Masters Degrees (Computing And Information)

Are you excited by the impact of technology on our everyday lives and are keen to forge a successful career in the field? From day one, you will be immersed in an exciting, innovative environment where you will develop broad knowledge and skills in the main areas of computing and information technology which will be directly relatable to your future career.

You will take core modules covering areas of computing in programming, databases, systems analysis and design, and computer networks and web development. Designed in consultation with partners from industry, you will develop the most up-to-date computing knowledge, desired by employers across the industry.

This course fully meets the educational requirements for BCS Chartered IT Professional registration.

This course has several available starts and study options - for more information, please view the relevant web-page:
16 months full time - https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/computing-and-information-technology-dtfcin6/

Part time study - https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/computing-and-information-technology-dtpcin6/

3 years distance learning - https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/computing-and-information-technology-dtdciy6/

Learn From The Best

You will be taught by a range of academic staff who bring a wealth of professional experience. They are experts in specialist areas such as Strategic Management, Computer Science and Web Based Information Retrieval.

In a dynamic learning environment with an expert team of staff, you will be taught theoretical and practical research skills such as information literacy, as well as problem solving skills, self-directed learning and communication skills.

Teaching And Assessment

On this course, you will have the opportunity to independently research topics to deepen your learning and understanding, while learning the skills to communicate your research and investigations.

Assessment methods will include reports, presentations, individual, group and project work, alongside regular feedback on your summative assessment.

Module Overview
KC7013 - Database Modelling (Core, 20 Credits)
KF7010 - Programme Design & Implementation (Core, 20 Credits)
KF7011 - Systems Analysis & Design with UML (Core, 20 Credits)
KF7013 - Website Development and Deployment (Core, 20 Credits)
KF7023 - Computer Networks & Operating Systems (Core, 20 Credits)
KF7028 - Research Methods and Project Management (Core, 20 Credits)
KF7029 - MSc Computer Science & Digital Technologies Project (Core, 60 Credits)

Learning Environment

Throughout the duration of your course you will have access to our state-of-the-art facilities including our dedicated computing suite, Pandon Basement.

Pandon Basement houses specialist facilities and studios with industry-standard software.

You will also have access to dedicated computing areas, which can be used during free periods and into the evenings and weekends.

When you want to get hands-on with technology our range of specialist facilities will support you.

You will also have access to the University’s award winning library (online and on campus). The library achieved the second highest score in the UK in the Times Higher Student Satisfaction Survey 2015.

Research-Rich Learning

You will be immersed in a research-rich environment supported by our rapidly expanding Computer Science and Information Science Research Groups.

Northumbria’s BCS-accredited MSc has been designed to ensure you learn the most up-to-date computing knowledge required by employers across the industry. We offer research-informed teaching, industry-standard software and a strong community of like-minded students.”

You will be taught by staff with a strong academic background in areas such as Web Programming who promote innovative and excellent learning and teaching practice.

You will develop an understanding of important research methods and approaches which could be directly applicable to the demands of your future career.

Give Your Career An Edge

Industry practice has strongly influenced the design of the programme to give you the computing knowledge to work within a variety of roles in the sector.

Learning independently, working collaboratively on projects, evaluating and reflecting upon practitioner experience, are all essential skills of the computing profession. Your modules will enable you to do all of this and more as you develop the qualities needed for a career in computing.

This programme will prepare you to meet the educational requirements for BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, Chartered IT Professional (CITP) registration.

Your Future

Upon graduating from this course, you will have an in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of the main areas of Computing and Information Technology, including the key areas of systems analysis, systems development, operating systems, networking, databases and the internet .

We place a real emphasis on developing the transferable skills that will open doors to a range of careers. These include communication, analytical and problem solving skills, technical skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Graduates are expected to work in a number of career opportunities across a wide range of computer areas including software engineering, systems analysis and design, computer networks, database development and management, software testing and project management.

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Computing and information technology, along with the highly skilled individuals able to utilise and manage such systems, are vital for businesses of all sizes to succeed in today’s interconnected global economy. Studying our part-time MSc Computing and Information Technology programme will provide you with the most up-to-date computing knowledge required by employers whilst also preparing you for a vast range of roles within this exciting and dynamic industry.

Key facts

-Part-time Masters degree based in Central London

-Flexible start dates in January, June and September

-Continue working while you study with lectures delivered on weekends spread throughout the 2 year course

-Develop your knowledge of Computing and IT systems and gain industry relevant skills

-Learn about Java, web development, computer networks, database modelling and build transferable skills in project management and research

-Undergraduate degree not essential for entry

-Also available as a full-time programme

What will I study?

Our part-time MSc Computer and Information Technology course is taught at our London Campus by our experienced academics and expert practitioners.

The MSc Computing and Information Technology has been designed in consultation with partners including Accenture and Hewlett-Packard to ensure that you graduate with up-to-date and industry relevant skills and knowledge. Your modules will cover programming in Java, web development, database modelling, system analysis and design with UML, and computer networks, whilst also building transferable skills in project management and research.

