Diploma in Information & Communication Technology with a specialism in Data Informatics

Course Overview

This APU Diploma in Information & Communication Technology with a specialism in Data Informatics is designed to provide:

• Provide students with skills in software systems development, with emphasis on aspects of data informatics.
• Prepare students for careers in the ICT environments with emphasis on solutions design, software development, technology infrastructure support, data informatics application.
• Enable appreciation of the proven principles and techniques to the development and support of software systems in commercial organisations.
• Provide students with critical, independent and cooperative learning skills so as to facilitate response to continuous future changes in industry practices.
• Develop students’ intellectual skills, communications ability and team working capability.

Curriculum

SEMESTER 1

At the beginning of the programme, students will foster a mindset that embraces creativity and problem-solving in the digital era along with skills in navigating scholarly information and understanding the fundamental principles governing computer design.

Modules:

• Academic Research Skills
• Computer Architecture
• Digital Thinking and Innovation
• Mathematics and Statistics for Computing

SEMESTER 2

This semester moves students to a new level in information and communication technology related areas such as operating systems, computer programming, and databases. Students gain hands-on experience in building practical applications. Mathematical foundations for computing are available to enhance problem-solving and analytical skills.

Modules:

• Operating Systems
• Database Management
• Information Systems with Cloud Concepts
• Programming with Python

SEMESTER 3

This semester promises a holistic blend of programming expertise, mathematical acumen, system analysis skills, and the art of crafting compelling user experiences. Specialisation starts here, with an introduction to data analytics that covers topics such as big data, data warehouses, and data mining.

Modules:

• Object Oriented Programming
• Algebra and Discrete Mathematics
• System Analysis & Design
• Introduction to Data Analytics

SEMESTER 4

This semester offers a comprehensive blend of web design, behavioural science, entrepreneurial skills, and data analytics. Students explore the intricacies of consumer behaviour and marketing analytics, leveraging data for effective strategies. They cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset, navigating the business landscape with creativity and strategic thinking. Additionally, students master the art of exploratory data analytics and visualisation, unlocking the power of data through analytical exploration and visual representation.

Modules:

• Responsive Web Design & Development
• Behavioural Science and Marketing Analytics
• Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship
• Exploratory Data Analytics and Visualisation

SEMESTER 5

In their final semester, students design and implement algorithms using their second programming language. Two more specialised modules, Behavioural Science and Marketing Analytics, and Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, provide insight into techniques used in the design of software and building of data informatics-based systems. The semester concludes with a Software Development Project, integrating skills, knowledge, and understanding from the full programme where students are expected to include a range of data informatics techniques for problem-solving.

Modules:

• Cyber Security & Forensics
• Introduction to AI
• Networking Technologies
• Capstone Project

SEMESTER 6 - INTERNSHIP (12 WEEKS)

Students will undertake an Internship/Industrial Training for a minimum period of 12 weeks to prepare them for a smooth transition from the classroom to the working environment.

In addition to the above, all students are also required to successfully complete General Studies modules as stipulated by the Malaysian Qualification Agency, as well as fulfill credit requirements for Co-curricular activities.

Entry Requirements

SPM

• 3 Credits in at least 3 subjects at SPM level, including Mathematics.
• Minimum Pass in Bahasa Malaysia and Sejarah (History).
• Candidates with only a Pass in Maths in SPM will be required to complete and pass “Mathematics and Statistics for Computing” in their Semester 1 of Diploma.

IGCSE/O-Levels

• 3 Credits (Grade C & above) in at least 3 subjects at IGCSE/O-Levels, including Mathematics.
• Candidates with only a Pass in Maths in IGCSE/O-Level will be required to complete and pass “Mathematics and Statistics for Computing” in their Semester 1 of Diploma.

UEC

• 3 Credits (Grade B & above) in at least 3 subjects in UEC, including Mathematics.
• Candidates with only a Pass in Maths in UEC will be required to complete and pass “Mathematics and Statistics for Computing” in their Semester 1 of Diploma.

Certificate

• Pass relevant Certificate Programme or its equivalent.
• A qualification that APU accepts as equivalent to the above.

Additional Requirement for Malaysian Students

• Malaysian students who do not possess a Pass in English at SPM/IGCSE/O-Level/UEC will be required to sit for the APU English Placement Test. Based on the outcome, they may be required to attend the APU Intensive English Programme (IEP) prior to commencement of the Foundation/Diploma/Certificate programme.

English Requirements for International Students

Programmes: Diploma in Information and Communication Technology

• IELTS: 4.0
• TOEFL IBT: 30-31
• Pearson (PTE): 36
• MUET: Band 3

Please note:

• Under Ministry of Higher Education regulations, only students who have achieved the minimum requirement in the English Language proficiency assessment as indicated above will be allowed to continue their studies in the main study programme.
• Students who do not have the required English Language achievement may apply for a student visa on a conditional basis and are allowed to enrol in an English Language Certification programme at APU upon arrival in Malaysia and, subsequently, appear for the IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/MUET assessment.
• Students who are unable to obtain the required level of English Competency during the maximum 12 months’ period will not be allowed to pursue their studies in the main programme and will have to return to their home country.
• Students from English-speaking countries and those with qualifications taught in English (IGCSE, A-Levels, IB, American High School Diploma, etc.) are exempted from English requirements. Applications for exemption must be accompanied by supporting documents.

Note: The above entry requirements may differ for specific programmes based on the latest programme standards published by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). The qualification and entry requirements for the programmes will be determined based on the "Comparison List of Equivalency of International Qualifications with SPM (O-Levels equivalent) and STPM (A-Levels equivalent)" published by MQA.

Study Abroad Pathway

Upon successful completion of this programme with CGPA of 2.5 & above and fulfilment of requirements for credit transfer, you will be eligible to progress into Level 2 of the following degree programmes offered at APU.

• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in:
  • Information System Security
  • Cloud Engineering
  • Internet of Things (IoT)*
  • Digital Transformation
  • Financial Technology (FinTech)
  • Business Information Systems
  • Sustainable Computing
• Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Software Engineering
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) Computer Science (Cyber Security)
• Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) (Artificial Intelligence)
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) Computer Science with a specialism in:
  • Data Analytics
  • Digital Forensics

* Please take note that Bridging module/s needed before progress into Level 2
- For the full listing of our Diploma Programmes, please refer to the Pre-University programme brochure.

APU-DMU Dual Degree Programme

Students who are under Bachelor’s Degree Programme will have the option to opt-in for the APU-DMU Dual Degree Scheme. Under this Scheme, students will receive 2 Degree Certificates & Transcripts upon graduation: 1 from Asia Pacific University (APU), Malaysia and 1 from De Montfort University (DMU), UK.

To know more about APU-DMU Dual Scheme, please click HERE.