
Masters in Information Management & Digital Business – Big Data in Business
This Masters programme will equip you to deal with the large amounts of data that is constantly generated in business.
At a glance
- Learn to create usable business intelligence to create competitive advantage for organisations
- Evaluate business value in utilising Big Data and solutions
- Gain key knowledge and skills to design and develop business solutions
- Use ICT and cognate technologies in data analytics and processing
- One of the three pathways in the MSc Information Management & Digital Business programme
- Level
- Masters
- Subject area(s)
- Digital Business
- Award
- MSc
- Duration
- 12 months full-time, 24 or 36 months part-time
- Attendance
- Full-time , Part-time
- Programme Director
-
Dr Yin Leng Tan
Overview
The Big Data in Business pathway will enable you to understand and strategically direct the information being generated by businesses.
Commercial focus
You will learn to develop a strategic approach to managing Big Data in business. This will be taught through the analysis of business problems as well as understanding different approaches to business intelligence. Through this, you’ll be able to create usable business intelligence to create competitive advantage for organisations.
Through this programme, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyse and manage Big Data to benefit business in a variety of sectors.
Not sure which of the three pathways to choose?
Apply for the one that you feel fits you better. You will be able to change the pathway within the first few weeks of your arrival at the university.
Part one: Autumn term
Compulsory modules | Credits |
---|---|
Business Data Analytics (INMR95)Aims: This module introduces key concepts, techniques, and tools for business data analytics. Data analytics is a fundamental tool for any organisations to make strategic use of their data assets and enable data-driven decision making. The module will cover concepts in data management, basic statistics and analytics, as well as tools used in business data analytics. Outline Content:
Academic authors![]()
Dr Markos Kyritsis
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Big Data in Business (INMR89)Aims: Given the availability of large amount of both structured and unstructured data in business, there is a need for organisations to assess how effectively Big Data can be utilised for business. The aim of this module is to evaluate the business value in utilising Big Data and develop information management solutions with an appreciation of business analytics methods and technologies. Outline content:
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Business Domain and Requirements Analysis (INMR66)Aims: Outline content:
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Business Informatics (INMR91)Aims:
This module aims to enable students to develop an in-depth understanding of the nature, structure and function of information in the business domain. Students will gain knowledge of information requirements and presentation, working alongside users and subject specialists, to support their business functions. Through the course students will acquire the ability to plan, implement and evaluate IT-based solutions. Outline content:
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Career and Professional Development (MMM132)What am I going to do when my course ends, and how am I going to achieve it? This module has been designed to help Accounting, Informatics and Business Management students answer those two questions, and empower them to take the actions required. It’s a suite of sessions that pays close attention to the general pathways Business Management, Accounting and Informatics students tend to take, and their aspirations as expressed during pre-sessional career activities & induction surveys. Students will choose this the mix of custom-made sessions that best suit their stage in life and supplement them with the open careers programmes offered at the University, the online content on the Henley Careers Blackboard site and 1-2-1 careers consultations. |
0 [0 ECTS credits] |
MSc Dissertation (Information Management) (INMR90)Aims: Outline content:
|
40 [20 ECTS credits] |
Part two: Spring term
Compulsory modules | Credits |
---|---|
Big Data in Business (INMR89)Aims: Given the availability of large amount of both structured and unstructured data in business, there is a need for organisations to assess how effectively Big Data can be utilised for business. The aim of this module is to evaluate the business value in utilising Big Data and develop information management solutions with an appreciation of business analytics methods and technologies. Outline content:
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Business Intelligence and Data Mining (INMR77)Aims: Outline content:
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
MSc Dissertation (Information Management) (INMR90)Aims: Outline content:
|
40 [20 ECTS credits] |
Optional modules | Credits |
---|---|
Business Technology Consulting (INMR86)Aims:
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Digital Health and Data Analytics (INMR96)This module focuses on knowledge and hands on skills to leverage information technology, data analytics and machine learning skills in healthcare service delivery, clinical research, hospital operational management and public health. The students will have blended learning experience including in-class lectures, machine learning and data analytics exercise as well as case studies from NHS hospitals, community and social care organisations, local authority and companies who provide digital health and data analytics solutions, in UK and internationally. |
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Digital Innovation (INMR93)This module is concerned with the use of existing and cutting-edge technologies and innovations to provide digital business solutions for businesses. It focuses on values-based innovation, digital business ecosystems and platform ecosystems, and employs the emerging service science and service logic/thinking approaches to the development of the digital business solutions. It covers innovations in processes, products, technology, services, and business models, as well as methods and models to create new business value in highly competitive and technology-rich environments. |
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Digital Leadership (INMR94)This module develops critical digital knowledge and skills in digital concepts, leadership, teambuilding, capability and change planning and control to support the development of a digital technology solutions in businesses. It integrates leadership and e-leadership principles with a knowledge of digital technology and the practice of leading digital solution approaches and teams in a variety of leadership types at strategic level required by a business or consulting client. It provides appropriate capability and analysis tools and techniques to enable students to identify, manage and resolve digital leadership and supporting digital technology issues and enables the development of appropriate digital leadership approaches necessary to support digital business technology and related consulting situations. |
