Delivered by the triple-accredited Aston Business School, this hands-on applied course bridges the gap between computing, programming expertise and essential business knowledge. It has been developed precisely, in collaboration with industry partners to ensure the specialist skills you progress will enhance your employability and prepare you for future roles. Through a variety of teaching methods, you master strategic planning and project management as you plan, monitor and evaluate major commercial projects. You will learn how to develop information systems and examine them from a business perspective. There is also the opportunity to specialise in areas that interest you most, with a range of elective modules to choose from.
You’ll be taught by leading academics with a variety of specialisms in the field of information systems and business analytics. Several academics are former students of the course, who have gone on to gain PhD qualifications and return to help deliver the course.
“I chose this course because I wanted something to enhance my capability and help me keep up with the changes in technology we see nowadays.”
Waldeysse Damiao
MSc Information Systems and Business Analysis
Why Information Systems and Business Analysis at Aston University?
Professionally accredited
Accredited by the Institute of Analytics (IoA) as an IoA recognised programme
Recognised for quality
Aston Business School is proud to be among 1% of business schools worldwide with triple accreditation
Gain the advantage
Get ahead of the competition with the Aston Global Advantage professional development module
Excellent prospects
Aston University was named runner-up in the University of the Year for Graduate Employment Award (Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2024)
Double degree
This course offers the opportunity to study for and graduate with two degrees
66th in the world
We’ve been ranked as 66th in the world for business and management studies (QS World University Rankings By Subject 2024)
City centre living
Subham, a student from Nepal, thrived within the lively city centre of Birmingham, attributing his learning to a collaborative environment.
We're serious about employability
As a postgraduate student, you will have access to dedicated careers guidance with specialist support from our experienced team of careers consultants
Gain a competitive edge
As well as opening doors, an Aston University postgraduate degree builds on your experience, develops your skills and gives you a competitive edge in a crowded job market.
Course description
MSc Information Systems and Business Analysis
Our MSc Information Systems and Business Analysis programme offers a dynamic blend of cutting-edge ICT, analytical and real-world industry insights to provide a course that directly enhances employability.
What we will provide First-class teaching in the UK’s second-largest city, delivered by a diverse array of staff who will inspire and excite you. You will benefit from applied learning, research-informed teaching and constructive assessment. You will have access to specialist business simulations and analytics software to aid your learning.
We are also an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry.
What you will provide It is important you learn how to adapt a growth mindset to your studies – understanding that intelligence and success come from applying yourself, a willingness to learn and an ambition and drive to excel. You must demonstrate enthusiasm and some mathematical and statistics familiarity will aid you throughout this programme.
What skills we teach The MSc Information Systems and Business Analysis course hones your quantitative analytical skills as you analyse and extract insights from complex data. You will become an expert in handling and developing ICT systems, displaying critical thinking and decision making as you use these technology solutions to solve real business issues.
Career prospects Our Information Systems and Business Analysis graduates are in high demand for specialist roles in consultancy and business analysis. Equipped with confidence, analytical rigor as well high-level business insights, this programme will make numerous avenues available to you.
How you will learn
Our programme is delivered through a range of teaching methods with a strong emphasis on practical learning. It offers a blend of lectures and seminars, alongside workshops, presentations, simulation exercises, and reflective case studies. Group work fosters the sharing of insights and the gathering of diverse perspectives within a supportive environment, enabling students to leverage each other’s strengths from past experiences. We welcome industry partners to share their expertise and are proud to offer a mentoring scheme. Networking events allow alumni to offer invaluable advice to current students, sharing how they implement their learnings into their everyday roles.
Practical sessions also give you the chance to analyse various business and IS/ICT concepts and work with specialist business simulations. These sessions enable you to critically analyse commercial problems and put forward an appropriate and efficient business case to tackle such issues. You will master data management, with access to specialist software that allows you to tackle huge quantities of data. Such capabilities will make you an invaluable asset to businesses across multiple sectors.
