Programme description for Bachelor's Programme in IT and Information Systems (2026–2029)

By the end of the programme students will have acquired the following knowledge, skills, and general competence:

Knowledge

The candidate shall:

• have broad knowledge of key areas and methods in systems development, such as analysis, design, programming, and databases, as well as relevant technologies
• have knowledge of the role information technology and digitalisation can play in organisational and societal development
• be familiar with relevant laws, regulations, and agreements in the workplace related to information technology and information systems
• be familiar with research and development work within the field of information systems, and be able to update their knowledge within the discipline

Skills

The candidate shall be able to:

• participate actively and work independently in systems development projects and related project work
• analyse user needs, model information systems, program and develop solutions, and master relevant tools and techniques
• reflect on the organisational and societal consequences of digitalisation
• critically reflect on their own professional practice and contribute to high-quality and ethical solutions in practice

General Competence

The candidate shall:

• be able to plan and carry out digital development projects and maintain information systems based on organisational needs, both independently and as a member of a group
• have developed skills in collaboration, communication, and critical evaluation
• have an informed and reflective attitude towards the opportunities and limitations of information technology and digitalisation
• be able to assess ethical and practical issues related to the development and implementation of information systems and digitalisation
• be able to update their own professional knowledge through engagement with academic communities and relevant user groups, and apply and communicate this knowledge in their own practice

Higher Education Entrance Qualification.

Admission requirements for transfer admission to the second year of study:
Completion of the one‑year programme in IT and Information Systems at UiA, with course selections in the second semester corresponding to those in the second semester of the Bachelor’s programme in IT and Information Systems.

For a conditional offer of admission, applicants may be missing no more than 30 ECTS credits from their current programme.

Bachelor in IT and information systems is a three-year program. The most important program goals are to present students with the phenomenon of digitalisation and to give opportunities to develop skills for a participation of future-oriented solutions. The content of the programme will present students with a wide range of ideas in development and use of information systems leading to insight into the effects of digitalisation. Through practical problem solving, experimentation with innovative solutions, teamwork, collaboration with companies, as well as theoretical and practical guidance, students will be able to explore important aspects of responsible, sustainable, and ethical use of information systems for individuals, organisations, and society at large. After completing the programme, the students will be able to contribute to the development of information systems (IS) in the context of a sustainable society.

In the fourth and fifth semesters the students can choose between electives in systems development, information systems security, innovation, and entrepreneurship. In the fourth semester the students also have the option to study abroad for an exchange semester.

The various teaching and learning methods students will encounter throughout the programme are intended to develop their ability for practical problem-solving, collaboration, and communication, while they acquire subject-specific knowledge. Key teaching methods include:
– Lectures
– Group work and group exercises
– Individual exercises
– Seminars
– Case studies
– Work placements/internships

Strong emphasis is placed on teamwork, and group work is incorporated into the majority of the courses. In some courses, compulsory attendance is required. In addition, active participation in the programme’s teaching and learning activities is expected.

There are various types of examinations in the programme, such as:
– Written examinations
– Oral examinations, either individual or group-based
– Assignments/reports, either individual or group-based
– Portfolio assessment, which may include both group work and individual work

Several courses use a combination of different assessment methods, primarily through digital tools. The programme applies both pass/fail grading and graded marks (A–F). In some courses, grades are awarded on a group basis. See course description for details.

IT and information systems is a field that is to a large extent international in nature. The study programme is based on international course literature, and global perspectives are a central part of the programme. Many of the lecturers are international and participate in international research networks. Several courses are taught in English, and in these courses students will interact with exchange students from the university’s partner institutions abroad.

Students are given the opportunity to go on exchange during the fourth semester, and are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity. Exchange studies with one of our partner institutions provide valuable experience and the opportunity to work and communicate in international settings. Exchange studies also enable students to take a different combination of elective courses than those offered within the programme, for example in subject areas such as computer systems, programming, system architecture, media and communication or other fields such as economics and management.

The department has exchange agreements with institutions in several countries. An overview is available on UiA’s exchange programme webpages. Students interested in exchange studies are encouraged to contact the International Office for guidance.

There is a strong demand for expertise in digitalisation and digital transformation, such as the analysis, development, and implementation of technology, in both the private and public sectors. There is also a need for graduates who understand the interaction between technology, individuals, and society. The programme qualifies graduates for a variety of positions, for example as analysts, system developers, consultants, and advanced-level user support specialists.

Graduates of the Bachelor’s programme in IT and Information Systems are academically qualified to apply for admission to, among others, the Master’s programme in Information Systems and the Master’s programme in Cybersecurity Management at the University of Agder. The Bachelor’s programme also provides a solid foundation for further studies at other institutions. Please note that other institutions may impose additional admission requirements for further studies.

Read more about career opportunities for social science graduates at: www.uia.no/karriereveier