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Postgraduate MSc
Information and Technology
Gain the specialist global IT skills to succeed in your preferred area of industry. You’ll tailor this course to fit your career interests.
Course Overview
-
L27 -
Headingley Campus Beckett Park -
Full-Time -
12 Months -
16 Sep 2024
This BCS accredited master’s course is designed to help fill the current digital skills gap. You’ll gain the specialist IT skillset required to succeed in industry anywhere in the world.
You can study MSc Information & Technology by individual programme of study (IPOS), or choose one of the four following pathways:
- MSc Information & Technology (Software Engineering)
- MSc Information & Technology (Network Systems)
- MSc Information & Technology (Information Technology Management)
- MSc Information & Technology (Smart Computing)
As part of this course, you’ll:
- Learn to address complex IT issues systematically and creatively
- Make informed judgements in the absence of complete data, then implement and communicate your conclusions to specialist and non-specialist audiences
- Enhance your ability to evaluate and apply advanced theories and techniques to a range of situations
Tailor your study
You’ll be able to customise your learning by selecting from a wide range of option modules. Your module choice will steer the course towards your own interests or develop specific skills.
Hands-on learning
This course will help you develop sophisticated critical thinking skills and self-direction as you address problems similar to those faced in industry. We take a hands-on teaching approach in most modules, allowing you to apply specialist skills in various contexts.
Industry expertise
Across all pathways, our industry contacts and research expertise will ensure your learning will be current and highly relevant to the sector.
You’ll be encouraged to engage with our external partners throughout your dissertation to refine your knowledge and enhance your professional networks.
We also invite guest lecturers to visit and speak, and you’ll have the opportunity to get involved with industry related events.
Why study Information & Technology at Leeds Beckett University...
- Professional placement option – work with a partner organisation or on an industry project
- Study designed around you – choose from a range of specialist pathways and option modules to tailor your learning
- Professional expertise – you’ll be taught by an expert teaching team and have access to industry contacts through guest lectures and project work
Can the information technology sector be more sustainable? Dr Ah-Lian Kor, who teaches on our computing courses at Leeds Beckett University, talks about why making IT more sustainable relies on raising awareness and challenging our own habits to show corporations it’s something their customers care about.
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
Applicants should either have at least a second class honours degree in the cognate subject of Computing, at least a second class honours degree in a non-cognate subject supported by evidence of an aptitude for the subject applied for, or have equivalent experience or training, normally from within the work environment.
All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion.
All applicants should satisfy our University English language requirements.
Entry requirements
Applicants should either have at least a second class honours degree in the cognate subject of Computing, at least a second class honours degree in a non-cognate subject supported by evidence of an aptitude for the subject applied for, or have equivalent experience or training, normally from within the work environment.
All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion.
All applicants should satisfy our University English language requirements.
IELTS
IELTS 6.5 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Teaching & Learning
What you'll learn
Develop an awareness of the methods and skills required to carry out master's-level research successfully. You'll reflect critically on your own development in the context of your chosen programme of study. Your final product or dissertation must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of your field of study and a critical awareness of issues at the forefront of our discipline. It should build on your existing skillset and demonstrate a degree of originality in the application of your knowledge.
You'll carry out an in-depth research project in a subject of particular interest to you, which will be discussed in a formal dissertation and viva. You'll need to demonstrate sustained independent study through an advanced, coherent and original project. You'll think critically about philosophical issues and debates, and apply appropriate methodologies in pursuit of a clear and coherent set of objectives. This will include a rigorous appreciation of the strengths and limitations of the approach you've chosen. You'll also provide a substantial account of the academic, ethical and technical issues you encounter in your research. You'll critically evaluate the evidence you collect as part of the research process and reflect upon the relationship between evidence of different types and/or from different sources to give a balanced set of conclusions. Your finished piece of work will be accessible to an academic audience and, if relevant, to a professional audience.
Develop your knowledge so you can initiate, plan, execute, manage and sign off a project. We'll focus on appropriate methodologies, standards, legislation and the nine core knowledge areas associated with project management. You'll be challenged during your learning and assessments to relate to your own experiences and/or organisations.
What you'll learn
Study current trends in the development of digitalisation and globalisation, and the impact these developments have on social, organisational and commercial activities and institutions.
Develop an awareness of the methods and skills required to carry out master's-level research successfully. You'll reflect critically on your own development in the context of your chosen programme of study. Your final product or dissertation must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of your field of study and a critical awareness of issues at the forefront of our discipline. It should build on your existing skillset and demonstrate a degree of originality in the application of your knowledge.
Evaluate different types of database systems, database managing systems and approaches, techniques and tools. Particular emphasis will be placed on critique of current practices and emerging trends in the area of databases, data and information management.
Develop your knowledge so you can initiate, plan, execute, manage and sign off a project. We'll focus on appropriate methodologies, standards, legislation and the nine core knowledge areas associated with project management. You'll be challenged during your learning and assessments to relate to your own experiences and/or organisations.
