School of Engineering, Design and Technology Programme/course title: MSc Information Technology Management Awarding and teaching institution: University of Bradford MSc Final award: Programme title: Programme accredited by: Duration: Date produced: Last updated : [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications Level 7] Information Technology Management 1 year full time - September (semester 1) and January (Semester 2) starts, 2 years part-time March 2002 July 2012 Introduction In today’s information-based economy, understanding and managing organisational information systems is crucial to the productivity, competiveness and hence survival of businesses and organisations. The MSc Information Technology Management degree programme will enable you to gain the technical skills and critical knowledge needed for careers and IT leadership roles in industry, business, government and education. The degree programme is designed for applicants from a range of disciplines, who want to develop, broaden and deepen their knowledge and understanding of information technology systems and related key technical, organizational and managerial issues. You will study a number of core subjects that cover e-business technologies, web server management, risk management, knowledge management, business intelligence, and research methodologies. In addition, you can choose optional modules that match your specific interests. These include Six Sigma, Project Planning, Mobile applications, advanced networks and security, privacy, and data protection. The programme of study culminates in a dissertation which is an independent piece of research with guidance from a supervisor. Throughout the programme there is emphasis on ethical and sustainability issues of information management in real-life organisations. The MSc Information Technology Management is located in the School of Engineering, Design, and Technology (EDT). The school offers a lively and stimulating learning environment and has currently twelve separate MSc degree programmes and over 200 postgraduate and research students. Depending on their selection of modules, students on the MSc Information Technology Management will also benefit from studying in the School of Management, ranked amongst the world’s top business schools, and in the School of Computing, Informatics and Media which has the oldest computing department in the UK. With reference to teaching and learning, the School aims to produce postgraduates who aspire to challenging careers in industry, commerce and the public sector or to developing their own enterprises. Postgraduates will be able to move directly into responsible roles in employment with a minimum of additional training. These aims are achieved by Providing a supportive, structured environment in which students are encouraged to develop independent learning skills; Developing subject knowledge and understanding, developing discipline skills and developing personal transferable skills, to enable graduates to pursue programmes of further study, or to move directly into responsible employment. Programme Aims The MSc Information Technology Management programme is intended to: 1. Provide students with the advanced theoretical knowledge, concepts and skills necessary for original thought and problem analysis in the management of Information Systems. 2. Provide the knowledge and technical skills that enables students to design, develop and manage Business Information Systems. 3. Provide students with the academic and technical skills necessary to carry out independent research in the design, implementation or management of IT, and to develop sustainable personal learning. 4. Develop personal transferable skills and attributes including report writing, online discussion, presentation, project management and research skills. Programme Learning Outcomes When you have completed the programme you will be able to: 1. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the concepts, principles and theories underpinning the management of strategic knowledge and sustainable information technologies in organisations. 2. Critically appraise business intelligence tools and their role in gathering and analysing detailed business information. 3. Engage in critical analysis of the characteristics of web client, server and linked database technologies. 4. Demonstrate understanding of advanced Internet, mobile technologies, business software, networks and protocols and apply advanced methods in the high-level security, privacy, legal and organisational impact of trading over the Internet. 5. Critically evaluate the principles and practices of risk management and appraise the conditions for its successful implementation 6. Acquire skills to deal with the complex issues involved in effectively implementing electronic systems in business whilst identifying and minimising the security risks 7. Demonstrate a systematic understanding and knowledge of strategic management, particularly in the light of major contemporary debates such as those focused on business stakeholders, business ethics, corporate social responsibility, and sustainable development. 8. Take a holistic approach in solving problems and designing systems, applying professional judgements to balance risks, cost, benefits, safety, reliability and environmental impact. 