The Modular programme consists of three certification levels:

• Certificate in Computer Studies

•  Associate Degree in Computer Studies (pre-requisite: Certificate in Computer Studies)

• Diploma in Computer Studies (pre-requisite: Associate Degree in Computer Studies)

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for the Programme are five (5) CXC subjects at the General Level or the equivalent, including Mathematics and English Language.

Ø   Classes are usually scheduled Monday to Friday, 5–9 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m.–6p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m.–4.p.m.

Applications to the Programme are accepted three times throughout the year: in June, October and March. Students who are accepted will commence classes in September, January and June respectively. Registration for classes takes place prior to the commencement of classes.

The Modular Programme is flexible and allows part-time students to study at their own pace. The rate at which students complete the programme is determined by the number of modules they pursue at a given time. It is the student's responsibility to meet registration deadlines and to read notices. Late registration is not permitted. Each year a schedule of classes is posted; students can obtain these schedules from the Faculty’s Student Affairs Office. Students are given a prescribed time of one and a half (1½) years to complete each certification level and are expected to take no more than four (4) courses in a given semester or summer session.

Class Registration

Course Registration usually occurs at the beginning of each semester or summer session. Modular Students are required to fill out a Modular pre-selection form at least one to two months before the semester begins. Payment vouchers for these courses or modules will then be generated by the Accounts department. Vouchers should be collected from the Faculty Student Affairs Office. Payments using vouchers will be accepted at the Accounting Office at UTech or at any NCB Branch across Jamaica. Registration forms should be completed and returned with payment receipts to the Faculty Student Affairs Office in order to complete the registration process. 

Note that students are expected to have passed the pre-requisites of a course before registering for the course.

Promotion

High performers in the Certificate Programme will be eligible for entry into the Associate Degree in Computer Studies in the Modular Programme (AMCS).
High performers in the Associate Degree Course will be eligible for entry into the Diploma in Computer Studies in the part-time (Modular) programme.
High performers in the Diploma Programme will be eligible for entry into the post-diploma Bachelor's degree in Computing with Management B.Sc. (CMS), (see details on this website). Students must be in a "promote" status according to the University’s regulations in order to move to the next certification level (see Students' Handbook for promotion details).
 

Graduation

Students must successfully complete all the courses at a given level to be eligible for graduation. Students are required to register for graduation at the appropriate time.

Assessment

Each course is assessed using coursework and a final examination. Coursework consists of projects, assignments and tests. The final is given during the prescribe exam period at the end of each semester or summer session. The syllabus and course outline will provide further details. See the Students' Handbook for details on the grading system.

The Courses at the Diploma Level - each course is 45 hours or 3 credits

DMCS students will specialize in the CS major (Software Engineering) and two (2) minors.

Software Engineering Major Courses:

·         Software Design (compulsory)

·         Software Implementation and Testing (compulsory)

·         Assembly Programming (optional)

·         Object-Oriented Programming (compulsory)

·         Graphical User Interface (optional)

·         Windows Programming (optional)

Students are required to do at least two of the optional courses listed above.

Minors:

·         Computer Hardware (Computer maintenance and repairs).

·         Network Administration (Network cabling, configuration, communication and administration)

·         Quantitative Computing/Discrete Computer Simulation (Using the computer to develop and generate mathematical and statistical computations for practical purposes) 

Students are required to do two of the minors listed above.

Additional courses:

·         Professional Ethics (compulsory)

·         Economics (compulsory)

·         Entrepreneurial Skills (compulsory)

Graphical User Interface     

This course is an introduction to graphical user interface design for students of software engineering and systems design. It is concerned with all aspects of creating effective interfaces, including usability testing, end-user design, and implementation. It also covers how to use Visual C++/Borland C++, GUI toolkits in creating GUI-based applications.

Object-Oriented Programming (Pre-requisites: Data Structures) 

This course examines the object-oriented programming paradigm, in which computer programs are viewed as a collection of independent objects that collaborate to achieve some goal. It gives students the opportunity to design, critique and implement object-oriented solutions.  At the end of this course, students will be able to analyse a given situation, formulate an object-oriented design, and then finally produce an object-oriented program in C++.

Windows Programming                      

This course examines the Microsoft Windows Application Programming Interface (API). It serves to introduce the student to programming a graphical user interface and it also acts as an introduction to the event-driven style of programming.

