REGULATIONS FOR THE BACHELOR OF COMMERCE HONOURS DEGREE IN CLOUD COMPUTING AND INTERNET OF THINGS (BS06)
- Overview
- Entry Requirements
- Career Prospects
- Programme Structure
Overview
INTRODUCTION
OBJECTIVES
PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAMME
Cloud Computing and the Internet of Things place emphasis more on the application of computing in distributed environments as the world is globalized and continues to intersect. The program aims to:
- to merge Cloud Computing and IoT in industry and commerce.
- generate a huge amount of data or big data.
- manage the flow and storage of data in different enterprises.
- manage and analyze this data using different cloud computing models and implementation platforms that help companies to enhance the overall efficiency and working of IoT systems.
- Design, model and implement solutions that allow data transfer and storage through the internet or with a direct link that enables uninterrupted data transfer between devices, applications, and the cloud.
- To prepare students for further studies and lifelong learning in the Computing Profession and in IT-centred service provision organisations.
Entry Requirements
3 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
- Normal Entry
To qualify for entry into the Bachelor of Commerce Honours Degree in Cloud Computing and Internet of Things programme, a candidate, in addition to satisfying the minimum conditions as prescribed under the General Regulations for English and Mathematics at O’ Level, must have obtained a pass in A’Level Mathematics or Computer Studies and any other Commercial or Science Subject
- Visiting / Harare Weekend School Programme
To qualify for entry into the Bachelor of Commerce Honours Degree in Cloud Computing and Internet of Things (Visiting / Harare Weekend School) programme, a candidate, in addition to satisfying the minimum conditions prescribed under the General Regulations must have:
either:
A National Diploma/ HND (complete qualification) in Information Technology/Computer Science, or any equivalent or related tertiary qualification
or:
At least two (2) passes in relevant “A” Level subjects
and:
Confirmation of employment in relevant Information Technology/ Computing departments.
- Special Entry
Candidates who have successfully completed a Professional Information Technology/Computing Diploma or have obtained equivalent qualifications within three years may apply for direct entry into Level 2 of the degree programme, subject to availability of places. Candidates admitted under above regulation will normally be exempted from level 1 on a module-by module-basis. No candidate may complete the degree in less than three academic levels. Successful completion of Work-Related Learning component at level three is compulsory for all candidates.
- Mature Entry
Refer to faculty regulations
Career Prospects
4 Career Opportunities and Further Education
Graduates with the Bachelor of Commerce in Cloud Computing and Internet of Things can pursue careers as IoT/Cloud Software Developer; Cloud/IoT Infrastructure Architect; IoT Systems Administrator; Vulnerability/Cyber Engineer; IoT Embedded Systems Designer; IoT Solutions Engineer; Test Engineer; Data analytics; Cell and UI development. In general, careers include research scientists, consultants, and lecturers. The programme also opens opportunities for graduates to pursue further education within the computing field. Students can enrol for Master’s and Doctoral studies in Cloud Computing and Internet of Things or in interdisciplinary programmes related to Cloud Computing and Internet of Things. In addition, with the emphasis today on small businesses, many graduates find great success in starting their own businesses and innovations.
5 GENERAL PROVISIONS
Refer to faculty and general regulations
6 ASSESSMENT
Evaluation of students shall normally be based on continuous assessment as well as formal university examinations that are held at the end of each semester.
8.2 Continuous Assessment will account for 30% of the overall assessment. No continuous assessment shall be carried over to the next semester.
8.3 Final examination accounts for70% of the overall assessment.
8.4 The department shall determine which items will be included in the continuous assessment and shall define the relevant weighting to each item.
8.5 To be admitted to the examinations, a candidate must;
8.5.1 be a registered student of the University following the General Regulations
8.5.2 have satisfactorily attended and completed the approved modules of study. Completion of modules shall require submission of all written assignments and tests that constitute the continuous assessment
8.5.3 have attended and participated in seminars, tutorials and practical classes, presentations and other activities as required by the Department.
