As a first unit in computer programming, Programming Fundamentals covers basic computer architecture, basic data and file structures, concept of algorithms, programming constructs, programming language features and functions, program design, test design, basic documentation. A high level programming language is employed to solve problems in a structured manner.

This unit provides an introduction to systems analysis and design. Incorporating systems concepts, theories and methodologies, this unit provides students with elementary problem solving experience in computerised information systems. Students will gain the ability to derive systems requirements from problem definitions and to produce system models using process, data, object and network modelling. Design and implementation issues include, (but may not be limited to), elementary database design, input, output and user interface design and prototyping. Students are also introduced to roles and responsibilities in information systems development, selection of packaged solutions and the principles of software quality.

Building on material covered in Programming Fundamentals this unit introduces students to the basics of developing interactive and dynamic web applications from both the client and server perspective. The unit covers web site design, web site development, web page accessibility and usability, XHTML, CSS, client side and server side scripting, database interaction, web site promotion (SEO), legal issues and web security.

In this unit students will learn how to build a Web based information systems using programming, database, networking and web technologies that they have learned in other units. Students will learn about various web system architectures and development methodologies that can be used when developing web based information systems. Students will also learn about how to model, design and implement different aspects of Web based information systems.

This introductory unit in computer systems networking covers basic networking topologies, Ethernet fundamentals, ISO OSI layers, routing, switching and sub-nets, the Internet architecture, networking protocols including TCP/IP, important networking devices such as repeaters, hubs, bridges, routers and gateways, basic management and security issues. This unit is also the first of three units which will prepare students for industry based networking certification.

This unit provides students with an in-depth understanding of the applications of computer networks and the concept of internetworking through the TCP/IP suite of protocols. Some of the network security threats along with their appropriate counter measures are also discussed. The main focus of the unit is on communication and network devices.

Students successfully completing this unit will gain the necessary design skills and knowledge required to build and configure a complex network. This unit builds on the work of Networking Fundamentals and Computer Networks and Internets. The unit also provides the student with an opportunity to develop problemsolving techniques and decision-making skills to resolve networking issues. Students completing this unit and its prerequisites should now be prepared to attempt world recognized network industry certification.

The rapid progress in technology, the increasing demand for IT services, and the strong expansion of the Internet have resulted in heterogeneous interconnected networks with many distributed systems that run on them. To ensure access and efficient utilization of network resources, subject to organisational policy restrictions, networked systems must be managed properly. This unit addresses the issues relevant to such management. It covers the principles and current practices pertinent to integrated management of networks, systems, services, and applications. The unit helps the student to understand management functions and architectures as well as current standards and relevant protocols.

The main purpose of this unit is to provide students with an opportunity to gain a basic knowledge of database design and development including data modeling methods and techniques and database implementation using a database management system

A key component to the discipline of Information Systems is the understanding and the advocacy of the user in the development of IT applications and systems. IT graduates must develop a mind-set that recognizes the importance of users and organizational contexts. They must employ user-centered methodologies in the development, evaluation, and deployment of IT applications and systems. This unit examines human-computer interaction in order to develop and evaluate software, websites and information systems that not only look professional but are usable, functional and accessible.

This unit identifies and analyses various principles and technologies related to security and privacy and discusses practical application of those principles and technologies in securing computer systems. It is designed to provide basic computer security skills required by any discipline that uses computer systems and also lays a solid foundation for individuals who are keen to pursue a career in computer security. In particular, but not limited to, this unit aims at the implementation and management of security and privacy policies of organisations within the standards and legal framework that is also applicable to the Australian standards.