MSc Information Technology

• 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.

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.

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 p
  lanning, 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.

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.