits

The course will move from conceptual analysis to the design, prototyping and implementation and evaluation of user interfaces. It will emphasise development processes that result in interfaces that provide a superior user experience. Examples of real-life interfaces, from sources such as desktop, multimedia, web, novel, and mobile technologies will be used. There will be a significant practical work component.

Prerequisites: 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details

Information Technology (90 credits)

No new enrolments

This qualification is not accepting new enrolments.

At least 30 credits from
Course code: 158225 Systems Analysis and Modelling 15 credits

A study of methods used to capture, analyse and model system requirements. Students will acquire practical skills through case study work utilising techniques and software tools used by industry.

Prerequisites: 157150 or 157151 or 115107 or 1581xx or 1591xx Restrictions: 158254

View full course details
Course code: 158235 Networks, Security and Privacy 15 credits

A study of the basic principles of digital communications, Internet technologies, communications software, local area network design, client-server system design, middleware and available wide-area network services from the viewpoint of a software engineer/designer developing networked information systems.

Prerequisites: 1581xx or 1591xx or 157150 or 157151 or 115107

View full course details
Course code: 158244 Software Quality Assurance and Testing 15 credits

A discussion of testing concepts and techniques that can be applied to all software projects. This course explores a selection of topics relevant to the design and implementation of test plans in software including web-based applications. The course also looks at activity design to ensure that the project conforms to stakeholder expectations. This course will be of assistance to students who would like to become a Certified Tester through International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISQTB) foundation level exams.

Prerequisites: One of 1571xx or 1581xx or 1591xx

View full course details
Course code: 158258 Web Development 15 credits

An introduction to web-based application development. Students will gain practical experience in the use of modern techniques relevant to the design and development of web-based systems.

Prerequisites: 1581xx or 1591xx Restrictions: 158256

View full course details
At least 45 credits from
Course code: 158326 Software Construction 15 credits

An advanced study of methods used to model, design, build and test robust software artefacts. The course provides an in-depth study of multiple techniques to support software design and implementation. It takes a practical approach using current methods and tools.

Prerequisites: 158256 or 158258 or 159234 or 159270

View full course details
Course code: 158335 The Internet of Things and Cloud Computing 15 credits

This course involves participants in solving problems whose solutions require active, sensing and connected “things” augmented with Cloud Computing capabilities. Students will design and implement things that participate in the Internet of Things (IoT) and Cloud Computing environments.

Prerequisites: 158235 and (158212, 158256 or 158258)

View full course details
Course code: 158337 Database Development 15 credits

A study of enterprise data models, including how data storage and retrieval methods have changed over time. Modern techniques for handling relational and non-relational data and their implications in transactional and analytical processing are evaluated. Students will gain practical skills in designing, creating and querying databases using database management systems.

Prerequisites: One of 1582xx or 1592xx Restrictions: 158247

View full course details
Course code: 158345 Professionalism in the Information Sciences 15 credits

This course provides an advanced study of social and professional issues in the information sciences. It will involve the exploration, through appropriate resources, of issues relevant to practitioners, including ethics, legal issues, communication, teamwork and professional contexts.

Prerequisites: 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details
Course code: 158359 User Experience Design 15 credits

The course will move from conceptual analysis to the design, prototyping and implementation and evaluation of user interfaces. It will emphasise development processes that result in interfaces that provide a superior user experience. Examples of real-life interfaces, from sources such as desktop, multimedia, web, novel, and mobile technologies will be used. There will be a significant practical work component.

Prerequisites: 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details
No more than 15 credits from
Course code: 157340 Organisational Knowledge Management 15 credits

An examination of the role of information systems in creating business value in a knowledge economy.

Prerequisites: 1142xx or 1522xx or 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details
Course code: 157350 Technology Governance and Risk Management 15 credits

Designing and managing technology-based solutions for realising organisational strategy.

Restrictions: 57301, 157373, 157341

View full course details
Course code: 157394 Managing Technology Projects and Programmes 15 credits

Agile project management and design thinking as methodologies for implementing technology projects and programmes.

Prerequisites: 1142xx or 1522xx or 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details

Software Engineering (90 credits)

No new enrolments

This qualification is not accepting new enrolments.

