Bachelor of Information Technology with Honours

1. What is Information Technology?
   Information technology (IT) is a fast expanding-field that offers good positions for individuals with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in an IT-related field. No matter the role, a member of an IT department works with others to solve technology problems, both big and small. Simply put, the work of most organizations would slow to a crawl without functioning IT systems.What is Information Technology (IT) then? Information Technology (IT) is a technology involving the development, maintenance, and use of computer systems, software, and networks for the processing and distribution of dataIt is the study or use of systems (especially computers and telecommunications) for storing, retrieving, and sending information. A simplified definition of information technology is that it is the application of technology to solve business or organizational problems on a broad scale.
2. At what levels are Information Technology programmes offered by Open University Malaysia (OUM)?
   At OUM, Information Technology programmes are offered at the Diploma, Bachelor, Master and Doctoral levels.
   For a bachelor degree level, Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) is offered at OUM.
3. Why should I pursue a bachelor degree in Information Technology?
   You may choose to pursue a degree in Information Technology, namely Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT), if you are in one of the following categories:
   • you have yet to earn a first degree and want to acquire a firm foundation in the discipline.
   • you have completed your *diploma and are probably at crossroads wondering whether you should continue your study with a bachelor degree or enter the workforce, then BIT programme might be the right fit for you.
     • *For diploma holders with IT/Computer Science backgrounds namely Diploma in Computer Science or Software Engineering or Information Technology or Information System or its equivalent.
     • *For diploma holders in Science and Technology or Business Studies is acceptable subject to a comprehensive internal assessment.
       For more on the standard entry requirements, visit:https://www.oum.edu.my/all-programmes/bachelor-of-information-technology-with-honours/
4. Can I pursue a bachelor degree in Information Technology by leveraging on my prior learning experience?
   At OUM, you can!
   You may apply to join Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) via the APEL route which takes into account your previous work and learning experience.
   To know more about APEL entry requirement, visit: https://apel.oum.edu.my
5. Is BIT offered in full time or part time mode?
   All OUM degrees programmes offered in Malaysia are run in part-time mode, making them particularly suitable for working adults seeking to upgrade their qualifications, knowledge and skills without having to give up their jobs or compromise on their life responsibilities.
6. Why study BIT at OUM?
   • BIT is one of the pioneer bachelor degree programmes at OUM. The BIT programme started way back in the 2001 academic session, with an initial intake of 279 students.
   • BIT received full accreditation from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) in 2004 and it is recognized by JPA (Public Service Department)
   • BIT programme is both locally and internationally recognized. The programme is among the most sought-after OUM Programs by OUM International Collaborations Partners since 2008 (Eg. Maldives, Vietnam, Ghana, Somalia etc).
   • OUM Award recipient of Excellence for Open and Distance Education Materials (Category A) by Commonwealth of Learning (COL) in 2016 and 2019 for the Course: Object Oriented Programming (one of the core courses in BIT programme)
   • As of 2019, BIT is recognized and certified by MBOT (Malaysia Board of Technologist) as Professional Technologies.
   • BIT programme structure gives the balance between both the theories and applications of IT and the skills and knowledge gained in BIT are transferable across industries.
     
7. What does BIT at OUM offer me?
   • The BIT Programme has been designed to meet the country’s growing need of IT Professionals. It gives the balance between both the theories and applications of IT and the skills and knowledge gained in BIT are transferable across industries
   • The BIT programme at OUM are delivered by qualified and experienced subject-matter experts and tutors with degrees from reputable universities.
   • All core learning materials are provided or made available via myINSPIRE and library. We have learning materials from BIT courses that have garnered accolades and awards Learners may also use OUM’s physical and digital libraries to access a wide range of learning materials.
   • The BIT programme produces graduates with strong knowledge in information technology so as to prepare them for careers in IT-related field such as software programmers, system analysts and mobile application developers.
   • The BIT programme offers two areas of specialization, namely Mobile Computing and General specialization. Learners choose only ONE specialization area based on their field of interest.
     
8. What are the courses offered under BIT?
   In brief, BIT comprises of the following course breakdown:
   

   Courses	Credits
   General Studies Courses	12 Credits
   University Compulsory	15 Credits
   Basic Compulsory	12 Credits
   Core Courses	60 Credits
   *Specialization (Choose one specialization: Mobile Computing or General)	21 Credits
   Total Credits	120 Credits

   Note: The courses in the programme are subject to change without prior notice

   For a more detailed information of the above courses and the latest BIT Programme Structure visit:Bachelor of Information Technology with Honours

