A student using a computer in the Catalyst building.

MSc Information Security and IT Management

Gain in-depth skills and knowledge of information security and IT management, based on professional standards and certifications, on a programme accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.

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    Overview

    Course Length: 12-18 Months Full-Time, 2-3 Years Part-Time
    Start Dates: September 2020, January 2021, September 2021, January 2022
    Subjects: Computing and IT
    Location: Edge Hill University

    Please note, there is an intake to the 12-month full-time route each September and 18-month full-time route each January. The part-time route takes 2-3 years to complete and typically has intakes in both September and January.

    Information Technology is a strategic resource within any business and is critical to the survival and success of an organisation and should therefore be carefully managed. A key issue in IT strategy is Information Security, which is becoming more critical with the interconnection of systems through the Internet and the sharing of resources with business partners, clients and customers.

    This Master’s degree is aimed at current or prospective system managers, system administrators and other IT professionals with a responsibility or aspiration for strategic IT and security management.

    You will gain an understanding of current issues in information security and IT management, together with an in-depth knowledge of a variety of techniques for strategically managing IT, both as a resource as well as for analysing and controlling security risks. A key aspect of the programme is the systemic perspective that is taken; security is not simply a technical issue, but a component of the wider context of IT management.

    Student and Alumni Profiles

    • Catherine O'Keeffe

      Catherine O'Keeffe

      MSc Information Security and IT Management
      I feel so lucky to have undertaken this MSc – not only have I become a better IT manager, I also have the ability to further develop my department and organisation.
       View full profile
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    In Depth

    What will I study?

    You will study security from two perspectives: the concepts of computer and network security, together with a systemic approach to information security management. The programme of study is informed by ISO27000 legal compliance requirements and professional body knowledge requirements of ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association), ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) and the Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2. The study of computer forensics enables further specialisation.

    IT Management is approached from a strategic and risk-based perspective, and includes business continuity and project management. A recent technology development that could have radical impact in both security and IT management is cloud computing, and the course provides an option to enable you to develop a sound understanding of the related issues and technology. Professional, ethical and contemporary issues in computing and research methods are also integrated into the programme.

    How will I study?

    The course is delivered primarily as taught modules. Each module typically involves a 3-hour face-to-face seminar every week for 12 weeks. You will study three modules each semester on the full-time programme, requiring attendance two days per week. For part-time students, modules are scheduled to enable evening study over two years.

    Learning and teaching involves a variety of techniques, including lectures, case studies, problem-based learning, guest lectures from industry experts, student-led seminars and technology-enhanced learning (e.g. Virtual Learning Environment, wiki). Classes are highly interactive, with practical application of concepts a key factor, as well as cases drawn from real-life. The MSc Information Security and IT Management is designed around small groups so you can be sure that you will have plenty of individual discussion with your tutors.

    How will I be assessed?

    Throughout the programme we will assess your vocational capability, academic critical thinking and intellectual development. Coursework, case studies, problem-solving exercises and exams may be used. You may be assessed individually or in a group.

    Who will be teaching me?

    You will be taught by highly qualified, experienced and enthusiastic academics who are research-active and regularly engage within the wider business and academic environment. Staff specialise in particular subjects so you will benefit from a wide range of knowledge and experience.

    A Great Study Environment

    Two students with rucksacks walk in front of the Tech Hub.The Department of Computer Science is based in the state-of-the-art £13m Technology Hub. This purpose-built development offers highly contemporary suites of outstanding facilities for Computer Science students.

    Our modern computer laboratories are equipped with high-specification computers, high-resolution screens and the latest hardware and software.

    A four-screen CAVE (Computer Augmented Virtual Environment) provides a super immersive 3D virtual environment, enabling users to immerse themselves in a virtual room and experience real life scenarios in 4K resolution.

    There are also specialist laboratories for networking and games programming, in addition to a specialist research laboratory, open access laboratory, a Harvard style lecture theatre, and ‘The Hatchery’, a working space for new business ideas.

    Learning resources include robots and a robotics simulator, wired and wireless networking hardware, graphics software, web development tools, software development environments, big data servers, eye trackers, giant 3D interactive teaching screens, and other specialist software required for studying forensics and internet security techniques.

    The department has strong links with industry and the curriculum is kept current and highly relevant through input from our Employer Advisory Panel.

    Modules

    Expand All

    CIS4114Research and Development Project (60 credits)

    Research and Development Project provides experience of designing and executing a substantial project in a limited time, based on a project plan, employing practical skills, problem solving and underpinned by relevant research. You will apply and extend skills and knowledge learned in taught modules and demonstrate your competency to construct and complete a coherent project as a Computing professional.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    CIS4115Research Methods (20 credits)

    Research Methods provides you with the knowledge and skills to develop a proposal for, and subsequently undertake, a research project at Masters level. You will engage with the essential considerations when analysing a problem and designing a solution. The module will also immerse you in data collection from the user, literature reviews, interface designs and project planning. On successful completion, you will have a well-formed proposal suitable for Masters level study.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    CIS4116Emerging Technologies (20 credits)

    Emerging Technologies equips you with an advanced understanding of emerging technology and develops the appropriate skills to critically evaluate their suitability, impact and applicability to new scenarios. The module also strengthens your ability to identify and analyse ethical issues related to the use of new technology for both development and research purposes, including an overview of the professional and legal constraints within which computing specialists operate.


    Assessment: Coursework: 80%, Practical(s): 20%.

    CIS4121Computer Forensics (20 credits)

    Computer Forensics involves the examining and analysing of data retrieved from various computer storage mediums, the results of which can then be used as evidence in a court of law. The module provides a firm foundation in the developing field of information retrieval, enabling you to develop an understanding of the theory and practice of computer forensics. You will develop the skills and knowledge required to undertake a forensic computing investigation in a systematic manner, utilising a variety of methods, tools and techniques.