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Digital Marketing (MMM077)This module aims to introduce students to digital marketing and the increasingly important role of technology in both marketing practice and society. By the end of the module students should be able to apply a range of skills to implement digital marketing approaches and understand the key strategic drivers behind the growth of the digital economy. |
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
IT Project Management (INMR65)Aims: Outline content:
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Organisational Dynamics: Systems Thinking in the Digital Age (INMR98)Information is everywhere – but how should we use it? This module is about using information to make decisions which steer an organisation effectively. Digitalisation and globalisation have created tidal waves of data and globe-spanning organisations. The result is that it is hard to know what information to use to make decisions and hard to know what the consequences of our decisions are. Organisational dynamics – what could happen as time rolls forward - are hard to understand, hard to anticipate. Whilst all managers know that their organisations are complex, inter-connected things, they lack the cognitive ability to activate this knowledge when making hard choices. This module provides a set of systems tools for individuals and management teams to use which help improve thinking about organisational change and policy interventions, and so create and steer organisations of all types. The examples studied range across countries and sectors and the module draws significantly on the research and practical experience of the Convenor. |
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Part three: Summer term
Compulsory modules | Credits |
---|---|
MSc Dissertation (Information Management) (INMR90)Aims: Outline content:
|
40 [20 ECTS credits] |
*The module or course content descriptions set out on this page are correct for those being taught in the current academic year. Modules or course content marked as optional are indicative and may be subject to change. Please note, constraints in timetable scheduling may mean you are unable to take some optional modules at the same time as others.
A holistic approach
Effective leadership requires more than first-class business acumen, it requires a degree of self-awareness and sensitivity. Our Masters programmes offer you a unique practice-centred approach to teaching equipping you with the tools to become a compelling leader. This approach creates emotionally intelligent graduates who can be fully effective in their chosen careers.
How you will learn
Henley has a strong reputation for the practical application of business ideas and concepts. We are underpinned by academic excellence and the strength of our research. We offer high-quality technical skills training as well as a deep understanding of the importance of personal development for leaders. This is a thread that is woven through all of our Masters programmes.
Our Masters programmes feature a mix of core and optional modules, tailoring your degree towards your needs and career ambitions. You will complete up to 10 taught modules during your programme, totalling 180 credits. One module usually equates to 20 credits or 10 hours of work per week. Your week will include lectures, tutorials, workshops and personal study, with each accounting for 25% of your time on average. This provides you with the opportunity to discuss and explore the material in depth with your lecturers and fellow students.
You will be introduced to the latest thinking and research findings then have the opportunity to challenge those that have created it. You will also explore real-world issues, tackle current business challenges, and interact with guest lectures and speakers from industry. This gives you the opportunity to test, extend and refine your knowledge and skills with confidence.
How we assess you
You will learn and be assessed through a wide variety of teaching methods which vary depending on your chosen Masters programme. These include online materials and multimedia content, guest lectures, individual and group assignments, case studies, field visits, dealing room simulations, presentations, applied projects, consultancy work and examinations.
On average in class tests form between 15 - 25% of the assessed work. The remaining comes from coursework, including a written dissertation or project depending on your chosen programme
Ongoing support
While Masters students are self-motivated and determined individuals, study at this level can present additional pressures which we take seriously. Lecturers are available to discuss the content of each module and your academic tutor can meet with you regularly. Support staff are here to help with anything that may arise during your time at Henley.
2022 entry
Full Time | Part Time |
---|---|
£11,500 | £5,900 per year |
Scholarships
We offer a number of scholarships for UK/Home and International applicants. Please note that scholarship application is via the University of Reading applicant portal once an offer has been made. You can only apply when you have received an offer (conditional or unconditional). When you view your offer in the portal you will see the link to apply for scholarship(s) relevant to your offer.
Current scholarships
Entry requirement | Criteria |
---|---|
Undergraduate degree | Minimum 2:1 or the equivalent from an Internationally recognised university |
Degree discipline | Any discipline |
English Language Requirements
Studying in a second language can be challenging. If your English language ability is below the minimum requirement, we may ask for evidence of proficiency. Alternatively, we may ask you to attend an English language course before you begin your studies with us.
Requirement | Criteria |
---|---|
IELTS | 6.5 with no component below 5.5 |
IELTS with pre-sessional English | 6.0 with no component below 5.5 |
Acceptance of LanguageCert Online and DuoLingo English qualifications
We appreciate the difficulties that some students are having with the availability of English Language tests, as the impact of the global pandemic continues. As a result of this, we are pleased to announce that we can now accept the non-SELT version of LanguageCert (which includes the online version) and DuoLingo as suitable English language qualifications. These can be accepted for direct entry onto Undergraduate (except Speech and Language Therapy), Postgraduate Taught (except Speech and Language Therapy) and Postgraduate Research programmes.
