The programme runs over two years and four semesters. Year 1 covers core and elective coursework. Year 2 is dedicated to an independent research dissertation, with students developing their research proposal in Semester 2 of Year 1. Coursework comprises 10 modules: 8 core and 2 options.

Core Modules

Research Methodology

Builds the skills needed to design and carry out original research in informatics. Students explore qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods approaches, and learn how to select and apply appropriate methods for different research contexts.

Project Management

Equips students with practical project management skills relevant to informatics. Topics include scope and time management, resource planning, budgeting, change management, organisational structures, and agile project delivery.

Information Systems Theories

Provides a grounding in IS theories from a socio-technical perspective, exploring how theory can guide research methodology and analytical discussion in complex, multi-stakeholder organisational environments.

Business Management and Entrepreneurship

Introduces key entrepreneurship concepts and management functions applicable to both new ventures and established organisations. Students apply strategic and innovative thinking to real-world business scenarios.

Digital Forensics

Introduces the tools and techniques used in digital forensic investigations, including data acquisition, preservation, analysis, and presentation of evidence. Students examine legal and ethical considerations and gain hands-on experience with forensic software.

Cyber Security

Covers both the theory and practice of securing computer systems, user data, and software in networked environments. Topics include security management, threat assessment, incident response, and organisational approaches to maintaining cyber resilience.

Intrusion Detection and Firewalls

Teaches students to detect and assess system breaches using intrusion detection systems, protocol analysers, and firewall architectures to monitor and secure network traffic.

Information Technology Risk Management

Introduces students to risk frameworks and methodologies used to identify and manage risks associated with IT adoption and use within organisations. Students examine risk from multiple organisational perspectives.

Master Thesis

Students undertake a substantial independent research project in their chosen area of specialisation, guided by a supervisor. The module covers literature review, research design, data analysis, proposal writing, and dissemination of findings through a dissertation and oral presentation.

Elective Modules (Choose 2)

Networking

Covers foundational networking concepts including network layers, devices, and IP addressing. These skills are especially relevant in developing countries like Malawi where internet infrastructure is being actively expanded.

Network Security

Examines network vulnerabilities and the threats posed by malicious software. Students explore practical security measures and technologies used to defend computer networks against attack.

Network Management and Virtualisation

Develops skills in managing and virtualising networks, with a focus on deployment and support of internet infrastructure. Particular attention is given to the challenges and opportunities of network management in developing countries.

Neural Networks

Builds skills in neural network modelling for supervised and unsupervised learning, with applications in decision-making systems, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cybersecurity intelligence.

Information Technology Governance

Covers the governance of IT systems with a focus on security policy, risk mitigation, regulatory compliance, disaster recovery planning, and the development of strategic IT plans for organisations.

Database Management Systems

Advances students’ knowledge of database design, development, and enterprise-wide data management. Students evaluate different database types and modelling tools suited to large-scale organisational data needs.

Distributed Systems

Examines the fundamentals of distributed computing environments, including network concepts, operating systems, transaction management, and time coordination — with emphasis on the design requirements of distributed information systems.

Systems Administration

Provides both conceptual knowledge and hands-on experience in deploying and maintaining secure, modern computer systems — covering the technologies and techniques essential for effective systems administration.

• A relevant bachelor’s degree with at least a strong pass from a recognised institution of higher learning in Information Systems, Computer Science, or an equivalent qualification.

• Shortlisted candidates may be called for an interview.