The BSc (Hons) Information Technology and Computing (ITC) programme is being offered by the Faculty of Information Technology and Computing (FITC) at the Arab Open University (AOU) since the year 2002. This programme is offered by AOU in partnership with the Open University (OU), UK. Presently, the ITC programme is offered to students in 8 Middle Eastern country branches including Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt and Sudan. The ITC programme is a validated programme, it was initially validated in the year 2003 and it has been revalidated twice, in the year 2007 and again in the year 2012, by the Open University Validation Services (OUVS), UK (currently known as the Centre for Inclusion and Collaborative Partnerships (CICP).The structure of the 360 points of core courses is based on the OU, UK program structure for an honors degree and the majority of the core courses have been licensed from our partner institute i.e. the OU, UK. Hence the contents of the majority of our core courses have been developed by the OU, UK and these courses have also been validated at the OU, UK itself.
Philosophy:
The FCS philosophy is to keep its programmes up-to-date with the latest technical advancements, satisfying the relevant market/employer needs. In addition, the AOU, in general, is keen to keep its programmes revalidated from the OU, UK to provide our students with extra international recognition to maximize their employability possibilities.
In Brief:
The Information Technology and Computing (ITC) programme has been designed and developed to provide a high-quality programme of study to students at the Faculty of Computer Studies (FCS), Arab Open University (AOU). The design and development of this programme have taken into consideration the guidelines provided by professional standard bodies, including the QAA, UK (QAA2016) and the curriculum guidelines of ACM-IEEE 2013 in addition to the up-to-date prospectus of the Computing and Information Technology provided by the Open University-UK. This programme is composed of five pathways as follows:
1- Program Name: Information Technology and Computing (ITC) 4
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Information Technology and Computing (ITC)
A comprehensive program providing a strong foundation in information technology and digital systems. This program places you on a broad career pathway. Upon graduation, you qualify for roles such as IT Specialist, Systems Analyst, Technical Support Officer, or Systems Coordinator. These roles are in demand across government entities, companies, and the private sector in Oman and internationally, with clear opportunities for career progression.
Network & Security (N&S)
A specialized program focusing on network design, data security, and digital infrastructure. This program places you on a pathway to essential roles in modern organizations. Upon graduation, you qualify for positions such as Network Engineer, Data Security Officer, or Digital Infrastructure Specialist, with high demand across telecommunications, energy, and digital services sectors locally and internationally.
Computing with Business (CwB)
A program combining technology and business management, preparing you to understand organizations from a digital perspective. This program positions you uniquely in both technical and managerial job markets. Upon graduation, you qualify for roles such as Business Analyst, Information Systems Coordinator, IT Project Manager, or Administrative Systems Officer—positions highly sought after by large local and global organizations.
Diploma Information Technology & Computing
A practical program that equips you with essential IT skills for fast entry into the job market. This program places you at the start of a hands-on career pathway. Upon graduation, you qualify for roles such as IT Support Technician, Information Systems Assistant, or Systems Operator, with the option to continue to a bachelor’s degree and build a longer-term career.
2- Program Name: Cyber Security (2)
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BSc (Hons) Cyber Security
A modern program focusing on digital systems protection and cyber incident response. This program places you directly on the path to future-focused roles of national and global importance. Upon graduation, you qualify for positions such as Cybersecurity Analyst, Systems Security Officer, or Incident Response Specialist, offering strong employment prospects and high career stability. -
Diploma in Cyber Security
A practical program focusing on the fundamentals of cybersecurity and systems protection. This program places you on a high-demand career pathway. Upon graduation, you qualify for roles such as Information Security Technician or Assistant Cybersecurity Analyst, with clear opportunities for employment or further academic progression. -
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3- Program Name: Artificial Intelligence (2)
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BSc (Hons) Artificial Intelligence
A future-oriented program focusing on artificial intelligence, data analytics, and intelligent systems. This program positions you at the forefront of the global job market. Upon graduation, you qualify for roles such as Artificial Intelligence Engineer, Data Analyst, Intelligent Systems Developer, or Machine Learning Specialist—careers known for competitive salaries and broad international opportunities.
Diploma in Artificial Intelligence
A practical program introducing you to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and intelligent systems. This program places you at the start of a career in one of the world’s fastest-growing fields. Upon graduation, you qualify for roles such as Junior Data Analyst or Intelligent Systems Technician, with a clear pathway to a bachelor’s degree.
4- Program Name: MSc in Computing (Cyber Security and Forensics) (2)
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MSc in Computing (Cyber Security and Forensics)
A specialized postgraduate program focusing on protecting digital systems, analyzing cyberattacks, and conducting digital forensic investigations based on advanced professional standards. This program positions you at an advanced level in the technology job market. Upon graduation, you qualify for roles such as Cybersecurity Expert, Digital Threat Analyst, Cybercrime Investigator, or Information Security Consultant. These roles are in high demand across government entities, banks, telecommunications companies, and international organizations, and are among the most stable and well-paid career paths.
Postgraduate Diploma in Computing(Cyber Security and Forensics)
An intensive postgraduate program focusing on the practical aspects of cybersecurity and digital forensics. This program positions you competitively within a shorter timeframe. Upon graduation, you qualify for roles such as Information Security Analyst, Digital Forensics Technician, or Cybersecurity Specialist, with clear opportunities for career advancement or progression to a master’s degree.
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