Informatics as a field of academic study encompasses the concepts, principles, and processes for two broad areas of activity within organizations: (1) acquisition, deployment, and management of information technology resources and services (the information systems function) and (2) development, operation, and evolution of infrastructure and systems for use in organizational processes (system development, systems operation, and system maintenance). The systems that deliver information and communications services in an organization combine both technical components and human operators and users. They capture, store, process, and communicate data, information, and knowledge.
The information systems function in an organization has a broad responsibility to plan, develop or acquire, implement, and manage an infrastructure of information technology (computers and communications), data (both internal and external), and enterprise-wide information processing systems. It has the responsibility to track new information technology and assist in incorporating it into organization’s strategy, planning, and practices. The activity of developing or acquiring information technology applications for organizational and inter-organizational processes involves projects that define creative and productive use of information technology for transaction processing, data acquisition, communication, coordination, analysis, and decision support. Design, development and acquisition, and implementation techniques, technology and methodologies are employed. Processes for creating and implementing information systems in organizations incorporate concepts of business process design, innovation, quality, human-machine systems, human-machine interfaces, e-business design, sociotechnical systems, and change management.
Informatics professionals work with information technology and must have sound technical knowledge of computers, communications, and software. Since they operate within organizations and with organizational systems, they must also understand organizations and the functions within organizations (accounting, finance, marketing, operations, human resources, and so forth). They must understand concepts and processes for achieving organizational goals with information technology.
B.Sc.(Hons.) Computer Science or Informatics, and a Natural Science or Mathematics
This four-year degree programme regulated by the Faculty of Science is designed for students who wish to study Computer Science or Informatics in reasonable depth, together with a field of Natural Science, or Mathematics. It aims to produce graduates fit to occupy reasonable positions in industry and commerce, particularly where Computer Science or Informatics can be applied or complement the other non-IT discipline. The Computer Science or Informatics component of a combined degree will comprise a selection of Introductory, Intermediate, and Advanced units chosen from amongst those shown in this document. The regulations for this degree programme are issued by the Faculty of Science. Further details can be obtained from the Registrar's Office.
Members of Staff
Academic Staff
Professor Albert Leone Ganado (Head of Department)
Dr Vitezslav Nezval
Mr Clyde Meli
Mr Joseph Vella
Mr Tony Spiteri Staines
Mr Rodney Naudi (Part Time)
Mr Joe Galea (Part Time)
Support Staff
Mr Marco Tabone (Clerk)
Mr Patrick Catania (Computing Officer I)
Mr Matthew Mizzi (T.A.S.)