MSc (Information Technology)

The MSc in Information Technology programme consists of a combination of core and specialisation-option modules. Each student has to complete three core modules: Business Data Communication and Networks, Database Design and Implementation for Business, and Information Systems Analysis and Design.

This course consists of specialist pathway modules where a student has to complete two out of the four pathway modules. The Information Technology masters degree also consists of recommended optional modules where a student has to choose one out of the three recommended optional modules. Successful completion of the postgraduate diploma will allow a student to proceed to the MSc Dissertation module, entailing detailed research and critical analysis of a specific project.

Why study MSc Information Technology at UWS London?
Learn from experts

• Our inspiring team and esteemed guest lecturers bring a wealth of knowledge and global experience garnered from their extensive careers in both UK-based enterprises and across international markets.

Immerse yourself in the world’s capital

• Live and study in London; one of the leading cultural, financial and cosmopolitan capitals of the world.

Build your network

• Our alumni network spans across more than 100 nationalities, offering a dynamic platform for connections that can drive your career forward. 

Exceptional career prospects

• London is a global economic hub, which means there are abundant opportunities for professionals with various skill sets and backgrounds. UWS London careers department will help you to navigate the graduate job market during your studies and up to 2 years after you graduate.

Core Modules

Business Data Communication and Networks (20 credits)

• This module covers a wide range of important networking layers, protocols, and concepts such as TCP/IP stack protocols and other operational networking technologies, which contribute effectively to the planning, design, development, acquisition, implementation, management, and evaluation of modern Business Data Communication and Networks. VMWare Virtualisation, Cisco Packet Tracer, Wireshark Packet Analysis and SDN-based experiments on testbeds will be provided on-campus to improve the hands-on practical skills of students.

Database Design and Implementation for Business (20 credits)

• This module covers the essential role of Database Management Systems (DBMS) and aims to provide practical skills in Structure Query Language (SQL), Entity-Relationship (ER) Modelling, and Database Implementation using Microsoft Access. Students will learn the Database Systems Development Lifecycle (DSDL) to design and implement effective database systems.

Information Systems Analysis and Design (20 credits)

• This module is focused on the requirements analysis and system design in the context of IT-based business strategy. The Unified Modelling Language (UML) such as Use Case Diagram, Use Case Descriptions, Class Diagram and Sequence Diagrams will be utilised to collect data, visualise data, communicate systematic behaviour with objects, and construct an overall software system.

Specialist Pathway Modules
Students must complete two of the following pathway modules:

Data Analysis and Visualisation (20 credits)

• To learn principles and concepts of data analysis and visualisation, and explore emerging trends and methodologies associated with such as data analytics and visual data discovery. To develop skills and gain hands-on experience in using Tableau on real-world data exploration, analysis and visualisation.

Data Mining and Business Intelligence (20 credits)

• This module covers contemporary autonomous system operations through two components: Data Mining (DM) and Business Intelligence (BI). DM involves analysing large datasets to discover valuable information using techniques like classification, clustering, association rule mining, and anomaly detection. BI focuses on the techniques and technologies of a Data Management System (DMS) that support business processes and decision-making, covering data warehousing, OLAP, dashboards, and AI-based performance indicators. The module integrates these elements to provide a comprehensive overview of data extraction, AI-driven knowledge, and decision-making, delivered through hands-on projects and case studies for real-world experience.

Information Technology Project Management (20 credits)

• This module offers a comprehensive introduction to project management principles, concepts, and theories with a focus on IT related projects, based on the Association for Project Management (APM) body of knowledge. Topics include project definition, stakeholder management, business strategy, investment appraisal, work breakdown, effort estimation, risk management, network analysis, scheduling, earned value analysis, and organisational behaviour theories.

Enterprise Architecture (20 credits)

• This module emphasises the computing aspects of system architectures, particularly focusing on service-oriented technologies like Service Oriented Architecture (SOA), Model Driven Architecture (MDA), and Web Services (WS), which are crucial for developing enterprise software systems. It covers the design and evolution of system components, their interrelationships, and guiding principles within the SOA framework. The module details the process of transitioning from high-level business architecture to low-level software components, addressing various enterprise viewpoints through models such as business context, process, scenario, semantic information, service interface, SOA implementation, and data security, all essential for building service-oriented systems.

Recommended Optional Modules
Students must complete one recommended option:

IT Strategy and Management (20 credits)

• This module focuses on understanding the role of IT in achieving business objectives, driving innovation, and maintaining competitive advantage. Topics include strategic planning, IT Governance and frameworks such as ITIL and COBIT, IT service management, IT risk management and software development life cycle.

Object Oriented Programming (20 credits)

• This module focuses on building vital object-oriented programming (OOP) skills, essential for employability. OOP aims to make software design and implement object-oriented solutions more intuitive, modular, and easier to maintain by structuring code in a way that mimics real-world interactions. Students will learn to design, implement, test, and debug OOP programs using languages like Python, C#, and Java. By applying OOP principles to solve problems, students will gain confidence in program development, learn to utilise resources effectively, and understand sustainable coding practices.

Work-based Learning (20 credits)

• This module is designed to provide eligible students* with an opportunity to gain experience of undertaking project work at a strategic level within or for an organisation. The project must be selected and arranged by, and agreed with, the client, university and student and supported by a tripartite agreement prior to
• enrolling on this module. The tripartite agreement will define specific learning and practice outcomes for the student and confirm required elements of support and commitment from all parties. Supervision will be provided by a member of academic staff (normally the module coordinator or an appointed supervisor) and, although the work may be carried out for the student’s employer or for an external client and
• involve site visits, the approval and supervision of the project is normally internal to the University

To be eligible to undertake this module, it is expected that a student would already be in the workplace and a tripartite agreement would exist between the company, student, and University prior to enrolment.

