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Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Introduction

Computer Science degree programme aims to provide knowledge and skills for understanding, developing, and applying concepts, principles, and techniques of computing and computer systems design. The programme also aims to prepare students for further self-development and/or pursuit of research or graduate studies in computer science. 

The goal of the programme is to produce computer science graduates who are capable of using computing principles, concepts and techniques to design, implement, manage and maintain computing systems that address and provide solutions to various economic activities for benefit of humankind.

Objectives

The objectives of the Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computer Science degree program are six-fold, namely:

  1. To equip students with knowledge and skills for modeling, analyzing, and synthesizing computations and computer systems.
  2. To provide students with knowledge and skills for analyzing practical problems and developing viable computer-based solutions to them.
  3. To train students on the practices and standards for ensuring professional, ethical, legal, secure, and responsible use of computer science.
  4. To prepare students for participation in computer science projects that require teamwork and/or collaboration.
  5. To produce graduates who are capable of keeping abreast of, and adapting to, new developments in computer science.
  6. To prepare students for advanced learning and research in computer science.

Admission Requirements

  1. KSCE Mean Grade of C+ and above, with at least a C+ in Mathematics and Physics/Physical Science, OR 
  2. KACE with at least 2 Principles passes in Mathematics and Physics and 1 subsidiary pass, OR
  3. Accredited Diploma in Computer Science /IT/ or related field with at least a credit pass from Commission for Higher Education accredited and validated institution.
  4. KNEC Diploma holders in Computer studies with at least a credit pass and a mean grade of C at KCSE.

COURSE DISTRIBUTION

Year 1      
  Semester 1 Semester II
CCS101 Fundamentals of Computing CCS 102 Linear Algebra                       
CCS103 Discrete Structures I CCS 104 Object Oriented programming 
CCS105 Electrical Principles CCS 106 Discrete Structures II
CCS107 Electronics CCS 108 Digital Electronics 1              
CCS 109 Basic Calculus CCS 110 Introduction to Internet Technologies
CCS111 Introduction to Programming  CCS 112 Databases Systems
CCS113     Programming in C                   CCS 114   Introduction to Spreadsheets 
AEN 105 Communication Skills PHT 112 HIV/AIDS
Year 2      
  Semester I   Semester II
CCS 201 Object Oriented Programming II (Java)  CCS 202 Computer Organization and architecture 
CCS203 Data Structures and Algorithms CCS 204 Assembly Language Programming
CCS 205 Probability and Statistics CCS 206 Application Development for the Internet
CCS 207 Digital Electronics II CCS 208 Data Communications
CCS 209 Principles of Operating Systems CCS 210 Automata Theory
CCS 211 Digital and Analogue Communication Systems CCS 212 Web Design and Publishing
CCS 213 Systems Analysis and Design  CCS 214 Group Project
    CCS 216 Visual Basic Programming 
Year 3      
  Semester I   Semester II
CCS 301 Principles of programming languages CCS 302 Human Computer Interaction
CCS 303 Design and Analysis of algorithms CCS 304 Project II 
CCS305 Intro. to Compiler Construction and Design CCS 306 Software Engineering
CCS 307 Computer Networks CCS 308 Research Methods and Technical Writing 
CCS 309 Information Systems Security and Design CCS 310 Computer Graphics
CCS 313   Unix Operating Systems       CSC 312 Mobile Computing
CCS 315 Intelligent Systems CCS 314 Computer Networks Lab II (CISCO II)
CCS 317 Computer Networks Lab I (CISCO) CCS 316 Network Administration
CCS 319 Database Administration CCS 318 Introduction to Expert Systems
CCS 323 Group Project    
Year 4      
  Semester I   Semester II
CCS 401 Software Project Management CCS 404 Social Legal and ethical issues in Computing
CCS 403 Computer Science Project I CCS 406 Computer Science Project II
CCS 405 Management Information Systems CCS 408    Computer Networks Lab IV (CISCO IV)
CCS 407 Distributed Systems CCS 412 Natural Language Processing
CCS 409 Computer Networks Lab III (CISCO III) CCS 414 Pattern Recognition
CCS 415 Data Mining CCS 418 Advanced Database Systems
CCS 417 Principles of Functional Programming    
CCS 419 Advanced Computer Architectures CCS 422 Advanced Compiler Construction and Design
CCS 421 Intelligent Agents ABS 424              Entrepreneurship and S B Mngmt
CCS 420 Neural Networks    
       

 

 

Expected Learning Outcomes

Graduates who shall have undertaken the degree programme are expected to:

  1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, principles, and theories relating to computer science and software applications.
  2. Have system-level perspectives of computer systems and the interactions between their components.
  3. Appreciate the interplay between the theory and practice of computer science; and the tradeoffs that are made in the design of practical systems.
  4. Be familiar with the common themes and principles that recur in computer science, and the levels at which they are manifested.
  5. Have significant project experience:
    1. Be able to identify and analyze criteria and specifications appropriate to specific problems, and plan strategies for their solution.
    2. Be able to use knowledge and understanding as a basis for modeling and designing computer-based systems in a manner that takes into account tradeoffs involved in design choices.
    3. Be able to use appropriate theory, practices, and tools for the specification, design, implementation, maintenance as well as evaluation of computer-based systems.
    4. Be able to carry out critical evaluation and testing of a computer-based system with a view to determining if it meets the criteria defined for its current use and future development.
  6. Be able to use sound practices in planning, tracking progress, measuring, and managing quality in relation to the handling of computer software and/or hardware projects.
  7. Have a solid foundation of knowledge that makes it possible to keep abreast of and adapt to rapid changes in computer technology and maintain skills as the computer science field evolves.
  8. Be able to exercise professional responsibility in the development and application of computer science on the basis of social, professional, legal, ethical, as well as, cultural issues involved in the use of computer technology.

 

Programme Duration

The duration of the programme shall normally be EIGHT semesters.

 

Programme Structure

  1. The programme comprises taught courses, practical courses (or labs), projects, and an industrial attachment course.
  2. Courses are offered in units. A unit is defined as one hour lecture or two hours tutorial or three hours practical session per week per semester.
  3. Projects shall be undertaken, under the supervision of academic staff, concurrently with taught and practical courses during the designated semesters.
  4. Industrial attachment shall normally be undertaken in industry after the second semester of the third year of study for a period of three months.

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Mode of Delivery

BSc. In Computer Science degree programme shall be offered through one of the following alternative modes:

  1. Mode I: Face-to-face sessions, involving students and lecturers, amounting to forty-two (42) contact hours per course.
  2. Mode II: E-Learning.

 

EXAMINATIONS

Maseno University Common Rules and Regulations for Examinations shall apply.