The BICT is an applied qualification that focuses on multiple aspects of the information systems cycle. The aim of the programme is to equip students with the skills to analyse, design, develop, implement and maintain information systems across a variety of industries and business types.

Through a commitment to "hands on" learning students will gain a strong grounding in the analytical, technical and theoretical concepts of computer based information systems. The BICT also emphasizes the human and organisational aspects that relate to the use of such technology including organisational management, project management and technical communication.

By covering these interrelated topics, the BICT provides a practical link between the latest computer technology and its application to today's business environment ensuring that students are well equipped to take their place in this exciting and constantly changing industry.

Although the core focus of the BICT is information systems, students may also choose an elective stream in one of three areas Software Development, Multimedia / Web Development; and Data Communications and Networking.

It is realistic to expect graduates of the BICT, to be able to:

- Operate at an academic level that demonstrates the ability to synthesise, think critically, reason, problem solve, self-manage and work both independently and in a team environment appropriate to ICT industry culture
- Demonstrate professional behaviours and attitudes appropriate to the constantly changing information and communication technologies industry, and business community
- Apply best practice industry standards to analyse significant industry challenges/situations and design and report innovative solutions
- Demonstrate a wide range of practical computing and information technology skills
- Demonstrate a wide range of business and communication skills
- Demonstrate a major understanding of Information Systems with an additional specialist understanding in at least one specific elective stream.
- Complete industry based project work of an applied nature, whether from a business perspective or a technical perspective.

It is realistic to expect graduates of the BICT completing the Software Development Elective Stream, will also be able to:

- Programme in at least two languages
- Apply best practice industry standard practices in programming in one or more languages
- Adopt and apply new programming languages quickly
- Apply sound software engineering processes
- Apply the PSP (Personal Software Process).

It is realistic to expect graduates of the BICT completing the Data Communications and Networking elective stream, will also be able to:

- Use, install and configure at least two standalone operating systems that are in wide commercial use
- Use, install and configure network operating systems
- Analyse the data communications, networking and operating system needs of an organisation
- Plan for the introduction of networks in organizations.

It is realistic to expect graduates of the BICT completing the Multimedia / Web Development elective stream, will also be able to:

- Use a wide range of multimedia application development tools
- Develop significant multimedia applications to support industry based requirements
- Manage the development of multimedia applications
- Evaluate the suitability of multimedia application development tools for particular tasks.

The BICT prepares graduates to undertake post graduate study in information and communication technologies.

Applicants must meet the following entry requirements:

(a) Academic entry requirement

7.1.1. Successfully completed at least 42 NCEA (or equivalent) credits at Level 3 (including 14 credits in each of two subjects the NZQA Approved Subjects for University Entrance list)

AND

7.1.2. 8 credits in NCEA English Level 2 (four in reading and four in writing from the NZQA Literacy Requirements for University Entrance list) (or equivalent)

AND

7.1.3. 8 credits in NCEA Mathematics (or Pāngarau) Level 2 (or equivalent)

OR

7.1.4. If the applicant has successfully completed at least 72 credits at NCEA (or equivalent) Level 2 including a minimum of 14 credits in each of two subjects and including 8 credits in each of reading/writing and mathematics and including 30 credits achieved at Merit or Excellence (see 7.1.2 and 7.1.3 above).

OR

7.1.5. If the applicant has at least 60 NZQA recognised credits at Level 5 or higher.

OR

7.1.6. If the applicant can provide evidence of equivalence through practical, professional or educational experience e.g. three - five year's full time work experience [relevant to ICT] they can apply for entry. Evidence of literacy and numeracy will be required. MIT literacy assessments are available.

AND

7.1.7. Have English language competence to undertake this programme which is taught and assessed in English. Any applicants whose first language is not English may be required to provide evidence of an overall IELTS (Academic) band score of 6.0 (with no score below 5.5 in speaking, reading, writing and listening) or equivalent.

Selection:

Applicants who meet the requirements for admission are accepted into the programme in the order their applications are received.

An interview process will be available on application to counsel the appropriate choice of programme, to determine whether any specific support is required and to ensure students are well informed about the programme's demands and requirements. Whanau/family will be invited to accompany applicants to these interviews.