8.5.4 Candidates shall be informed in advance of the deadline of submission of dissertation or project. Unless the Academic Board has granted prior permission for an extension of this deadline any candidate who fails to meet this submission deadline shall normally fail the dissertation or project. In such cases, on the recommendation of the Examiners, candidates may be permitted to resubmit the dissertation or project at a later date, normally within three months of the original submission deadline. Unless otherwise determined by the Senate, the maximum mark allowed for such work should be 50%
Programme Structure
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
Level 1 Semester 1 – Quarter 1
| Code | Module Description | Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIT131 | Programming Fundamentals | 12 | |
| CIT132 | Physical Computing and the Internet of Things | 12 | |
| CS131 | Communication Skills | 12 | |
| GSB211 | Gender Studies for Business | 12 | |
| CIT134 | Fundamentals of Cloud Computing | 12 | |
| CIT135 | Operating Systems and Computer Architecture | 12 | |
| CIT133 | Applied Calculus | 12 |
Level 1 Semester 2
| Code | Module Description | Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIT136 | Data Structures and Algorithms | 12 | |
| CIT139 | Software Engineering | 12 | |
| CIT140 | Principles of Machine Learning | 12 | |
| CIT141 | Cloud Networks and Programming | 12 | |
| CIT137 | Web and Mobile Computing | 12 | |
| CIT138 | Database Design Concepts | 12 |
Level 2 Semester 1
| Code | Module Description | Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENT131 | Entrepreneurship 1 | 12 | |
| CIT231 | IoT Sensors and Devices | CIT132 | 12 |
| CIT234 | Artificial Intelligence and Expert Systems | CIT140 | 12 |
| CIT232 | Object Oriented Programming | CIT131 | 12 |
| CIT233 | Wireless Communication Emerging Technologies | 12 |
Level 2 Semester 2
| Code | Module Description | Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIT237 | Internet of Things & Augmented Reality Emerging Technologies | 12 | |
| CIT238 | Analogue Electronic Devices + Circuitry | 12 | |
| CIT235 | Discrete Mathematics | CIT133 | 12 |
| CIT239 | Business Considerations for 5G, IoT and AI | 12 | |
| CIT236 | Data Communications and Computer Networks | 12 | |
| CIT207 | Group Project | 12 |
Level 3 Semester 1 Work-Related Learning
| Code | Module Description | Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIT340 | Work-Related Learning Preliminary Report | 40 |
Level 3 Semester 2 Work-Related Learning
| Code | Module Description | Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIT341 | Work-Related Learning Continuous Assessment | 40 | |
| CIT342 | Work-Related Learning Report | 40 |
Level 4 Semester 1
| Code | Module Description | Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIT431 | Cloud Computing Infrastructure | 12 | |
| CIT432 | Intelligent Signal Processing | 12 | |
| CIT433 | IoT Networks and Protocols | 12 | |
| CIT434 | Cloud Security | 12 | |
| CIT435 | Big Data Technologies | 12 | |
| CIT436 | Interaction Design | 12 |
Level 4 Semester 2
| Code | Module Description | Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIT437 | Smartphone Emerging Technologies | 12 | |
| CIT438 | Big Data, Cloud Computing, & CDN Emerging Technologies | 12 | |
| CIT439 | AWS IoT: Developing and Deploying IoTs | 12 | |
| CIT440 | Project/Dissertation | 24 |
- MODULE SYNOPSES
CIT131 Programming Fundamentals
This module covers the application of programming to problems that require structured thinking. Students learn to think through different kinds of problems and formalise the process of problem-solving strategy by defining the problem, looking for alternatives as solutions, and presenting the solutions. It also covers program testing, debugging, and some program design tools and techniques used to express the solutions needed to solve the impending problem.