Software Design  

This course is designed as a third course in Software Engineering. The course demonstrates a team software development process with a team philosophy. Within this team philosophy, students will be provided with in-depth knowledge of the software-development process with special emphasis on software coding and testing. This course is the last in a sequence of three courses that form the foundation of the Software Engineering Programme. The complete sequence is: Software Requirements Engineering, Software Design Engineering and Software Implementation and Testing.

Assembly Programming

This course allows students to develop a programme using assembly language.

Software Implementation and Testing

Theory and practice for the implementation and testing of the software engineering project.

Computer Hardware I (formerly CATS I)           

This course is designed to give students working knowledge of computer-systems architecture and organization and to facilitate an environment for gaining practical experience in maintaining and repairing computer systems. It converts the CPU architecture, the motherboard, memory, input/output and communication architecture. Throughout this course, laboratory exercises are conducted to allow students to appreciate a hands-on approach to computer system assembly.

Computer Hardware  II (formerly CATS II)          

The goal of this course is to introduce students to advanced processor-specific topics such as performance enhancement, multiprocessors and architectures for networking systems. This course will also cover micro programming theories and practice, and provide an introduction to assembly language programming.

Network Administration 1

This course is aimed at providing the student with both theoretical and practical knowledge of the standards and techniques in LAN implementation. It will enable them to plan, install, configure and troubleshoot a LAN.

Network Administration 11                 

This course provides the student with knowledge of Network Management. Through a combination of discussion and research, students will be exposed to some of the considerations faced by a network administrator in the proper implementation of a network.

Quantitative Computing I and II

This minor presents to students, having the right mathematical aptitude, the challenge of applying computer skills already gained to problems requiring specialized mathematical computation and/or quantitative analysis in several dimensions. Numerical procedures are pursued at every stage, both theoretically and in a hands-on mode, to solve non-linear equation sets, interpolate function values, estimate functional relationships, simulate random variates and discrete processes, as well as calculate statistical properties of numerical data sets. In the second segment, opportunity is also provided for the student to plan and implement strategies to carry out projects arising from real-world problems, in which non-trivial numerical computations are involved.

Entrepreneurial Skills

The course is designed to provide information and training to “budding entrepreneurs.” It covers important aspects of establishing and effectively managing a small business in both Jamaica and the Caribbean.

Professional Ethics

This course is an introduction to moral philosophy, professionalism and ethical decision-making for IT students and professionals. The course also covers the social, ethical and legal implications of computers both globally and in our local context.

Economics

This course introduces students to the principles and concepts of Micro-economics.

The Courses at the Modular Certificate Level  - each course is 45 hours or 3 credits except for the Communication courses, which are 30 hours or 2 credits

Information Technology

This course provides an introduction to computers, their applications and their impact in the wider society. It provides a theoretical framework for practical skills in the use of modern productivity software. If offers all Bachelor Degree students the foundation necessary for job competency in the information age.

 OR

Advanced Information Technology

An advanced IT course for students who have successfully passed CXC/GCE IT. It provides additional skills in the use of productivity software. Students take either Information Technology or Advanced Information Technology.

Introduction to Programming

This course introduces the student to the fundamentals of designing workable algorithms using structured programming techniques. At the end of the course, the student will have an understanding of the different aspects of programming concepts and logical thinking. This will prepare the student to undertake more advanced programming courses. This course is language independent. The content includes decision tables, flowcharting techniques and pseudocode.

Programming Using C

This is the first in a series of programming courses. It introduces students to the syntax rules of the C programming language. Topics include: basic program structure; data-types control structures; functions; input-output arrays; pointers; files; and structures. Students will spend time in the lab sessions executing and debugging C programs.

 Introduction to Networks

This course introduces students to computer network concepts and to  important features shared by a variety of computer networks.

Electronics

Combining theoretical and practical tutorial sessions, this electronics course provides students with a background in electricity and electronics.

Computer Logic and Digital Design

This course enables students to identify the concepts which are essential to understanding the operation of a physical computer. The student will be exposed to switching algebra and its application, combinational logic, sequential logic and circuit components, and asynchronous circuits. Students will be able to identify the basic building blocks of a computer and will be able to design control circuits based on the functions of the device.

Pre-Calculus Mathematics

The aim of this course is to provide a fundamental, quantitative orientation to pre-Calculus mathematics and to give students logical reasoning skills which they can broadly apply both to undergraduate and post-graduate experiences. Specifically, it builds on and provides practical experience in applying mathematical topics already taught at the secondary level.