In the Aston Global Advantage module, you will enhance your employability and global citizenship through experiential learning and reflective practice. Dedicated employability support, skill-building workshops and diverse learning streams will prepare you for both academic and professional success.
Gain the advantage
Our flagship professional development module provides a range of opportunities to apply your learning and increase your employability.
This programme is developed around a learning-by-doing approach. Throughout the course you will cover a large breadth of topics, from applied research, computing to project management. You will master strategy, planning and time management as you get the opportunity to implement a simulated consultancy project from start to finish, designing and delivering an information system to solve one of a range of commercial problems. This could include a reliance on paper files, machinery breakdown and issues associated with trading with international companies. You will develop an informative awareness of the current trends and issues in the ICT industry and examine them from a business perspective. With this, you will study, research and apply tools that can support work in areas such as strategy formulation, competitor analysis and change management to identify their effectiveness and formulate the correct solution to a business need.
With an array of elective modules which cover specialist areas of business analytics, enterprise, and operations management, you can adapt the programme according to your interests and career aspirations. During the dissertation phase, you will also complete a research project on an information systems and business analysis topic of your choice.
This course offers an Exchange Partnership Second Degree Pathway, meaning you can spend an additional year at one of our international partner institutions. If successful, you will graduate with two masters degrees.
In the Aston Global Advantage module, Hovsep Sarafian took the opportunity to complete a virtual internship, meaning it could be completed from anywhere in the world.
Equips you with the skills and competencies which enhance your international employability and prepares you for a range of careers in IT project management, systems analysis, consultancy and business analysis.
Provides an environment for graduates with business and/or computer science backgrounds to develop specialist IT knowledge and experience of how information systems support the business and its operations.
Equips you with the appropriate theoretical principles, concepts and methods for developing information systems that meet business needs, and to develop the necessary technical, organisational and people skills to carry out such projects in practice.
Gains hands-on experience in running projects and dealing with clients in practice, through the taught modules, the MSc Project and corporate involvement across the programme.
Develops you into a graduate who practices corporate, social and environmental responsibility, and who is sensitive to working in an intercultural environment.
Produces managers of the future and lifelong ambassadors of Aston Business School.
In the taught stage you will study the following core modules:
Module Title
Credits
Developing Business Systems Workshop This practical and unique module introduces you to the process of developing an information system. Taking on the role of a consultant you’ll solve a range of problems and challenges for a company. You’ll develop the necessary skills to design and implement computer systems with the aim of helping the business to become more competitive.
15
Foundation in Business Systems This module serves as an introduction to business systems, offering you the fundamental knowledge needed to develop an in-depth understanding of various topics explored later in the course. It provides you with an awareness of current trends and issues in the ICT industry and examines them from a business perspective.
15
Managing Projects This module gives a broad examination about project management and how this supports the ever-increasing requirement to co-ordinate and support business growth and development in an international context. It covers a broad range of theoretical and practical tools and provides the environment in which to apply them in practical work-based situations.
15
The Consultant’s Toolbox In this module, you will explore a range of tools and techniques for strategy, competitor and requirements analysis, and change management. You will develop a personal understanding of their effectiveness through study, research and application, enhancing your skills for various business areas.
15
The Aston Global Advantage The Aston Global Advantage is our professional development programme that runs throughout all MSc programmes at Aston Business School. Focusing on professional development and employability, this integrated module gives you the opportunity to identify, develop and apply the key transferrable skills you will gain throughout the year.
15
Ethics in Academic Practice This module introduces the Academic Offence framework. By completing the resources you will understand the key principles underpinning the submission of academic assignments.
0
Total
75
You will choose three of the following optional modules:*
Module Title
Credits
Simulation for Managerial Decision Making This module aims to combine the challenge of learning the theory of simulation modelling with collecting data in an external organisation, using simulation modelling software and group work to meet a deadline for the presentation of results. This skill set is useful, as simulation is used in many organisations and consultancy units to provide descriptive, predictive and prescriptive analytics.
