Master of Science - Information Systems (Professional Placement)

This course examines the design, development and management of information systems. Students will study how information is used in organisations to improve value chains and decision making, in an environment of high-tech innovation, knowledge engineering and business intelligence. Students will be trained to recognise and welcome change in the business and information environment created by social, economic, political and technical developments. Input from industry professionals and the Big Data group will give concrete and practical context to the studies. Students will acquire Agile qualifications as they develop skills for managing large and small IT projects.

The Course content is informed by an industrial advisory board, ensuring what students learn will meet the demands of business and industry. Students will be able to tailor their studies to suit their career, industry background or the requirements of their organisation. The project/dissertation, through which they will study an area of interest in depth, can be an excellent selling point when they seek a job or promotion.

Kingston University allow students to take the option of a 12-month work placement as part of their course. The responsibility for finding the work placement is with the student; the University cannot guarantee the placement, just the opportunity to undertake it. Students may find securing a professional placement difficult as they are highly competitive and challenging, but they are also incredibly rewarding. It is very important for students to prepare and apply themselves if this is the route they wish to take. Employers look for great written and oral communication skills and an excellent CV/portfolio. As the work placement is an assessed part of the course, it is covered by a student's Student Route visa.

The British Computer Society (BCS) accredits this course. This means that students can gain some exemption against BCS professional examinations, leading to Chartered membership and CEng, IEng or CSci status. Graduates' careers include data analyst, business analyst, project manager, IT consultant, entrepreneur and related information systems roles, such as in digital marketing, software development and testing.