9. Develop research skills for further detailed investigation, of complex non-routine problems, demonstrate critical thinking; evaluate and integrate scientific, technological and business/managerial information from a variety of sources, The curriculum The course structure is shown in the table below. The MSc Information Technology Management covers a range of specialist topics, leading to the qualification of a Master's degree. Typically, a taught full-time Master's course lasts for twelve months of full-time study. The course has two stages: the taught courses stage which takes place during the first two semesters (or four semesters for the part-time route), and the project/dissertation stage. The taught courses stage is organised on a modular basis. Students who successfully complete the taught modules are eligible for the PGDip Information Technology Management. Students proceeding onto the Masters level undertake a project which the student has to agree with the supervisor. Module code Credits Level Semester Module title Core/Option ENG4053D ENG4089M CM-1052D ENG4100M ENG3048M MAN0208M ENG4003M 20 10 20 10 10 10 10 M M M M 3 3 M 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 C O O O O1 O C ENG4019M 10 M 2 ENG4072M 10 M 2 ENG4065M 10 M 2 ENG4108M 10 M 2 MAN4317M 10 M 2 ENG3049M 10 3 2 ENG3011M 10 3 2 ENG4013Z 60 M 3 Web and Server Management Supply Chain Management Security, Privacy, and Data Protection Mobile Applications Technologies Six Sigma for Business Excellence Understanding Strategic Management E-Commerce Technologies Research Seminar Series. Risk Management Knowledge Management & Business Intelligence Advanced Networking Protocols Information Systems Planning for Sustainability Reliability Engineering Corporate Strategy and Engineering Management MSc Project C C1 C1 O O O O C Notes to the Curricula 1. Students are able to choose option modules (O1), except where these have already been taken as part of a previous University of Bradford undergraduate programme. In this event, the Director of Studies will identify an appropriate substitute module(s). Teaching and Assessment Strategies Teaching involves a combination of formal lectures, seminars, group discussion board, directed reading, and guest lectures by practising professionals. In general, the programme aims to integrate applied and theoretical knowledge with assessment processes that test both knowledge of the disciplines as well as their application and limitations. Practical programming skills are developed in computer laboratory sessions. For every 10 credits on the course, you will be required to commit 100 hours of study. Some of these hours will be formally timetabled - lectures, seminars, tutorials and computer programming workshops – and others will involve you in carrying out private study. Methods of assessment are similarly varied and progress will be assessed using a mix of formal examinations, presentations and seminar papers, reports, essays, coursework assignments, and software projects. The appropriate method is chosen so that you may demonstrate the particular learning outcomes of each module. In addition to 120 credits of taught modules, candidates for the Masters award will be expected to complete a 60 credit project/dissertation, which will be overseen by an individual supervisor. The School is committed to Education for Sustainable Development and endeavours to integrate ESD wherever possible into the curriculum, and you are free to explore ethical and environmental issues in your project work, should you wish to. Assessment Regulations This Programme conforms to the standard University Assessment Regulations for Postgraduate Programmes which are available at the following link: http://www.brad.ac.uk/admin/acsec/QA_Hbk/Ord_5_PG_Taught_Awards.html Admission requirements Applicants are expected to hold a good honours degree in a related subject. However, the academic discipline of your first degree is less important, as the course is designed for graduates from a wide range of backgrounds. Personal motivation and the commitment to succeed are seen as key attributes in the admissions process and the School treats each application on an individual basis. Consideration of your application will be based on a combination of your formal academic qualifications and other relevant experience Mature applicants with educational qualifications other than an Honours degree will be considered on an individual basis. Candidates applying to the course with non-standard qualifications will be judged on an individual basis using the University’s APEL procedures. The University of Bradford has always welcomed applications from disabled students, and these will be considered on the same academic grounds as are applied to all applicants. If you have some form of disability you may wish to contact the programme leader before you apply. English Language Requirements All students must satisfy the English language requirements for admission as described in http://www.brad.ac.uk/international/before-you-apply/english-language-requirements/. A test of written and spoken English normally needs to have been passed at grade 6.0 for IELTS or 550 for TOEFL (or 220 for the computer-based test) Learning Resources The JB Priestley Library on the city campus and our specialist libraries in the School of Health Studies and the School of Management provide a wide range of printed and electronic resources to support your studies. We offer quiet study space if you want to work on your own, and group study areas for the times when you need to discuss work with fellow students. Subject librarians for each School provide training sessions and individual guidance in finding the information you need for your assignment, and will help you organise your references properly. Student PC clusters can be found in all our libraries and elsewhere on the campus. Many of these are open 24/7. You can also use the University's wireless network to access the internet from your own laptop. Most of our online journals are available on the internet (both on and off campus), and you can also access your University email account, personal information and course-related materials this way. Staff are on hand during the daytime to help you if you get stuck, and there is a 24/7 IT helpline available. Within the School of Engineering, Design, and Technology, we have extensive equipment available for our students which include high-spec PC with a range of specialist software, laboratories, and workshops. We make extensive use of the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (Blackboard) which