9. How do I choose BIT specialization?
   The BIT programme offers two areas of specialization, namely Mobile Computing and General specialization. Learners choose only ONE specialization area based on their field of interest. For example, if you have a specific interest in Mobile Computing, opt for this specialization. Otherwise, a General specialization might be more to your liking.A few suggestions on how to choose a specialization:
   • That matches with your career aspirations
   • Your current/previous work experience can also be a factor in deciding your area of specialization
   • Your specialization area should be chosen on the basis of interest
   • Most importantly, choose the area you are comfortable and passionate about and lead yourself to fulfilling career ahead.
     Based on job market demands and feedback from learners/graduates, we do update/introduce new specialization areas from time to time. Learners are encouraged to visit the programme page at OUM website regularly to keep abreast with the latest offering/news of the programme.
10. Where does an OUM IT degree lead you?
    Information technology is a fast expanding- field that offers good positions for individuals with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in an IT-related field. No matter the role, a member of an IT department works with others to solve technology problems, both big and small. Simply put, the work of most organizations would slow to a crawl without functioning IT systems.IT graduates have thrived in diverse careers. This is because they possess not only subject knowledge and subject specific skills, but also such transferable graduate skills as advanced literacy and communication skills, critical reasoning, and the capacity to critically analyse diverse forms of discourse.Interesting and diverse career paths await IT graduates, some positions in this field include system analysts, software programmers, network and database administrators, mobile application developer, computer support specialists etcAlternatively, you may also continue your study in the field of IT at OUM at the Master and PhD levels respectively.
11. What is MBOT? How do I apply to become a professional technologist?
    MBOT stands for Malaysia Board of Technologies, which is a professional body that provides professional recognition to technologists and technicians in order to elevate their standing, visibility and recognition.The usual procedure is for prospective technicians and technologists to register with MBOT and then accumulate three years of work experience before becoming certified technicians and professional technologist respectively. Since OUM learners are already working adults, they are exempted from this requirement. After their convocation, BIT graduates can straightway apply to become professional technologies.MBOT has a target of providing recognition to 30,000 technicians and technologist in line with the 2050 National Transformation Plan. The University is proud to work together with MBOT in achieving this target.For more info on MBOT, visit https://www.mbot.org.my/
12. How soon can I complete my BIT programme?
    BIT is a 120 credit-hour programme, which means that it can typically be completed in 14 semesters. That’s approximately 4 ½ years if the programme is completed without any credit transfer, and if learners take the standard 3 courses per semester path.
13. I have been accepted to BIT programme (yeay!) and would like to find out ways to shorten the duration of my study. How do I go about doing it?
    Once you have been ACCEPTED to the programme, there are ways to shorten the duration of your study – by applying your credits. With these credits, learners are given exceptions from sitting certain courses which will help them to complete their studies faster.This includes:
    • Credit transfer from previous study (Eg. similar courses taken at Diploma level )
    • Recognition of prior learning (APEL C)
      Through APEL C, experiential learning gained through informal or non-formal means are
      assessed to determine the extent to which individual has achieved the specified course
      learning outcomes etc for learners to obtain APEL credits.Note: OUM has a policy on credit (including recognition of prior learning) and procedures
      for credit transfer. Kindly download OUM Undergraduate Learners Handbook to know
      more. For APEL C, a visit to the following website at http://apel.oum.edu.my/ is highly
      recommended
14. How is BIT delivered?
    OUM mode of learning caters for working adults. You may study at your own pace, anytime, anywhere, without having to sacrifice your work or personal interest.BIT runs in online as well as blended modes.
    Online mode means that you can follow an OUM programme from anywhere in Malaysia, at your own pace and alongside your online peers, with the guidance of your e-tutor via myINSPIRE. In this mode, you need not attend face-to-face tutorials, unless you want or are able to.
    Blended mode refers to a combination of online study via myINSIPRE and face-to-face tutorials. Face-to-face tutorials are supplementary and not compulsory for OUM students to attend.Face-to-face tutorials for BIT are offered at most OUM Learning Centres.
15. When can I join BIT?
    BIT programme has intakes in the January, May and September semesters.
16. How will I be assessed should I enroll for BIT?
    For BIT assessment methods vary from course to course. Most courses have assignments and final exams. For a more detailed and latest info, you have to refer to the respective course page at myINSPIRE.
17. How much does it cost to pursue BIT? Are there special rates for senior citizens and physically-challenged learners?
    The fee details are as per given in the Fees page in the programme website. For full breakdown of fees and other related matters, visit https://www.oum.edu.my/all-programmes/bachelor-of-information-technology-with-honours/
18. Can I apply for a PTPTN loan if I want to pursue BIT?
    The PTPTN loan is only available to Malaysian citizens enrolled in a recognised undergraduate programme. You can only apply for a PTPTN loan after you have applied, been accepted and registered in the programme.For more information on PTPTN loan, visit http://www.ptptn.gov.my/
19. I’ve decided I want to pursue BIT at OUM. How do I apply?
    Apply online at https://cms-portal.oum.edu.my/Alternatively, visit any of OUM’s Learning Centres (LCs) located throughout the country for guidance. For info on the LCs, go to https://www.oum.edu.my/learning-centres/
20. Where can I find more details on BIT programmes?
    For BIT programme details, visit: Bachelor of Information Technology with honours
21. Whom should I contact if I need to find out more about OUM’s BIT programme?
    For academic-related enquiries related to Information Technology , email the BIT
    Programme Director, Ts Fathin Fakhriah Abdul Aziz at fathinfakhriah@oum.edu.my
    For general enquiries on OUM programmes, email the Marketing Unit at admission@oum.edu.myNote: All information contained in this FAQ are subject to revision without prior notice.

“The number one benefit of information technology is its peoples that it empowers people to do what they want to do. It lets people be creative. It lets people be productive. It lets people learn things they didn’t think they could learn before, and so in a sense it is all about potential”
-Steve Ballmer, former CEO of Microsoft (2000 – 2014)

“Occupations in the field of information technology are expected to grow quicker than the average for all occupations between 2014 and 2024. Due to the rapid growth of the industry, the field of information technology is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after fields for professionals with solid skills and education in computer and networking technologies”
-U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.