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 further develop their theoretical and practical skills in designing and developing web based information systems using systems analysis, programming, database, human computer interaction and web technologies skills that they have learnt in previous units. Current web development technologies and/or frameworks will be utilised to build a complex web information system in a collaborative web development team. Techniques of porting web systems to mobile platforms will also be explored.

Computer Networking is an introductory unit in computer systems networking. It covers basic networking technologies, Ethernet fundamentals, ISO OSI model, routing, switching and subnetting, the Internet architecture, networking protocols including TCP/IP, important networking devices such as repeaters, hubs, bridges, switches, 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 (CCNA).

This unit extends on the work undertaken in the prerequisite unit and provides students with an in-depth understanding of the role of TCP/IP, ICMP and routing protocols used in IP networks and internetworks. Students will learn about the critical role of routing protocols and how to design, construct and implement small internets. Students will also learn how to perform basic management and security tasks in a practical, hands-on fashion using Cisco routers and other networking equipment. This is the second of three units that prepares the student for industry based networking certification (CCNA).

This unit builds on and consolidates the skills and knowledge gained in Computer Networking and Computer Networks and Internets. Students successfully completing this unit will acquire the necessary design skills and knowledge required to build and configure enterprise scale networks. The unit provides students with an opportunity to develop problem-solving techniques and decision-making skills to resolve networking issues. Students completing this unit and its prerequisites should also now be prepared to attempt world recognized network industry certification (CCNA).

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, techniques for database design using a set of business rules that are derived from a case study and finally implementation of the database using a commercial relational database management system. The unit also examines a number of important database concepts such as database administration, concurrency, backup and recovery and security. At the same time student learning and intercommunication skills are enhanced by running tutorial presentations and group assignments.

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.