Business Information Systems. Master of Science in

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1 The following faculties of the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland offer Master programmes: School of Applied Psychology School of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geomatics Academy of Art and Design School of Life Sciences Academy of Music School of Teacher Education School of Social Work School of Engineering School of Business University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland School of Business Riggenbachstrasse Olten Switzerland T +41 (0) F [email protected] Master of Science in Business Information Systems

2 Master of Science in Business Information Systems For the latest information go to: apply online School of Business FHNW 2 Welcome to the MSc in Business Information Systems 4 At a Glance From Knowledge to Innovation 9 Why a Master of Science in Business Information Systems? 10 Programme Focus 11 Flexible Time Planning 13 Individual Study Design 14 Curriculum 15 Full-time Course 1 Part-time Course 17 Module Descriptions Core Modules 20 Module Descriptions Research and Innovation Projects 21 Module Descriptions Electives 23 International Activities Exchange 28 International Activities Study Tours 30 Entry Requirements and Application 32 Study Fees 33 Contact 34 Testimonials 3

3 School of Business FHNW The School of Business is a leading establishment in education, executive education and internationalization in Switzerland. Bachelor, Master and Continuing Education With over 130 academic programmes and related activities (EMBA, Master of Advanced Studies, courses seminars and workshops), the FHNW School of Business is Switzerland s leading provider of continuing education in business management. We tutor more than 2500 students in bachelor s and master s degree programmes, undertake applied research and development and are an active player in the field of consultancy. Knowledge and Technology Transfer The quality of the knowledge imparted and of the teaching is guaranteed by experienced teaching staff with practice-oriented knowledge, and research assistants in possession of the latest know-how. To help put into practice what has been learnt in as straightforward and concise a manner as possible, the School makes use of a number of strategies. We draw on projects assigned by companies, application-oriented tasks and a broad cross-section of teaching and learning modes. International Exchange We are also the natural, professional partner for any company seeking to venture abroad to China, India, the USA or Europe. We offer special international programmes of education and, with cooperation treaties in place with over 130 partner universities, we are in a position to secure an intensive exchange of teaching staff and students throughout the world. Training for Swiss and International Business We train executives and managers for Swiss and international business with an emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises. Later in their careers we offer managers a uniquely broad range of continuing education opportunities. We enable students and clients to access up-to-the-minute knowledge that can be applied in the real world. Know-how at Three Campuses Remaining close to our regional customers is vital. Operating on three campuses (Basel, Brugg/Windisch and Olten) allows us to place expertise in close proximity to the customer. 2 School of Business FHNW 3

4 Welcome to the MSc in Business Information Systems Dear reader Information is one of the most important assets of companies today. It is the basis for business operations, effective decision making, the identification of market requirements and the innovation of products and services. Information systems are deeply integrated into business with offers of information-based services and information products. The discipline of business information systems integrates management concepts and information technology (IT). Information systems specialists are responsible for the information logistics that allows the effective use of information and knowledge in an agile business environment. Due to modern information technology physical distance has become insignificant. Any company can cooperate with partners and have customers all over the world. As a university of applied sciences we are committed to the practical relevance of our programmes. Since the pace of change and progress in business and information technology is very fast, the close connections between teaching, research and practice enables recent insights to become part of the curriculum. Thus our graduates, having gained up-to-date competences, will find prospects for personal development in a broad field of activities. Prof. Dr. Knut Hinkelmann Dean of MSc in Business Information Systems 4 School of Business FHNW 5

5 At a Glance Final Degree Upon successful completion students are awarded the degree Master of Science in Business Information Systems (90 ECTS). Full-time and Part-time Studies The duration of this programme depends on the study mode: Full-time: 3 semesters (1.5 years) Part-time: 5 semesters (2.5 years) Duration and workload can be flexibly adapted to individual needs. Goal of the Programme The MSc in Business Information Systems has been designed for ambitious students who are committed to pursuing a career on the interface between business and information technology. The programme is based on three pillars: practice orientation, innovation and internationality. The goal is to empower students to effectively exploit information to sustain the success of enterprises in a globalized, networked and digital economy. Applied research and innovation projects establish the basis for graduates to become drivers for innovation in their enterprises. By working within international teams students learn how to operate in a global-local environment. Career Prospects The programme prepares students for a broad context of demanding tasks in the corporate and academic world. There is an increasing demand for information systems specialists. A wide range of elective modules allows students to enhance their employability prospects in their preferred fields. In cooperation with our partner university in Camerino, Italy, we offer opportunities for subsequent PhD studies. International Study Opportunities We offer the opportunity to participate in a dual degree programme with our partner university in Camerino, Italy. In addition, students have the opportunity to undertake an exchange semester abroad. This can be combined with writing their master s thesis in cooperation with companies in the selected destination. We offer study tours to South Africa, Brasil and Silicon Valley, which provide unique insights into different cultures and economies. Start of Studies Students can start their studies either in September or February. Teaching Locations Teaching is offered mainly in Olten. Some elective courses may take place in Basel. Language of Tuition All courses are taught in English. Entry Requirements The registration requirements encompass a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Business Informatics (Wirtschaftsinformatik), Information Systems, Computer Science, Business Administration or a related field of study with good or very good grades. Professional experience as well as good linguistic abilities in English are expected. Tuition Fees Tuition fees are CHF 700 per semester for Swiss and EU/EFTA citizens as well as for students with a permanent place of residence in Switzerland or the EU/EFTA countries. The fee for all other students is CHF 7500 per semester. School of Business FHNW 7