How will I be taught and assessed?

This part-time programme is designed to allow you to fit your studies around your busy schedule and as such this work related award is delivered across a series of weekends spread over a two year period. The programme is assessed through modular assignments and a final dissertation, with no examinations.

Throughout the duration of your course, you will participate in group work to complete practical tasks that simulate real-life situations and experience standard professional practice. You will also have one-to-one support on your preparation for and the execution of your final dissertation or project. Your dissertation or major project will allow you to specialise in an area of interest.

Careers and further study

Graduates from this course will have opportunities in a range of exciting careers in the IT industry. You may go on to use your technical skills to develop software applications, or your strategic knowledge to build and deploy applications in a business environment.

Upon successfully completing your course, you may undertake further professional development and training through Professional Pathways programmes. This additional training is offered to our graduates for free, from our partner QA, and provides you with an excellent opportunity to undertake professional training at the end of your Masters from one of the UK’s leading corporate training providers, further enhancing your professional development and employability skills. Find out more about Professional Pathways and your eligibility. Find out more about the Pathways available and your eligibility - http://london.northumbria.ac.uk/why-northumbria/careers-and-employability/

Modules

The modules on this programme develops your knowledge, skills and expertise in key computing areas and issues such as Website Development, Database Modelling and Programme Design and Implementation. You will also complete a final Computer Science and Digital Technologies Project, giving you the opportunity to experience the full life cycle of a research project from initial conception to final evaluation. 

Please visit the course page for more information on module content. 

Read less

Computing and information technology, along with the highly skilled individuals able to utilise and manage such systems, are vital for businesses of all sizes to succeed in today’s interconnected global economy. Studying our part-time MSc Computing and Information Technology programme will provide you with the most up-to-date computing knowledge required by employers whilst also preparing you for a vast range of roles within this exciting and dynamic industry.

Key facts

-Part-time Masters degree based in Central London
-Continue working while you study with lectures delivered on weekends spread throughout the 2 year course
-Develop your knowledge of Computing and IT systems and gain industry relevant skills
-Learn about Java, web development, computer networks, database modelling and build transferable skills in project management and research
-Undergraduate degree not essential for entry
-Also available as a full-time programme

What will I study?

Our part-time MSc Computer and Information Technology course is taught at our London Campus by our experienced academics and expert practitioners.

The MSc Computing and Information Technology has been designed in consultation with partners including Accenture and Hewlett-Packard to ensure that you graduate with up-to-date and industry relevant skills and knowledge. Your modules will cover programming in Java, web development, database modelling, system analysis and design with UML, and computer networks, whilst also building transferable skills in project management and research.

How will I be taught and assessed?

This part-time programme is designed to allow you to fit your studies around your busy schedule and as such this work related award is delivered across a series of weekends spread over a two year period. The programme is assessed through modular assignments and a final dissertation, with no examinations.

Throughout the duration of your course, you will participate in group work to complete practical tasks that simulate real-life situations and experience standard professional practice. You will also have one-to-one support on your preparation for and the execution of your final dissertation or project. Your dissertation or major project will allow you to specialise in an area of interest.

Read less

Are you excited by the impact of technology on our everyday lives and are keen to forge a successful career in the field? From day one, you will be immersed in an exciting, innovative environment where you will develop broad knowledge and skills in the main areas of computing and information technology which will be directly relatable to your future career.

You will take core modules covering areas of computing in programming, databases, systems analysis and design, and computer networks and web development. Designed in consultation with partners from industry, you will develop the most up-to-date computing knowledge, desired by employers across the industry.

In the second year, for one semester, you’ll undertake an internship, study in another country or join a research group. This valuable experience will enhance your employability and further develop your theoretical and practical skills.

Internship

This option offers the opportunity to spend three months working full-time in one of the many companies/industries with which we have close links. You may be able to extend this over more than one semester in cases where it is adjacent to a vacation period. We will endeavour to help those who prefer this option to find and secure a suitable position but ultimately we are in the hands of the employers who are free to decide who they take into their organisation.

Research

If you take this option, you will be assigned to our Computer Science and Informatics Research Group. There is every possibility that you may contribute to published research and therefore you may be named as part of the research team, which would be a great start to a research career.

Study Abroad

We have exchange agreements with universities all over the world, including partners in Europe, Asia, the Americas and Oceania. If you take the Study Abroad option you will spend a semester at one of these partners, continuing your studies in English but in a new cultural and learning environment. Please note that this option may require you to obtain a visa for study in the other country.

This course fully meets the educational requirements for BCS Chartered IT Professional registration.

Learn From The Best

You will be taught by a range of academic staff who bring a wealth of professional experience. They are experts in specialist areas such as Strategic Management, Computer Science and Web Based Information Retrieval.

In a dynamic learning environment with an expert team of staff, you will be taught theoretical and practical research skills such as information literacy, as well as problem solving skills, self-directed learning and communication skills.