Specialisation courses

At least 30 credits from
Course code: 158225 Systems Analysis and Modelling 15 credits

A study of methods used to capture, analyse and model system requirements. Students will acquire practical skills through case study work utilising techniques and software tools used by industry.

Prerequisites: 157150 or 157151 or 115107 or 1581xx or 1591xx Restrictions: 158254

View full course details
Course code: 158235 Networks, Security and Privacy 15 credits

A study of the basic principles of digital communications, Internet technologies, communications software, local area network design, client-server system design, middleware and available wide-area network services from the viewpoint of a software engineer/designer developing networked information systems.

Prerequisites: 1581xx or 1591xx or 157150 or 157151 or 115107

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Course code: 158258 Web Development 15 credits

An introduction to web-based application development. Students will gain practical experience in the use of modern techniques relevant to the design and development of web-based systems.

Prerequisites: 1581xx or 1591xx Restrictions: 158256

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Course code: 159201 Algorithms and Data Structures 15 credits

An introduction to the analysis and implementation of algorithms and data structures including linear data structures, trees, graphs, hash tables, searching algorithms, sorting algorithms, optimization problems and complexity analysis. The course includes a significant practical component covering the implementation and application of important data structures and algorithms.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159271

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Course code: 159234 Object-Oriented Programming 15 credits

An introduction to the principles of object-oriented programming. It covers both object-oriented programming techniques and their application to program design including classes, objects and objects lifecycle, abstraction, encapsulation, inheritance, polymorphism and generic programming, as well as some advanced programming features. The course includes a significant practical component involving designing and implementing object-oriented programs in Java.

Prerequisites: 159102

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Course code: 159251 Software Engineering Design and Construction 15 credits

A study of techniques, methods and tools used to design and construct high-quality software systems.

Prerequisites: 159234

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Course code: 159272 Programming Language Paradigms 15 credits

An introduction to different programming paradigms with a focus on the functional paradigm – lists, recursion, lazy-evaluation, higher-order functions, currying and lambda expressions. The course includes a significant practical component designing and implementing functional solutions to problems using both pure and multi-paradigm languages.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159202

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At least 30 credits from
Course code: 158326 Software Construction 15 credits

An advanced study of methods used to model, design, build and test robust software artefacts. The course provides an in-depth study of multiple techniques to support software design and implementation. It takes a practical approach using current methods and tools.

Prerequisites: 158256 or 158258 or 159234 or 159270

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Course code: 158335 The Internet of Things and Cloud Computing 15 credits

This course involves participants in solving problems whose solutions require active, sensing and connected “things” augmented with Cloud Computing capabilities. Students will design and implement things that participate in the Internet of Things (IoT) and Cloud Computing environments.

Prerequisites: 158235 and (158212, 158256 or 158258)

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Course code: 158337 Database Development 15 credits

A study of enterprise data models, including how data storage and retrieval methods have changed over time. Modern techniques for handling relational and non-relational data and their implications in transactional and analytical processing are evaluated. Students will gain practical skills in designing, creating and querying databases using database management systems.

Prerequisites: One of 1582xx or 1592xx Restrictions: 158247

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Course code: 158345 Professionalism in the Information Sciences 15 credits

This course provides an advanced study of social and professional issues in the information sciences. It will involve the exploration, through appropriate resources, of issues relevant to practitioners, including ethics, legal issues, communication, teamwork and professional contexts.

Prerequisites: 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

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Course code: 158359 User Experience Design 15 credits

The course will move from conceptual analysis to the design, prototyping and implementation and evaluation of user interfaces. It will emphasise development processes that result in interfaces that provide a superior user experience. Examples of real-life interfaces, from sources such as desktop, multimedia, web, novel, and mobile technologies will be used. There will be a significant practical work component.

Prerequisites: 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

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At least 30 credits from
Course code: 159302 Artificial Intelligence 15 credits

An advanced study of the principles and techniques used in developing Artificial Intelligence applications. The course includes the implementation and application of a range of AI methods including state-space representation and search, knowledge representation, constraint satisfaction, game playing, logic systems and machine learning.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159234 Restrictions: 159372

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Course code: 159336 Mobile Application Development 15 credits

The course covers many practical aspects of designing, creating, testing and publishing mobile applications. Students will develop mobile applications using a real software development toolkit and have the option of publishing their applications to an app marketplace.