CIT132 Physical Computing and the Internet of Things
This module introduces IoT and a structured approach to problem-solving independent of computer type or language. Students are taught to plan and describe program logic using flow charts and pseudo codes. This module introduces students to core techniques used in physical computing. The module complements other parts of the programme, especially regarding programming, networking and the analysis of sensor data.
CIT133 Applied Calculus
This module equips students with the fundamentals of computing mathematics and calculus and forms the foundation for more advanced mathematics topics. This course introduces Calculus Equations, Polar Coordinates and Vector, Vector-Valued Functions, Partial Derivatives, and Multiple Integrals (derivatives and integrals). Appropriate software is used by students to implement some of these ideas in practice (problems in Cloud/IoT using the concept of calculus).
CIT134 Fundamentals of Cloud Computing
This module equips students with basic knowledge of Cloud Technologies in use today. They will be able to achieve a fundamental understanding of what is cloud computing. The module gives students skills to make a clear and strategic plan to move applications and services to the Cloud. Cloud Segments Cloud Deployment Models, and key Cloud Companies are covered including gaining knowledge of Cloud Services and Cloud Security.
CIT135 Operating Systems, Computer Applications and Architecture
This module introduces the fundamental concepts of operating systems, computer applications and computer architecture to students. It provides an overview of the different types of operating systems such as Windows and Linux, as well as their general functions. It discusses in detail essential operating system components and concepts in the areas of process management, memory management, storage management and file management.
CS131 Communication Skills
Refer to the Communication Skills Department.
CIT136 Data Structures and Algorithms
This module teaches the concepts skills for effective problem-solving skills using algorithmic techniques such as the greedy algorithm, brute force algorithm, etc. It focuses on data structures such as arrays, stacks, queues/priority, linked lists, trees, graphs, hash tables, and strings to solve programming challenges. Algorithms for searching and sorting, including common algorithm design techniques, are introduced.
CIT137 Web and Mobile computing
This module familiarises students with the mobile computing world. It exposes students to current trends in mobile services and applications and focuses on new trends and various applications available in the mobile services arena. It also introduces various concepts and ideas of in-trend applications running on mobile devices. Elements of web and mobile computing are also covered.
CIT138 Database Design Concepts
This module covers the components of a database system together with its database management system from a relational model perspective. It also covers data modelling and design of a relational database as well as SQL in data definition and data manipulation. The module also introduces the concept of data and database administration and transaction management. Two database products will be used practically in illustrating concepts.
CIT139 Software Engineering
The module introduces concepts of software development lifecycle Related issues such as software quality and configuration management are introduced to provide students with a good understanding of producing a high-quality software system. Various software testing techniques will also be introduced to identify the test cases for software validation. Project management techniques such as project planning and control are taught.
CIT140 Principles of Machine Learning
This module examines the underlying technologies that are transforming business services. This module provides an introduction to foundational aspects of the field. The module covers the basics of learning theory, which provides a formal framework to assess the conditions under which machine learning algorithms can successfully achieve their tasks. It further covers the fundamentals of machine learning algorithms widely used in practice.
CIT141 Cloud Networks and Programming
The module equips students in supporting and tuning the cloud software and hardware networking and cloud infrastructure connections. Elements of networking protocols like the TCP, IP, DNS, NAT, layer 2 protocols, routing, and layer 3 protocols are explored and applied using programming languages like Perl, Python or Shell. The OSI model will be practically simulated in different environments.
CIT231 IoT Sensors and devices
This module offers learners practical experience to explore and interact with the IoT bridge between the cyber- and physical worlds, to create efficiencies or solve business problems. Students learn about the ‘things’ that get connected in the Internet of Things to sense and interact with the real-world environment – from something as simple as a smoke detector to a robotic arm in manufacturing.
CIT232 Object-Oriented Programming
The module aims at providing a solid foundation in Object Oriented Programming. Object-oriented programming will be taught by making reference to an OOP Languages widely used at that point in time. Some of these languages include Java, C#, C++ and Python. Students also learn how to program with graphical user interfaces and learn how to design programs capable of managing large amounts of data.
