This MSc (Communication Software and Networks) programme equips graduates with essential software engineering techniques and in-depth understanding of computer networks for design and development of communication software and network systems. It integrates classroom lectures with software development, programming practice, and project management to provide graduates with ready-competencies and skill-sets for careers in the Information Communication industry.

The programme offers 2 distinct study options to match student’s career aspirations. Those opt for the “Coursework with Dissertation” option will benefit from the experience in conducting and writing up a dissertation on a research topic, while those in the “Coursework Only” option will gain the experience in developing and managing a group software project. These options prepare individual students for careers in application and software development, technical and specialist support, top and middle management, consultancy, education, and research in information communication.

Programme Philosophy

Our students at ICIS are educated and trained through a combination of lectures and practical training on software development and networking technologies. Students are encouraged to exercise their initiative in an interactive climate that thrives on dialogue and teamwork.

Students will truly gain from the experience in using the Unified Software Development Process in an object-oriented software development project. This group project spans over ten months will take them through the entire software development life cycle. Each student has the opportunity to participate in different roles at various phases of the project. The exposure that they gain from the management and implementation of a software development project builds up their "process" and "soft" skills, as well as the competence in managing "live" software development projects.

The ICIS training emphasises the development of core competencies to enable the ICIS graduates to apply an integrated, quality focused approach to software development. Vertical and lateral thinking skills are emphasised. Students are taught to recognise that the path to problem solving lies in the ability to ask the right questions and to carefully think through the alternative solutions available. ICIS creates an environment conducive for the students to thrive on innovation and creativity.