Prerequisites: 159234 or 159235

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Course code: 159341 Programming Languages, Algorithms and Concurrency 15 credits

Advanced study in models of computation, programming languages and algorithms with a specific focus on concurrent programming. The course includes models of computation, programming language paradigms, programming language design, algorithm analysis, processes, threads, synchronisation and parallel programming.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159202 Restrictions: 159331

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Course code: 159342 Operating Systems and Networks 15 credits

A detailed study of operating systems and network communication protocols. The course covers the technologies that underpin modern computer systems including the architecture of operating systems and their structures and methods along with computer network design, protocols and associated technologies.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159234 Restrictions: 159334, 159335, 159354, 159355

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Course code: 159352 Advanced Web Development 15 credits

A study of the programming and scripting languages, frameworks and tools used to develop web and distributed applications with a consideration of the security issues involved in these technologies.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159234 Restrictions: 159339

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Without Specialisation (120 credits)

No new enrolments

This qualification is not accepting new enrolments.

Schedule for the Graduate Diploma in Information Sciences without endorsement

Choose at least 105 credits from
Course code: 157216 Management, Analytics and Decision Making 15 credits

Introduction to techniques and issues involved in using data to support organisational decision making.

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Course code: 157240 Social Media Networks for Business 15 credits

Students will be introduced to using social media for business success and will examine current issues in the rapidly developing area of social media using a socio-technical approach.

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Course code: 157241 Technology Trends for Organisations 15 credits

A comprehensive study of major technology trends and organisational contexts within which information systems are developed and used from user, manager, organisational and societal perspectives.

Restrictions: 157242

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Course code: 157340 Organisational Knowledge Management 15 credits

An examination of the role of information systems in creating business value in a knowledge economy.

Prerequisites: 1142xx or 1522xx or 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

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Course code: 157350 Technology Governance and Risk Management 15 credits

Designing and managing technology-based solutions for realising organisational strategy.

Restrictions: 57301, 157373, 157341

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Course code: 157394 Managing Technology Projects and Programmes 15 credits

Agile project management and design thinking as methodologies for implementing technology projects and programmes.

Prerequisites: 1142xx or 1522xx or 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

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Course code: 158225 Systems Analysis and Modelling 15 credits

A study of methods used to capture, analyse and model system requirements. Students will acquire practical skills through case study work utilising techniques and software tools used by industry.

Prerequisites: 157150 or 157151 or 115107 or 1581xx or 1591xx Restrictions: 158254

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Course code: 158235 Networks, Security and Privacy 15 credits

A study of the basic principles of digital communications, Internet technologies, communications software, local area network design, client-server system design, middleware and available wide-area network services from the viewpoint of a software engineer/designer developing networked information systems.

Prerequisites: 1581xx or 1591xx or 157150 or 157151 or 115107

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Course code: 158244 Software Quality Assurance and Testing 15 credits

A discussion of testing concepts and techniques that can be applied to all software projects. This course explores a selection of topics relevant to the design and implementation of test plans in software including web-based applications. The course also looks at activity design to ensure that the project conforms to stakeholder expectations. This course will be of assistance to students who would like to become a Certified Tester through International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISQTB) foundation level exams.

Prerequisites: One of 1571xx or 1581xx or 1591xx

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Course code: 158258 Web Development 15 credits

An introduction to web-based application development. Students will gain practical experience in the use of modern techniques relevant to the design and development of web-based systems.

Prerequisites: 1581xx or 1591xx Restrictions: 158256

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Course code: 158326 Software Construction 15 credits

An advanced study of methods used to model, design, build and test robust software artefacts. The course provides an in-depth study of multiple techniques to support software design and implementation. It takes a practical approach using current methods and tools.

Prerequisites: 158256 or 158258 or 159234 or 159270

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Course code: 158333 Applied Machine Learning and Big Data Processing 15 credits

An in-depth exploration of methods for developing intuition and insights about data that enables effective problem formulation and its solution through data-driven methods. A broad range of advanced machine learning and data mining algorithms will be used to build predictive models from real-world contexts. A particular emphasis will be on developing data-products, rapid prototyping and effectively communicating their value through visual storytelling and interpretable summaries. Practical skills for processing large datasets will be taught.

