University of Sierra Leone

Program Overview

The Bachelor Science in Information Systems course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze, design and develop computer-based solutions to business problems. Information Systems (IS) as a discipline focuses on the information aspects of information technology (IT), but IS professionals work with IT and must have a sound technical knowledge of computers, communications, and software. Since IS professionals operate within organizations, they must also understand organizational systems and their functions within organizations. This course therefore teaches concepts and processes for achieving organizational goals with information technology. It also seeks to equip students with systems thinking skills, the ability to analyze business problems, communication skills, and teamwork skills in both face-to-face and virtual settings. Upon graduation, students are expected to possess IS specific knowledge and skills – including designing and implementing IS solutions and managing ongoing IT operations – as well as foundational knowledge and skills – shared by many disciplines that educate knowledge professionals, such as effective communication, leadership and collaboration, critical thinking and ethics. B.Sc. in Information Systems is offered at the Freetown campus only.

Program Highlights

  • Bridging Business & Technology – Learn how to align IT solutions with business objectives for organizational success.
  • Database Management & Analytics – Gain expertise in SQL, data modeling, and business intelligence tools.
  • Cybersecurity & Risk Management – Understand security frameworks, compliance, and IT governance.
  • Software Development & Web Technologies – Learn programming, system design, and web applications.
Degree Awarded
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
Duration
4 Years (8 Semesters)
Total Credits
130 Credits
Study Mode
Full-time
Language
English
Intake Periods
September to January

Curriculum

The Computer Science curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive education in both theoretical foundations and practical applications. The program consists of core courses, electives, and a capstone project.

Year 1

Semester 1

  • Introduction to Computer Science
  • Programming Fundamentals
  • Calculus I
  • Discrete Mathematics
  • Academic Writing and Communication

Semester 2

  • Object-Oriented Programming
  • Data Structures
  • Calculus II
  • Digital Logic Design
  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Year 2

Semester 3

  • Algorithms and Complexity
  • Computer Architecture
  • Database Systems
  • Linear Algebra
  • Professional Ethics in Computing

Semester 4

  • Operating Systems
  • Web Development
  • Statistics for Computer Science
  • Software Engineering
  • Technical Writing

Year 3

Semester 5

  • Computer Networks
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Theory of Computation
  • Mobile Application Development
  • Elective I

Semester 6

  • Information Security
  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • Data Science and Analytics
  • Software Project Management
  • Elective II

Year 4

Semester 7

  • Distributed Systems
  • Machine Learning
  • Research Methods in Computer Science
  • Capstone Project I
  • Elective III

Semester 8

  • Cloud Computing
  • Professional Development Seminar
  • Capstone Project II
  • Elective IV
  • Elective V

Elective Courses

Students can choose from the following elective courses based on their interests and career goals:

Artificial Intelligence Track

  • Natural Language Processing
  • Computer Vision
  • Robotics
  • Deep Learning
  • Reinforcement Learning

Software Engineering Track

  • Advanced Software Engineering
  • DevOps and Continuous Integration
  • Software Testing and Quality Assurance
  • Agile Development Methodologies
  • Enterprise Software Architecture

Data Science Track

  • Big Data Analytics
  • Data Visualization
  • Statistical Computing
  • Data Mining
  • Predictive Modeling

Admission Requirements

Admission to the BSc Information Systems program is competitive. Prospective students must meet the following requirements:

Academic Requirements

  • WASSCE results or equivalent with at least credits in 5 relevant subjects including Mathematics and English
  • Minimum grade of C6 in English Language
  • Minimum grade of C5 in Mathematics
  • Minimum grade of C6 in other relevant subjects

Application Document

  • Completed application form
  • WASSCE results in PDF or equivalent
  • School Testimonial
  • Birth Certificate
  • Application fee/ Pin

Career Opportunities

Graduates of BSc Information Systems program are equipped with a strong foundation in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and technical skills applicable across various industries. The program fosters critical reasoning, research abilities, and practical expertise, preparing students for diverse career opportunities in both professional and academic fields.

Application Developer (Front-end, Full Stack, etc.)

Develops and maintains web or mobile applications, focusing on user interface (Front-end) or both UI and backend (Full Stack).

Business Analyst, Business Process Analyst

Analyzes business needs, processes, and systems to improve efficiency and implement IT solutions.

Database Administrator

Manages, secures, and optimizes databases, ensuring data integrity and performance.

Software Architect

Designs high-level software structures, ensuring scalability, security, and efficiency.

Software Engineer

Develops and maintains software applications, focusing on coding, debugging, and optimizing performance.

Information Systems Architect

Designs and oversees IT infrastructure and system integrations to align with business goals.

IT Manager

Oversees IT operations, strategy, and teams, ensuring smooth technology-driven processes.

Information Systems Auditor

Evaluates IT systems, security, and processes to ensure compliance, efficiency, and risk management.

Network Administrator

Maintains and troubleshoots an organization's computer networks, ensuring connectivity and security.

IT Project Manager

Plans, executes, and manages IT projects, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery.

DevOps Specialist

Automates software deployment, monitoring, and infrastructure management for efficiency and reliability.

Website Designer, Website Developer

Designs and develops websites, ensuring functionality, aesthetics, and user experience.

Faculty Members

Our Computer Science program is taught by distinguished faculty members who are experts in their fields and committed to providing high-quality education and mentorship to our students.

Professor Photo

Dr. Ibrahim Kamara

Professor and Department Chair

Specialization: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning

Dr. Kamara has over 15 years of experience in AI research and has published numerous papers in top-tier conferences and journals. He leads the AI Research Lab at USL.

Professor Photo

Dr. Aminata Sesay

Associate Professor

Specialization: Software Engineering, Human-Computer Interaction

Dr. Sesay's research focuses on user-centered design and software development methodologies. She has industry experience working with major tech companies.

Professor Photo

Dr. Mohamed Conteh

Assistant Professor

Specialization: Data Science, Big Data Analytics

Dr. Conteh specializes in data mining and predictive analytics. His research has applications in healthcare, finance, and social media analysis.

Professor Photo

Dr. Fatmata Koroma

Assistant Professor

Specialization: Computer Networks, Cybersecurity

Dr. Koroma's research focuses on network security and privacy. She has contributed to several international projects on secure communication systems.

Student Experiences

Hear from our current students and alumni

Student Portrait

"The Computer Science program at USL provided me with a strong foundation in both theoretical concepts and practical skills. The faculty members are knowledgeable and supportive, and the hands-on projects prepared me well for my career in software development."

John Koroma

Class of 2023, BSc Information Systems

Student Portrait

"I appreciated the flexibility of the Computer Science curriculum, which allowed me to specialize in artificial intelligence while still gaining a comprehensive understanding of other areas. The research opportunities and internship connections were invaluable for my professional development."

Aminata Sesay

Class of 2022, AI Engineer at Global Tech

Student Portrait

"As an international student, I found the Computer Science department to be welcoming and supportive. The program's emphasis on collaborative projects helped me build strong connections with my peers, and the technical skills I gained have been directly applicable to my work in the tech industry."

Mohammed Diallo

Class of 2021, Systems Analyst at Tech Solutions