This programme combines a wide-ranging introduction to the analysis, design and implementation of computer systems, with a comprehensive understanding of cutting-edge research. You'll be immersed in software design, programming, datasets, information systems and web applications and develop all the skills needed to conduct independent research in Information Technology and computer science.IntroductionThis MSc provides a depth of knowledge in information technology (IT), underpinned by a thorough understanding of key issues at the forefront of current research in this discipline.You’ll learn how to design and create software, gain experience of modern programming languages, and discover how databases are used in modern information systems, from supermarket checkouts to online banking.We’ll also equip you with a good understanding of the most significant technologies for developing web applications. These include HTML, Cascading Style Sheets, JavaScript, and PHP.Further opportunities to specialise and enhance your knowledge are available through a range of optional modules. You could choose to focus on topics including artificial intelligence, biologically inspired optimisation, neural networks, data mining, machine learning, multi-agent systems, ontologies, semantic web, online map visualisations, or software safety and dependability.You’ll have the opportunity to work as part of a small group on a practical project to find a solution to an IT problem. We’ll also provide a thorough grounding in how to plan and conduct research in preparation for your Information Technology MSc dissertation.Please note: We constantly review and develop our postgraduate programmes. This MSc is also available with the alternative title Computer Science MSc for entry September 2025 and gives students the option to graduate with either of these two MSc titles.What you'll learnResearch skills in information technology (IT)How to design and create software using a modern programming languageThe role of structured query language, SQL, in information systemsAlgorithmic techniques and data structures for large datasetsKey technologies for developing web applicationsData mining techniques and challenges using real-world datasetsBio-inspired algorithms for optimisation and machine learning