Prerequisites: 158222

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Course code: 158335 The Internet of Things and Cloud Computing 15 credits

This course involves participants in solving problems whose solutions require active, sensing and connected “things” augmented with Cloud Computing capabilities. Students will design and implement things that participate in the Internet of Things (IoT) and Cloud Computing environments.

Prerequisites: 158235 and (158212, 158256 or 158258)

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Course code: 158337 Database Development 15 credits

A study of enterprise data models, including how data storage and retrieval methods have changed over time. Modern techniques for handling relational and non-relational data and their implications in transactional and analytical processing are evaluated. Students will gain practical skills in designing, creating and querying databases using database management systems.

Prerequisites: One of 1582xx or 1592xx Restrictions: 158247

View full course details
Course code: 158345 Professionalism in the Information Sciences 15 credits

This course provides an advanced study of social and professional issues in the information sciences. It will involve the exploration, through appropriate resources, of issues relevant to practitioners, including ethics, legal issues, communication, teamwork and professional contexts.

Prerequisites: 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details
Course code: 158359 User Experience Design 15 credits

The course will move from conceptual analysis to the design, prototyping and implementation and evaluation of user interfaces. It will emphasise development processes that result in interfaces that provide a superior user experience. Examples of real-life interfaces, from sources such as desktop, multimedia, web, novel, and mobile technologies will be used. There will be a significant practical work component.

Prerequisites: 1572xx or 1582xx or 1592xx

View full course details
Course code: 159201 Algorithms and Data Structures 15 credits

An introduction to the analysis and implementation of algorithms and data structures including linear data structures, trees, graphs, hash tables, searching algorithms, sorting algorithms, optimization problems and complexity analysis. The course includes a significant practical component covering the implementation and application of important data structures and algorithms.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159271

View full course details
Course code: 159234 Object-Oriented Programming 15 credits

An introduction to the principles of object-oriented programming. It covers both object-oriented programming techniques and their application to program design including classes, objects and objects lifecycle, abstraction, encapsulation, inheritance, polymorphism and generic programming, as well as some advanced programming features. The course includes a significant practical component involving designing and implementing object-oriented programs in Java.

Prerequisites: 159102

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Course code: 159235 Programming for Computer Graphics 15 credits

An introduction to the programming principles, methods and techniques of computer graphics. The course covers general graphics methods and techniques, graphics transformations, drawing algorithms, 3D rendering and animation. These are implemented using basic approaches as well as modern shader-based pipelines.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159360

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Course code: 159236 Embedded Programming 15 credits

A study of embedded programming using low-level programming languages. The course covers the hardware architecture of an embedded system and the techniques needed to write programs for simple peripherals such as switches, LEDs, timers and accelerometers.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159233, 159270

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Course code: 159251 Software Engineering Design and Construction 15 credits

A study of techniques, methods and tools used to design and construct high-quality software systems.

Prerequisites: 159234

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Course code: 159261 Games Programming 15 credits

An exploration of a range of essential topics for implementing computer games including fundamental computer graphics, games software architecture and game physics systems. The course contains a significant practical computer lab component where students are guided through the games development process.

Prerequisites: 159101

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Course code: 159270 Hardware-Oriented Computing 15 credits

A study of programming in a hardware-oriented language such as C and the construction of object-oriented software solutions using C++. The course has a practical focus based on concepts such as pointers, memory allocation, objects, classes, operator overloading, inheritance, and polymorphism. It addresses techniques such as structuring programs, software testing and debugging techniques, and the use of microcontrollers.

Prerequisites: 159100 or 159101 or 159172 Restrictions: 159236

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Course code: 159272 Programming Language Paradigms 15 credits

An introduction to different programming paradigms with a focus on the functional paradigm – lists, recursion, lazy-evaluation, higher-order functions, currying and lambda expressions. The course includes a significant practical component designing and implementing functional solutions to problems using both pure and multi-paradigm languages.