CIT233 Wireless Communication Emerging Technologies
This module covers the services and specifications of the most popular wireless communication technologies used around the world. These include mobile communication, WLAN, and WPAN, which are all included in smart phones. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth specifications are covered. In addition, further details on the state-of-the-art LTE and LTE-Advanced. Evolution of Mobile Wireless Technology from 0G to 5G and emerging technologies are covered.
CIT234 Artificial Intelligence and Expert Systems
This module provides an understanding of the relationship between Expert Systems and the wider field of artificial intelligence. The module enables students to solve problems using explicit knowledge and reasoning. It enables them (1) to express knowledge of a domain in propositional and/or first order predicate calculus, (2) design plans, (3) design solutions to problems where AI techniques can be employed and (4) write programs in Prolog
CIT235 Discrete mathematics
This module introduces and discusses the fundamentals of Discrete Mathematics as applied to Computer Science. Students are exposed to logic and proof techniques, set theory, elementary number theory, functions and relations, graphs, trees, modelling computations and abstract algebra. This module integrates symbolic tools, graphical concepts, and numerical calculations. Techniques of counting: permutations, combinations, recurrences, and algorithms are also covered.
CIT236 Data Communications and Computer Networks
This module explores the principles underlying the design of computer networks. Topics covered include: Computer network technologies and applications, Transmission Media, Signaling, Communication protocols, Communication architectures, Network connections, Network types, Routing and routing algorithms, spanning tree protocol and IP addressing. The focus on error control techniques that include parity check, polynomial code, and Internet checksum is explored.
GSB211 Gender Studies for Business
Refer to the Gender Studies Department.
ENT231 Entrepreneurship
Refer to Entrepreneurship Department.
CIT237 Internet of Things & Augmented Reality Emerging Technologies
This module deals with the new emerging technologies of IoT (Internet of Things) and AR (Augmented Reality). Projects are explored. The Big Data project uses IBM SPSS Statistics, the AR (Augmented Reality) smart phone project analyzes limits of AR applications, the Cloud Computing project uses AWS (Amazon Web Service) EC2 (Elastic Compute Cloud), and the Smartphone project analyzes mobile communication, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth wireless IoT networks.
CIT238 Analogue Electronic Devices + Circuitry
This module equips students with the development of knowledge and application of fundamental electronic circuits and physical electronics of some key semiconductor devices, including the design, construction and testing of experimental electronic circuits. Electronic devices: construction and operation of discrete devices, p-n junction diodes, special diodes. Diode circuit applications. Power Supplies: rectification, filtering, regulation, IC regulators.
CIT239 Business considerations for 5G, IoT and AI
The module equips students with the knowledge needed to put 5G to work in their businesses, empowering them to lead their teams into the future. Students will redefine networks to support 5G world and what is required of businesses to take advantage of new technologies like IoT, Edge and AI using different tools. Students builds the next great innovations based on the capabilities of 5G. Technologies covered include Edge computing, IoT and AI.
CIT207 Group project
The students work in a group to produce a working Product including a Project Proposal, a Project Plan, a System Specification, System Design, System Implementation, User Documentation and perform Project Management Activities to ensure the product is delivered on time. The Implementation includes Developing the Product, Testing and Evaluation and Presentation. The resulting product should be functional and usable.
CIT340 Preliminary Work-Related Learning Report
The internship programme exposes students to a real-life work environment and facilitates a structured and integrated learning programme for them. Students apply the knowledge and skills that they have acquired to work practice and new skills acquired in industry and come up with a consolidated report within the first six months of placement. This helps them to deepen their relevant skills for them to be well-placed to pursue a career in their chosen discipline.
