Information Systems and Business Analysis MSc

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Aston University

Program Overview

The MSc Information Systems and Business Analysis at Aston University is designed for students who want to understand how technology, data, and business decisions come together in the real world. It’s an excellent choice if you’re aiming for a career where you can analyse business problems, design smarter systems, and help organisations adapt and thrive in a digital environment.

Curriculum Structure

Foundations and Core Skills
At the start of the programme, you’ll focus on building a strong understanding of how information systems support modern organisations. Through modules such as Foundation in Business Systems, you’ll explore how data flows through businesses and how systems support decision-making, while Artificial Intelligence for Business introduces you to how emerging technologies are shaping business strategy. Alongside this, The Consultant’s Toolbox helps you develop the professional and analytical skills expected of business analysts and consultants.

Advanced Analysis and Digital Transformation
As you progress, the focus shifts to applying your knowledge in more complex, real-world scenarios. Modules like IS Implementation and System Analysis teach you how enterprise systems such as ERP and CRM are selected, implemented, and evaluated, while Digital and Business Transformation helps you understand how organisations manage change through technology. Throughout the year, The Aston Global Advantage runs alongside your studies, supporting your career development and employability.

Research, Projects, and Specialisation
In the final stage of the programme, you’ll bring everything together through applied learning and independent research. Modules such as Managing Projects and Applied Research Methods and Skills prepare you to lead projects and conduct professional-level analysis, while optional modules — including Machine Learning for Business Analytics, Advanced Spreadsheets and Databases, or Network and Cloud Security Management — allow you to tailor the course to your interests. You’ll finish with an Independent Project, giving you the opportunity to solve a real business or systems problem and showcase your expertise to future employers.

Focus Areas

Business analysis, information systems management, data analytics, digital transformation, artificial intelligence in business, project management, professional consultancy skills

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop the ability to analyse complex business problems, design and evaluate information systems, interpret data for decision-making, manage digital projects, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and apply research skills to real organisational challenges

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The programme is delivered by Aston Business School, which holds triple accreditation, and is recognised by the Institute of Analytics (IoA), ensuring strong alignment with industry expectations

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

Aston University is consistently recognised for its strong employability outcomes and global reputation, with Business and Management subjects ranked highly by QS and graduates valued by employers for their practical, industry-focused skills

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Aston University, this MSc is designed to make sure you graduate with more than just theoretical knowledge — you’ll leave with hands-on experience and real workplace skills. Throughout the course, you’ll apply concepts from information systems and business analysis to practical scenarios, working on real-world style projects, analysing business cases, and collaborating with classmates just as you would in a professional environment. You’ll also benefit from Aston’s strong focus on employability through The Aston Global Advantage, which runs alongside your studies and helps you build confidence in teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, using the same tools and approaches expected by employers.

All of this practical learning is supported by Aston’s modern, city-centre campus and specialist facilities, which give you access to the digital tools, collaborative spaces, and academic resources you need to succeed:

Applied group projects and case-based learning: Many modules include group assignments where you work as a consultancy team to solve business and systems challenges, helping you develop teamwork, stakeholder communication, and analytical thinking.
Professional digital tools and software: As an Adobe Creative Campus, Aston provides free access to Adobe Creative Cloud, enabling you to produce professional-quality reports, presentations, and data-driven insights.
Career-focused development through The Aston Global Advantage: This integrated programme supports your employability with practical workshops, professional skills development, and opportunities to engage with employers and industry networks.
Internship and work-experience support: Aston highlights postgraduate internship opportunities, giving you the chance to gain relevant work experience alongside or after your studies.
24/7 library and study facilities: You’ll have access to Aston’s modern library, offering specialist databases, digital resources, and collaborative study spaces to support coursework, research, and your independent project.
Technology-enabled learning environment: Dedicated IT services and digital learning platforms ensure you can work confidently with systems, data, and online tools throughout the programme.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Information Systems and Business Analysis at Aston University move into careers where technology, data, and business decisions come together. Typical roles include Business Analyst, Data Analyst, Information Systems Consultant, and IT Project Coordinator, with many graduates progressing quickly into more senior or specialist positions thanks to the practical and career-focused nature of the programme: Aston supports your journey not just during your degree, but well beyond graduation.

Here’s how Aston helps turn your degree into real career outcomes:

Personalised careers support that continues after graduation: Aston’s dedicated Careers and Placements team works closely with you on CV writing, interview preparation, assessment centres, and job searching, while also giving you access to employer events, careers fairs, and one-to-one guidance.
Guaranteed Internship Scheme: As a postgraduate student, you can benefit from Aston’s Guaranteed Internship Scheme, giving you the chance to gain relevant industry experience and strengthen your CV while studying.
Strong salary and employment outcomes: Aston graduates consistently perform well in the job market, with the university ranking among the top UK institutions for graduate median salaries three and five years after graduation — reflecting the long-term value of an Aston degree.
Industry-relevant graduate destinations: Graduates from this programme progress into analytical and systems-focused roles across sectors, with Aston alumni working for well-known organisations such as Jaguar Land Rover, Microsoft, Santander, and other global employers.
Globally respected accreditation: The programme is delivered by Aston Business School, one of a small number of business schools worldwide to hold triple accreditation, and is also recognised by the Institute of Analytics (IoA) — giving your qualification strong international credibility.
Skills that grow with your career: Beyond your first job, the combination of business analysis, systems thinking, and project skills prepares you for long-term progression into consultancy, leadership, or specialist technology roles.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MSc, you may choose to continue into doctoral research (PhD) in areas such as information systems, analytics, or digital transformation at Aston or another university. Many graduates also go on to pursue professional certifications or further specialist master’s study to deepen their expertise and open up senior or research-focused career pathways.