Teaching And Assessment

On this course, you will have the opportunity to independently research topics to deepen your learning and understanding, while learning the skills to communicate your research and investigations.

Assessment methods will include reports, presentations, individual, group and project work, alongside regular feedback on your summative assessment.

The Advanced Practice semester will be assessed via a report and presentation about your internship, study abroad or research group activities.

Learning Environment

Throughout the duration of your course you will have access to our state-of-the-art facilities including our dedicated computing suite, Pandon Basement.

Pandon Basement houses specialist facilities and studios with industry-standard software.

You will also have access to dedicated computing areas, which can be used during free periods and into the evenings and weekends.

When you want to get hands-on with technology our range of specialist facilities will support you.

You will also have access to the University’s award winning library (online and on campus). The library achieved the second highest score in the UK in the Times Higher Student Satisfaction Survey 2015.

Research-Rich Learning

You will be immersed in a research-rich environment supported by our rapidly expanding Computer Science and Information Science Research Groups.

Northumbria’s BCS-accredited MSc has been designed to ensure you learn the most up-to-date computing knowledge required by employers across the industry. We offer research-informed teaching, industry-standard software and a strong community of like-minded students.”

You will be taught by staff with a strong academic background in areas such as Web Programming who promote innovative and excellent learning and teaching practice.

You will develop an understanding of important research methods and approaches which could be directly applicable to the demands of your future career.

Give Your Career An Edge

Industry practice has strongly influenced the design of the programme to give you the computing knowledge to work within a variety of roles in the sector.

Learning independently, working collaboratively on projects, evaluating and reflecting upon practitioner experience, are all essential skills of the computing profession. Your modules will enable you to do all of this and more as you develop the qualities needed for a career in computing.

The Advanced Practice semester will help you develop a track record of achievement that will help you stand out from other job applicants.

A two-year master’s course, like this one, will carry particular weight with employers. They’ll understand that you’ll have a deeper understanding of topics as well as more hands-on practical experience.

This programme will prepare you to meet the educational requirements for BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, Chartered IT Professional (CITP) registration.

Your Future

Upon graduating from this course, you will have an in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of the main areas of Computing and Information Technology, including the key areas of systems analysis, systems development, operating systems, networking, databases and the internet .

We place a real emphasis on developing the transferable skills that will open doors to a range of careers. These include communication, analytical and problem solving skills, technical skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Graduates are expected to work in a number of career opportunities across a wide range of computer areas including software engineering, systems analysis and design, computer networks, database development and management, software testing and project management.

Read less

Businesses rely on computing to succeed, and on knowledgeable, skilled and passionate individuals to manage such vital technology within their organisation. Studying the MSc Computing and Information Technology programme offers you an excellent opportunity to learn the most up-to-date computing knowledge required by employers whilst also preparing you for a vast range of management roles.

Key facts

-Study a programme designed in consultation with partners including Accenture and Hewlett-Packard

-Prepare yourself for a vast range of management opportunities in the field

-Also available at our Newcastle campus

-Also available as a part-time programme at our London campus

-Upon graduating, opt to join one of our Professional Pathways programmes, to further build your skills and employability with one of the UK’s leading IT and project management training providers, QA

What will I study?

The MSc Computing and Information Technology has been designed in consultation with partners including Accenture and Hewlett-Packard to ensure that you graduate with up-to-date and industry-relevant skills and knowledge.

Your modules will cover programming in Java, web development, database modelling, systems analysis and design with UML, and computer networks, whilst also building transferable skills in project management and research.

How will I be taught and assessed?

Throughout the duration of your course, you will participate in group work to complete practical tasks that simulate real-life situations and experience standard professional practice. You will also have one-to-one support on your preparation for and the execution of your final dissertation or project.

Your dissertation or major project will allow you to specialise in an area of interest.

Careers and further study

Graduates from this course will have opportunities in a range of exciting careers in the IT industry. You may go on to use your technical skills to develop software applications, or your strategic knowledge to build and deploy applications in a business environment.

Upon successfully completing your course, you may undertake further professional development and training through Professional Pathways programmes. This additional training is offered to our graduates for free, from our partner QA, and provides you with an excellent opportunity to undertake professional training at the end of your Masters from one of the UK’s leading corporate training providers, further enhancing your professional development and employability skills. Find out more about Professional Pathways and your eligibility. Find out more about the Pathways available and your eligibility - http://london.northumbria.ac.uk/why-northumbria/careers-and-employability/

Modules

The modules on this programme develops your knowledge, skills and expertise in key computing areas and issues such as Website Development, Database Modelling and Programme Design and Implementation. You will also complete a final Computer Science and Digital Technologies Project, giving you the opportunity to experience the full life cycle of a research project from initial conception to final evaluation. 

Please visit the course page for more information on module content. 

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Graduates who are able to fully exploit the potential of computing and information systems by combining specialist technical skills with other knowledge and experience are highly sought after.