    Assessment: Coursework: 60%, Written Exam(s): 40%.

    CIS4124Information Security Management (20 credits)

    Information Security Management outlines the process by which information assets are assessed in order to determine the threats and corresponding risks to those assets. The module also encompasses the methods required for controlling those risks, provides a systemic view of the process and encompasses legal compliance issues.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    CIS4125IT Strategy and Management (20 credits)

    IT Strategy and Management develops your understanding of the multidimensional problems associated with the introduction of technological innovations and the ongoing management of systems and services within both the public and private sector. You will gain awareness of how to manage the pre and post systems acquisition process, gain an understanding of the security and compliance needs of the modern business organisation, and explore theoretical and practical perspectives relevant to the introduction of technological innovation.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    CIS4126Project Management (20 credits)

    Project Management provides an in-depth understanding of what project management involves. The module will equip you with an awareness that projects have to be managed effectively if they are to succeed and that project management is a complex activity and demands a professional approach. Emphasis is placed on the importance of project planning, monitoring and control in the management of large scale projects. The module not only explores the techniques which can be applied, and the tools which can be used, but also the ‘softer’ human factors which must be taken into account in managing large project teams such as people management and team leadership.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    Timetables

    You can expect to receive your timetable at enrolment. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day or evening of the week. Postgraduate Computing courses are typically taught between 6pm-9pm on weekday evenings.

    Disclaimer

    Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information, however our programmes are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may necessitate alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses.

    Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of accrediting bodies, revisions to subject benchmarks statements, to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.

    Entry Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    You should have a degree equivalent to UK first-class or second-class honours (2:2 or above), comprising 50% or more of content in a computing discipline.

    Equivalent knowledge gained in alternative ways, for example through professional experience or completion of BCS Professional Diploma in IT (Level 6), is also accepted.

    English Language Requirements

    International students require IELTS 6.5, with a score no lower than 6.0 in each individual component, or an equivalent English language qualification.

    If your current level of English is half a band lower, either overall or in one or two elements, you may want to consider our Pre-Sessional English course.

    Recognition of Prior Learning

    Edge Hill University recognises learning gained elsewhere, whether through academic credit and qualifications acquired from other relevant courses of study or through recognition of an individual’s professional and employment experience (also referred to as ‘experiential learning’). This may include credit or learning undertaken at another university.

    Previous learning that is recognised in this way may be used towards meeting the entry requirements for a programme and/or for exemption from part of a programme. It is your responsibility to make a claim for recognition of prior learning. For guidance, please consult the University’s academic regulations (sections C7 and F3.1) or contact the faculty in which you are interested in studying.

    Career Prospects

    What are my career prospects?

    The MSc in Information Security and IT Management will provide you with the skills and knowledge to develop your interests as an IT security professional and IT manager. As organisations become ever more dependent on IT, there are increasing opportunities for specialist positions related to security. The course provides knowledge and skills which underpin Information Systems Security Certification Consortium or (ISC)2 and ISACA certifications.

    Finance

    Tuition Fees

    Tuition fees for full-time study on this MSc are:

    • £5,400 for UK and EU students and £13,250 for international students enrolling on the programme in academic year 2020/21;
    • £5,580 for UK and EU students and £13,500 for international students enrolling on the programme in academic year 2021/22.

    Tuition fees for part-time study on this MSc are:

    • £30 per credit for UK and EU students enrolling on the programme in academic year 2020/21, i.e. £600 per 20 credit module;
    • £31 per credit for UK and EU students enrolling on the programme in academic year 2021/22, i.e. £620 per 20 credit module.

    180 credits are required to complete a Masters degree.

    The University may administer a small inflationary rise in part-time postgraduate tuition fees in subsequent academic years as you progress through the course.

    Financial Support

    For comprehensive information about the financial support available to eligible UK and EU students joining postgraduate courses at Edge Hill University in academic year 2020/21, together with details of how to apply for potential funding, please view our Money Matters 2020/21 guide at www.edgehill.ac.uk/postgradfinance2020.

    Financial support information for international students can be found at www.edgehill.ac.uk/international/fees.

    Apply

    How to Apply

    There is an online application process for this programme.

    Please choose the application form for your preferred intake date and mode of study.

    Visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/applydirect for more information about the application process.

    Visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/applydirect to access the relevant online application form and to find out more about the application process.

    Further information for international students about how to apply is available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/applyinternational.

    Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us and formally enrol as a student, you will be subject to the provisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions and policies which apply to our students. These are available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.

    Visit Us

    If you are considering applying to study at Edge Hill University, the best way to gain an insight into student life is to discover our stunning campus for yourself by attending an open day. You can view dates and book your place at www.edgehill.ac.uk/opendays.

    Alternatively, if you are unable to attend an open day, you can find out more about all of our events for prospective students, including monthly campus tours, at www.edgehill.ac.uk/visitus.

    Request a Prospectus

    If you would like to explore our full range of taught Masters degrees, MBA awards and our Masters by Research (MRes) degree before you apply, you can order a postgraduate prospectus at www.edgehill.ac.uk/postgradprospectus.

    Get in Touch

    If you have any questions about this programme or what it’s like to study at Edge Hill University, please contact:

    If you would like to talk to the programme leader about the course in more detail, please contact:

    International students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international or email international@edgehill.ac.uk with any queries about overseas study.

    Course Changes

    Expand All This page outlines any material changes to course content, programme structure, assessment methods, entry criteria, and modes of study or delivery, implemented in the past two years.