15
Enterprise Resource Planning This module explores enterprise system information, business functional area requirements and ERP benefits. Through lectures, seminars and simulations, you will operate in teams to run an integrated system, evaluate a case study and propose suitable systems to support strategic needs through critical evaluation.
15
Operations Management In this module, you will grasp how operations management boosts business competitiveness. Explore theories and methods for efficient planning, organising production and service provision. Benefit from case studies and an innovative simulation challenge, offering highly practical learning.
15
Advanced Spreadsheets and Databases In this module, you will gain knowledge, skills and techniques for efficiently using spreadsheets and databases in your daily work. If you plan to pursue further academic work, the module will also empower you to utilise spreadsheets and databases for research support..
15
Data Mining and Business Analytics In this module, you will explore data mining techniques and their use in business decision making. You will learn how to uncover patterns and trends hidden in data mining and visualisation.
15
Digital and Business Transformation In this module, you will explore how digital technologies reshape business models, products and operations, emphasising digital transformation across various organisational contexts. Learn about its journey, disruptions and tools for strategy planning and implementation. Gain skills to reimagine business models, optimise operations and maximise digital transformation benefits.
15
*Availability of any optional modules will be subject to staff availability and a minimum number of students who express an interest in studying the optional modules.
Dissertation stage modules
In the dissertation stage you will study the following core modules:
Module Title
Credits
Applied Research
15
MSc Information Systems and Business Analysis Research Project You will carry out an original piece of work applying material that you have learnt in the taught element of your degree. Specific requirements will be explained relating to different degree programmes but in summary you must demonstrate both theoretical and practical knowledge of your chosen area of specialism.
45
Total
60
Programme outcomes
On successful completion of both the taught and dissertation stage, you will be able to:
Display knowledge and understanding of information systems, principles and tools; these should form the basis for reasoning.
Critically analyse the impact of technology on societies, institutions (e.g., governments, central banks), and businesses.
Search the literature to improve understanding of the subject and build critical arguments.
Identify models, concepts, and techniques to enhance the performance of businesses, especially by improving decision-making.
Demonstrate good communication (oral and written) and presentation skills; take a leadership role in problem-solving, negotiations, and motivating others.
Show commercial awareness of their education and be able to get to the root of problems affecting organisations through investigative skills developed during the course of the programme.
Undertake self-directed study and project management. They should also be able to work effectively in teams, reacting appropriately to contextual and interpersonal factors. They should have the ability to reflect upon their own learning and development.
Produce reports and conclusions that are well evidenced by empirical analysis. You will also have the ability to communicate technical analysis and results to various non-specialist audiences.
We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.
Entry requirements
One of the following:
2:2 (lower second-class honours) degree or equivalent
Equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston University (see international students tab below for more information)
Applicants are also required to have taken the following quantitative modules at bachelor's level, achieving a minimum of 50%:
Economics (micro/macro)
Statistics
Quantitative methods
Mathematics
Finance
You will also need to provide:
A professional reference
If you are a current student or recent graduate (within the last 2-3 years), we will ask for an academic reference
If you are currently employed and not a recent graduate, we will ask for a professional reference
An official academic transcript of your university grades to date
A completed application form.
Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our postgraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study but also a great place to live.
Qualifications in your country
For details of equivalent qualifications in your country, use our area pages below:
Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.
Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.
Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
If you don’t meet our entry requirements, we have a range of pathway programmes offered by our partner, ONCAMPUS Aston, which you can complete to progress onto one of our degrees.
We recognise the value of extensive professional experience. If you do not have the academic qualifications but have extensive and relevant professional experience and a proven ability to succeed, we would welcome your application.
The information contained on this website details the typical entry requirements for this course for the most commonly offered qualifications.
Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire with the relevant admissions teams prior to application whether or not their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor.
Speak to our Admissions Team
If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch with our postgraduate admissions team:
The United Kingdom government has confirmed that European Union (EU), other European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals commencing academic courses in England from August 2021 will no longer be charged the same tuition rates as UK students.
Tuition fees for students are reviewed annually and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) to take account of the University’s increased costs of delivering the Programme. Any such increase shall always be in accordance with the law. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies.