provides ready access to learning materials at all times whether on or off campus. Student Support and Guidance Support for you personally and in your course of study, will be provided both by the University and the Course Team. You will be allocated an MSc project supervisor, who also acts in the capacity of a Personal Tutor and is someone with whom you will be able to talk to about any academic or personal concerns. However, all members of staff are approachable and usually have arrangements to provide accessibility to students. The School has a system of handbooks, tutors and formal staff-student liaison committees so that issues are rapidly dealt with. The University provides important facilities such as extended access to Library and Computing services, counselling and welfare services, careers advice and a Disabilities Office. The latter routinely arranges dyslexia assessments and appropriate additional time allocation for sitting examinations The School has a Women’s Engineering Society named FAIRER (Females Actively Involved in Rewarding Engineering Roles). It provides a social network support to all students in Engineering, Design & Technology from Foundation Year to Postgraduate The Hub, Student Support Centre The Hub, Student Support Centre provides a central reception where students can receive information, advice and guidance on a whole range of topics about their life at University. The Hub is located in the Richmond Building adjacent to the Atrium. The teams located within The Hub: Accommodation Admissions o Education Liaison o Enquiries Student Administration and Support o Bursaries and Financial Support o Finance and Credit Control Group o Payzone o Records and Tuition Fees International Office Customer Service Team Website: www.brad.ac.uk/hub Telephone: +44 1274 232233 Students’ Union We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students’ Union, through a system of course representatives and formal staff student liaison committees, so that any issues you wish to raise are addressed rapidly. The Students’ Union and the University of Bradford work in partnership to provide confidential counselling and welfare services where you can get help with any aspect of your personal or academic life. Student Financial and Information Services (part of the Hub) will provide you with information about a diverse range of issues such as council tax, personal safety and tourist information. International Students can access a range of additional advice and support services through the Student’s Union. Careers and Employability The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability and this is an integral part of many programmes. Specialist support is available throughout the course from Career Development Services including help to find part-time work while studying, placements, vacation work and graduate vacancies. Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the extensive resources on the web site www.careers.brad.ac.uk. Discussing options with specialist advisers helps to clarify plans through exploring options and refining skills of job-hunting. In most of programmes there is direct input by Career Development Advisers into the curriculum or through specially arranged workshops. The specific provision on this programme is to prepare students for employment as information technology managers with the knowledge and skills to make effective contribution to the development and implementation of an organisation’s information systems, electronic commerce and Internet technologies. Learner Development Unit The Learner Development Unit provides support in all aspects of academic, maths, numeracy and interpersonal skills. A programme of interactive workshops is delivered during both semesters which complement the individual support available from Advisers and the wide range of interactive online materials. Disability Disabled students will find a supportive environment at Bradford where we are committed to ensuring that all aspects of student life are accessible to everyone. The Disability Service can help by providing equipment and advice to help you get the most out of your time at Bradford and is a place where you can discuss any concerns you may have about adjustments that you may need, whether these relate to study, personal care or other issues. For more information contact the Disability Service by phoning: 01274 233739 or via email: disabilities@bradford.ac.uk University policies and initiatives Ecoversity Ecoversity is a strategic project of the University which aims to embed the principles of sustainable development into our decision-making, learning and teaching, research activities campus operations and lives of our staff and students. We do not claim to be a beacon for sustainable development but we aspire to become a leading University in this area. The facilities we create for teaching and learning, including teaching spaces, laboratories, IT labs and social spaces, will increasingly reflect our commitments to sustainable development. Staff and student participation in this initiative is crucial to its success and its inclusion in the programme specification is a clear signal that it is at the forefront of our thinking in programme development, delivery, monitoring and review. For more details see www.bradford.ac.uk/ecoversity/ Further Information: For further information, please check the University prospectus or contact Admissions. The Postgraduate Admissions Office School of Engineering, Design & Technology The Admissions Office The University of Bradford The University of Bradford Chesham Building (room B2.) Richmond Road Richmond Road Bradford, BD7 1DP Bradford, BD7 1DP UK +44 (0)1274 233054 UK +44 (0)1274 234543 http://www.brad.ac.uk/courses/ http://www.edt.brad.ac.uk/home/ Disclaimer The contents of this programme specification may change, subject to the University's regulations and course approval, monitoring and review procedures.