6 From Knowledge to Innovation Agility and flexibility, digitalization, co-operation, continuous improvement and progress towards becoming learning organizations are important challenges for enterprises. The increased speed of change has created a demand for people who are able to react to these challenges. The MSc in Business Information Systems of FHNW is a unique postgraduate programme committed to the effective exploitation of information and information systems to sustain the success of enterprises. The programme provides graduates with up-to-date methods and skills to cope with these challenges. Our ambition, however, goes even further. We train our students to use this knowledge in order to make an impact on the business. They should be able to sense what is happening, to prioritize the best response and to act appropriately. This is the unique ambition of the MSc in Business Information Systems programme which sets the aim for our students: «Learn to innovate in the digital economy» 8 School of Business FHNW 9

7 Why a Master of Science in Business Information Systems? Programme Focus The MSc in Business Information Systems provides graduates with a clear competence profile and prepares them for the corporate and academic world. Thought Leadership We aspire to fully develop our graduates abundant potential. Our aim is that they become effective actors in the information age and in a globalizing world. Provided with up-to-date skills and methods to address business challenges, our graduates become true drivers of business innovation in the digital economy. Excellent Career Prospects Graduates of the programme have excellent prospects in the future job market. Ongoing digitalization will increase the importance of information systems for the success of companies. There will be a shortage of information systems specialists over the coming years. With the new trends in business digitalizing it is to be expected that the demand will increase further. PhD Opportunities The programme qualifies graduates to write a doctoral thesis. In cooperation with our partner university in Camerino we offer opportunities for subsequent PhD studies. There are further PhD options with the University of South Africa and the University of Pretoria. The programme is based on three pillars: practice orientation, innovation and internationality. Practice Orientation We enable students to gain result-oriented problem solving competences. The transfer of theory into practice is effectively enabled through student projects and application-oriented study tasks. Innovation We empower students to become drivers of innovation in their enterprises by effectively exploiting information systems. Students understand information systems as a driver of innovation in terms of products, services, organization and strategy. International The MSc in Business Information Systems attracts talented, ambitious men and women from all around the world ready to go the extra mile. We prepare students for a future career in multi-cultural, cross-border business environments. Being taught entirely in English, and offering international exchange opportunities and study tours make the course truly international. Master Practice Orientation Innovation International Bachelor 10 School of Business FHNW 11

8 Flexible Time Planning Full-time and Part-time Course The programme is offered by default as a full-time course of 3 semesters (1.5 years) or as a part-time course of 5 semesters (2.5 years). The programme meets the requirements of full-time and part-time students alike. Individual Adaption of Workload and Course Duration The course can be flexibly adapted to personal constraints and opportunities. A combination of full-time and part-time studies over 4 semesters or even an extension to semesters and more is possible. Two Intakes per Year Students can choose to start their studies in February for the spring semester or in September for the autumn semester. 12 School of Business FHNW 13

