Information Systems Management MSc/PG Dip/PG Cert – (M.Sc.)

Contents

There will be two or three-week vacations at Christmas and New Year (December/January) and Easter (March/April), and some students also take a brief break in June or July before completing their dissertation.

First semester (October to January)

During the first semester you will study four modules:

* Object-Oriented Programming covers the theory and practice of modern programming, enabling you to design, develop and implement object-oriented programs
* Database Systems and Design addresses the analysis of data storage requirements and the design of complex databases to meet those requirements. The module makes extensive use of commercial and industrial case studies
* Computer Systems and Networks covers the technical infrastructure upon which modern computer systems and networks are run. It provides a sufficient level of understanding of hardware, operating systems, systems software, network protocols and topologies to enable you to appreciate the use of computer systems and networks in commerce and industry, to be able to construct a technical specification for a computer system, and to select an appropriate system
* Systems Analysis and Design covers the theory and practice of systems analysis and design. Extensive use of case studies allows the application of learnt techniques. Computer Assisted Software Engineering (CASE) tools are used to support the use of analysis and design techniques.

Second semester (February to May)

During the second semester you will study four further modules:

* Research Methods, Professionalism and Ethics links the teaching of social, ethical, legal and professional issues with an overview of research approaches and methodologies. This module is important for your professional development and is also a central preparation for the Master's project/dissertation. Furthermore, such an introduction to research paves the way for a research degree and thereby contributes to your continued employability
* Management of Information Systems enables you to set computing developments in a broader social, economic and business context. It explains the basic concepts and ways of organising work in a business environment and relating this to information systems and to IS/IT projects. This module equips you with the skills needed for the effective management of IS/IT projects
* E-Commerce Systems develops a conceptual understanding of the management and support of e-commerce systems within an organisation. This module provides a critical awareness of strategy issues, the provision of information and the support of such systems and examines the process of e-commerce systems development. There is a detailed study of the strategy process, and the benefits of e-commerce are explored with reference to current research
* Human Factors in Systems Design introduces and explores the human factors and issues that need to be considered when designing interactive systems. You will develop skills enabling you to design effective and usable interactive systems. You will also learn how to evaluate the usability and appropriateness of competing designs.

Third semester (June to September)

During the final semester you will work on your project/dissertation, chosen by you and agreed with your project supervisor. Part-time students normally choose to work on their project over an entire academic year.