About the course
Course content
This conversion course is aimed at graduates from a non-computing discipline.
Information Systems is concerned with software (and to a lesser extent hardware) that gathers, stores, processes and manages data and communications within an organisation and is at the heart of any large scale enterprise. The key areas of study are databases, object oriented programming, systems analysis, networks, digital media systems and information systems management and strategy. The course is designed to enable a career change to Information Systems or update and broaden knowledge and skills if you are already working in the field.
A third of your MSc will consist of a solo Information Systems project with individual supervision normally in a non-technical area. This is supported by a series of seminars/workshops, but the emphasis is on student-centred learning and recognises expectations about student autonomy, typical of postgraduate level and also is part of the strategy to enhance your employability through the development of confidence, self-awareness and self-sufficiency. It is possible to switch between MSc Information Systems and MSc Computing as you develop your areas of specialism and own interests in this exciting field.
Features and benefits of the course
-The School has an extensive range of equipment in our own specialist laboratories which is supported by a dedicated team of technical staff.
-Research in the School was rated 'internationally excellent' with some rated 'world-leading' in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF).
-Our online virtual learning platform Moodle, provides access to lectures, course materials and assessment information.
-Classes are concentrated on certain days of the week to facilitate part-time students’ attendance and allow full-time students to undertake part-time employment if necessary.
-The School of Computing, Mathematics and Digital Technology is a member of the Oracle Academy.
-We are an academic partner of the Institute of Information Security Professionals (IISP). This partner status recognises our expertise in the field of information and cyber security.
-We are also an Academy of the Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) and deliver their partner programme which provides a pathway for students towards a rewarding, high-growth IT career.
About the Course
Supported by a dedicated team of technical staff, the School of Computing, Maths and Digital Technology has excellent computing facilities including specialist Mac and PC laboratories with industry standard software and a state-of-the-art computer usability lab. Research in the school was rated highly in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF), with some of our research rated as world leading.
On successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
-Develop computer programs using object-oriented development techniques
-Use object-oriented techniques for systems analysis and design
-Have an understanding of database technology and its exploitation
-Understand the underlying technical concepts of network technology, internet and multimedia technology or the delivery of applications
-Understand concepts and be able to apply appropriate techniques across a small number of specialist computing subjects
-Carry out a research-informed practical project involving system construction or experimental work.
A range of optional specialist units adds to this versatile Information Systems qualification. Units may vary from year to year, reflecting the rapidly-changing IT industry. The project is non-technical.
Classes are concentrated on certain days of the week to facilitate part-time students’ attendance and allow full-time students to undertake part-time employment if necessary. Especially useful in the case of missed classes, the online virtual learning environment using Moodle provides extensive access to lectures, course materials and assessment information.