MSc in Computing for Commerce and Industry
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Taught Masters
- Code
- F05
- Level
- Postgraduate
- Made up of
- 180 credit points
Description
Information technology is the key source of competitiveness for all sectors: it can open new markets, increase performance and drive productivity. Increasingly, professionals in industry are expected to have a broad range of information technology and business skills. They are also expected to cope with the challenges posed by the latest trends in the software industry, such as remote and collaborative working, standardisation of technologies, and outsourcing.
We offer a range of postgraduate and post-experience diploma courses with case-study-driven learning, which provide extensible knowledge that can be applied to lead technological and organisational change in the business environment. Following completion of the Postgraduate Diploma, the final MSc dissertation course draws together the knowledge and skills you have gained, in a research-based project. These are qualifications for the generalist or non-standard specialist, where specific job function demand a range of skills and knowledge, and where our courses can extend and deepen your knowledge.
Planning your studies
To gain your MSc, you must first complete either the Postgraduate Diploma in Computing for Commerce and Industry (C02) or the discontinued Joint Postgraduate Diploma in Computing and Manufacturing (C04). You then carry out research and study in a specialist topic by taking the 60-point course Research project and dissertation (M801).
You may choose a topic for your research project from those offered by the University, or a topic of your own choice that is linked to one or more of the diploma courses you have studied. You are required to complete your research project and write a dissertation of 10,000-15,000 words reporting on your work.
You will need to begin thinking about and developing your ideas for your research topic the year before you plan to study M801. A supervisor will be appointed to work with you on the development of your full project proposal and your research work.
You must include in your MSc at least 60 credit points from OU courses that have not been counted in any other OU qualification you have been awarded.
Career relevance and employability
Nearly 20,000 students from over 8000 organisations have experienced for themselves how courses from our programme can improve their personal effectiveness and increase the performance and competitiveness of their employers. Over 800 students have obtained the MSc.
For information on professional institutions, including the British Computing Society, and how they may value your OU study, please download our Recognition leaflet 3.7 Computing, or ask our Student Registration & Enquiry Service for a copy. You may be able to gain exemption from the BCS Professional Graduate Diploma and Professional Graduate Project by virtue of having gained your MSc.
For planning your next career steps, visit the OU Careers Advisory Service.
Courses
For this 180-point masters degree you require:
120 points from the Postgraduate Diploma in Computing for Commerce and Industry (C02) (or the discontinued Joint Postgraduate Diploma in Computing and Manufacturing (C04))
And 60 points from the following compulsory course:
| Postgraduate compulsory course | Points | Next start |
|---|---|---|
|
60 | Feb 2010 |
Learning outcomes
The learning outcomes of this qualification are described in four areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
Read more detailed information about the learning outcomes, and how they are acquired through teaching, learning and assessment methods.
Credit for previous study elsewhere
Credit transfer is not permitted for this MSc except for any awarded as part of the postgraduate diploma.
On completion
On successful completion of 180 points’ worth of required courses you will be awarded an MSc in Computing for Commerce and Industry entitling you to use the letters MSc (CCI) (Open) after your name. You will have the option of being presented at a degree ceremony.
If you obtain (i) a Distinction grade in the 60-point dissertation or project course and (ii) 30 points at Distinction grade and at least a further 30 points at merit or above in the Postgraduate Diploma taught courses required for this MSc degree, you will qualify for the award of the degree with Distinction.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the Award Regulations and the Student Regulations.
Award Regulations
- Introduction to the Award Regulations
- General Award Regulations
- MSc in Computing for Commerce and Industry
- Schedule B to the Award Regulations
Student Regulations
The Student Regulations (including the Code of Practice for Student Assessment and the Code of Practice for Student Discipline) are available on our Policy Documents for Students website.
How to register
To register for this qualification, read the description and check you meet any specific requirements (for example, some of our qualifications, require you to be working in a particular environment, or be sponsored by your employer). Then select the course you wish to study first and ensure it is suitable for you before following the registration procedure for that course.
About this page
A postgraduate qualification in Computing and ICT.
Study explained
- Credit points
- - show how much study is required to complete a course or qualification. One credit point represents roughly 10 hours of study.
- Financial support
- - find out if you qualify for support with your fees with our eligibility checker.
- Study explained
- - all you need to know about studying with the OU.
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Contact an adviser in our Student Registration & Enquiry Service
Email or call +44(0) 845 300 60 90
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