Discrete Mathematics

The aim of this course in Discrete Mathematics is to provide the knowledge of logic and the relationship between quantities and algorithms that can be applied to concepts in hardware and software systems.

Accounts

This course aims to teach students the basics of accounting. This knowledge will allow them to make sound managerial decisions based on an understanding of financial circumstances.

Fundamentals of Communications

This course is designed to increase the student’s capacity to read and write correctly and logically in order to facilitate work with academic material. Various types of writing – expository, descriptive and argumentative will be practiced.

Oral Communication

The focus of this course is to help students improve speech habits and develop strategies for effective oral communication. The course is divided into four units.

Introduction to Psychology

Through applications to real-world situations, learners will explore some of the basic theories and concepts that constitute a sound, general knowledge of Western psychology. Learners will gain a deeper understanding of human similarities and differences and ultimately gain insight into themselves. This Introductory course seeks to stimulate learners to engage in further extensive and independent exploration of the fascinating world of psychology.

The Courses at the Modular Associate Degree Level  - each course is 45 hours or 3 credits except for the Communication courses, which are 30 hours or 2 credits.

Internet Technology 

This course introduces students to presentation software and the Internet. Students use the software to design seminars and presentations and to construct web pages. Students will be introduced to HTML and JavaScript.

Calculus

The aim of this course is to introduce the student to the fundamental principles of Calculus. It should enable the student to understand the concepts of rates of change and integration and to apply them to real-life situations.

Probability and Statistics

The aim of this course is to provide Computing and Information Technology students with the knowledge to calculate probabilities in various situations, to analyse data and to reach conclusions supported by research.

Database Management I

This course is designed to give students working knowledge of different types of database systems and practical experience in database design and implementation. It covers conceptual modeling, relational algebra, relational calculus, SQL, object-oriented database systems and hierarchical and network databases.

Database Management Systems II

This course provides an appreciation of: how the database maps onto physical storage; the need for transaction processing; and concurrency control and recovery mechanisms to maintain data integrity. The role of the DBA, strategies used in the appropriate selection of a DBMS, and the latest trends in database systems are also examined.

Data Structures

This course introduces students to various data structures such as linked lists, stacks, queues, trees and graphs. It emphasizes the specification of each structure as an abstract data type before its implementation and application. The implementation of these data structures will be done in the C programming language.

Computer Graphics

Fundamental Graphics theory as well as projects utilizing graphic programs on microcomputers.

Introduction to Software Engineering Requirements

An introductory course in Software Engineering that teaches basic concepts and methods for software development, with an individual rather than a team philosophy. It focuses on the engineering of the requirements analysis and specification process.

Advanced Communication

Advanced Communication is designed to maintain and expand students' skills in the reading and writing process first learned in year one. This course places emphasis on information-gathering skills needed for writing, critical thinking, exploring various types of writing, and considering topical issues of local and international importance. The course is divided into two modules – The Research Essay and Critical Thinking and Writing.

Business Communication

The last decade has shown an increasing emphasis on good communication and interpersonal skills, team building and the use of technology in the workplace. In recognition of these emerging challenges, this syllabus seeks to equip students adequately to function effectively and efficiently in the changing business environment.

Environmental Studies

This course hopes to increase the awareness and sensitivity of students to the environment and its problems so that a sense of individual and collective responsibility for the maintenance of the ecological health of the region and the Earth as a whole will be awakened. Students will be exposed to some of the issues affecting Earth and its inhabitants, with a special emphasis on regional issues.

Humanities

Humanities offerings include Spanish and Sociology

Sociology

This course introduces students to Sociology as: (a) the scientific observation and analysis of human behaviour; (b) the underlying and recurring factors which influence social behaviour; and (c) the use of a sociological frame of reference in order to appreciate and clarify social phenomena. The course draws heavily on the Caribbean sociological experience and perspective, thereby giving students the opportunity to understand and to be critical of their own social reality.

OR

Basic Spanish

This course introduces non-Spanish speakers to the basic functions and structures of Spanish, with application to the field of business. The four language skills, listening, speaking, reading and writing, are emphasized.

OR

Intermediate Spanish

This course contributes to students' growing understanding of the basic functions and structures of Spanish. The course enables students to communicate with greater fluency in the target language by continued focus on the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. The student is expected to demonstrate greater mastery of vocabulary and grammatical structures.

Links: School of Engineering