Information Technology (MSc)

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

Highlights

• The course is flexible and offers students a wide choice of modules covering many aspects of information technology, including key business practices. It complements the more specialised MSc programme in Computing and Information Technology.
• 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.

Teaching format

The taught portion of the MSc programme includes eight modules: one compulsory and seven optional from a wide range available. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical classes. Most modules are assessed through practical coursework exercises and examinations. Class sizes typically range from 10 to 50 students. 

All students will be required to complete a Post Entry Language Assessment (PELA) on arrival at the University of St Andrews. Based on their performance in this assessment, students will be advised to attend targeted support sessions during the year to improve language and academic skills. This assessment is required, but will not count towards the final degree classification.

You will also be assigned an advisor who meets with you at the start of the year to discuss module choices and 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.

Conferences and events

The School of Computer Science organises a regular programme of colloquia, talks and seminars by external and internal speakers from both industry and academia. The talks are aimed at bringing the diversity, excitement and impact of computer science from around the globe to staff and students within the School.

The St Andrews Computing Society (STACS) regularly organises hackathons and other events open to local and external participants, including MSc students. These are very popular events, often supported by industrial sponsors.

The Computer Science blog regularly publishes news and events.

Careers

Alumni of Computer Science MSc programmes have gone on to work in a variety of global, commercial, financial and research institutions, including:

• Amadeus
• Amazon
• Atlas
• Avaloq
• Barclays Capital
• BP
• BT Openreach
• Capricorn Ventis
• FactSet
• Hailo
• Hewlett Packard
• Hitachi Data Systems
• Microsoft
• OpenBet
• Rockstar
• Royal Bank of Scotland
• Sky
• Skyscanner
• Symantec
• TriSystems.

The Careers Centre offers one-to-one advice to all students on a taught postgraduate course and offers a programme of events to assist students in building their employability skills.

Visit the Information Technology (MSc) page on the University of St Andrews website for more details!