If your first degree contained little or no technical experience, but you’re now looking to change direction or enhance your employability by developing your skills in this area, then this programme (commonly referred to as a ‘conversion course’) is for you.

Guided by academics with a wealth of industrial experience, this is an intensive MSc programme for highly motivated graduates of any discipline with little prior experience of computer science.

Industrial Experience

The industrial placement currently takes place towards the end of the first year for a maximum of 12 months. It is the student’s responsibility to secure their placement, the school will offer guidance and support in finding and securing the placement but the onus is on the student to secure the job and arrange the details of the placement.

Currently if you are not able to secure a placement by the end of your second semester we will transfer you onto the 1 year FT taught programme without the Industrial Experience. This change would also be applied to any visa if you were here on a student visa.

The industrial placement consists of 8-12 months spent working with an appropriate employer in a role that relates directly to your field of study. The placement is currently undertaken between the taught component and the project. This will provide you with the opportunity to apply the key technical knowledge and skills that you have learnt in your taught modules, and will enable you to gain a better understanding of your own abilities, aptitudes, attitudes and employment potential. The module is only open to students enrolled on a programme of study with an integrated placement.

If you do not secure a placement you will be transferred onto the 1 year FT programme.

Our research-led approach

Your tuition will be delivered by field leading academics engaged in world class research projects in collaboration with industry, external institutions and research councils.

Our strong links with industry

• We have collaborations, partnerships, industrial placement schemes and public engagement programmes with a variety of organisations, including Vodafone, Google, IBM, BT, NASA, BBC and Microsoft
• Full-time MSc with Industrial Experience option available on our taught MSc programmes. You have the option to complete over two years, with a year of work experience in industry.
• Industrial projects scheme - To support industrial experience development, you can to do your final project in collaboration with an industrial partner.

Structure

The modules listed below provide some general guidance on what you may be expected to learn during each semester and year of this degree. The exact modules available may vary depending on staff availability, research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

MSc Computing and Information Systems (Conversion) is currently available for one-year full-time study, two years full-time study with industrial experience, or two years part-time study.

You will take four taught modules per semester followed by final examinations and the MSc research project (dissertation).

Full-time

Undertaking a masters programme is a serious commitment, with weekly contact hours in addition to numerous hours of independent learning and research needed to progress at the required level. When coursework or examination deadlines are approaching independent learning hours may need to increase significantly. Please contact the course convenor for precise information on the number of contact hours per week for this programme.

Part-time

Part-time study options often mean that the number of modules taken is reduced per semester, with the full modules required to complete the programme spread over two academic years. Teaching is generally done during the day and part-time students should contact the course convenor to get an idea of when these teaching hours are likely to take place. Timetables are likely to be finalised in September but you may be able to gain an expectation of what will be required.

Year 1

Semester 1

• Information Systems
• IT Programming

Semester 2

•  Databases

Select three options from:

• Bayesian Decision and Risk Analysis
• Business Information Systems
• Business Technology Strategy
• Cloud Computing
• Distributing Systems
• Graphical User Interfaces
• Mobile Services
• Security and Authentication

Semester 3

• Project 

Year 2

Industrial Placement Project (12 months)

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This Masters in Computing and Information Systems focuses on the technological aspects of hardware and software. Liverpool John Moores University provides the perfect opportunity to study the latest innovations in this subject at postgraduate level.

•Course available to study full time (1 year)
•Delivered by academics active in research
•Opportunity to carry out a novel research project in an area of your choice
•High-quality teaching and excellent learning resources commended by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)
•£6 million state-of-the-art laboratories and teaching facilities
•Excellent career prospects in areas such as project management, system design and IT management

This MSc in Computing and Information Systems focuses on the technological aspects of hardware and software systems, together with a study of their operational and managerial environment.

The course aims to provide you with a fuller, systematic understanding of current and developing computer technologies and help you to:

•explore the issues surrounding the Management of Information Technology in Business and Industrial contexts
•develop expertise in the areas of computer science that you are interested in
•become an advanced, autonomous learner
•develop a comprehensive understanding, critical awareness and ability to conduct evaluation of current research issues
•work with originality in applying analytical, creative, problem solving and research skills
•gain awareness of the advanced, conceptual understanding, underpinning career development, innovation and further study for PhD

Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Level 7
Project Dissertation
Advanced Software Engineering Concepts
Research Methods
Computer Systems Technology
Management of E-business
Database Design and Technology
Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms
Software Development with JAVA
Computer Forensics
Computer Security
A major component of the course is the project module. This is an extensive piece of research work in an applications domain relevant to your academic or professional interests.

It is intended to provide you with an opportunity to undertake a major investigation and produce a major dissertation on the outcome of the work. Assessment of the project will be based on this dissertation and presentations of the work.

The work carried out during the project is expected to have a strong research component and will, in many cases, be appropriate in forming the basis of further academic research - for example a PhD programme.

