Overview
:: About Information Systems
What is Information Systems?
Information Systems (IS) is one of the most fascinating and dynamic
fields in which to pursue a career. We have all entered the information
age, where computers, networks and information technology (IT) play a
major role in our working and social lives. Information Systems applies
these technologies to real world situations in commerce, industry,
education, government, entertainment and virtually every area of society.
Every time we draw money from an ATM, book an airline seat, use a
word-processor, take out a library book, surf the web, use a telephone or
pay an account, we are interacting with an information system.
IS professionals analyse problems and opportunities found in all areas of
business and society, design systems (including computer systems) to satisfy
requirements, build these systems, and implement them "in the field". They
need to work with managers, system users, and people of all types and
levels, thus requiring knowledge of business, organisations and
management issues. A good IS qualification will therefore focus on
acquiring people and business skills and will balance coverage of the
technical (hardware and software) aspects with the human side of
information systems.
For further information see:
What Opportunities are there for IS Graduates?
IS is an expanding and rapidly changing field, which is creating new jobs
and even new organisations. IS is essential to almost every aspect of the
modern organisation. For this reason, IS graduates are sought after by
employers, and hold many important and challenging positions locally and
internationally.
For further information see:
Who should consider a career in IS?
There is no magic formula for success or aptitude in this area, but as IS
professionals provide technology solutions to business problems, some
important personal characteristics would include:
- A willingness to continually learn new skills
- An interest in technology, people and organisations
- Good interpersonal skills
- An ability to acquire analytical and holistic problem solving skills
It is a myth that you have to be a "techie", a male or have touched a
computer before to get an IS degree.
How do you specialise in
Information Systems?
UCT's
Commerce faculty offers two IS degrees:
The focus of both degrees is on acquiring business and people skills and
balancing technology with the human side of Information Systems.
Applicants should refer
to the
general conditions and subjects offered in these degrees.
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