Master’s Project

MSc Dissertation (60 credits)

• The Masters project enables students to demonstrate their ability to present rational arguments and independent conclusions based on personal research, aligning with their Programme of Study. Projects addressing real business problems are encouraged, provided they have a clear academic foundation demonstrated through a literature review. For software-related projects, this involves critical evaluation of requirements, assessment of alternative tools and methods, and justification of chosen solutions. Alternatively, projects may focus on evaluating existing tools or techniques, developing assessment criteria, and gathering empirical evidence through testing or user feedback, with arguments justifying the evidence-gathering approach and supporting the drawn conclusions.

Teaching and assessment

• The Msc Information Technology course employs face to face large and small group delivery and activities supported by the use of Aula Virtual Learning Environment. Small group tutorials are favoured as they are key to the development of behavioural and affective competencies. These are the competencies needed by employers, to develop reflective IT practitioners engaging in purposeful activity for the benefit of the business or organisation.

Assessment
Your assessment will take the form of:

• Practical exercises: 60%
• Course work: 40%

Assessment methods employed include:

• Oral presentations
• Written reports
• Course work
• Academic posters
• Laboratory reports
• Log books
• Laboratory exercises
• Essays
• Scientific papers
• Case studies
• Literature reviews
• Research proposals
• Posters
• Viva voces

What is MSc Information Technology all about?

• Our MSc Information Technology will prepare you for a business IT career at an advanced level. Expand your knowledge of the latest technological developments and gain the skills needed to apply effective IT-driven solutions in the world of business.
• This specialist qualification is ideal if you have a degree in a subject other than IT or computing and would like to develop much sought after business-relevant IT knowledge and skills. Our teaching team will equip you with the industry insight and proficiencies you need to launch your career as an IT professional. You will learn how to design and implement high value IT-driven solutions within organisations of all sizes — from SMEs right up to large global firms.
• The programme will examine issues, trends, current practices and technological alternatives in the field of business Information Technology and provides you with up-to-date technological and business skills, and specialist knowledge to help you design and/or implement appropriate, IT-driven solutions in ways that address the needs of modern business organisations.

You will learn how to…

• Develop, introduce and manage IT systems and projects to support business
• Analyse, design, deploy, utilise and manage business-relevant IT-based systems and services.
• Gain a deep understanding of database and network technologies
• Develop key personal skills, such as effective communication with stakeholders
• Apply theory and knowledge to improve organisational efficiencies

Why study Information Technology?

• Technology is an essential part of most modern businesses, giving organisations the tools they need to work better, smarter and more efficiently. Studying information technology at this advanced level opens up an incredible number of career options for graduates, enabling you to enter technology-related roles at a higher level, with a higher salary and greater responsibility.
• An MSc is the perfect next step for graduates from other disciplines looking to move into a career in business IT, or industry professionals looking to boost their career prospects. This programme will equip you with the vital technical knowledge, practical business skills and personal capabilities you need to move seamlessly into the working world of business IT.

Who is this programme for?
Graduates looking for a career in business IT

• Business and technology professionals who desire to equip themselves with fresh technology expertise and business capabilities
• Professionals with relevant experience looking to acquire specialist knowledge to help them design and/or implement appropriate, IT driven solutions in ways that address the needs of modern business organisations
• Upon completion, you would be equipped to seek employment as an IT Consultant, IT Project Manager, IT Systems Developer, e-Business Specialist, and so forth. Our graduates are enjoying careers at companies such as Agrekko, IBM, CAP-Gemini, Amazon, Atos, Adobe Systems, HP, Dell, NHS, Clydesdale Bank and other SMEs.

Where will this programme take me?

• Completing an information technology masters degree can open doors to a range of fulfilling careers in business IT including database development, data analytics and IT project management.
• An M.Sc. in IT equips you with advanced technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of emerging technologies that are very valuable skills to have in the world of technology.
• Our students and graduates rate UWS 90% for overall satisfaction (International Student Barometer 2018/Student Barometer Graduate survey).

What could my future career look like?

• Master of science in information technology management graduates may go on to work as IT consultants, IT systems developers, database developers.

Here are some examples of positions:

• Database Developer: Design, implement, manage, and optimise database systems for storing, organising, and retrieving data effectively to support various applications and organisational needs
• IT Consultant: Provide expert advice and guidance to organisations on selecting, implementing, and optimising appropriate solutions to achieve their business goals and objectives
• Project Management: Oversee the planning, execution, and implementation of IT projects within organisations
• Data Analyst: Analyse large datasets, extract valuable insights, and present findings to inform business decisions and strategies

Where are previous IT graduates now?

• Our alumni have progressed into successful careers at organisations including Agrekko, IBM, CAP-Gemini, Amazon, Atos, Dell and Adobe Systems, as well as many dynamic small and mid-sized businesses.
• If you decide to take your studies further, you have the option to progress to a research degree (MPhil/PhD). Additionally, the IT Academy of the School of Computing offers pathways to go on to learn specific technical skills through programmes with Microsoft, Cisco, Oracle, SAP and others.
• Whichever route you choose and whatever your goal, our team at UWS London are here to support and guide you to success in your business IT career.