Further guidance on modules

The information listed in the section entitled ‘What you will study’ is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal Academic Framework review, so may be subject to change. Students will be required to undertake modules that the University designates as core and will have a choice of designated option modules. Additionally, option modules may be offered subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

Academic Framework reviews are conducted by LJMU from time to time to ensure that academic standards continue to be maintained. A review is currently in progress and will be operational for the academic year 2016/2017. Final details of this programme’s designated core and option modules will be made available on LJMU’s website as soon as possible and prior to formal enrolment for the academic year 2016/2017.

Please email [email protected] if you require further guidance or clarification.

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This course is designed for non-computing graduates who need to apply information technology to their current career, or want to change career direction.

It covers a wide range of topics including programming, databases, security, project management and computer networking, giving you both the underpinning theory and the ability to apply it to complex real-world problems, as well as an awareness of emerging technologies and developments.

Intermediate qualifications available:

• Postgraduate certificate – 60 credits at Masters level
• Postgraduate diploma – 120 credits at Masters level

There are six entry points through the year. This allows you to start when it is most suitable. The entry points are:

• September
• November
• January
• March
• June
• July

Visit the website: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/courses/postgraduate/next-year/applied-computing-and-information-technology#about

Course detail

• Study key areas of information technology including applications of web technologies, information systems strategy and emerging technologies
• Explore creative and innovative applications of technology to real-world problems
• Develop your analytical, evaluative and problem-solving skills in relation to IT-based solutions
• Gain a thorough understanding of the social and legal aspects of the Information Technology field (e.g. British Computer Society Code of Conduct and Data Protection)
• Benefit from valuable experience of working on projects for real business, opening up new career opportunities in management, supervision or as a practitioner (eg database/IT developer or system designer/analyst) in industries which make substantial use of computers and information technology.

Modules

• Programming for Applications
• Computer Networks and Security
• Data Modelling, Management and Governance
• Research Methodologies and Project Management
• MSc Project – Applied Computing and Information Technology

Assessment

The majority of units are assessed through coursework, group and individual projects, portfolios, essays, presentations or exams. Presentations are usually given and assessed in a group seminar. You will also produce artefacts in the area of your specialism.

Constant feedback and advice from a supervisory or unit team will be provided to support you in your work.

You will progress from well-defined briefs to more open-ended and challenging assessments, which culminate in your major project – the MSc Project – where you will be given freedom to choose your area of work.

Careers

You will gain valuable skills for a career within computing and IT in particular but is also relevant for a much wider range of applications such as computer science or wider system engineering.

The unit 'Research Methodologies and Project Management' requires you to work in a team so as to apply a current project management methodology that embraces all of these knowledge areas in an integrated way while going through the stages of planning, execution and project control. You will work as part of a team, take responsibility and make autonomous decisions that impact on the project team performance.

Funding

For information on available funding, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/money/scholarships/pg

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/course/applicationform

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This course is designed for non-computing graduates who need to apply information technology to their current career, or want to change career direction.

It covers a wide range of topics including programming, databases, security, project management and computer networking, giving you both the underpinning theory and the ability to apply it to complex real-world problems, as well as an awareness of emerging technologies and developments.

• Postgraduate certificate – 60 credits at Masters level
• Postgraduate diploma – 120 credits at Masters level

This course is offered via block delivery. There are two entry points (October and November). This allows you to start when it is most suitable.

Visit the website: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/courses/postgraduate/next-year/applied-computing-and-information-technology-15-m

Course detail

• Study key areas of information technology including applications of web technologies, information systems strategy and emerging technologies
• Explore creative and innovative applications of technology to real-world problems
• Develop your analytical, evaluative and problem-solving skills in relation to IT-based solutions
• Gain a thorough understanding of the social and legal aspects of the Information Technology field (e.g. British Computer Society Code of Conduct and Data Protection)
• Benefit from valuable experience of working on projects for real business, opening up new career opportunities in management, supervision or as a practitioner (eg database/IT developer or system designer/analyst) in industries which make substantial use of computers and information technology.

Modules

• Programming for Applications
• Computer Networks and Security
• Data Modelling, Management and Governance
• Research Methodologies and Project Management
• MSc Project – Applied Computing and Information Technology

Assessment

You are assessed in a variety of ways. The majority of units are assessed through coursework, group and individual projects, portfolios, essays, presentations or exams. Presentations are usually given and assessed in the context of a group seminar. You will also produce artefacts in the area of your specialism. Constant feedback and advice from a supervisory or unit team will be provided to support you in your work.

You will progress from well-defined briefs to more open-ended and challenging assessments, which culminate in your major project the MSc Project where you will be given freedom to choose your area of work.

Careers

You will gain valuable skills for a career within computing and IT in particular but is also relevant for a much wider range of applications such as computer science or wider system engineering.

The unit Research Methodologies and Project Management requires you to work in a team so as to apply a current project management methodology that embraces all of these knowledge areas in an integrated way while going through the stages of planning, execution and project control. You will work as part of a team, take responsibility and make autonomous decisions that impact on the project team performance.

Funding

For information on available funding, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/money/scholarships/pg

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/course/applicationform

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If you want to move into the computing and information systems field, or if computing plays an increasing part in your role, this postgraduate qualification is ideal personal development. It is designed for people who have little or no previous experience or specific qualifications in computing or information technology, though you should have some related experience or skills that you wish to build upon.

We place emphasis on the effective use, design and development of software for information systems. You will become skilled in programming and learn how to design and implement information systems.

Our graduates have relevant, up-to-date knowledge, along with the professional and technical skills needed to develop, manage and employ information systems applications in a range of organisations. To enhance your employability, the skills and knowledge gained on this course are directly relevant to industry.

See the website http://courses.southwales.ac.uk/courses/251-msc-computing-and-information-systems

What you will study

You will study the following modules:
- Principles of Computing
- Security Management
- Network Security
- Professional Skills Development
- Advanced Research Methods
- Project Management
- ICT Systems Development
- MSc Project: the development and evaluation of a significant application or task of your choice, related to the course

Learning and teaching methods

The course is delivered in four major blocks that offer an intensive but focused learning pattern, with two entry opportunities for applicants every year – February and September. Full-time students will typically spend 12 hours in classes each week. If you choose to study part-time, this is reduced to around six hours each week. You will also need to work independently on reading, coursework assignments and other computer related activities. .

Work Experience and Employment Prospects

Graduates have a very strong record in gaining employment. You could develop a career as an analyst programmer, database developer, network administrator or in ICT management. To enhance your employability, the skills and knowledge you gain on the course are directly relevant to industry. This MSc is also suitable if you are interested in continued professional development.

Assessment methods

Several modules are assessed entirely through coursework and some involve coursework and an examination. You will also work on a significant research project and major project of your own choice where strong independent thinking, critical analysis and project management skills will be important.

Facilities

We have a full range of high-specification computer labs and an ongoing investment programme to ensure that our facilities stay at the forefront of computing developments.

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The MSc in Computing and Information Technology is a one-year taught programme run by the School of Computer Science. The course consists of two semesters of taught components followed by an 11-week project leading to the submission of a 15,000-word dissertation in August.

Highlights

• The course is designed to be flexible to allow students the freedom to pursue their own interests within computer science.
• The course introduces students to programming skills in a modern software development environment.
• Students undertake a significant project, including a wide-ranging investigation, leading to their dissertation, which enables them to consolidate and extend their specialist knowledge and critical thinking.
• Students have 24-hour access to modern computing laboratories, provisioned with dual-screen PC workstations and group-working facilities.

After the first semester, students may switch to the more general MSc in Information Technology, in which programming modules are not required.

Teaching format

The taught portion of the MSc programme includes eight modules: three compulsory and five optional from a wide range available. Teaching methods include:

• lectures
• seminars
• tutorials
• practical classes.

Class sizes typically range from 10 to 50 students. Most modules are assessed through practical coursework exercises and examinations.

All students are assigned an advisor who meets with them at the start of the year to discuss module choices and who is available to assist with any academic difficulties during the year. A designated member of staff provides close supervision for the MSc project and dissertation.

Modules

The modules in this programme have varying methods of delivery and assessment. For more details of each module, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the latest module catalogue which is for the 2017–2018 academic year; some elements may be subject to change for 2018 entry.

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Graduates who are able to fully exploit the potential of computing and information systems by combining specialist technical skills with other knowledge and experience are highly sought after.
If your first degree contained little or no technical experience, but you’re now looking to change direction or enhance your employability by developing your skills in this area, then this programme (commonly referred to as a ‘conversion course’) is for you.

Guided by academics with a wealth of industrial experience, this is an intensive MSc programme for highly motivated graduates of any discipline with little prior experience of computer science.

Why study your MSc in Computer Science at Queen Mary? We’re in the top percentile of universities in the world (Times Higher Education and QS World University Ranking).

Our research-led approach

Your tuition will be delivered by field leading academics engaged in world class research projects in collaboration with industry, external institutions and research councils.

Our strong links with industry

We have collaborations, partnerships, industrial placement schemes and public engagement programmes with a variety of organisations, including Vodafone, Google, IBM, BT, NASA, BBC and Microsoft

Full-time MSc with Industrial Experience option available on our taught MSc programmes. You have the option to complete over two years, with a year of work experience in industry.

Industrial projects scheme - To support industrial experience development, you can to do your final project in collaboration with an industrial partner.

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Graduates who are able to fully exploit the potential of computing and information systems by combining specialist technical skills with other knowledge and experience are highly sought after.

If your first degree contained little or no technical experience, but you’re now looking to change direction or enhance your employability by developing your skills in this area, then this programme (commonly referred to as a ‘conversion course’) is for you.

Guided by academics with a wealth of industrial experience, this is an intensive MSc programme for highly motivated graduates of any discipline with little prior experience of computer science.

Industrial Experience

The industrial placement currently takes place towards the end of the first year for a maximum of 12 months. It is the student’s responsibility to secure their placement, the school will offer guidance and support in finding and securing the placement but the onus is on the student to secure the job and arrange the details of the placement.

Currently if you are not able to secure a placement by the end of your second semester we will transfer you onto the 1 year FT taught programme without the Industrial Experience, this change would also be applied to any visa if you were here on a student visa.

The industrial placement consists of 8-12 months spent working with an appropriate employer in a role that relates directly to your field of study. The placement is currently undertaken between the taught component and the project. This will provide you with the opportunity to apply the key technical knowledge and skills that you have learnt in your taught modules, and will enable you to gain a better understanding of your own abilities, aptitudes, attitudes and employment potential. The module is only open to students enrolled on a programme of study with integrated placement.

If you do not secure a placement you will be transferred onto the 1 year FT programme.

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This programme is designed for graduates with a good first degree in a relevant area and for those who are already working in the area but would like formal training and up-to-date skills.

This programme has been very successful in providing students with new job opportunities in the computing industry. Typically, our postgraduates find work as business analysts, web designers, system developers or programmers, project managers, or in IT support and training. There is an increasing need in the industry for professionals in all fields to have an in-depth knowledge of modern software tools and the principles of good software engineering. This programme provides a firm foundation in both these areas.

Full time

Year 1

Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

• PG Project (CIS) (60 credits)
• Systems Design and Development (15 credits)
• User Experience Design (15 credits)
• Data Modelling (15 credits)
• Project Management (15 credits)
• Software Tools and Techniques (15 credits)
• Strategic IT (15 credits)
• Essential Professional and Academic Skills for Masters Students
• English Language Support Course (for Postgraduate Students in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Managing IT Security and Risk (15 credits)
• User Centred Web Engineering (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Audit and Security (15 credits)
• Organisational Awareness and Outsourcing (15 credits)

Part time

Year 1

Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

• Systems Design and Development (15 credits)
• Data Modelling (15 credits)
• Project Management (15 credits)
• Strategic IT (15 credits)
• Essential Professional and Academic Skills for Masters Students
• English Language Support Course (for Postgraduate Students in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)

Year 2

Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

• PG Project (CIS) (60 credits)
• User Experience Design (15 credits)
• Software Tools and Techniques (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Managing IT Security and Risk (15 credits)
• Web and Intranet Content Management (15 credits)
• User Centred Web Engineering (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

• Audit and Security (15 credits)
• Organisational Awareness and Outsourcing (15 credits)

Assessment

Students are assessed through examinations, coursework and a project.

Professional recognition

This degree is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS). This programme has the following accreditation: full CITP FL. Your programme can therefore lead to full exemption of the BCS Chartered IT Professional Further Learning (CITP FL) status. The programme also has accreditation from the European Quality Assurance Network for Informatics Education (EQANIE).

Careers

Graduates from this programme can pursue careers as IT managers, IT support and business analysts. Opportunities exist to develop your career working as independent consultants or within teams in diverse areas such as business and IT, internet and e-commerce applications, research, teaching and training.

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About he course

Aberystwyth University’s MA/Diploma in Information and Library Studies will equip you with the highly desirable skills employers need to manage their most valuable assets in our global ‘information economy’. You will be able to identify, organise, retrieve and make accessible information across paper, electronic and multimedia formats. This MA or Diploma will equip you to fulfil the essential role that companies and professional bodies need to compete effectively in a fast-moving national and international business environment. This course features a range of optional modules which allow you to direct your studies into areas which particularly fascinate you.

The MA and Diploma are accredited by both CILIP and the Institute of Information Scientists making it one of the best courses for professional practice.

The Department of Information Studies at Aberystwyth has an impressive track record. In the department’s forty years of teaching, we have produced some of the UK's, and indeed the world's, leading librarians and information professionals. Our alumni include two national librarians (Scotland and former Wales), the first black national librarian in South Africa, and the Director of the Bureau for Library and Information Services at the United Nations.

You can tailor your learning towards a wide range of career paths, such as children and schools work (with the Focus on the Child: Children's Literature and Schools Libraries and Learning Resources modules) and business services (including the modules on Business Information Services, and Management Information Systems).

This highly practical course is built around a variety of reports, essays, presentations, and case studies which will enable you to relate theoretical knowledge to the workplace. These challenges will also encourage you to improve your ICT, personal management and interpersonal skills, making you into a well-rounded, competent and highly employable individual.

This degree will suit you:

• If you wish to obtain a Masters degree or Diploma from one of the UK’s leading departments;
• If you wish to gain the knowledge and skills for professional work within Information and Library fields;
• If you wish to work in various types of information and library services or gain transferable skills for the pursuit of related careers such as media management and book publishing;
• If you wish to continue your studies to a more advanced level through undertaking further postgraduate level research.

Course structure and content

The course curriculum will focus on both theory and practice but you will be actively encouraged to draw upon any relevant experience that you have already acquired. Course visits to relevant organisations and guest lectures, will further enhance your exposure to professional practice.

Semester 1: core modules addressing the information society, the organisation and retrieval of information as well as the provision of information services.

Semester 2: core modules covering both organisational management and the management of collections.

There is also the opportunity to complement these core modules with an optional module which will enable you to develop an area of special interest. In addition to these taught modules, you will also be able to access a series of research training sessions that will help to prepare you for the 15,000 word Masters dissertation in Semester 3.

Semester 3: 15,000 word Masters dissertation

With staff guidance and support, here you will have to the opportunity to conduct a piece of independent research within the information and library field. Not only will this enable you to further develop a specialism, but you will also acquire a range of transferrable research skills that are highly desirable in today’s employment market.

Core modules:

Information Organisation and Retrieval
Information Services: Planning for Delivery
Information and Society
Collection Management
Studies in Management
Dissertation

Optional modules:

Digital Information: Management for Access and Preservation
Rare Books and Special Collections
Records and Information Governance

Contact time

Contact time is 6-10 hours a week during the first two semesters. In semester three you will arrange your level of contact time with your assigned dissertation supervisor.

Assessment

The taught part of the course, which is 120 credits, is delivered and assessed through lectures, student seminars, practical exercises, case studies and course work. Successful completion of 60 credits of taught modules makes you eligible for a Postgraduate Certificate, 120 credits gives eligibility for a CILIP accredited Postgraduate Diploma, or successful completion of your postgraduate dissertation leads to an accredited Master’s degree.

Accreditation

The Masters degree is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) and the Institute of Information Scientists. Graduates will have a qualification which is recognised for admission to the Register of Chartered Librarians (subject to the Institute's chartership regulations).

Employability

Every aspect of the Aberystwyth University’s Masters in Information and Library Studies programme is designed to enhance your employability. Successful completion of this degree is in itself certain to do so by building your CV; but more significant is the hugely enhanced array of knowledge, abilities and skills with which you will graduate.

As a graduate, you will possess a wealth of subject-specific expertise, such as a thorough understanding of how ethical, legal, and social factors affect the flow of information; information literacy and the effect of 'information deprivation'; and the ongoing challenges of organising, storing, and retrieving information. You will also be confident in the use of system and their tools which you will use to order, store and retrieve information. These skills, which are fundamental to the subject, are applicable across a diverse array of workplaces. Likewise, the study skills, research methods and interpersonal awareness that you will learn within the context of study can be applied in any place of work where people and systems meet. In such situations, you will be at a tremendous advantage over your competitors.

As information is increasingly recognised as a core resource for organisations of all kinds, the range of posts to which our graduates progress widens all the time. In addition to the traditional library and information service sector, our graduates also go on to work as Information Officers, Information Managers, Information Systems Officers, Information Analysts and Computer Systems Officers. The most prestigious of our alumni include two national librarians (Scotland and former Wales), the newly appointed first black national librarian in South Africa, and the Director of the Bureau for Library and Information Services at the United Nations. In addition, companies which acknowledge the value of information also benefit from our graduates’ information skills when applied to the areas of management, sales, production or marketing. Your personal adaptability, coupled with the critical information and library skills, will make you a strong candidate for any post where excellence in organisations and systems management is prized.

Study in a practical context

The content of this MA/Diploma is weighted in favour of mastering the practical applications of Information and Library Studies. The University of Aberystwyth boasts library resources which are amongst the best in Europe. The Department’s specialist Thomas Parry Library is one of the leading libraries for Information Studies. As a student, you will have access to this exceptional resource where you can apply your learning in activities which will convert the purely academic theory into the proven know-how of experience.

In addition to this, you will also have access to the University's Hugh Owen Library which houses more than 700,000 volumes and subscribes to more than 3,500 current periodicals. Also, the National Library for Wales next to the campus is one of the UK's five copyright libraries housing more than 6,000,000 volumes. In addition to the University's computing facilities, you will also have access to the Department's own extensive computer workstation rooms, all housed in a purpose built Department on the attractive Llanbadarn campus.

Skills in management of systems and stakeholders

The MA/Diploma is designed to give you a broad knowledge of a range of transferable skills that you can apply in a variety of research interests, particularly in your Masters dissertation. A significant proportion of postgraduate jobs demand management abilities; this course aims to support your progression into professional employment beyond by including such training.

You will become well versed in contemporary management theory and practice of relevance to the management of the relationship between information and organisations. You will learn to analyse and control how information is transmitted to users, including access to information and measurement of use. The monitoring an analysis of data is crucial to the success of business organisations and initiatives. Mastering it will enable you to manage within a changing and turbulent environment and provide you with an understanding of the inter-relationship of the organisation with its customers and stakeholders.

As business relies on meeting needs, this training will be a significant advantage to you when you enter the jobs market.

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