Management of Information Systems and Digital Innovation (with optional Placement/Project year) MSc

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Course Summary

Employers are actively seeking managers who possess the ability to leverage emerging digital advancements. Our postgraduate course in Management of Information Systems and Digital Innovation equips students with advanced knowledge and skills to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of technology-driven business environments.

Through a blend of theoretical foundations and practical applications, you will delve into topics such as business intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies such as Blockchain. With a focus on managerial perspectives, you will learn to harness the power of information systems to drive innovation, enhance organisational performance, and gain a competitive edge in today's digital economy. This course will prepare you for leadership roles in technology management, consulting, and entrepreneurship.

Throughout the course, you'll acquire practical skills and conduct research tasks, with support from our experienced tutors. Emphasis is placed on nurturing critical thinking, analysis, reflection, and honing research and academic writing abilities. Modules are structured around contemporary methodologies and techniques in programme and project management.

You'll benefit from interacting with both your peers and a qualified faculty, who bring extensive qualifications to the table. Given that many of our students possess significant work experience, class discussions and collaborative projects offer valuable networking opportunities and avenues for career exploration.

Interested in the course, but don't have a background in business? No problem! We embrace students from diverse undergraduate disciplines, recognising the richness of perspectives they contribute to our classroom environment.

There is an option to choose a Project/Placement year for this course, at an additional cost.

Switch combined course content

Optional 2-year Master's To Suit Your Needs

Choosing a Professional Placement MSc is a win-win for your career, giving you the chance to get real experience, apply your cutting-edge skills in the workplace and stand out to future employers.

In the first year you will have help from the University to find a placement, whilst developing your expertise. You will then spend your second year out in industry on placement, getting the chance to work with industry professionals and grow your network of industry contacts. Bringing your university-acquired knowledge and insights to industry, you will get to make a difference to the workplace and make lasting links with your employer.

Students need to find and secure their own placement, supported by the University. A preparation module will also help you to get ready for your placement.

Please note, this course is available as a one-year master degree course, or as a Two-Year Master's Course with a Professional Placement or Project. Please carefully consider your options when applying for our one year or Two-year routes as successful international applicants will not be able to change between courses after a Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) letter has been issued or after arriving in the UK.

Education North Awards 2024

What You'll Study

The MSc Management of Information Systems and Digital Innovation course comprises seven modules: six modules worth 20 credits each, along with a 60-credit Research Dissertation module. Successful attainment of 180 credits is necessary to achieve the MSc qualification.

If you choose a placement or project year, the Research Dissertation module will be replaced by a placement or project module.

Modules

This module focuses on equipping students with the knowledge and skills to leverage data analytics and business intelligence in project management. It covers key areas such as data exploration, predictive modelling, decision analytics, and risk assessment, enabling students to make informed, data-driven decisions. Ethical considerations, including data privacy, governance, and quality, are also emphasised. Through a combination of lectures, lab exercises, and real-world projects, students gain hands-on experience in applying analytics tools to business scenarios, preparing them to optimise project outcomes and enhance strategic decision-making in a data-driven world.

This module investigates tools and techniques to extract, transform and load (ETL) data for further analyses or analytical processing (OLAP). Students will be guided step-by-step through the ETL process using Python, API's and SQL to show visualisation and analysis. The module will also discuss the ethical implications of data, data processing, laws and standards. 

The module is about Information Security Management and it will develop the student's understanding of the implications of cybersecurity to today's businesses, how businesses can gain market advantage by leveraging simple and yet robust cybersecurity principles, and the government's cybersecurity strategy for businesses in the UK. As the Cybersecurity programme is designed with conversion students in mind, this module will prepare students with useful cyber skills to lead or easily be part of cybersecurity efforts in their organisations.  The learning content will include:

