About this course
This UK master’s degree in digital strategy and information systems will teach you methods to process business knowledge and use information systems. These skills are in demand to help organisations improve their business and reach their operational goals. MSc Digital Strategy and Information Systems explores recent trends and topics, taught by leaders in the field.
Applications for 2022 entry to this course are now closed to all international applicants. View our available courses.
To be competitive in today's digital economy, businesses need to develop a digital strategy. A digital strategy can help organisations manage a range of information systems, organisational resources and analytics capabilities to:
- tap into new sources of data, such as ‘big data’
- produce new insights about their customers or business processes
- design processes and platforms that allow them to share this knowledge among employees
Information systems are the technology-based processes organisations use to create, gather, process, store, use and share management information and organisational knowledge.
This Digital Strategy and Information Systems MSc will give you in-depth knowledge of the effective development, use and management of information systems in businesses and social organisations.
You’ll learn about the theory and practice of digital strategy and information systems, and examine the technological, managerial and social aspects of the subject.
You’ll learn from academics who underpin their teaching with specialist research and industry knowledge. You’ll be encouraged to explore key theories in practical tasks to improve your analysis, design and information systems skills. These are vital in a competitive job market.
Course lead
This course is led by Dr Hameed Chughtai, a Lecturer in Digital Strategy and Information Systems Management within Southampton Business School. Visit Dr Chughtai’s staff profile to find out more.
Accreditations
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
Entry requirements
You’ll need a 2:1 degree or equivalent qualification in one of the following subjects:
- business
- management
- economics
- computer science
- information technology
- engineering
- a scientific discipline
We do not accept the following subjects:
- Language Studies – degrees that focus on learning a language or how to translate, such as 'Business English', 'Applied English', or 'Translation', are not acceptable. However, this restriction does not apply to ‘English’ and ‘English literature’ degrees of the kind taught in the UK.
- Art/Design/Vocational Studies – degrees that focus on learning a particular form of art, craft or vocation. These include degrees in art, graphic design, photography, television broadcasting, script writing, or performance/dance.
Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.5
- writing
- 6.5
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
Recognition of professional experience
If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.
Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
This is a full-time master’s course. You’ll study for 12 months, from September to the following September.
In the first 9 months (semesters 1 and 2) you'll study the taught part of your course. The first 2 semesters are made up of modules that everyone on the course takes, and modules we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options.
Compulsory modules teach theoretical and practical concepts in knowledge and information systems management. They combine the technological, managerial and social topics of the subject.
Optional modules allow you to personalise your learning to suit your interests and career goals. Topics include:
- consultancy skills
- application of simulation techniques in management
- credit scoring
- data mining
- managing the commercial potential of technological innovation
For the last 3 months, over the summer, you’ll work independently to research and write your dissertation. You’ll have one-to-one meetings with your supervisor during this time to discuss your progress.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
For entry in Academic Year 2022-23
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules:
This module is intended to provide you with a blend of theory and current practice in organisational decision making and data management. The module critically discusses the complexity of organisational decision making by identifying key concepts and rele...
The first part of this module aims to provide you with some insight into the complexity and diversity of human interaction with technology and user centred design – but it is not simply about computers! Every day we interact with a wide variety of system...
The dissertation stage of your Postgraduate programme involves an extended, independent investigation of a topic of your own choosing and the preparation of a 15,000 word dissertation describing your work. You will be supported through supervision meetin...
The purpose of this module is to equip students with a useful grounding in digital strategy and information systems (IS) management. After introducing the characteristics and concepts of systems and IS, the module will provide an overview of strategic pl...
The module aims to introduce you to the fields of information systems and the digital aspects of management in contemporary organisations. You will be introduced to the key definitions and conceptualisations of information systems. The distinction b...
This module addresses the inter-related activities of defining, developing, exploring and working with ill-structured organisational problems. Such activities are often classed as problem structuring activities, and they can be contrasted with activities...
In today’s IT and digital marketing landscape, and with the growing popularity of cloud computing, web and mobile applications are often the technologies of choice for organisations to deliver content and services, either externally or internally. The ai...
You must also choose from the following modules:
Having learnt the basic techniques and principles of business analytics in semester 1 modules, this module will introduce you to a number of advanced applications of business analytics in practice. These include data management using database engines, GLM...