9 Individual Study Design Curriculum The MSc in Business Information Systems is divided into three main module groups. Projects and a variety of electives allow students to design their course programme individually according to their preferred areas of interest. Core Modules (24 ECTS) The core modules cover essential topics in the area of business information systems and provide the essentials for the other module groups. Research and Innovation Projects (30 ECTS) In the research and innovation projects students apply concepts and models learned in classes. Students are free to decide on the topics of their projects. Electives (3 ECTS) A variety of elective modules have been designed to provide students the choice best suited to their interests and career prospects. Module Group Core Modules Research and Innovation Projects Electives Modules Alignment of Business and IT Business Process Management IT Management and Cloud Computing Strategic Management in the Digital Economy Innovation Thinking Project Master Thesis Proposal Master Thesis Manager s Shadow Project Business Analytics: Quantitative Methods Business Intelligence Challenging International Managers and Leaders Compliance Management and Governance of IT Digitalization of Business Processes E-Business and Mobile Business Entrepreneurship and Economic Development Innovative Topics in Information Systems Knowledge Management and Competence Development Knowledge Processing and Decision Making Optimization for Business Improvement Supply Chain Management Independent Learning Module ECTS School of Business FHNW 15

10 Full-time Course Part-time Course In the full-time mode, the programme typically stretches over three semesters. The figure below shows a possible course concept. The first semester includes the core modules and the innovation thinking project. Between the 1st and 3rd semester the electives are taken. In addition students prepare their master s thesis proposal in the 2nd semester. The course is completed in the 3rd semester with the master s thesis. In the part-time mode, the programme typically extends to five semesters. The figure below shows a possible course concept. The core modules and the innovation thinking project are taken in the 1st and 2nd semester. Students are left free to decide on their electives between the 2nd and 5th semester. Toward the end of the course students prepare their research proposal and write up their master s thesis. Core Modules 18 ETCS Electives ETCS Innovation Thinking ETCS Core Modules ETCS Electives 18 ETCS Electives 12 ETCS Master Thesis 15 ETCS Master Thesis Proposal ETCS Manager s Shadow Project 3 ETCS 1st Semester 2nd Semester 3rd Semester Core Modules 18 ETCS Core Modules ETCS Electives ETCS Innovation Thinking ETCS Core Modules Research and Innovation Projects Electives Electives 18 ETCS Electives 12 ETCS Master Thesis Proposal ETCS Manager s Shadow Project 3 ETCS Master Thesis 15 ETCS 1st Semester 2nd Semester 3rd Semester 4th Semester 5th Semester Core Modules Research and Innovation Projects Electives 1 School of Business FHNW 17

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12 Module Descriptions 1) Core Modules Module Descriptions Research and Innovation Projects Alignment of Business and IT ( ECTS) This module deals with the mutual and continuous alignment of business and IT on a strategic and operative level. It shows the importance of enterprise architecture to manage complexity and change. The module provides an overview of enterprise architecture management and modelling. It comprises common enterprise architecture frameworks and standard modelling languages. Business Process Management ( ECTS) It is the objective of this module to deepen the students knowledge of business process management, in particular with regard to model-based process improvement, process frameworks and Total Quality Management (TQM). Topics include CMMI, Six Sigma, Kaizen and Lean Management. A particular focus is on the management of knowledge work. The students learn how to deal with cases which require flexibility and human intervention and how process-related knowledge can be captured and reused. IT Management and Cloud Computing ( ECTS) This module focuses on the major concepts of IT management. Students learn how to manage the strategic and operative aspects of an IT department and how to align business requirements with IT. A particular focus is on the influence of cloud computing on IT management. Strategic Management in the Digital Economy ( ECTS) Students learn how to recognize opportunities in order to enable enterprises to develop new products, services and business models. A particular focus is on how to perceive relevant trends in IT and how information and information systems can enable new business models. Students shall understand how to exploit the full potential of digitalization for the benefit of the business and the economy. Innovation Thinking Project ( ECTS) In this module the students learn how the principles of design thinking can drive innovation. Furthermore, the module provides students with an indepth understanding of common research methodologies, and the knowledge required to write a research paper. In a project the students apply appropriate research methodologies to create an innovative solution for a concrete problem. Master Thesis Proposal ( ECTS) This module prepares students for the undertaking of their master s thesis. The research proposal includes a description of the research problem based on a literature review, a thesis statement, the research questions, and the research design, which guides students through their research journey, giving them a clear direction. The students are guided by a supervisor. Master Thesis (15 ECTS) The master thesis is of central importance to the master s degree. Under the guidance of a supervisor, students bring together aspects of learning from previous modules and show their ability to plan, conduct and write up their own research project. The master thesis can be completed in cooperation with companies located in Switzerland or anywhere in the world. Manager s Shadow Project (3 ECTS) This project provides students with the opportunity to gain hands on experience in a managerial environment. It allows students to assess the concepts and theory learnt in any of the management-related modules by comparing it with professional reality. The module can be taken in two different ways: Either in the home-run through observation and interaction by shadowing a manager within a particular time frame or by participating in one of the study tours. 1) Detailed and up-to-date module descriptions can be found on the webpage 20 School of Business FHNW 21

13 Module Descriptions Electives Business Analytics: Quantitative Methods ( ECTS) This modules addresses the use of quantitative methods to support managerial work. Students acquire knowledge and skills in statistical data collection, data preparation, analysis, modelling and prediction for supply, operations, marketing, strategy and competitiveness analysis. Topics range from probability and simulation to multiple regression and their role in business analytics are discussed. Students will be able to use quantitative methods to support business decisions while taking into account uncertainty in results and predictions. Students carry out hands-on exercises with up-to-date software and with business. Business Intelligence ( ECTS) Business Intelligence is concerned with supporting business decisions with facts. The module looks at different kinds of decisions, at different kinds of data and different kinds of tools required to distil knowledge from data. Upon successful completion of this module students will know how to implement business intelligence solutions that support managerial decisions and add value to the business. Students will understand how to measure and monitor strategic company goals. They will gain insight into application scenarios and usage principles. Challenging International Managers and Leaders ( ECTS) In this module students are challenged by real-world cases from different areas, be it knowledge-management, turning companies around, managing change, coping with a crisis, marketing or another topic of general interest. All the topics will be presented by a manager and leader (CEO, COO, CFO etc.) from an international company. He or she will offer stories as case studies. Groups of students will compete against each other to offer innovative solutions. 22 School of Business FHNW 23

14 Compliance Management and Governance of IT ( ECTS) Students gain an understanding of the challenges and opportunities which enterprises and related IT departments are facing - not least as a result of globalisation processes and the ups and downs of the economy. The rapidly increasing requirements in terms of compliance, governance and risk management are discussed and analyzed based on practical cases and experience. As a solution and innovation toolkit the module provides insights into standards, reference models and best practices (e.g. ISO/IEC 38500, 20000, CMMI, COBIT, ITIL). Digitalization of Business Processes ( ECTS) The aim of the module is to provide state-of-the-art knowledge about implementing business processes using information technology. The module is organized as a project covering the whole life-cycle of business process management with a particular focus on the exploitation of information technology for collaboration and information management. On successful completion of the module, students will have indepth knowledge and practical experience in appropriate IT support for business process management. E-Business and Mobile Business ( ECTS) The e-business perspective highlights the various impacts of interorganizational information systems on strategies and value chains. The two perspectives of e-commerce and e-procurement include topics such as fulfilment services, personalization, multichannel, marketing, B2B integration and e-invoicing. Mobile business specifically addresses the growing significance of mobile business ecosystems in the modern business world. It analyses the social, economic and technical characteristics of mobile communication. Case studies show how the concepts and theories are applied in practical situations. 24 School of Business FHNW Entrepreneurship and Economic Development ( ECTS) This module provides students with knowledge of the main theoretical aspects of entrepreneurship as well as an opportunity to apply their knowledge to a real business context. Upon completion of the module, students are able to recognize and design unique, innovative business opportunities and to apply their expertise to convert these opportunities into workable and marketable ideas. As part of the module, students get involved in real business situations either locally or in a community in a developing country. Innovative Topics in Information Systems ( ECTS) This module provides the opportunity to learn about new trends in information systems. Students familiarise themselves with innovative topics and can discuss their potential. Concrete content may change, depending on recent developments. The module is offered by topic-based teaching. Knowledge Management and Competence Development ( ECTS) Knowledge management and competence development are crucial for knowledge-intensive businesses. In this module students examine the potential of trends such as Web 2.0, mobile learning or work-based learning. They design and research innovative knowledge management and learning solutions in the context of their own work or international cases. They also experiment with different forms of e- learning and e-collaboration in an online classroom. Knowledge Processing and Decision Making ( ECTS) Knowledge workers need experience and knowledge at different levels. In order to allow automated reasoning and decision making, knowledge has to be formally represented. Upon successful completion of this module students will understand different kinds of knowledge representation and inference paradigms, including logic-oriented, rule-based, and object-centred systems. Students will be able to select adequate knowledge representation and develop appropriate knowledge-based systems. 25

