Anglia Ruskin University
Qualification
On successful completion of the programme you will be awarded an MSc Information Systems (Systems Security).
Awarding Body Anglia Ruskin University Course Description
The programme is designed to enable you to achieve a Master of Science degree in Information Systems (Systems Security) by undertaking a rigorous study of current theories, techniques and issues and acquiring the practical skills that are essential within the rapidly changing environment so that you can pursue a related career or further relevant academic study.
The Systems Security route takes a more in depth look at issues relating to the threats to information systems and the methods of protecting and mitigating these threats. Mode
Online distance learning Course Content (Modules)
1. Information Systems Strategy and Development
This module will give you an understanding of the various strategies involved in the creation of Information Systems and how the various strategies relate to each other. The strategies that will be considered are: Business Strategy, Information Strategy, Data Management Strategy, Software Strategy, Information Systems Development Strategy. The module will cover what is required in each of these strategies and how they need to integrate together to support the achievement of the Business objectives. The module will also cover the key methodologies that are used in information systems development and will
cover the advantages and disadvantages of the different methodologies.
2. Current Issues in Networking
This module, which aims to deal with selected, leading edge topics in networking and data communications, is intended to develop in depth and critical analysis of research issues relating to network technologies and applications.
The module presents various research topics within networking, showing the issues that these topics face and the current position of research in these areas. It is expected that the actual topics covered will change as research develops, issues are addressed and new problems arise. The focus is on leading edge research and as such the main source for material is published journals and conference papers from credible academic sources.
3. Information Systems Security
The module aims to provide a systematic understanding and core theoretical
background necessary for ensuring security of information systems. It also provides practical experience of auditing information systems for adequate information security based on industry specific standard ISO 27001:2005. The module introduces the techniques for identifying, assessing, managing, and monitoring of information security risks and basis for the critical analysis of information security policy. It also aims to create security awareness and contribute to the development of academic skills through study program. You will be encouraged to engage with state of the art security technologies, security incidents/case study, discussions, peer reviewed academic publications as evidenced by formal referencing of credible sources, and to develop critical analysis of current and emerging technologies.
4. Research Paradigms
This module will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to critically evaluate the use of evidence in computing and digital media, to do research and generate your own evidence-based material to justify your professional practice.
The module takes a broad view of research, considering what is meant by research, different approaches, scientific method, the concept of developing knowledge and how new knowledge is disseminated.
You will be expected to undertake a significant amount of individual study including searching relevant credible academic sources and critically evaluating these sources and the materials published therein. You are also expected to develop your own project ideas, either from your own work experience or from consultations with academic tutors on the programme. The module is therefore largely driven by you, as you are expected to initiate and manage communications with tutors as required to explore possible dissertation topics.
5. Managing Client Focused Projects
This module is designed to enable you to gain an understanding of all the key elements of managing a project which is to be delivered to a client. The module covers the key areas involved in an information systems development of project management, teamwork, consultancy and application design and development. As information systems development consists of teams, the model will cover team formation, team building and effectiveness of teams. The role of internal and external consultants on a project will be also discussed, as well as the importance of application design and development.
6. Dissertation
This module will enable you to undertake a major piece of individual study in the field of computing or computer applications. Projects will be drawn from commercial, industrial or research based problem areas involving you in researching and investigating aspects of applied computing, then producing a major deliverable. The original research and the project process will be fully reported in the dissertation.
The dissertation must focus on an area of information systems that is covered in the taught phase of the programme. The nature of the research undertaken is not constrained. You may engage in applied research by addressing a problem or issue that is based on your work or other experience or you may engage in a
Online distance learning
Computing and Media faculty
theoretical study of some aspect of information systems. You will have initially presented the topic to be researched in the Research Paradigms module.
Assessment
You will complete a range of assessments, including case study based assignments and a dissertation.
Duration of Programme
This course is expected to be completed within 2.5 years. However, our online distance learning students have flexibility in setting their own pace of study, which means that the course can be completed in a minimum period of 1 year.
Entry Requirements
• Relevant first degree from an approved university equivalent to a UK second class honours.
• English language ability equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.5, where the medium of undergraduate study was not English.
• Candidates without a first degree will be eligible for entry if they can demonstrate at least two years relevant work experience at a supervisory level.
What’s Included
RDI’s virtual learning environment ilearn is used to deliver all resources for this course including:
• Study materials - Access electronic copies of your learning materials and important information, such as assessment instructions, whenever and wherever you are.
• Tutor support - Tutors use live chats and forums to stimulate discussions, request input and highlight external sources.
• External resources - Links to external sources can include key journal articles, your university’s online library, sites of topical interest, etc.
• Discussion with other students - Forums allow students to come together, share thoughts and ideas and you can initiate topics that you want to discuss with your fellow students.
Workload
We recommend an average of 18 hours study time per week for this programme.
Exemptions
Exemptions may be granted in respect of other qualifications subject to the University’s APCL regulations. It is not intended to provide exemption via APEL.
How to Apply
In addition to a completed application form:
• A personal statement.
• Original or certified copies of your degree certificate and transcripts.
• One professional work reference (covering a five year period).
• Copy of your CV detailing your work history (covering the last five years).
• For applicants whose first language is not English, you will need to provide proof of English language ability (IELTS or TOEFL).
Visit our website: www.rdi.co.uk/apply Email [email protected]
Contact us today on FREEphone 0800 COURSES / 0800 268 7737