Introduction to Computer Systems
Understanding how computer systems work
About the Module
Computer systems bring together hardware, software and networks to support the applications and services we use every day.
This module introduces the fundamental concepts behind modern computing systems, providing an overview of how computers operate and how their different components work together.
Learners will explore computer architectures, operating systems, databases and computer networks, including how these elements support larger, interconnected computing systems. The module provides a foundation for further studies in computing.
What You Will Learn
By the end of this module, you should be able to:
- Describe the functions and architecture of a modern computing system.
- Describe basic operating system concepts.
- Describe the basic concepts of databases.
- Describe basic computer network concepts.
- Describe the basic concepts of multi-tier computer systems.
Module Content
The module covers five topics in computer systems.
Introduction
What are computers and what are they for? Types of computers. The most powerful computers and their uses. Examples.
Basic Operating System (OS) Concepts
Types of OS; services performed by OS; OS concepts: processes, communication, synchronisation, resource management, security and error handling. Considerations of OS in different systems.
Databases
The need for databases. Database management systems (DBMS). Relational (e.g. SQL) and non-relational databases (NoSQL).
Computer Network Basics
How the Internet works, e.g. IP, DNS addressing, domains, port numbers and subnets. Case studies: campus network, scalable service deployment architecture.
Computer System Architectures
Multi-tier computer systems for enterprise, cloud and data centre.
Upcoming Intake
March – June 2027
Registration deadlines vary by module. Review the consultation and assessment schedules before registering for your modules.
Introduction to Computer Systems
Register by
25 Apr 2027
Online consultations
25 May – 24 Jun 2027
Tuesdays*, 6.30 – 8.30pm
*CT1002 includes an additional Thursday consultation in week 5.
On-site assessment
26 Jun 2027
10.00 – 11.00am
Other Bridging Modules
Linear Algebra and Calculus for Computing
Register by
21 Feb 2027
Online consultations
4 Mar – 8 Apr 2027
Thursdays, 6.30 – 8.30pm
On-site assessment
10 Apr 2027
1.00 – 2.00pm
Introduction to Computational Thinking and Programming
Register by
21 Feb 2027
Online consultations
2 Mar – 6 Apr 2027
Tuesdays, 6.30 – 8.30pm
On-site assessment
10 Apr 2027
10.00 – 11.00am
Discrete Mathematics for Computing
Register by
13 Mar 2027
Online consultations
13 Apr – 18 May 2027
Tuesdays, 6.30 – 8.30pm
On-site assessment
22 May 2027
10.00 – 11.00am
Probability and Statistics for Computing
Register by
13 Mar 2027
Online consultations
15 Apr – 19 May 2027
Thursdays, 6.30 – 8.30pm
On-site assessment
22 May 2027
1.00 – 2.00pm
Accessing Your Online Learning Materials
Once enrolled, you can access your module's online learning materials through NTULearn.
Please refer to your enrolment instructions for details on accessing your course materials.
Fees and Funding
Each Bridging Module costs S$250, bringing the total fee for all five modules to S$1,250.
Eligible learners may use their SkillsFuture Credit towards the module fees.
For more information on eligibility and usage, visit the MySkillsFuture portal.
If you need to retake a module you have not passed, the standard module fee will apply to each retake.
Registration and Technical Support
Before you register
You will need to create a learner account in NTU's Training Management System (TMS) using your personal email address before registering for a Bridging Module.
For guidance on account creation and registration, refer to the Learner User Guide.
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