MSc/PGDip Information Systems

General programme information

The MSc in Information Systems has been developed to address a new era of information systems that support companies whose leaders and core operations are dispersed across the globe.

Clearly, the modern economy requires a new breed of managers and leaders equipped with flexible, transferable skills and a global vision. The The MSc in Information Systems aims to produce managers and leaders who have a practical and theoretical understanding of business information systems and technology within strategic and operational context.

Embedded in the programme is a curriculum allowing you to build a solid foundation in information systems as well as taking optional modules such as management, marketing and a foreign language.

Key areas of study:

Core modules for all students

In autumn semester:

Database management systems
International management
Research methods & skills

In spring semester:

Information systems organisation and management
Project management

Optional modules (students choose 2 modules), in spring semester:

Choice of foreign languages
E-business and commerce
International marketing
Software engineering
Compulsory dissertation

Teaching methods and assessment

The Information Systems programme commences with an induction session attended by all staff contributing to the programme; this will include:

a tour of the campus
an introduction to the learning resource centre
full information about the support services available on campus

You will be given a programme handbook which will give full details of the programme, the School and the University as well as contact details for the teaching staff.

Each module convener will provide you with a module booklet giving full details of the aims, learning outcomes, teaching programme, assessment and reading.

You will be allocated a personal academic and pastoral tutor from among the teaching staff.

You will be allocated a dissertation supervisor selected from among the programme teaching staff. The choice will be based on the student’s selection of a dissertation topic and the area of specialism of the supervisor.

Module tutors will be responsible for tutorial guidance in advance of course work and examinations and for feedback after each assessment.

You will be taught by a combination of methods including: lectures, seminars, tutorials.

You will be assessed via coursework, exams and presentations.

Career opportunities

The Information Systems programme will provide you with the knowledge and skills to embark on a career in information systems and the management of information systems.

For those with some experience of managing information systems it will broaden their knowledge and skills base and raise their awareness on how information systems can be used as a strategic tool for competitive advantage.

Entry requirements

Candidates should demonstrate the ability to study successfully at postgraduate level. This will normally mean at least a good second-class honours degree (or above) in any subject or an equivalent.

Evidence of basic skills in using software packages for word-processing, spreadsheets and powerpoint (although candidates without basic IT skills will be expected to attend a course to improve their skills that will run during the first half of the first semester).

Applicants for whom English is not the mother tongue must satisfy the University requirement for IELTS at 6.5 in all sections. There is additional information available on English language support.

There is extra help and support for those applicants who do not quite meet the university’s entry requirements. For example, international students can take a pre-sessional English course for an additional fee. This course is compulsory only for those who do not meet the university’s minimum requirement of IELTS 6.5 in all sections. Similarly there is an additional charge of for the basic IT skills course for those who need it.

You can also view our postgraduate entry requirements.

Length of programme

Full-time: 1 year; part-time: 2-4 years

Number of places

Full-time: 20-25; part-time: 20-25

Programme start date

September

Number of Credits

PGDip: 120 MSc: 180

Fees

Band 1

Contact the course convener