Master of Information Technology

The Master of Information Technology provides an opportunity for those who are looking for a change of direction in their career or for those who want to enhance their IT qualifications.

Those seeking a change of direction can come in without any background in IT and graduate with a sound knowledge and understanding of IT qualifying them for employment in a broad range of positions in private industry, government agencies or research organisations which have an IT requirement.

Similarly, the Master of Information Technology provides candidates who have an IT background with the opportunity to update their qualifications, with a number of entry options that recognise industry experience and previous study.

Course Aims

This course suits those students coming to the study of information technology for the first time as well as those who want to extend their knowledge or upgrade their professional qualifications. Covering aspects of computer programming, database management systems, web technologies, and software development the course aims to cover the essential elements of information technology. It concludes by undertaking a substantial research-based project/capstone experience. The results of the research proposal and project are completed in a group work environment requiring an integration of project management and ICT skills.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to: demonstrate, through their own practice and research, a mastery of information technology that includes knowledge of recent developments, established methods, specialised skills and knowledge of the theoretical principles that underpin information and communications technologies; apply advanced problem-solving and design skills with modern software engineering tools and methodologies to develop software, systems and/or processes to meet specified requirements, including creative approaches to synthesise alternative solutions, concepts and procedures, while demonstrating information skills and research methods; understand and apply project management principles to the development of software and information systems across a broad range of disciplines, addressing challenges that relate to professional ethics, information technology governance, risk management, systems acquisition and change management; demonstrate the technical and communication skills necessary to evaluate and theorise on issues contributing to the professional and ethical standards of practice expected in the information technology industry and assess how the social, ethical and legal issues related to information technology impact society; communicate and coordinate proficiently in English, working as an effective member or leader of a diverse team and/or consulting with clients or colleagues in a software development or research setting, that includes specialist and non-specialist audiences using, a variety of written and oral communication modes; and apply the technical research skills, knowledge and the ability to operate with a high level of personal autonomy through the planning and execution of a substantial research project, or capstone experience relating information and communications technology.

Graduate Attributes

Knowledge of a Discipline Graduates demonstrate an advanced body of knowledge of information technology in a range of contexts for professional practice or scholarship and as a pathway for further learning together with a global perspective (both national and international) on the developments in information technology together with a capacity to understand the implications of international events on information technology. Knowledge of the discipline is taught and practised through unit materials, online discussions, guided readings and direct learning activities with several units addressing the global nature of information technology. Knowledge of the discipline and its global perspective is assessed through different forms of assessment appropriate to the disciplines within information technology. Communication Skills Oral and written communication skills via a range of media is an essential aspect of the course and graduates demonstrate communication and technical research skills to justify theoretical propositions, methodologies, conclusions and professional decisions to specialist and non-specialist audiences. These skills are taught, practised and assessed in most units within the course. The project management unit requires students to demonstrate a professional level of communication skills both with other group members and with the project client. In the research methods unit students are required to give an oral presentation as well as demonstrate written communication skills. The project units require students to demonstrate the ability to communicate the results of the research project/capstone experience. Problem Solving Graduates demonstrate cognitive, technical and creative skills to investigate, analyse and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories and to apply established theories to information technology. Students will practise and be assessed on problem solving skills throughout the course. Information Literacy Graduates demonstrate technical and communication skills to design, evaluate, implement, analyse, and theorise about developments that contribute to professional practice or scholarship in information technology. All units in the course require students to find and critically evaluate information from a variety of sources. This is practised and assessed throughout the course. Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility Graduates demonstrate an understanding of and practice the highest standards of ethical behaviour associated with information technology. Reflection on social responsibility and professional practice in information technology is embedded in the course content. Units require students to reflect on social implications of information technology such as social networking, malicious software, identity theft and security measures. Lifelong Learning Information technology is a very rapidly changing field of study. Graduates demonstrate cognitive skills to demonstrate mastery of theoretical knowledge and to reflect critically on theory and professional practice or scholarship; and with high-level personal autonomy and accountability. This is taught and practised by providing core skills and exposing students to a variety of programming languages, environments and specialised systems. Independence and Collaboration Graduates are able to apply their skills and knowledge individually and as part of collaborative teams. They are able to work with intellectual independence, and to collaborate with technical and non-technical colleagues and customers. Working in a group environment is an essential component of the course and in the professional practice of software development. To develop these skills, a number of units in the course require students to work in groups and provide guidance and assessment on group work.