For information on individual programme requirements and other English language qualifications, please visit our English requirement equivalent page.
If you require specific advice on your qualification please contact admissions directly by e-mail or telephone on +44 118-378-5289.
Pre-sessional English language programme
If you are not a national of the European Union (EU), you may need to obtain a UK visa. This visa will allow to live and study in the UK. See the UK Border Agency website. Contact the University's International Office with any questions: intoff@reading.ac.uk.
Graduate Route
The UK's Graduate Route post-study work visa allows you to apply to stay in the UK for up to two years after you graduate, with the opportunity to undertake skilled work. Visit the University website for the latest information.
To enable our students to tailor their learning to their interests and career ambitions, we design assessments that reward originality and new perspectives.
“The assignments allowed total creative freedom, which helped me develop confidence in my ability to carry on original projects.”Information Mgt and Digital Business (Health) graduate
Where are our 2020 graduates now?
2020 graduates in this area have secured the following roles:
Business Analyst at Capgemini
Business Intelligence Consultant at GlobeMed
Contracts Manager at Heathrow Airport
ERP Programme Officer at NHS
IT Support Consulting at BCB Group
Product Operations Manager at Decathlon
Industry of employment for 2020 graduates

Function of employment for graduates

2020 graduates are employed in the following locations:

Please note the above statistics are based on respondents to our Masters Outcomes Survey in 2021, which was completed by our 2020 graduates.
Respondents are from the following programmes: MSc Business Technology Consulting, MSc Information Management & Digital Business – Big Data in Business, MSc Information Management & Digital Business – Digital Health and Data Analytics and MSc Information Management & Digital Business – Digital Innovation.
How can Henley Careers work with you?
We have an award-winning careers team that will support you through your postgraduate studies and four years after graduation.
Here is how Henley Careers can help you:
- Careers Consultant appointments: Our Careers Consultant are here to help and support you with any careers related concern that you might have. Whether it’s CV advice, practicing for an interview, providing feedback if applications aren't successful or support planning your career goals. We are here to help empower you to progress in your career.
- Events: Henley Careers organise numerous events aimed to help you build your confidence, develop the skills employers are looking for. Additionally, network with employers and expand your industry knowledge.
- Alumni support: You can continue to book one-to-one appointments with your Careers Consultant and use our online resources. For up to four years after graduating we’re here to help and support in your career.
- Career Smart: Get a head start in securing a graduate job by taking part in our online course, Career Smart. You can expect to learn about the graduate recruitment cycle in the UK. As well as where to look and how to start applying to jobs, and the different roles available to you.
For more information please see our Careers page.
Continuing your career
The MSc Information Management and Digital Business programme will give you a rigorous academic understanding of real-life and current business issues.
As a graduate of the Big Data in Business pathway, you will be equipped to develop strategies to manage Big Data. These skills are much in demand, in a variety of fields.
A number of our students join our PhD programmes each year.
Apply for 2022 entry now
Apply online now through the University of Reading’s online application service.
The online application service allows you to complete your application information, attach electronic copies of your academic transcripts, certificates and other supporting information. It also provides a facility for an email request to be sent to your referees. This enables the referees to send your supporting references directly to us.
When to apply
We operate a rolling admissions system and it is recommended that you apply early to secure your place. There is no specific deadline and applications will be considered until the programme is full. However, to allow us time to process your application we recommend that you apply by the following dates:
UK/Home applicants | International applicants |
---|---|
1 August | 1 June |
After you apply
You will receive a confirmation email when we receive your application form. Your application is then reviewed by a member of staff. If successful, you will receive a formal offer letter outlining any necessary entry criteria you will need to meet. You'll then be asked to confirm your acceptance of this offer.
If you require a Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for your visa, details will be sent by email once all conditions of the offer have been met.
Throughout the admissions process we will keep you updated with key information via email. We also provide opportunities to interact with faculty and staff online.
Find us on Facebook and keep up-to-date with news and events at Henley or ask us a question. In addition, you can speak to a current student, our students are always happy to share their Henley experience.
Our students and alumni are always keen to share their Henley experience. Whether you are a prospective applicant or already applied to a Masters programme at Henley Business School. You can ask questions to a current student by clicking the “Chat to our students” button below.
When contacting one of our students, please introduce yourself and the Masters programme you have applied for.
Speak to a current student
Contact us
If you have any questions, please contact us by email at postgraduate@henley.ac.uk or by phone on +44 (0)118 378 7593.

“Getting a scholarship uplifted my morale before even starting the course. It got me recognised and gave me an edge from the crowd. The feeling that I am a scholar drives my momentum through demanding days.”