More about studying andf working with Information Systems

Why study Information Systems?

While today many information systems happen to be technology-based, an information system need not necessarily be. This is an important point as many prospective students confuse Information Systems with IT (information technology). Information Systems is not computer science or software engineering, but it will prepare students to contribute to the design and implementation of information systems and the underlying technologies that support them. Information systems are critical to business, and play a central role in supporting strategic, operational, managerial, and financial objectives. With an Information Systems degree you can take up a diverse range of positions, from chief information officer or IT architect, to business development manager or web designer, and many others besides.

Source: University of the Witwatersrand, School of Economic & Business Sciences. July 2015

The incredible story of how the Internet came to South Africa

After more than three decades, most people have forgotten that Rhodes University first brought the enormous gift of connection to South Africa. This is the story of the pioneers who did it.

By Julienne du Toit 9 January 2023

Studying Information Systems at Universities in South Africa

RU Information Systems News

Department of Information Systems, Rhodes University Advisory Board

Equipping graduates for the new world of work

The Rhodes University Information Systems (IS) Department Advisory Board meeting took place at BSG’s Johannesburg offices in Houghton on 30 May 2018. This two-decade long partnership between Academia and Industry continues to equip graduates to be as work-ready as possible for their first formal job in Industry.

Advisory Board

About the Board

The Advisory Board was established in late 1991 as part of the Department’s core strategy of building closer relationships with leading people and organisations involved with Information Systems. The Board meets on a regular basis, either in Grahamstown or in one of the main centres throughout the country, and considers matters pertinent to the Department and to the Information Systems industry as a whole.

Members of the Board freely provide of their time, wisdom and experience for the benefit of the development of young Information Systems professionals.

Objectives of the Board

The Board strives to meet the following objectives:

to provide a means of building relationships between the Department and people and organisations involved with Information Systems, and
to provide guidance and advice on the direction of the Department with respect to the most important : trends in technology, and professional and management practice, and
issues and trends in Information Systems as they apply to South Africa and beyond its borders.

Source: Department of Information Systems, Rhodes University July 2015

Career Opportunities: What Can I do with my IS Degree?

Career opportunities in Information Systems offer you freedom, personal growth, job satisfaction, and an above average income from day one. Information technology has become a vital component of business strategy, and the Information Systems manager faces a challenging task with high corporate visibility, important decision-making opportunities, and a career path which could lead all the way to the top. Since there are frequently no right or wrong answers, your creative abilities, communication skills and business knowledge will be just as important as the technology that you deal with. If you are considering going into marketing, finance or any other business discipline (or even if you simply want to keep your options open), a qualification in Information Systems will pave your way to success.

Prospects

School of Economic and Business Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand