Degree type: MSc/PGDip
UCAS Code: Apply directly to the University
Duration: Full time: 1 year / Part time: 2 years
Why choose this course?
This course is designed for graduates in any discipline, who wish to further their professional development by gaining skills and experience in both theoretical and practical areas of information technology. The emphasis is IT applications, with a web bias.
If you've got a degree and want to add advanced IT, web technologies and professional skills to your portfolio this course may be for you. Throughout the course, you will have the opportunity to integrate the knowledge gained in your original subject with IT.
Those exiting the course after successful completion of the taught component (i.e. Postgraduate Diploma) would be eligible for the award of Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) Information Technology.
The course considers varied types of information systems which includes the study of the fundamentals of security, IT and Informatics (working with information). There is also a strong emphasis on Web systems, with focus on aspects of interface design, such as usability and requirements. Web related technology ranging from databases, mobile applications and GIS are considered. You will apply and integrate skills from all modules in a large case study. In addition you will study research methods in preparation for your Masters project. Modules are constantly reviewed to remain up-to-date in the light of industry requirements in this fast-moving subject area.
From June to September concentration is on the Masters project. Projects are either suggested by academic staff or students can devise their own projects. Potential areas of project study include intelligent information systems, human computer interaction, web usability, ethics and cultural issues in e-commerce and other computer systems, systems analysis and design, on-line learning, language aids and many more. Many projects are carried out in collaboration with one of the University's Research Centres.
How you learn
In the taught phase you will learn through group work, discussion, practical workshops, guided reading and lectures, and use a variety of online materials. Realistic case studies are used throughout. You will focus on practical skills in lab workshops, for example, database and web application implementation. The number of classes is deliberately kept low (no more than about 12 hours per week) to give you sufficient time for personal study and exploration, and discussion with fellow students. When you start the Masters phase, you will already have completed a research proposal. Throughout your Masters project, you will have weekly group meetings and regular contact with two supervisors, one for general issues such as project management and one specialist.
How you are assessed
Various assessment methods are used as appropriate, and include portfolios, coursework, mini research projects, presentations and prototypes, and some class tests. The Masters stage is assessed via a dissertation.
Applicants should normally have a minimum of a lower second class Honours degree in any degree specialism, and be IT literate to ECDL/ICDL level.
Overseas/EU
All applicants are required to provide certified proof of competence in English Language and the University's minimum requirements are listed here
What our students say
"After completing this course, I found a job that lets me use my undergraduate skills and knowledge in Marketing and my newly acquired Web Development skills."
Lynn, Web Developer, University of Dundee
"Study on MSc Information Technology allowed me to learn more about a range of IT and Web topics that complemented my studies in Tourism."
Zhang, China
Your future
There are many varied opportunities for PGDip and MSc graduates in the IT industry. Job titles vary, but typically our graduates find employment as IT managers, IT trainers, applications designers and web developers. If your first degree is not in computing or IT, this degree will help to enhance your career opportunities in your original subject area, both through your additional IT knowledge, and by enhancing your transferable skills. Finally, the MSc could also be a stepping stone to PhD study.
Download the course leaflet
MSc Information Technology - New
| Fee Category | September 2012 Fees |
Scholarships & Bursaries |
| Scottish and other EU students |
£3,400 |
Other forms of support |
| English, Welsh and Northern Irish students |
£7,000 |
Bursaries & Scholarships |
| Overseas (non EU) students |
£9,975 |
Overseas Scholarships |
Fee quoted is the total cost providing that the MSc follows on immediately after the PG Dip element and is completed within the same academic year as started. Fees may be subject to increase.
