Master of Information Technology (Business)

The Master of Information Technology (Business) 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 and gain an understanding of the fundamental principles of business.

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

Course Aims

This course suits those students coming to the study of information technology and business for the first time as well as those who want to extend their knowledge or upgrade their professional qualifications. Covering aspects of business information systems, computer programming, web technologies, management and software development, the course aims to cover the essential elements of systems development and management in an ICT context. This course concludes with students completing both an ICT project in a group work environment, requiring an integration of project management and ICT skills, and a business development project, which includes case studies and the creation of a business development plan.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to: demonstrate, through their own practice, a mastery of information technology and management that includes knowledge of recent developments, established methods, specialised skills and knowledge of the theoretical principles that underpin information and communications technology and its use in enterprise; demonstrate a broad understanding of management processes, marketing, organisational theory and their relationship with information technology, relevant to organisational performance within the globalised economy; apply problem-solving and design skills with modern software development 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, and use current management theory and concepts to develop more effective management strategies and enhance organisational performance in a globalised context; 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 systems development 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 project relating information technology and business development.

Graduate Attributes

Knowledge of a Discipline Graduates have an in-depth understanding of information technology and the fundamentals of business and can demonstrate a clear appreciation of the risks and benefits associated with the global nature of information technology and business. Knowledge of information technology and business, including the global nature of both disciplines, is taught and practised through unit materials, online discussions, guided readings, and direct learning activities and is assessed through different forms of assessment appropriate to the disciplines of information technology and business including a research essay and reports on projects. Communication Skills Oral and written communication via a range of media is an essential aspect of the course and graduates can demonstrate expertise in this area. These skills are taught, practised and assessed in most units within the course. The research methods and special project units require students to demonstrate a professional level of communication skills both with other group members and with the project client. Problem Solving Problem solving skills are employed throughout the course in aspects of information technology and fundamental business principles. Such aspects include software engineering; database management; techniques for management; professional practice; and project management and they provide graduates with the problem solving skills required of information technologists in a business environment. All units in the course require varying levels of logical, critical and creative thinking. Information Literacy All units in the course require students to access information efficiently and effectively from a variety of sources. Graduates are able to critically evaluate information and to manage information in a responsible manner. Information literacy is practised and assessed throughout the course. Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility Reflection on social responsibility and professional practice in software development 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 and graduates demonstrate a sound grasp of these principles. Lifelong Learning Information technology is a rapidly changing field of study. Graduates are able to learn both independently and collaboratively and have the ability to apply that learning to new and unexpected situations. 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.