Computers have become the way of life in modern times. 

According to UCSI’s Head of School of Management and Information Technology, Associate Professor Steven Ong, the latest technology in mobile computing has spawned navigation systems in cars with the introduction of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) 

“Desktop computers are becoming obsolete while laptops are getting slimmer and more affordable,” he said. “Young people these days are into podcasting and Wi-Fi. Such is the world we are living in today, compared to just a decade ago – thanks to the introduction of mobile computing in this country!” 

A quick survey of countries with Wi-Fi locations shows that Malaysia has the highest number of Wi-Fi locations installed in the ASEAN region. Currently, it has 1,665 Wi-Fi locations, compared to Singapore (875), Philippines (283), Thailand (263) and Indonesia (83). 
“Very soon, we will catch up with Australia, a First World country with bigger land area that currently has 2,071 Wi-Fi locations nationwide,” he said. “The trend of the future is mobile computing.” 

According to the Wikipedia, mobile computing is “a generic term describing our ability to use technology 'untethered', that is not physically connected, or in remote or mobile (non static) environments.” 

With today’s company executives always on the move, it is now impossible to do away with laptops, wireless LAN or wireless WAN technology, smart mobile phones, wearable computers and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) with Bluetooth or Infrared Data Association (IrDA) interfaces. 

“Our lifestyle has changed with the escalating advancements made in mobile computing technology,” added Associate Professor Ong. “To keep abreast with this trend, UCSI has seen it fit to introduce a new degree programme which covers the various aspects of mobile computing.” 

To be known as “Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Mobile Computing”, this is a three-year degree programme which will expand the career opportunities for graduates in the field of software applications and development, mobile and Internet systems integration, banking, e-Commerce, telecommunications and logistics. 

This programme encompasses the study of computer technology, programming, communication, networking, management and business. It will enable the student to develop a deeper understanding of embedded computing, network security and mobile application development. 

Students will be introduced to computing, programming, communication, principles of networking and marketing in the First Year of their studies. “They will work with fundamental computer-based systems components, and use these for experiments throughout the course,” said Associate Professor Ong. 

Throughout Year Two, students will develop their networking knowledge and skills which will enable them to implement, exploit and manage complex systems. “They will study the technology of wireless communication which is beginning to appear in all manner of products and be able to design and improve mobile computing products to achieve a specific function,” he said. 

Assoc. Prof. Ong said that on completing Year Two, mobile computing students will have access to a state-of-the-art laboratory, where they will be able to design and configure systems with a range of network technologies. 

They will undertake group work to develop their skills in working with others on an integrative technical project and have the opportunity to specialise by choosing an optional module. 

The final year congregates all their knowledge in mobile computing technology and mobile computing applications, to enable them to manage the complete design of mobile computing systems. 

Added Assoc. Prof. Ong: “They will also learn how to manage and optimise networks through the use of advanced design and simulation software, complemented by options in network security or multimedia.” 
In the course of the three-year programme, students will also undergo two months of Co-Operative Placements (Co-Op) every year, which will allow them to apply their knowledge in the work environment, and in the process, gain new skills as they work in the industry. This is one of the unique features of all UCSI degree programmes. 

The first intake for UCSI’s degree in mobile computing will be on May 3. For further enquiries, contact UCSI’s Marketing Department (Tel: 03-9101 8880) or email to [email protected]. More information about UCSI degree and diploma programmes can be obtained from its website (www.ucsi.edu.my).

"Without prejudice to the rights of UCSI the information herein is correct at the time of printing and UCSI reserves the right to make amendments without prior notice."