MSc Information Management and Finance: University of Westminster

Introduction

The course is a reflection of the dynamic nature of today’s business environment, providing high level knowledge, skills, and understanding, through the combination of the fields of Information Management and Finance. This is presented as a dual approach to the examination and exploration of those issues that have a significant impact upon the operation and management of organisations. It seeks to produce the hybrids being demanded by organisations globally; people who are equally familiar with the technical aspects of financial decision-making and the wide range of computerised information management systems.

Course Content

The course is part of the School's modularised postgraduate programme which allows students flexibility in choosing electives. The degree framework consists of seven core modules and one elective module

Core Modules

• Management Dimensions of Information
• Enterprise Data Management
• Web Resource Management
• Modern Finance
• Managerial Accounting
• Financial Information Systems
• IMF Project
• Research Methods

Option Modules:

select one optional course

Information Management:

• Managing the Digital Enterprise
• Leading the Knowledge-based Organisation
• Managing Technology Services
• E-Government
• Business Process Integration with SAP
• Decision Support for Managers
• Project Management using Prince 2
• Web Application Development

Finance:

• International Financial Reporting
• International Risk Management
• International Financial Services
• Modern Portfolio Management
• Financial Markets and Institutions

Teaching and Assessment

The course adopts a flexible approach to teaching and learning based on a combination of case studies, group work and practical projects. In particular, emphasis is placed on the needs of the modern manager in a business context and assignments cover a broad range from business reports to computer-based assignments, providing practical experience in information and financial decision making.

In addition to attending the structured lecture and seminar programme, a considerable amount of time is spent working as a member of learning groups in order that you can gain from the experience and variety of backgrounds of course members. Groups are used for the analysis of case material, to provide a vehicle for sharing experience between participants and as an important means of mutual support throughout the demanding study programme.

Associated Careers

As a reflection of the varied academic backgrounds of our students and the dual nature of this Masters, students proceed into a wide range of positions, some based on previous qualifications, work experience, and returning to employers. Completed students have returned to more specialist roles, or managerial roles, or if in similar roles typically they have taken on more responsibility, or have experienced the opening of clearer career paths. These roles have included specialist finance systems support, database and systems administration, finance department IT super user, administration with special responsibilities regarding finance, IT, in some cases training or local first point of contact for department end-user support.

Entry Requirements

• Candidates should normally have a Second Class UK Honours degree or international equivalent.
• Alternatively candidates without the above qualifications may also be considered provided they can show evidence of extensive work experience in the field.
• A high degree of computer literacy is not an entry requirement, though it is expected that most applicants will have some familiarity with the most common end-user business applications.
• Additionally international students are expected to have an English language qualification such as IELTS 6.5.