  • Core security standards (e.g., ISO27001, ISO27032), policies and governance etc.
  • Information Risk Management and Business Continuity Management
  • Audit, Assurance and Review
  • Understanding the threats and risks businesses face today. Illustrative part of how this (or what) might be covered include:
    • Through problem based learning and possible industry collaboration
    • Exploring Social Engineering, the Least Resistance Path, Incident Response, Defence Indepth etc.
  • Government strategy on Cybersecurity

This module aims to develop a critical understanding of programme and project management to enable students to recognise the importance of the discipline in a variety of organisational and functional contexts. Students should develop a critical understanding of the concepts employed in programme and project management at strategic, systems and operational levels, and an appreciation of the knowledge and skills required for successful programme and project management. Theory is constantly grounded in examples and case study exercises. By utilising examples and case studies, both from their own backgrounds and from the literature, the student is guided to an understanding of the benefits, and power, of well-run projects and programmes.

This module explores the principles, applications, and challenges of blockchain in business environments. It covers distributed ledger technology, smart contracts, consensus mechanisms, and decentralized applications, with a focus on real-world use cases in finance, supply chain management, and digital identity authentication. Students will analyse the benefits, risks, and regulatory considerations of blockchain adoption while developing strategies for enterprise implementation. Through lectures, lab exercises, and group projects, students gain hands-on experience in evaluating and applying blockchain solutions. By the end of the module, they will be equipped to integrate blockchain into business and digital innovation strategies.

In this module, students will gain knowledge required for conducting research. This includes: developing research questions, study design, participant sampling, consent, confidentiality, ethical considerations, and data analysis.

The Research Dissertation module is designed to develop students' ability to conduct independent, in-depth research in Management of Information Systems and Digital Innovation. It provides an opportunity to explore a significant research problem, applying theoretical frameworks, data analysis, and critical evaluation to generate new insights. Students will work closely with a supervisor to define research objectives, review relevant literature, design methodologies, and present findings in a structured dissertation. The module emphasizes academic writing, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, preparing students for careers in digital innovation, research, and consultancy, or further academic pursuits such as a PhD.

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.

If chosen, your second year of study will consist of your Project or Professional Placement

MODULES

  • Professional Placement Option
  • Professional Project Option

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.

Who You'll Learn from

Dr Mohammad Samar Ansari

Senior Lecturer
Dr Mohammad Samar Ansari

Dr Sufian Fannoun

Senior Lecturer
Dr Sufian Fannoun

Dr Toyosi Oyinloye

Deputy Head
Toyosi Oyinloye

Ashley Wood

Lecturer
Ashley Wood

Paul Underhill

Lecturer
Paul Underhill

How You'll Learn

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Instruction will primarily occur through in-person interactions

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Assessment is by written assignment

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This course is designed around in-person study

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There may be some online learning activities

We facilitate the development of learning outcomes and enhance student learning experiences through various teaching methods:

Lectures and workshops serve as the primary channels for delivering academic content, often adapting to suit specific topics with a hybrid approach. These sessions include a blend of student and teacher-led activities such as demonstrations, case studies, discussions, and individual or group exercises in design and implementation.

Guided independent study and literature review are integral components across all modules, emphasising research methods and dissertation preparation while also being integrated into subject-specific coursework.

Coursework assignments, tailored to the subject matter, require students to seek additional information to demonstrate their understanding. Various forms such as portfolios, essays, literature reviews, and technical reports are utilised to foster critical thinking and research skills, with some modules employing coursework as the primary assessment method.

The Research Dissertation, under individual supervision, challenges students to work independently, develop comprehensive knowledge in their chosen subject area, and make original contributions to the field.

Formative assessments, including diagnostic, in-class, and online tests, serve as monitoring tools for student progress without contributing to final module marks. They also provide opportunities for feedback and skill development in oral presentations during tutorials and workshops.

Entry Requirements

2:2honours degree

Applicants will normally be expected to have a first degree (2:2 honours minimum).

2:2honours degree

Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study. To help you to interpret these equivalents, please click on your country of residence to see the corresponding entry qualifications, along with information about your local representatives, events, information and contacts.

We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also take into account appropriate work experience.

