Department of
Information Technology
The Information Technology Department is one of the academic units in Hawassa University, Institute of Technology, faculty of Informatics which is committed to delivering a comprehensive education in the field of IT, featuring two undergraduate and one postgraduate programs. The Programs are Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSc-IT), Bachelor of Education in Information Technology (Bed IT) and Masters of Science in Information Technology (MSc in IT). With a dedicated faculty, the department aims to cultivate skilled professionals who can thrive in various sectors of the IT field.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSc-IT)
Program is a Four-year program which is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. This program covers a broad range of topics, including computer programming, network management, cyber-security, data analysis, and software development. Students engage in hands-on learning through practical projects and internships, enabling them to apply theoretical concepts in real-world scenarios. With a strong emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking, graduates are prepared for diverse careers in various sectors, including business, healthcare, and education, making them valuable assets in today’s digital economy. The general objective of the program is to produce high quality IT graduates with entrepreneur and problem-solving mind set by providing to the students a broad knowledge and skill in information technology stream.
Bachelor of Education in Information Technology (Bed IT)
The Program is a four-year in regular and six-year in summer programs which tailored for aspiring educators who wish to integrate technology into teaching and learning environments. This program combines foundational courses in education with specialised training in information technology, focusing on digital literacy, instructional design, and the use of technology in classroom settings. Students learn to create engaging and effective learning experiences that leverage digital tools and resources, preparing them to teach various subjects through innovative methods. Hands-on projects and teaching practicums ensure that graduates are not only proficient in IT skills but also adept at fostering student engagement and enhancing educational outcomes in the digital age. In short, the general objective of the program is to produce high quality IT professional teachers with entrepreneur and problem-solving mind set by providing to the students a broad knowledge and skill in teaching Information Technology.
Masters of Science in Information Technology
The other program which delivered under the department is Masters of Science in Information Technology program which give IT Teachers the tools and understanding that they need to forge for a successful career as IT educators and researchers. Graduates of the program are expected to become problem solvers, a skill that is highly required in the time ahead. The program includes courses that will help them to develop their understanding of a range of technology related areas with the aim of helping IT Teachers to build their own as well as their students’ career in the development and applications of IT in education and beyond. The competence build through the IT master program can lead the graduates to work in preparatory schools and TVET colleges as educators and leaders in the management of ICT integration in education. The general objective of the program is to produce a well-versed IT teacher with advance knowledge and skills in the area of Information Technology.
Graduate profile of each program
Graduate Profiles of BEd IT program
The graduates of the IT program will be able to:
Cognitive skill
- Analyse, identify and define the IT requirements that must be satisfied to address problems or opportunities faced by organisations or individuals.
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, principles and theories relating to Information Technology.
- Identify and evaluate current and emerging technologies and assess their applicability to address the user’s needs.
- Analyse, adopt and demonstrate IT best practices, standards and their application.
- Analyse the impact of technology on individuals, organisations and society, including ethical, legal and policy issues;
- Identify and analyse user needs and take them into account in the selection, creation, evaluation and administration of computer-based systems.
- Demonstrate an understanding of best practices and standards and their application;
Technical skill
- Use and apply current technical concepts and practice in the core area of Information Technology.
- Design effective and usable IT-based solutions and integrate them into the user environment.
- Assist in the creation of an effective project plan.
- Demonstrate independent critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary to maintain and administer computer-based systems.
Attitude skill
- Collaborate in teams to accomplish a common goal by integrating personal initiatives
- Communicate effectively and efficiently with clients, users and peers both verbally and in writing, using appropriate terminology.
- Understand and explain the quantitative dimensions of a problem.
- Manage one’s own learning and development, including time management and organisational skills
- Keep abreast of current developments in the discipline to continue one’s own professional development.
- Recognise and be guided by the social, professional, and ethical issues involved in the use of computer technology.
Graduate profile of Masters of Science in Information Technology
Successful graduates of this program are expected to acquire advanced knowledge in the field, cognitive thinking and practical skills in Information Technology. Thus it is expected the graduates to be able to:
- Teach IT courses at preparatory schools and TVET colleges of Ethiopia effectively and efficiently
- Demonstrate intellectual competency and transferable knowledge and skills, and articulate them effectively,
- Design and manage network infrastructures
- Design, develop and manage websites and multimedia resources,
- Analyse, adopt and demonstrate IT best practices, standards and their applications to education
- Manage large-scale IT systems,
- Carry out systems analysis and design,
- Provide information technology-related consultancy services, and
- Conduct research in the area of Information Technology
Potential employers of graduates of each program
Technology Companies
- Software development companies
- IT consulting firms
- Cloud service providers
- Cyber-security firms
- Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning startups
- Web development and design agencies
Healthcare Industry
- Hospitals and healthcare providers (for managing healthcare IT systems)
- Health-tech startups
- Pharmaceutical companies (data analysis and IT systems)
- Medical device manufacturers
Telecommunications Companies
- Internet service providers (ISPs)
- Mobile network operators
- Satellite communication companies
Financial Services
- Banks
- Insurance companies
- Investment firms
- FinTech companies
Government Organisations
- IT departments in federal, state, and local governments
- Defence and military organisations (e.g., cyber-security roles)
- Public utilities and infrastructure management
Educational Institutions
- Universities, colleges, and schools (managing IT infrastructure and online learning systems)
- EdTech companies developing educational software and platforms
E-Commerce and Retail
- Online retail companies
- Logistics and supply chain management companies
- Digital marketing agencies
Energy and Utilities
- Renewable energy companies (e.g., systems management and data analysis)
- Oil and gas companies (managing IT systems and simulations)
- Utility companies (smart grid technologies)
Energy and Utilities
- Renewable energy companies (e.g., systems management and data analysis)
- Oil and gas companies (managing IT systems and simulations)
- Utility companies (smart grid technologies)
Media and Entertainment
- Film and television companies (digital editing and IT infrastructure)
- Gaming companies (game development and network management)
- Streaming platforms
Manufacturing and Engineering Firms
- Automation and robotics companies
- IT roles in product life-cycle management
- Quality assurance and system monitoring
Startups and Small Businesses
- Early-stage startups needing versatile IT professionals
- Small businesses seeking IT support and system integration
Nonprofit Organisations
- NGOs leveraging IT for operations and outreach
- Charitable organisations requiring IT support for donor management systems