Computing and IT
MSc

If applying for the May 2023 intake:
Application deadline is 19 April and term starts 30 May, so apply now.

Information Technology (IT) is at the heart of modern-day business. Emerging technological areas like big data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, edge computing, Internet of Things (IoT) and advances in the development of smart devices with widespread access to the Internet, are making demands for professionals who can recognise opportunities to build IT solutions in new and creative ways to help businesses be ahead of the curve with their technology and processes.

On this MSc Computing and Information Technology, you will study how technologies impact society and the environment whilst learning about the ethical issues that impact on making decisions as a Computing and IT professional. You will develop your understanding of a wide range of technologies and business intelligence tools within an operational and tactical context applicable to modern day enterprise software.

The course is designed to provide a global context benefitting graduates across the world, and industry professionals from a range of backgrounds including IT, engineering, business and management, delivering key transferable skills to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving technological landscape and future-proofing your career.

A cutting-edge, globally oriented curriculum based on real-world learning

Throughout this course, you will gain a holistic view of Computing and IT, exploring the subject in a global context and across professional disciplines. You will be required to work in environments that embrace an awareness of cultural issues, exploring the global context and impact on the design, implementation and evaluation of enterprise computing systems. Your learning will be enriched by an international and multi-disciplinary cohort, all sharing experiences, local practices and cultures.

Choose from an exciting range of optional modules at the forefront of Computing

The programme has been designed to align with the British Computing Society’s (BCS) core competencies with us working towards BCS accreditation. You will study a forward-thinking curriculum which has been designed to encompass hot topics in Technology. Future proof your knowledge and tailor this course to your professional interests and choose from an exciting range of modules including Cyber Security and IoT, Software Systems Engineering, Emerging Technologies and Research Methods and Information Visualisation.

Manage large scale IT orientated projects in a global context

Throughout this course you will learn about organisational, managerial and professional issues in preparation for large scale and enterprise-wide IT projects. You will develop the ability to analyse, plan and streamline business processes and evaluate the human and technology factors that are required to successfully develop and apply these systems in the industries around the world.

Defend against cyber-attacks and fraudulent activity

Cyber security is of crucial importance to all legitimate users of the Internet - from government and commerce through to private users and particularly for IoT users. However, the level, scale and profundity of cyber-attacks and fraudulent activity continue to increase.

As a result, there is a vital and continuous need for organisations to adapt and enhance security in order to keep ahead of ever more sophisticated forms of attack. During this Masters programme, you will learn to verify the effectiveness of security arrangements, to identify weaknesses (which are always present) and to determine the value gained from financial investment in cyber defence.

Build your continued professional development (CPD)

We’ve designed our modules, all at level 7, to be studied as part of this Masters award, or they can be completed as a short standalone course. Delivered over a 10-week term, you’ll study with the Masters course cohort and achieve a Certificate of Credit on successful completion of the module. So, if you are looking to build your CPD and are not yet ready to commit to a full Masters course, then a 20 credit module is an ideal alternative to support your professional development.

Work towards a British Computing Society (BCS) Membership

After successfully achieving the MSc award, in conjunction with professional development planning (PDP) records that satisfy the BCS (British Computing Society), you will be able to apply for membership of the BCS. Upon completion of a satisfactory post-award industrial experience, you may become eligible for Chartered Information Technology Professional (CITP) status.

We will advise you of your study plan - the running order and availability of the modules - when you are invited to enrol.

The Masters (MSc) award is achieved by completing six 20 credit modules (four core and two optional modules). In addition, there is the final 60 credit research project that spans over three trimesters, during which you will undertake an in-depth independent study.

Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.

Teaching and learning

Modules within this course will be delivered by expert academics who are practising professionals too. This ensures that module content remains up-to-date and highly relevant and brings through pertinent examples from the business world which are current and topical. You will learn of new technological developments including programming languages and development tools to help you further your skill set. We have also worked with current students on the programme to develop aspects of the course they feel are important, making sure our content is relevant and up-to-date.

We have worked closely with our contacts to bring you a series of guest lectures from leading researchers in Computing and acclaimed professionals who will share their knowledge of the computing landscape.

All learning resources will be delivered entirely online through our user-friendly student portal dashboard and intuitive digital learning environment. You will interact with your tutors and fellow students through a mix of virtual live classrooms, tutorials and guest lectures. Group discussions and debate are held through forums and community spaces and the use of collaborative tools such as wikis for group projects and assignments. Digital texts, ebooks, journals, databases and more are available electronically via our library.

Study skills

Many of our students are mature learners who may have not studied academically for a number of years. To help you to become an effective student, able to study at postgraduate level, there are a number of advanced study skill resources available to you covering areas such as research skills, critical evaluation in academic context, literature search, referencing, plagiarism and so on.

Pace of study

The academic year is made up of three 10-week terms, known as trimesters. During the term times, we recommend around 20 hours of study per week to complete one 20-credit module for the standard study plan.

If you opt to undertake the accelerated study plan whereby you will study two modules in one trimester, we recommend 40 hours of study per week.

Should you decide to study on the accelerated rate you should ensure that you have the capacity to fully engage with your studies and achieve the best grades and final award. If you choose to study on the accelerated rate, you will need to balance approximately 40 hours of study per week alongside your professional and personal life and commitments.

It may be useful to consider studying one module at the standard rate of study before deciding whether to then increase to the accelerated rate of study.