15 Optimization for Business Improvement ( ECTS) This module deals with the optimization of real-world problems and the management of complex systems. Knowledge and skills as well as training are provided how solutions can be improved and optimal alternatives can be obtained. The modelling, simulation and optimization of complex problems are discussed and tested. A focus is set on the methods of computational intelligence. The application of optimization principles and methods to problems in management, logistics, engineering, information systems, and robotics is emphasized in order to handle upcoming challenges in business and society. Supply Chain Management ( ECTS) The module provides students with a variety of established structures, best practices and analytical tools to analyze and solve supply chain management problems. A specific focus is on the role of IT as an innovation driver in global supply chains. Upon successful completion of this module, students will have gained knowledge of the objectives, problems, and activities of supply chain management. The students understand the value and utilization of information for the management of supply networks. Independent Learning Module ( ECTS) The Independent Learning Module offers the opportunity for interdisciplinary studies or to focus on a specific area of interest in information systems and management. The students can select a module from the MSc in International Management or from any other Master of Science or Master of Arts programme at FHNW or any other university. 2 School of Business FHNW 27

16 International Activities Exchange Dual Degree Programme We offer the opportunity to participate in a dual degree programme with our partner university in Camerino, Italy. Students may apply to study at the University of Camerino for one semester. On completion of the dual degree programme, graduates will receive two degrees, one from each university: Master of Science in Business Information Systems from the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, 90 ECTS Master of Science in Computer Science from the University of Camerino, 120 ECTS Semester Abroad Students have the opportunity to undertake an exchange semester in one of our carefully selected partner universities abroad. Typically, exchange programmes can be combined with undertaking research projects or writing the master s thesis in cooperation with companies in the selected destination. 28 School of Business FHNW 29

17 International Activities Study Tours The Global Mindset One of the critical steps in developing a global mindset is familiarity and comfort with non-home country settings. Understanding other countries economic, social, political and cultural systems and imprints is key. Brasil ao vivo, South Africa Live and Enter Silicon Valley The Brasil ao vivo, South Africa Live and Enter Silicon Valley projects open up opportunities for our students to see the world through the eyes of others. This is what a truly global mindset is all about. Through a combination of a pre-departure session, company visits, group interviews with managers, cultural activities and an analytical paper at the end, students will be exposed to and will have to reflect upon the realities of huge emerging economies. The international immersion experiences in both Brazil, South Africa and the United States provide unique insights into a fascinating world marked by diversity. The tours aim at providing a connection between concepts and models learned in the classroom and the real world abroad. Students participating in one of these study tours will be awarded ECTS credit points. 30 School of Business FHNW 31

18 Entry Requirements and Application Study Fees Entry Requirements The registration requirements for the Master of Science in Business Information Systems programme encompass a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Business Informatics (Wirtschaftsinformatik), Business Information Technology, Information Systems, Business Administration (Betriebsökonomie)*, Management*, Economics*, Computer Science (Informatik)*, Information Technology*, Information Science*, Industrial Engineering* or a similar field of study good or very good grades good or very good linguistic abilities in English work experience The transcript of records (modules completed) of bachelor s degrees which are marked with * will be checked in detail. Missing required modules may be studied in the Pre-Master s programme. Tuition fees are CHF 700 per semester for students domiciled in a Swiss canton or in the Principality of Liechtenstein with legal entitlement to a subsidy, expatriate Swiss citizens, EU or EFTA citizens, holders of Swiss residence permits not issued specifically for study purposes The tuition fees for all other students are CHF 7500 per semester. Additional fees: Semester material fees are CHF 110 per semester Matriculation fees are CHF 200 Diploma examination fees are CHF 300 Each student providing evidence of meeting the registration requirements will be invited for an interview. The number of places for this programme is limited. Apply Online 32 School of Business FHNW 33

19 Contact Information and Registration University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland FHNW School of Business Registration MSc Programmes Riggenbachstrasse Olten Switzerland T +41 (0) [email protected] Website 34 School of Business FHNW 35

20 Testimonials The opportunity to carry out individual and group work (assignments, projects and presentations) prepares you for the business world. It helps you to grow your desire to learn for working and to work for learning. It increases your aspiration to work for businesses or create your own business. The pragmatic approach allows for a more direct relationship between teachers and students. You can get reviews, tips and guidance from the lecturers and increase your level of maturity. Jessica Usai, Dual Degree Student Getting to know students from all over the world with different backgrounds and experience makes this course very worthwhile. The really good interaction with the professors is one of the key success factors of the course. Emanuele Laurenzi, Dual Degree Student The MSc in Business Information Systems course provides an ideal and attractive means for me to achieve my goal, to enhance our division and remain a strong partner of our senior management team. Marcel Gabi, Student University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of Business Concept and design: canarini communications gmbh, Basel Photography: Alex Kaeslin, 4104 Oberwil Print: Dietschi AG, Olten August The information in this brochure is subject to change 3 School of Business FHNW AK