You'll carry out an in-depth research project in a subject of particular interest to you, which will be discussed in a formal dissertation and viva. You'll need to demonstrate sustained independent study through an advanced, coherent and original project. You'll think critically about philosophical issues and debates, and apply appropriate methodologies in pursuit of a clear and coherent set of objectives. This will include a rigorous appreciation of the strengths and limitations of the approach you've chosen. You'll also provide a substantial account of the academic, ethical and technical issues you encounter in your research. You'll critically evaluate the evidence you collect as part of the research process and reflect upon the relationship between evidence of different types and/or from different sources to give a balanced set of conclusions. Your finished piece of work will be accessible to an academic audience and, if relevant, to a professional audience.
What you'll learn
Gain an understanding of the tools and techniques used by modern network managers to collect management data, look for faults on the network and to identify diagnostic procedures that are on par with industry standards.
Develop an awareness of the methods and skills required to carry out master's-level research successfully. You'll reflect critically on your own development in the context of your chosen programme of study. Your final product or dissertation must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of your field of study and a critical awareness of issues at the forefront of our discipline. It should build on your existing skillset and demonstrate a degree of originality in the application of your knowledge.
Study advanced concepts in networking technologies and gain an understanding of quality of service in converged networks. You’ll also cover concepts of Software Defined Networks (SDN) and Network Function Virtualisation (NVF).
Develop your knowledge so you can initiate, plan, execute, manage and sign off a project. We'll focus on appropriate methodologies, standards, legislation and the nine core knowledge areas associated with project management. You'll be challenged during your learning and assessments to relate to your own experiences and/or organisations.
You'll carry out an in-depth research project in a subject of particular interest to you, which will be discussed in a formal dissertation and viva. You'll need to demonstrate sustained independent study through an advanced, coherent and original project. You'll think critically about philosophical issues and debates, and apply appropriate methodologies in pursuit of a clear and coherent set of objectives. This will include a rigorous appreciation of the strengths and limitations of the approach you've chosen. You'll also provide a substantial account of the academic, ethical and technical issues you encounter in your research. You'll critically evaluate the evidence you collect as part of the research process and reflect upon the relationship between evidence of different types and/or from different sources to give a balanced set of conclusions. Your finished piece of work will be accessible to an academic audience and, if relevant, to a professional audience.
What you'll learn
Gain an in-depth understanding of the IoT paradigm and how smart devices can be designed and deployed for a connected world. You'll learn how to program automation features in devices such as wearable technologies, and home-automation technologies.
Examine how to build cloud services and the technologies required to provide these to client-side systems. You'll identify well established protocols that are used to communicate with server-side software. You'll also consider aspects such as security and n-tier systems.
Evaluate how modelling and simulation of industrial systems can increase productivity and reduce response time to market demands.
Develop an awareness of the methods and skills required to carry out master's-level research successfully. You'll reflect critically on your own development in the context of your chosen programme of study. Your final product or dissertation must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of your field of study and a critical awareness of issues at the forefront of our discipline. It should build on your existing skillset and demonstrate a degree of originality in the application of your knowledge.
Develop your knowledge so you can initiate, plan, execute, manage and sign off a project. We'll focus on appropriate methodologies, standards, legislation and the nine core knowledge areas associated with project management. You'll be challenged during your learning and assessments to relate to your own experiences and/or organisations.
An introduction to intelligent systems and robotics, you will learn about fundamental principles and approaches for intelligent systems, autonomous behaviour, sensing and control, through the practical example of a simple robotic device (Delta Robot).
You'll carry out an in-depth research project in a subject of particular interest to you, which will be discussed in a formal dissertation and viva. You'll need to demonstrate sustained independent study through an advanced, coherent and original project. You'll think critically about philosophical issues and debates, and apply appropriate methodologies in pursuit of a clear and coherent set of objectives. This will include a rigorous appreciation of the strengths and limitations of the approach you've chosen. You'll also provide a substantial account of the academic, ethical and technical issues you encounter in your research. You'll critically evaluate the evidence you collect as part of the research process and reflect upon the relationship between evidence of different types and/or from different sources to give a balanced set of conclusions. Your finished piece of work will be accessible to an academic audience and, if relevant, to a professional audience.
What you'll learn
This module will introduce you to the new paradigm of service computing. You will cover a unique set of principles that are used to create software which is designed as units of services. You will gain a range of software development, service design and implementation skills.
Develop an awareness of the methods and skills required to carry out master's-level research successfully. You'll reflect critically on your own development in the context of your chosen programme of study. Your final product or dissertation must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of your field of study and a critical awareness of issues at the forefront of our discipline. It should build on your existing skillset and demonstrate a degree of originality in the application of your knowledge.
Focus on software processes and methods on Service Oriented Architectures, service patterns, web services, and their underlying technology based around XML and WSDL.
Develop your knowledge so you can initiate, plan, execute, manage and sign off a project. We'll focus on appropriate methodologies, standards, legislation and the nine core knowledge areas associated with project management. You'll be challenged during your learning and assessments to relate to your own experiences and/or organisations.