CIT341 Work-Related Learning Continuous Assessment
A consolidated report with weighting of 60% from the Lecturer and 40% from the industry supervisor will be made during the period of work-related learning. The academic supervisor produces a WRL Report for the student on work-related learning. The same applies, the employer periodically assesses the student on work-related learning and produce a report. Students are posed to an environment of being innovative.
CIT342 Work-Related Learning Report
Based on CIT340, students apply the knowledge and skills that they have acquired to work practice and new skills acquired in industry and come up with a consolidated report in the four to six months of placement. This helps them to deepen their relevant skills for them to be well-placed to pursue a career in their chosen discipline.
CIT431 Cloud Computing Infrastructure
This module provides a historical overview of data centres, along with design considerations. Students applies methods to evaluate data centres, cloud management techniques, software deployment considerations and IT management issues for clouds, cloud economics, cloud compliance, existing standards and industry practices including issues to do with cloud dependability.
CIT432 Intelligent Signal Processing
This module builds on other topics in the programme such as Artificial Intelligence and Expert Systems. It provides students with an advanced skill set for writing computer programs that can work with a range of digital signals. it also aims to provide students with a broad experience of digital signal processing techniques and applications. Areas covered also include how audio and video signals can be captured and processed by a computer program.
CIT433 IoT Networks and Protocols
This module focuses on how the IoT works. Students will learn about IoT networks and explore how ‘things’ connect to it, including whether the connection and processing is local (fog) or remote (cloud). Data networks, connection types, layer models and analysis of IoT protocols and standards are covered. Evaluation of different infrastructure components and network systems, and designing of a basic network for personal IoT ideas is covered.
CIT434 Cloud Security
This module introduces students to cyber security for the cloud. Students learn and apply classic security techniques to current cloud security problems. The module starts with a deceptively simple and secure web service and addresses the problems arising as the services are improved. It also looks at the analysis of recent cloud security vulnerabilities using standard, systematic techniques.
CIT435 Big Data Technologies
The module covers technologies, theories and techniques, along with their application, implementation and integration with legacy systems in big data systems. Students analyse new demands and the application of technologies in the management of data and information resources, and examine big data technologies shaping the way data is stored and utilised including the use of cloud-stored massive datasets, distributed systems in business processes.
CIT436 Interaction Design
The module teaches the students to put the users’ needs and requirements first in digital interactive environments and user interfaces. The module provides the students with knowledge and awareness of human factors and conditions in interaction and interface design. The module also focuses on system design methodologies and strategies for the usability optimisation of products and services.
CIT437 Smartphone Emerging Technologies
In this module, the start-of-the-art smartphone and smart watch technology and components in addition to the global market trends and future forecasts are introduced. This helps students in all aspects of new product and app design & development, as well as business planning. The module also introduces students Mobile to Business Rankings & Analysis, mobile communications, Mobile Technology like 4G and 5G, mobile OSs and Smartphone & Mobile Network Project
CIT438 Big Data, Cloud Computing, & CDN Emerging Technologies
This module through Cloud Computing, will enable students to use software as well as processing platforms and computing infrastructure from any location through Internet services. The Big Data part provides students with new intelligence from massive data sets, which can help in situation/condition/status analysis and decision-making. In addition, CDN part provide students with a know-how on how Internet users access information/contents seamlessly.
CIT439AWS IoT: Developing and Deploying and IoTs
This module explores Amazon Web Services’ IoT services. Elements explored include developing and deploying IoT devices that are integrated with services such as AWS IoT Core, AWS IoT Device Management, device gateway, AWS IoT Analytics (including how to collect, process and analyze data from IoT devices), the device registry, and shadows, using the AWS IoT APIs and SDKs.
CIT440 Project/Dissertation
The programme finishes with a supervised project which allows the student to design systems of specific interest to him/her. Its weight is equivalent to that of two core modules. The dissertation should be presented to a panel comprising of at least 2 members from the Departmental Board who determine the score. The project must be an innovative solution in the domain of cloud computing and IoT.