Course details

Summary

The Logic and Computation major focuses on the development of computer languages. It has strong applications to artificial intelligence and speech recognition, and to the relevant software.

The programme is designed to appeal to both BA and BSc students. As it combines Computer Science, Linguistics and Logic, BA students may enhance their interest in the Arts (philosophy in particular) with an understanding of the theoretical and practical bases of the IT industry, as well as gaining technical skills. The scientific concerns of BSc students can deepen through an appreciation of the philosophical and linguistic issues at the root of the science of computation. The Arts courses involved in Logic and Computation can strengthen scientific analytical, conceptual and communication skills.

This is the first undergraduate programme of its kind in New Zealand. This area is internationally recognized and many world-renowned universities in Europe, North America and Asia have similar degree programmes in this field.

The aim of the programme is to produce graduates with sharp and highly marketable programming and analytical skills required in:

• Businesses related to IT
• Computer industry
• Software development
• Academic fields such as Computer Science, Programming and Logic; Mathematics and Computing; Philosophy and Logic; Linguistics

The undergraduate courses offer students the opportunity to gain a sound practical knowledge of programming and logical analysis, and to develop the conceptual and analytical skills needed for a deeper theoretical understanding of the subject. The study of logic and computation suits those who have a flexible mind capable not only of creative, speculative thought, but also of precise calculation, problem solving, and design.

Career opportunities

Logic and Computation prepares students for a wide-range of careers. We live in a society in which computing and information technology has become essential parts of our lives. Our dependence on computing and computing services is increasing and diversifying.

The dependence on computing services means that business, information technology, academia and computing industries - such as network and computing companies, information system and software developers, technological and academic institutions - all need experts with sharp analytical, programming and communication skills.

In addition to following research-based careers in universities and the IT industry, graduates with a major in Logic and Computation are well-placed to pursue any career requiring a flexible mind, capable of thinking precisely and analytically as well as creatively, and an ability to communicate clearly. This rare and versatile combination of skills is highly prized in, for example, business analysis and management consultancy.

Further study options

• Bachelor of Science (Honours)
• Graduate Diploma in Science (GradDipSci)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSci)
• Master of Science (MSc)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Structure

Bachelor of Science (BSc) - Logic and Computation major

60 points: COMPSCI 101 or 107, 225, PHIL 101, 222

60 points from COMPSCI 320, 350, 367, LINGUIST 300, 313, 320, LOGICOMP 301, 302, MATHS 315, 326, 328, PHIL 305, 315, 323

15 further points from COMPSCI 105, 225, 320, 350, 367, LINGUIST 100, 103, 200, 300, 313, 320, LOGICOMP 201, 301, 302, MATHS 150, 250, 253, 255, 315, 326, 328, PHIL 105, 216, 222, 305, 315, 323

Entry criteria

Secondary school qualifications

You need to have one of the following: International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum total score of 24. General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level. You must have completed a minimum of three A-Level subjects with at least a 'C' grade or higher. General Studies or similar general papers cannot be included.

GCE ‘A’ Level requirements apply to ‘A’ Level qualifications examined by bodies such as AQA, OCR, Edexcel, WJEC, CCEA, Pearson Education Limited and CIE taken outside of New Zealand.

English language requirements:

IELTS 6.0; TOEFL (iBT) 80; TOEFL (paper-based) 550; CAE or CPE 169; PTE 50; MELAB 80.