UCOL programme gives confidence

UCOL programme gives confidence

Jamie Gracie feels well equipped to confidently seek a career in software development.

Twenty two year old Jamie has recently completed the final project of his Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology (Applied) at UCOL and will graduate early next year.

“The BICT degree programme has given me a wide range of skills and the applied nature of the study is great because it gives you full time, hands on experience,” says Jamie.

BICT is aimed at students interested in networks and installation, programming, user support, software testing, systems analysis and database development. The programme is especially popular for its ‘applied’ focus and its ability to provide students with the skills and knowledge that are in high demand in the ICT industry.

Jamie is one of 13 third year BICT students who, as part of their degree fulfillment, have recently completed an industry based project.

Jamie’s project was in conjunction with Plant and Food Research New Zealand where he helped develop a web application for the collection of scientific data via a web interface.

“My main objectives were to upgrade the software version and implement the new features,” says Jamie. “The ultimate aim was to simplify the sharing of data and I’m satisfied we achieved that.”

A group of four research scientists from around the country acted as a Base Test group to provide feedback and suggestions during the development process.

Head of School for Business and Computing, Catherine Snell-Siddle says “The BICT industry projects are the culmination of three years intensive study. The projects provide invaluable experience for students to manage a project in a real-life environment while benefiting their sponsors. We are very grateful to those businesses for their support.”

The students presented their projects at an ICT Show Case Evening at UCOL recently. Alex Murray won the Dean’s Award for best poster. Alex’s project was sponsored by TASYS, an IT development and support entity, and involved the development of a management system for motor vehicle dealers.

ENDS

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