At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.
The programme will be assessed through a combination of written and oral examinations, class tests, individual and group coursework, projects, presentations and practical assessments. All assessment techniques will involve the applications of your learning to business contexts, equipping you with the techniques needed for success in any workplace.
Career prospects
The transferable skills that our MSc Information Systems and Business Analysis programme provides mean that our graduates are successful in finding employment in a wide range of roles such as:
Business analyst
Data analyst
Information systems trainee
Information systems consultant
Research editor
Assistant relations manager
Our graduates have gone on to work at companies such as JCDecaux (UAE), Scope International (India), Roland Berger (Nigeria), Harman International (China), Xtremax (Indonesia), Jhpiego (Kenya), Jaguar Land Rover, Microsoft and Santander (UK).
Set up for future employment
Ibrahim Oluwa secured a placement opportunity working as a senior consultant engineer with a gaming company. Following his placement, they offered him a position.
Our graduates achieve amazing things all over the world – whether it’s setting up their own businesses, landing jobs with high profile organisations, or making real differences within their communities.
Why study Information Systems and Business Analysis at Aston University?
You will bridge the gap between computing, programming expertise and essential business knowledge. Through a variety of teaching methods including practical workshops and simulations, you will master computing, project management and data analysis. You will learn how to develop information systems and examine them from a business perspective. There is also the opportunity to specialise in areas that interest you most, with a range of elective modules to choose from. Delivered at a triple-accredited business school, you will be taught by leading academics with a variety of specialisms in the field of information systems and business analytics.
What is the ‘Aston Global Advantage’?
Embedded in all our masters degrees, this assessed, year-long credit-bearing module aims to develop professional and personal transferrable skills relevant to any workplace and create a bridge between the degree and the world of work.
Why should I study my postgraduate degree at Aston University?
There are lots of benefits of studying a postgraduate degree at Aston University.
Watch this video from MBA student, Monique, who talks about just a few of them:
Is Birmingham a good place to study?
Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.
Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.
We understand how important it is to know your timetable in advance for planning around work, childcare, or other responsibilities. Here's some basic guidance on what to expect regarding your student timetable.
Full-time programmes
As a rough estimate, full-time postgraduate students in the College of Business and Social Sciences should expect to spend about 12-15 hours per week in lectures and on-campus seminars. This is in addition to independent study, and there may be additional guided learning activities during certain weeks. The exact distribution of these hours will vary depending on your course and module choices.
Part-time programmes
Part-time students will have fewer weekly on-campus hours compared to full-time students. This reduction is proportional to the number of modules you're enrolled in.
Timetable availability
Complete timetables are usually released shortly before the start of your programme. This timing is necessary to ensure that we accommodate all course requirements and that rooms are allocated based on the number of students likely to enrol on each programme. We aim to provide these timetables as early as possible, to assist you in your planning.
As your induction week approaches, you will be sent more information about your timetable via email, and you will be able to access your timetable by logging into MyAstonPortal. For any further queries or information regarding your timetable, you can reach out to your programme director or the Student Support team.
Online/distance learning programmes
The above information also applies to students enrolled in online/distance learning programmes. Please note that both full-time and part-time distance learning students are still required to attend scheduled synchronous learning sessions.
What can I get involved in at Aston Business School?
At Aston Business School, you will dive into a dynamic blend of innovative learning and hands-on experiences. With our acclaimed triple-crown accreditation, we offer you academic excellence and a track record of producing successful graduates.
Located in Birmingham, the UK's vibrant second city, Aston Business School provides you with a culturally rich environment and superb connectivity. You will benefit from real-world business engagements, international study opportunities and entrepreneur support programmes like BSEEN and Pitchfest.
You can also engage in practical consultancy at the Aston Business Clinic and collaborate with global peers in events such as the Maastricht Case Competition or the Universities Business Challenge. Our partnership with The Prince’s Trust, alongside a range of student clubs including TEDx and Enactus further enriches your learning experience.