English Language Requirements

For more information on our English Language requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.

Where You'll Study Exton Park and Queen's Park

The location

Exton Park is close to the city centre of Chester and the Queen's Park Bridge is your scenic five-minute route into the historic centre, a city like no other and an amazing place to live as a student. Chester is also a bustling 21st-century city balancing big-name shopping, eating and living with a thriving independent scene.

Home of Chester Business School

Queen's Park is your multi-million pound Business School in the heart of the city.

An exterior photo of the front of Queen's Park in Chester

A corporate learning hub

With links to key employers and entrepreneurial opportunities to help you get the future you want.

A tutor standing in front of a computer, desk and wall screen, giving a lecture in classroom.

Modern learning resources and library

We have dedicated resources and IT services across campus, with an extensive selection of books, e-books and e-journals. At Queens Park we have a dedicated business library with, laptop loan and open access computers. At Exton Park we have 24-hour access computer labs and a comfortable two-floor study zone, suitable for independent and group study.

Seaborne library, seating and reception area.

Get connected

As well as ensuring industry-relevant degree courses, our many business partners offer experiential learning, networking, and industrial placements, all helping you to get connected for your future.

Student Services

Queen’s Park and Exton Park have all the support you need from Careers and Employability to Student Support and Study Skills.

Chapel, chaplaincy and multi-faith spaces

Built in 1847 by former students, the University Chapel offers regular services and a venue to services. The University of Chester also has multi-faith spaces across the campus for prayer or quiet reflection.

Accommodation

Most of our student accommodation is located either on or near Exton Park.

Fees and Funding

£8,775for a full-time course (2025/26)

Guides to the fees for students who wish to commence postgraduate courses are available to view on our Postgraduate Taught Programmes Fees page. Here you will also find information about part-time fees and project/placement year fees.

The professional placement/project year will cost an additional £2,750, due at the start of the second year of the course.

£15,000for a full-time course (2025/26)

The tuition fees for international students studying Postgraduate programmes in 2025/26 are £15,000.

Please note: For MSc programmes where a placement or project year is undertaken there will be an additional charge of £2,750 for the placement/project year (due at the start of the second year of the course).

The University of Chester offers generous international and merit-based scholarships for postgraduate study, providing a significant reduction to the published headline tuition fee. You will automatically be considered for these scholarships when your application is reviewed, and any award given will be stated on your offer letter.

For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.

Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees. 

Your Future Career

Job Prospects

Graduates from the MSc Management Information Systems and Digital Innovation programme can explore a variety of employment opportunities in the following areas:

  • IT Consultant: Provide expertise to organisations on how to use information technology to meet their business objectives.
  • Data Analyst/Scientist: Analyse and interpret complex data to help businesses make informed decisions.
  • Systems Analyst: Evaluate and design information systems to enhance organisational efficiency.
  • IT Project Manager: Oversee the planning and execution of IT projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
  • Cybersecurity Analyst: Protect organisations from cyber threats by implementing security measures and monitoring for potential risks.
  • Business Intelligence Analyst: Use data analysis tools to provide valuable insights into business performance and support decision-making.
  • Digital Innovation Specialist: Explore and implement innovative digital solutions to enhance business processes and strategies.
  • Technology Consultant: Advise businesses on how to leverage technology for strategic growth and competitive advantage.
  • Database Administrator: Manage and maintain databases to ensure efficient storage and retrieval of information.
  • Digital Marketing Analyst: Utilise digital channels and analytics to develop and implement effective marketing strategies.
  • Enterprise Solutions Architect: Design and implement complex IT systems that align with an organisation's overall business strategy.
  • Innovation Strategist: Devise and implement strategies to foster innovation within organisations, leveraging digital technologies.

These opportunities showcase the diverse career paths available for graduates with expertise in Management Information Systems and Digital Innovation. The specific roles may vary based on the individual's interests, specialisation, and the evolving needs of the industry.

Careers Service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.

We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.

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