Prerequisites: 159102 Restrictions: 159202

View full course details
Course code: 159302 Artificial Intelligence 15 credits

An advanced study of the principles and techniques used in developing Artificial Intelligence applications. The course includes the implementation and application of a range of AI methods including state-space representation and search, knowledge representation, constraint satisfaction, game playing, logic systems and machine learning.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159234 Restrictions: 159372

View full course details
Course code: 159352 Advanced Web Development 15 credits

A study of the programming and scripting languages, frameworks and tools used to develop web and distributed applications with a consideration of the security issues involved in these technologies.

Prerequisites: 159201 or 159234 Restrictions: 159339

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Course code: 159361 Advanced Games Programming 15 credits

This course continues the study of games programming by exploring the development of computer games using a modern game engine. The development of games and specific game systems within a modern architecture are covered with a significant practical component.

Prerequisites: 159261

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Course code: 160211 Linear Algebra 15 credits

Vector spaces, linear transformation, matrix representation, inner product spaces, isometries, least squares, generalised inverse, eigen theory, quadratic forms, norms, numerical methods.

Prerequisites: 160102, 160112, 160133 or 228172

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Course code: 161323 Multivariate Analysis 15 credits

This course teaches methods to understand patterns and structures inherent in data sets containing many variables. The fundamentals of data visualisation, clustering, and dimension reduction with examples taken from a range of applications.

Prerequisites: One of 161222, 161220, 161221, 161250, 161251, 233214 Restrictions: 161762

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Course code: 161324 Data Mining 15 credits

A practical approach to data mining with large volumes of complex data; prepare, cleanse and visualise data; supervised and unsupervised modelling; ensemble and bundling techniques; use of leading software tools.

Prerequisites: One of 161122, 297101, 161220, 161221, 161250 or 161251 Restrictions: 161223 and 161777

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Course code: 297201 Data Wrangling and Machine Learning 15 credits

An introduction to the data science workflow involving the acquisition, processing, transformation and integration of data from disparate sources having inherently different data structures, from which actionable insights can be extracted. Entry-level machine learning and statistical techniques for analysing and extracting knowledge from data will be covered. Particular emphasis will be placed on attaining competency in using a high-level programming language for conducting data-driven problem solving and appreciating the necessary agility such tools afford.

Prerequisites: 297101 or 161122 or (one of 159101, 159100 and one of 1611xx, 160101, 160102) Restrictions: 158222

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Course code: 297301 Applied Machine Learning and Big Data Processing 15 credits

An in-depth exploration of methods for developing intuition and insights about data that enables effective problem formulation and its solution through data-driven methods. A broad range of advanced machine learning and data mining algorithms will be used to build predictive models from real-world contexts. A particular emphasis will be on developing data-products, rapid prototyping and effectively communicating their value through visual storytelling and interpretable summaries. Practical skills for processing large datasets will be taught.

Prerequisites: 158222 or 297201 Restrictions: 158333

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Electives

Choose no more than 15 credits from
Course code: 158383 Information Technology Project 15 credits

Based on an initial project specification, students work individually or in groups on carrying out an information technology project. This includes understanding the project context, selecting appropriate methods and approaches, constructing the project artifacts, and reporting on project outcomes.

Prerequisites: At least two (2) 1582xx courses

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Course code: 159333 Programming Project 15 credits

A capstone programming project for students in their final year of study. Students will develop a piece of software or conduct a research project under the supervision of an academic staff member. Students must produce a written technical report and give an oral presentation demonstrating their work.

Prerequisites: Three (3) of 1592xx, 1582xx or 2972xx and Appraisal Required Restrictions: 159356

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Course code: 159356 Software Engineering Capstone Project 15 credits

Management of the software engineering process. A group project will form a significant component of this course.

Prerequisites: 159251 Restrictions: 159333

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Course code: 161250 Data Analysis 15 credits

Biology, psychology, and other sciences require statistical methods for analysing and visualising data. This course is designed to be accessible to students from any discipline, first building a deeper understanding of fundamental statistical concepts, then teaching a range of practical approaches for exploring statistical relationships, testing hypotheses, evaluating models, and presenting conclusions.

Prerequisites: 1611xx or 297101 Restrictions: 161220

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