Study Masters in Information Technology in UK without Prior IT or Computer Knowledge

If you do not have an academic background in computer and information technology, but want to greatly enhance your CV and build a career in the dynamic IT industry, there are universities in UK that offer Master’s course in Computer, Communication Technology and Information Systems/ Technology specifically designed for postgraduate students who want to embark on an IT career. Students on these courses are provided with specialized knowledge in programming, networks, operating systems, web design, databases and software engineering, in Information and Technology. Graduates from the IT programme can take up a variety of career such as computer programming, Web design and management, technical/IT consultancy, Software training and media specialists. You may also find these programmes suitable if you are already working in the IT industry but wish to update your skills.

During the just concluded UK Education exhibition in Lagos, Nigeria, organized by British Council, Nigeria, I had the opportunity to speak with some UK university Representatives and to ask them some questions relating to studying abroad in UK. One of the questions I asked, using my case as an example, was “Can I study for Master’s in Information Technology with a B.Eng Degree in Petroleum Engineering? I don’t have an academic background in IT, just computer literate”. Some agreed not to have such programmes for my qualification, but there were others that confirmed to have the perfect program for me. “You just need to have basic computer knowledge to begin with”, one of them said. It was really interesting to know, so I figure AfterSchoolAfrica Readers will also want to known about these schools and their IT programs.

Universities in UK that Offer MSc in Computing and Information Technology to Students from other Profession

A few of the UK Universities I met in Lagos that provided details on such IT Master’s program are;

University of York – MSC in Information Technology
The MSc in IT is a full-time one-year programme intended for students seeking a professional career in the IT industry but who do not necessarily have a background in computing.
Requirements
You will have achieved at least a 2:1/upper second class undergraduate degree (or international equivalent) in any discipline, as well as some computing or programming experience.
www.cs.york.ac.uk/postgraduate

Northumbria University - MSc is Computing and Information Technology
Postgraduate students can enter for this Master’s program from a variety of educational and professional backgrounds, not necessary having a degree in a related subject. The program is primarily designed for graduates without a background in computing and information technology. It will provide you with a sound foundation of knowledge and skills on which you can continue to build.
There are two start dates: January and September. 16 month for January starts and 12-16 months for September starts.
Requirements
You should normally have a minimum of a Lower Second Class (2:2) Honors degree (or international equivalent).
International students are required to satisfy a minimum proficiency in written and spoken English. You should have studied undergraduate level in English or have achieved an IELTS score of 6.5 (or above) or an equivalent.
You will gain a number of specialist skills including programming in the Java language, database design (using Oracle), System Analysis (including the Unified Modeling Language UML), web development and computer networking. Throughout the programme, you will also enhance your communication, project management, research and time management skills, which will be of benefit to you in any career.
www.northumbria.ac.uk/ceis

The University of Warwick – MSc Information Systems and Management
This is a full time one-year Master’s program under Warwick Business School, faculty of Social Science. The course focuses on teaching you to achieve business value from information and communication technology. It provides a strong foundation in the theory and practical use of information systems, together with tools and techniques for managing technology across commercial and not-for-profit organizations. No prior knowledge of IT is required as the course develops your management and consulting skills, and encourages your critical think about wider issues outside narrow technological boundaries.
Requirements
A first or good 2:1 Honors Degree or equivalent is required. IELTS 7.0, TOEFL (iBT) 105
www.warwick.ac.uk/go/wbs

University of Huddersfield - Information Systems Management MSc
This one year full-time course is available to postgraduate students with IT and Computer background. However, prospective students without IT qualifications will have to go through a Pre-Master’s Programme.
Pre-Master’s Programme
The Pre-Master's is a two-term (months) or three-term (9 months) Programme that will provide you with the necessary academic subjects, study skills and English language to succeed on the Master's in Computing. Joining the Pre-Master's guarantees you a conditional offer of a place on the Master’s and on successful completion you will proceed directly to your Postgraduate studies.
Three-term Pre-Master’s
Recognized higher/advanced diploma in a related subject area or a recognized Honours degree in any subject.
Equivalent of IELTS 5.0 (with a minimum of 5.0 in writing)/TOEFL 510/180 CBT/64 IBT/PTE 43-45.
Two-term Pre-Master’s
Recognized higher/advanced diploma in a related subject area or a recognised Honours degree in any subject.
English Language equivalent of IELTS 5.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in writing) /TOEFL 513/183 CBT/65 IBT/PTE 46-48
http://www.hud.ac.uk/ce


Edge Hill University - MSc Computing and Information Systems
The MSc in Computing and Information Systems, one year full-time course, gives you the practical skills and knowledge you need to embark on a career in IT in an intellectually stimulating and supportive environment. The Masters’ course is designed for anyone who wants a wide-ranging, practical course in computing and the IT industry, and is looking for a move into the IT profession. The programme provides advanced knowledge in key aspects of computing and information systems. In addition to that it will help you develop the critical interpersonal skills demanded of IT professionals.
Requirements
You will need to have a degree equivalent to UK Upper second class honours. For overseas applicants IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
http://www.edgehill.ac.uk/study/apply

The Masters’ degree in one of these IT programs will provide you with the skills and knowledge to develop your interests in an IT career. Where you take it from there depends on your background or career interests. Computing and Information Technology is an area that is constantly changing and provides an interesting, challenging and exciting career. Whether you want a high paid job or you want to start you own IT company, the IT industry can give you that. There will always be a demand for people with expertise and practical experience in this field. If you want to acquire knowledge in Information and Communication Technology, professionally, one of these programmes should be a good fit for you. Don’t you think so?