MSc Information Systems

Why Surrey?
Surrey’s Information Systems MSc programme has a long-standing tradition of producing highly skilled experts who will assume responsibility for the planning, design and implementation of IT systems. Our programme will equip you with professional skills that would allow you to work as an IT consulter/manager, system architect/analyst, or software developer in any industry field that heavily relies on software and information technology.

The distinctive character of our Information Systems MSc is that the programme is suitable for students who wish to start a career in the IT sector without having a prior degree in computer science, as well as for students who have studied computer science and wish to expand their knowledge and acquire further skills across a broader range of computer science topics.

Programme overview
The structure of Information Systems MSc programme is summarised in the following table. The programme consists of six compulsory (C) modules, each focusing on an aspect of the planning or design of information systems, including development of mobile and cloud applications and databases.

You choose the remaining two modules from three optional (O) modules in Semester 1. These optional modules emphasise information management, security, and analysis. All management and business-oriented modules are taught in-house and are tailored specifically to address topics that are relevant to IT management.

Prospective students with a preference towards a more technical flavour of programme would be advised to select the Information and Network Security as one of their options.

In your final MSc dissertation projects you will further be able to individually apply your knowledge of learned concepts and techniques, or conduct original research work on the design, development and management of information systems and technologies.

Module overview

Compulsory modules:

- Information Systems Development
- HTML5 and CSS3 for Mobile Applications
- Database Systems
- Cloud Computing
- Project Management and Business Strategy
- Information Security for Business and Government

Optional modules:

- Information Security Management
- Information and Network Security
- Practical Business Analytics

(Please note that these modules are subject to change. Check with Admissions for the latest details of modules offered.)

Dissertation project
The MSc dissertation project makes up one third of the degree programme, starting towards the end of the first semester and completing at the end of the summer. During the project, you are supervised by a member of academic staff to advise and guide you to completion. At the end of the project, you must submit your bound dissertation, which forms a complete record of the project.

The project focuses in depth on a subject at the leading edge of computing. For example, projects can undertake the development of a software system to solve a particular problem, possibly in collaboration with an industrial partner.

Alternatively, projects can be research-based, in which case an aspect of computing is investigated, perhaps to evaluate particular techniques or propose a new algorithm. These projects are usually closely linked to the Department’s research strengths.

Whatever the topic, you are expected to develop a critical understanding of the methods and technologies needed, then implement and evaluate your chosen solution to a professional standard. Project planning and time management is an important part of the experience.

Teaching and assessment
Taught Masters programmes in the Department of Computing utilise our research-active staff in conjunction with state-of-the-art facilities. We provide a range of learning experiences, including lectures, tutorials, directed study, practical laboratories and project work, which prepare graduates for their professional life. Students of the MSc Information Security programme will have access to a modern Applied Security Lab that features modern computer infrastructure that can support a variety of security-related experiments and research activities.

We are particularly keen to develop, in all our students, a broad range of generic skills to complement the core technical or scientific competencies of their chosen subject area. Our modular programme format, coupled with the increasing use of innovative teaching and learning strategies involving e-learning, provides a flexible study environment whilst maintaining academic rigour and quality.

What our students say
Why not read about the experiences of our past and present students, including Andy Smith, George Kapetanios and Arati Gurung?

Entry requirements
Candidates should have a first degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or the international equivalent. They should have obtained the degree at 2.2 level or higher. In exceptional circumstances, work experience may also be considered if the candidate has achieved less than a 2.2 in their first degree.

How to apply
For more information on the course and how to apply please visit the course website.

General enquiries:
+44 (0)1483 681 681

Admissions enquiries:
+44 (0)1483 682 222
admissions@surrey.ac.uk