The module will start by defining the concept of data analytics and demonstrating the processes in three steps: data pre-processing, data mining and post-processing. Next, we will zoom into the data mining step and distinguish three types of data mining:...
The UK government has recognised the importance of innovation and technology transfer in sustaining competitive advantage in the global knowledge economy. If successful innovation management is to take place, it is necessary to recognise when technology ...
This module gives an overview of moral philosophy and shows how such ethical theories apply in a business context. This module also covers the development of the concept and the meaning of the terms ‘corporate social responsibility’ (CSR) in a business co...
The global and rapid growth of managing by projects in every sector, industry, and company type has led to the development of pan-sector theories and bodies of knowledge in project management. The specific nature of projects as temporary and unique activi...
Project risk management has evolved significantly over many years, but there are conflicting views about what constitutes best practice. This course provides an overview of best practice as outlined in the course text with a critical comparison of alterna...
This module provides a practical introduction to the theories and techniques of simulation. The approach taken is very broad and covers different forms of simulation, including discrete event simulation, system dynamics and agent-based modelling. The mod...
Learning and assessment
Learning
You’ll learn in an open, informal environment, and the relatively small class size on this course will give you an opportunity to regularly speak with academics.
This course is delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, computer workshops and independent study.
You’ll also learn interactively, through group exercises and discussions, with your lecturers using real-world scenarios and current research to develop your skills.
The type of group exercises you will undertake include, reading a research paper and addressing a series of questions in a group and presenting your findings.
You’ll learn practical computing skills using industry-standard software package SAS to extract insights from customer data, and basic web programming.
Guest industry speakers will deliver talks on relevant issues. This year, representatives from analytics provider Qlik, gave a talk on the Data and Knowledge Management module and ran an in-class analysis exercise.
Assessment
Assessment methods vary from module to module, these will include:
- exams
- coursework
- group assignments
On some modules you’ll be marked for practical work. For example our web applications module will be assessed on a web scripting exercise and a business proposal for a new website. This simulates a real-world consultancy process.
Dissertation
As part of this course, you’ll complete a 15,000 word dissertation project on a topic of your choice. It is an opportunity to deepen your knowledge in a specific area to help you achieve your career ambitions.
Previous students studied a wide variety of topics, for example:
- technostress and the dark side of technology
- the concept of ‘connected cars’ as part of the internet of things
- cloud computing
- information security
- issues relating to online privacy
Academic Support
You’ll have access to a range of support services within Southampton Business School and the wider University.
Every student is allocated a personal academic tutor who will advise on course-related matters or direct you to other types of support.
Careers
This course will prepare you for an in-house management of knowledge role, specialising in IT function or information systems provision. You could also work in IT, digital or web consultancy.
This master’s degree will also prepare you for further study at PhD level.
Our alumni have gone on to work for organisations including:
- Citi
- Daimler AG
- IBM
- J.P. Morgan
- Chase & Co
- KPMG
- Hootsuite
Careers services at Southampton
We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV/resume and interview skills workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a thriving entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:
- our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
- a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
- our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £13,000.
- EU and international students pay £25,000.
Deposit
When you accept your offer to study on this course you’ll be asked to pay a deposit. This is non-refundable. The deposit amount is:
- UK students: £250
- EU and international students: £1,000
Full terms and conditions and details of how to pay this deposit will be sent to you in your offer letter.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams.
Find out how to pay your tuition fees.
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
10% alumni discount
If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton you get a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.
Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)
This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.
Funding your postgraduate studies
A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
- Use the 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our online application form.
- Search for the course you want to apply for.
- Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
- Submit your application.
Application deadlines
You must submit your application by the end of the day on 31 July 2021. You must supply all supporting documentation at least 2 weeks before starting your course.
We cannot guarantee you'll be able to start your course if you do not meet these deadlines.
Application assessment fee
We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for any postgraduate taught course that starts in or after September 2021.
This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.
If you're a current or former University of Southampton student, if you're applying for a Master of Research (MRes) degree, or if you're applying for a PGCE course via UCAS, you will not need to pay the fee. Find out if you’re exempt on our terms and conditions page.
Supporting information
When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.
You’ll need to include information about:
- your knowledge of the subject area
- why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
- how you intend to use your qualification
You'll also need to send 2 academic references.
Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.
Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.
What happens after you apply
You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.
We'll assess your application on the strength of your:
- academic achievements
- relevant professional experience
- personal statement
- academic references
We'll aim to get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
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