Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences is a broad-based, harmonized undergraduate degree programme.  The programme is designed to produce competent information professionals to work in any sector in the information industry.  The course encompasses four information disciplines namely: Information Technology, Library and Information Studies, Publishing and Media Studies, and Records and Archives Management.

During the first two years students take common courses in the information field.  In the last two years, that is, third and fourth year, students specialize in any one of the four disciplines.

RATIONALE 

The degree programme blends theory and practice and the teaching of each topic is well adapted to the use of all forms of media.  Teaching methods consist of lectures, seminars, laboratory practicals, demonstrations, written assignments, project work, field visits, individual reading, research, problem solving and practical attachment.

The   curriculum has taken into account a number of factors including: labour market needs in the country and in the region, international trends in the education and training of information professionals, the implications of the new constitution and the Kenya Government’s national priorities espoused in vision 2030.

The curriculum   has also taken cognizance of the transformational roles of information professionals.  The role of the information professional has continually been changing over the years and has progressively evolved into information management roles which have necessitated new skill requirements such as information search skills, research skills, IT skills, transferable and soft skills that are generic; and cut across disciplines including communication, management, leadership and  entrepreneurship.

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME

The specific objectives of the course are to:

1. Introduce students to current thought and practice in information management;
2. provide basic professional education and training in a broad range of information disciplines so as to develop persons who are capable of operating in a variety of working contexts;
3. equip students with necessary knowledge and skills to respond intelligently to problems of information collection, processing, storage, retrieval and dissemination;
4. acquaint students with the principles of Management of Information Systems and Services;
5. Equip students with Information and Communication Technology knowledge and skills in order to enhance self learning and development of critical literacy skills.

LEARNING OUTCOMES OF THE PROGRAMME

On successful completion of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate confidence and skill in application and management of Libraries, Records and   Archives and also their related services.
2. Execute all work activities related to both Print and Electronic Media;
3. Exemplify proficiency in Collection, Processing, Storage, Retrieval and Dissemination of both print and electronic Information Resources and Services;
4. Maintain efficiency and ethics in the management and provision of information services. 

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Candidates must satisfy the minimum entrance requirements of Garissa University College as stipulated in the statutes and will be selected on the basis of their performance in the following cluster of subjects in KCSE: English or Kiswahili, Mathematics, best remaining subject in group (iii), and best remaining subject in group (iv) or group (vi).

Admission may be granted to candidates who meet minimum entrance requirements of the University College and who are also holders of a relevant diploma qualification in one of the information sciences’ disciplines.

Admission may be granted to candidates who meet minimum entrance requirements of the University College   and who are also holders of a relevant Higher National Diploma qualification in Information Sciences or related field so long as the Higher National Diploma has been obtained with distinction or credit.  Such candidates may be admitted directly into the third year of study.  Such candidates will specialize in their relevant disciplines.

TEACHING STRATEGY AND METHODOLOGY 

          Some Programme will be run through course work field work and project writing and English will   be the medium of instruction for all the courses. The following Teaching Strategy and Methodology will be adopted: 

1. Lectures
2. Tutorials 
3. Class discussions 
4. Oral presentation 
5. Performances 
6. E-learning Platform