Entry requirementsGood UK Honours Degree (minimum of a lower second class) or an overseas degree recognised by Aston University, plus two references. International students whose native language is not English and have not completed a full degree programme taught in English, will also need a TOEFL score of 600 (paper based) or 250 (computer based) with a TWE of 4.5 equivalent to 100 (internet-based) with a minimum score of 23 in writing and speaking and 20 in reading and listening OR an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in writing and speaking and 6.0 in reading and listening. Pre-sessional English language programmes are available for good applicants whose English qualification falls just short of these requirements.
Academic titleMaster in Science in Business & IT
Course descriptionThere is a worldwide demand for managers who have both business and IT skills. This course is designed for graduates from any discipline who are reasonably numerate and have a basic understanding of the use of computers. This course is not intended for candidates who have advanced knowledge of IT and are looking for a specialised course in computing/IT.
Outline of programme
This masters programme consists of 12 compulsory modules; five of these are foundation and integrating modules and seven are modules specialising in IT aspects of business.
The Foundation and Integrating modules, which provide a broad introduction to the core aspects of business and management are:
* Accounting for Non Financial Managers
* Marketing Management
* Operations Management
* Organisational Behaviour
* Strategic Management.
The Specialist IT modules are:
* Databases
* Spreadsheets
* Advanced Systems Infrastructure for e-Business
* Developing Business Systems
* IT for the Networked Organisation
* e-Business & Information Systems Research
* Managing Projects.
Complete outlines for all modules are available online. This is backed up by a dissertation which allows students the opportunity for extended application of the knowledge and skills acquired in the taught part of the course.
Assessment
The 12 taught modules are assessed through a mixture of examinations and coursework (details of the assessment criteria for each module is given in its module outline). The taught element of the course is complemented by a substantial piece of research leading to the completion of a dissertation in a student’s particular area of interest.
Career opportunities
The MSc in Business & IT is ideal for those aiming to become successful general managers. It will also benefit those who wish to develop a career within IT management, especially in ‘customer facing’ roles in systems development and management.
Example jobs of recent graduates include:
* Risk Consultant – Deloitte and Touche
* Project Manager – HFC Bank
* Industrial Training & Systems IT – Land Rover.