Assessment method

This course is assessed entirely through coursework. You will undertake formative and summative assessments to demonstrate that you have met the module and programme learning outcomes.

You will take part in collaborative group work. This will help expand your thinking and give you the opportunity to share your knowledge and experiences with others on your course.

Formative assessment opportunities will be available throughout your modules to provide structured learning and feedback. This may be gained through feedback such as self-assessment, peer review, or feedback directly from your tutor.

More formal summative assessments which count towards your grades such as, research projects, business reports, case study analysis, collaborative group work and reflective reports will develop your skills and knowledge at Masters level.

The final assessment on the MSc is the independent study, a triple module worth 60 credits. This can be a research project, software development project applied to a workplace, or a combination of both.

Student support and guidance

Whilst we encourage our students to become independent, life-long learners, we also recognise that offering the right support and guidance will help you to achieve your goals. There is a wealth of support available to you at the University, from your dedicated Personal Tutor and Online Learner Advisor, through to our:

• Library
• Health and Wellbeing Centre
• Careers and Employability Service
• IT Support
• Union of Students

All these services, and more, are available to you as an online student at the University of Derby.

Get a taste of the course content

Our Computing and IT MSc course taster will give you an idea of how online learning works. It includes a selection of content from a course module so you can see some of the learning material.

You will need to complete a short form to access the course taster.

You should normally have a UK undergraduate degree (at least a 2:2) with honours in any discipline, or an equivalent international qualification.

Applicants with a degree in a non-computing discipline or a lower degree classification in a computing related discipline may still be considered for entry to the programme where they can demonstrate relevant work experience in a management or supervisory position, and followed by an interview to demonstrate effective communication, learning skills and the motivation to succeed on the programme. However, applications may also be considered where there is extensive evidence of key practical experience and work-based training.

Where required, interviews will be conducted by the Academic Lead and may be undertaken by telephone or other suitable methods. After the interview, depending on applicants’ profile, you may be offered admission with a level 7 access module after the interview.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) 

RPL may be available for you based upon past study and experience.

English language qualification

If English is not your first language, or you have not successfully completed your highest level of qualification in English, you will need an English language qualification. For this course you will need at least one of the following:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System) 6.5
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) 580 (paper based) 237 (computer based) or 92 (internet based)
• Pearson Test of Academic English: 51
• Cambridge Advanced Certificate: pass
• London Tests of English: we accept level 5 for postgraduate courses
• International GCE O-level English Language: grade C
• International GCSE English/English as a Second Language: grade C

Find out more about our English language requirements

^‡2022/23 for new entrants

Starting between September 2022 and August 2023.

2023/24 for new entrants

Starting between September 2023 and August 2024.

About your fees

This figure would be the total cost of this course in the current academic year. However, please note that fees normally increase in line with inflation and the University's strategic approach to fees, which is reviewed on an annual basis. The total fee you pay may therefore increase if your course lasts longer than one year.

However, please also note that you can receive a 5% discount if you either:

• Pay your full course fees upfront, or
• When enrolling in September, pay for all of your modules to be studied in that academic year upfront

Flexible payment plans available

Choose from three payment plan options:

• Pay monthly and only for the modules you are studying

• Pay your full course fees upfront, receive 5% discount and avoid annual increases

• Pay for all modules studied in the year and receive a 5% discount (September enrolment only)

Masters funding options

Depending on where you are from in the UK or EU, and on your pace of study, you may be eligible for a postgraduate student loan. Accessible through Student Finance, this is a non-income based loan to help with living costs and tuition fees whilst studying your masters programme.

Alumni discount for Derby graduates

We offer a discount on postgraduate course fees for all Derby alumni.

Find out more about the Alumni discount

Students should apply directly to the University.

Apply now

For support with completing your application, view our guide to the application process.

Documents to support your application

In order for your application to be assessed, you will need to provide the following documents when you apply:

• Official photo identification such as a passport or driving licence
• Current CV
• Written reference supplied on headed paper from either a manager, supervisor, tutor or teacher
• Copies of certificates and transcripts or a letter of testimony for previous qualifications*

*Documents not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation by a professional translator/translation company. Each translation must contain:

• Confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document
• The date of the translation
• The full name and signature of the translator, or an authorised official of the company
• The translator’s contact details

A list of approved translators can be found on the UK Government website.

Please note: failure to submit any documentation when requested, may result in your application being withdrawn.

Application deadlines

All of our online courses have set start dates throughout the year. We require time to review your application and get back to you with a response before your course starts. Take a look at information regarding applying for an online course to see full details of deadlines and term dates.

Employers’ needs and opinions have been taken into consideration in the design, content and delivery of this course. We have worked closely with a range of local employers through the Advisory Board and the British Computer Society (BCS), as well as ongoing contacts with former students on the programme who are now working in a range of public and private industry sectors.

There is a growing demand for skilled IT professionals around the world. The MSc Computing and IT programme will provide you with a step up in your continued professional development, helping you to demonstrate your employment potential.

Your employment prospects include:

• Working for large international organisations supporting their enterprise-based information systems
• Providing in-house enterprise development support for growing organisations
• Working for consultancy companies providing intelligent data-driven systems
• Providing in-house IT support as:
  • Data Scientist
  • Information Architect
  • Business-Intelligence Specialist
  • Database Administrator
  • Business Systems Analyst/Developer

If you are aiming to continue your research and planning to earn a PhD degree, you can also apply for a PhD either on campus or online with the University of Derby.

Contact us

Contact the University of Derby Online Learning:

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