Information Systems

The MSc in Information Systems incorporates aspects of information technology and data analytics with a firm grounding social science. The programme is interdisciplinary in nature and examines how information is gathered, analysed and communicated along with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence within the broader context of emerging ethical questions concerning the impact of technology in society.



Students will learn the core theoretical principles involved in the design, development and deployment of technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning and will gain the skills to utilise machine learning and social network analysis to uncover new information from datasets. They will also gain the skills to critically evaluate artificial intelligence and identify issues that pose potential ethical risk to organisations and society. The programme is flexible allowing for a range of specialisations such as human-computer interaction.



The MSc in Information Systems is designed for both non-technical and technical backgrounds. A central aim of this course is to ensure that all students gain the skills needed to participate in the design and critical evaluation of emerging technologies.



The programme engages students primarily through lectures, online learning exercises and group work as well as individual assignments



UCD School of Information & Communication Studies is an active member of the iSchools consortium – a global collection of Information Schools dedicated to advancing the information field and sharing a fundamental interest in the relationships between information, people, and technology.

Stage 1 - Core

Quantitative Data AnalysisIS40730

Data & SocietyIS40840

Project ManagementIS40890

Machine Learning FoundationsIS41070

AI, Ethics & AuditingIS41080

InformaticsIS41090

AI & EthicsIS41100



Stage 1 - Option

Human Language TechnologiesCOMP40020

Introduction to Cognitive ScieCOMP47230

Digital LibrariesIS40560

Research Theory and PracticeIS40820

Media & SocietyIS40860

Topics in Digital Media & CommIS40870

Communication TheoryIS40880

Digital PolicyIS40910

Media Production CulturesIS40950

Digital Policy IIIS40960

Information EthicsIS41020

Platform GovernanceIS41050

Media Law & PolicyIS41190

Creative & Interactive MediaIS41230

Social Networks Online and OffIS41510

UXD: User-Centered DesignIS41520

This programme is intended for applicants with a degree in any discipline. An upper second class honours or international equivalent is required.



Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent.



These are the minimum entry requirements – additional criteria may be requested for some programmes

The following entry routes are available:

MSc Information Systems FT (W267)

Deadline: Rolling*



MSc Information Systems PT (W268)

Deadline: Rolling*



* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised.

W267: 1 year full-time

W268: 2 years part-time

Mode of delivery: Face-to-Face

Next Intake: 2024/2025 September.

Careers & Employability

Information Systems encompass every aspect of society. Understanding how data is collected, processed, analysed and the principles underlying technologies such as artificial intelligence is key to the future success of many organisations from industry, government and NGOs.



The MSc in Information Systems teaches key skills currently in demand such as machine learning, data analytics and ethical evaluation of AI. The strong multi-disciplinary ethos of the School of Information and Communication ensures that students who graduate with the MSc in Information Systems will have strong skills in critical thinking and an ability to work alongside people from a range of backgrounds.



There is a growing job marked for information systems graduates with roles within consulting firms, software and technology companies, start-up companies and government and non-governmental organisations. The MSc in Information Systems is design with an eye to both present and future trends within the job market, particularly in relation to emerging trends in data analytics, technology and emerging societal questions.