Strategic Information Systems

Course Overview

Develop Strategic Thinking for the Digital Era:

This programme prepares graduates to be strategic thinkers, capable of making informed decisions driven by a deep understanding of business strategy, engagement, research, and data-driven analysis. Students will develop the mindset needed to lead digital change and manage complex systems in global organizations.



Reflective Leadership in Emerging Technologies:

Students will graduate as reflective leaders, able to critically assess the impact of technology on business and society. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and ethics, the programme equips students to navigate an unpredictable and ever-evolving global business environment.



Expertise in Business Analytics, Data & Transformation:

Covering essential areas such as data analytics, digital transformation, enterprise systems, project management, governance, and security, the course develops advanced skills for managing data and technology projects. A dedicated research module enhances independent thinking and prepares students for master's-level reflective writing.



Flexible Start Dates & Diverse Global Perspective:

With three intakes per year and a highly diverse student body, this programme offers flexibility and a global perspective. We are proud to host over 45 different nationalities in the college, creating a rich environment for collaborative learning, cross-cultural exchange, and developing solutions from multiple viewpoints.



Structure & Content

The MSc Strategic Information Systems is a one-year programme taken full time, set at Level 9 on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications and Level 7 on the European Qualification Framework, worth 90 ECTS. This programme has been designed to equip students with both strategic and practical capabilities to succeed in today’s digital business environment.



In Semester 1, students gain a strong foundation in understanding the complexities of the modern digital business world, exploring how to identify opportunities and propose innovative IT solutions. Semester 2 focuses on the development of advanced strategic thinking, alongside practical skills in analysis and data modelling—essential tools for informed and effective decision making.



Upon successful completion of all taught modules and the approval of the research proposal, students will progress to the Dissertation phase in Semester 3, allowing them to apply their knowledge to a focused area of study and demonstrate independent research skills at a master's level.



Programme Details

What to Expect:

Students undertake nine taught modules, following a specific sequential order that builds their skillsets in a natural progression. You will move from core information systems essentials into more specialist areas that address the challenges facing businesses today.



You will end your course with a dissertation, providing you with an opportunity to deploy the competencies you have acquired over the programme. The dissertation also allows you to apply your knowledge, skills, and competencies to a research question of your choice.



Our practical approach to business education is further enhanced through guest lectures, professional workshop sessions and individual mentoring, providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today's competitive marketplace.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials and personal directed learning.



Programme Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this programme you will be able to:

• Demonstrate strategic and analytical skills to identify opportunities in contemporary digital business environments, to evaluate and implement effective and efficient Information Systems for the benefit of complex organisations.

• Demonstrate a systemic understanding and advanced, contemporary specialist knowledge of information systems and the skills necessary to identify, investigate and solve information systems issues responsibly in corporate and social environments.

• Apply appropriate research techniques to critically analyse, evaluate, create and interpret knowledge at the forefront of information systems practice, scholarship and research.

• Critically evaluate the impact of information systems on corporate governance, strategies, performance, and associated business processes.

• Synthesise and effectively communicate information system theory, models and frameworks to real-world situations with consideration to impacts, sustainability, ethics and other outcomes to diverse stakeholders.

• Work autonomously as well as within group settings demonstrating professional responsibility, integrity and ethics in complex and unpredictable professional environments.

• Initiate, undertake, communicate and defend the outcomes of a significant element of research, reflect on feedback and be able to articulate strengths and weakness for future work whilst demonstrating an awareness of the implications of that research.

Trimester 1:

Business Analysis:

This module explores the evolving business environment and the role of information technology in driving change. You’ll learn how to identify organisational needs, define requirements, and recommend IT solutions that enable strategic transformation.



Digital Transformation:

Gain a deep understanding of how organisations adapt to and lead in a digital world. This module examines innovation, emerging technologies, and the organisational changes required to implement successful digital transformation initiatives.



Business Data, Information & Knowledge:

Understand the relationship between data, information, and knowledge in business. Learn how to manage and analyse data using SQL, design efficient databases, and apply information systems to support decision-making and performance.



Enterprise Systems:

Study how enterprise systems integrate business functions and processes across departments. The module focuses on the strategic value of these systems and gives practical insights into how they are used to achieve business objectives.



Project Management:

Develop skills for managing projects from start to finish using methodologies such as Waterfall, Agile, and hybrid approaches. Learn about process models, tools, and real-world project case studies to build strong project leadership capability.



Trimester 2:

IS Governance, Security & Ethics:

Explore the principles and frameworks of IT governance, security, and ethics. This module prepares students to assess risk, manage compliance, and implement best practices that ensure the integrity and trust of information systems.



Research Process & Practice:

Prepare for your final dissertation by learning how to design a research project, apply academic methodologies, and critically evaluate your work’s broader impact. This module encourages reflection and in-depth exploration of your chosen topic.



Business Intelligence & Data Analytics:

Master key data analysis tools and techniques to support business decision-making. Use R and RStudio to explore data visualisation, predictive analytics, and ethical data governance in a real-world business context.



Electives (Choose One):

Cyber Security:

Explore cyber threats, network and cloud security, access control, and risk management. Learn through practical tools, case studies, and exercises.



Artificial Intelligence for Business:

Gain a comprehensive, non-technical introduction to AI and its applications in business. Understand how AI supports decision-making, and explore ethical implications and implementation strategies.



Trimester 3:

Dissertation:

Undertake an independent research project that demonstrates your analytical and strategic thinking. This capstone module allows you to investigate a topic of interest, apply research methods, and assess the impact of your findings.

Applicants should hold at least a second-class (2:2) honours degree at Level 8 (e.g. BA (Hons), BBus (Hons), BSc (Hons)) or international equivalent in a related field such as business, computing, science, or engineering. Other disciplines may be considered where applicants can demonstrate sufficient numerical and digital skills.



Applicants with a Level 8 Higher Diploma in Business or an IT-related field may also be eligible.



Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

‍• Applicants with who do not meet the academic requirements but with significant relevant work experience will be assessed by RPL.



English Language Requirements

All applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at CEFR B2+ level, evidenced by one of the following:

‍• IELTS 6.0

‍• TOEFL 79

‍• PTE 54

‍• Duolingo 105



Alternatively, applicants who have successfully completed 60 ECTS or more in a programme taught in English at Leaving Certificate level or above may also meet this requirement.

1 year full-time, 2 years part-time.

Start Dates: We have 3 intakes per calendar year. February, June and October.