You'll carry out an in-depth research project in a subject of particular interest to you, which will be discussed in a formal dissertation and viva. You'll need to demonstrate sustained independent study through an advanced, coherent and original project. You'll think critically about philosophical issues and debates, and apply appropriate methodologies in pursuit of a clear and coherent set of objectives. This will include a rigorous appreciation of the strengths and limitations of the approach you've chosen. You'll also provide a substantial account of the academic, ethical and technical issues you encounter in your research. You'll critically evaluate the evidence you collect as part of the research process and reflect upon the relationship between evidence of different types and/or from different sources to give a balanced set of conclusions. Your finished piece of work will be accessible to an academic audience and, if relevant, to a professional audience.
What you'll learn
This module will introduce you to the new paradigm of service computing. You will cover a unique set of principles that are used to create software which is designed as units of services. You will gain a range of software development, service design and implementation skills.
Examine how to build cloud services and the technologies required to provide these to client-side systems. You'll identify well established protocols that are used to communicate with server-side software. You'll also consider aspects such as security and n-tier systems.
Gain an in-depth, systematic and critical understanding of the current research on business intelligence and issues concerning data analysis and knowledge discovery. You will explore techniques for data analysis and data representation tools from both a theoretical and practical perspective.
Analyse how organisations respond to rapidly changing markets, and unknown or changing product requirements. You will examine how the philosophy of lean product development can increase agility and better use of resources.
Study current trends in the development of digitalisation and globalisation, and the impact these developments have on social, organisational and commercial activities and institutions.
Evaluate how modelling and simulation of industrial systems can increase productivity and reduce response time to market demands.
Gain an understanding of the tools and techniques used by modern network managers to collect management data, look for faults on the network and to identify diagnostic procedures that are on par with industry standards.
Explore the ways in which information management practices need to encompass insights into the technical, organisational and social aspects of the contexts in which information systems operate.
Evaluate different types of database systems, database managing systems and approaches, techniques and tools. Particular emphasis will be placed on critique of current practices and emerging trends in the area of databases, data and information management.
This module will introduce digital security. You'll explore the varying security mechanisms that can be applied, discover the steps a hacker undertakes, and gain a practical experience of the steps.
Study the latest developments to machine learning techniques within artificial intelligence and data mining. You’ll examine how these developments could be applied to various settings, such as smart cities, health, business and manufacturing.
An introduction to intelligent systems and robotics, you will learn about fundamental principles and approaches for intelligent systems, autonomous behaviour, sensing and control, through the practical example of a simple robotic device (Delta Robot).
This module covers environmental issues such as recyclable material selection, design for minimum power used in process, minimum material required (FEA), design for manufacture and assembly.
Gain an understanding of the techniques involved in systems programming. You will look at various approaches to design and programming modern day computer systems at a very intricate level.
Take an in-depth look at the Service-Oriented Architecture model and, more specifically, at its recent development: Microservices. You'll develop theoretical knowledge of software design and gain practical experience with implementation tools and techniques valued in industry. These could include dependency management, dependency injection, object-relational mapping, RESTful APIs and containers.
This course offers the opportunity to take a ‘sandwich’ year – a year of paid employment in industry which will build your skills and experience. This is usually taken between the second and third year of your degree, typically making your course four years in total.
Students who choose the sandwich route find it helps with both their studies and getting a job after graduation. It can build your confidence, contacts, and of course your CV. Leeds Beckett advertise lots of placement opportunities and provide support in helping you find the right placement for you.
Fees & Funding hellooo
£9,900
UK
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £9900. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
Sandwich Year
There is a placement option on this course and the cost for this for students entering in 2024/25 will be £1980.
£17,500
International 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £17500. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Sandwich Year
There is a placement option on this course and the cost for this for students entering in 2024/25 will be £3500.Fees & Funding
£9,900
For students entering in 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £9900. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
Sandwich Year
There is a placement option on this course and the cost for this for students entering in 2024/25 will be £1980.Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
£17,500
For students entering in 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £17500. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Sandwich Year
There is a placement option on this course and the cost for this for students entering in 2024/25 will be £3500.Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
Moving on up
Leeds Beckett climbs 40 places in the Complete University Guide 2024
Your future in our hands
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
Career Prospects
As well as giving you the up-to-date knowledge and skills which are in demand in this sector and beyond, our links to industry will enhance your career networks. Our dedicated Employability Team will also be on hand to offer advice on your career path. You can look forward to a wide range of career opportunities around the world in internet and enterprise software development, as well as information systems.
- Cloud developer
- Software/systems developer
- Network manager
- Information systems manager
- IT project manager
- Database developer
Beckett Careers Team
Our careers service is not just there for undergraduates, we support our postgraduate taught and research students too.
Your postgraduate degree will boost your CV and help you stand out from the crowd. Whether you're just starting out on your chosen career path, changing careers or moving to the next level, we can provide you with expert advice and resources to help you take the next steps to achieving your goals.
Your Beckett experience
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
Experience Leeds Beckett
Our state-of-the-art facilities and learning environments give you everything you need to succeed – whether that’s completing your current studies or joining our cutting-edge research teams.
Life in Leeds
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