The University of New South Wales Faculty of Commerce & Economics has launched a Master of Information Systems degree for established information systems and technology professionals who aspire to management roles in the industry.

A prerequisite for the course is a bachelor's degree with a major in Computer Science, Information Systems or Information Technology as well as three years industry experience.

Professor John D'Ambra, the program's associate director said, "This ensures a stimulating classroom environment where students will study with like minded and experienced peers."

D'Ambra said the course had been structured in close consultation with industry to ensure the degree was relevant and practical. The school has close links with companies such as Sydney Water, KAZ Technology Services, Westpac Banking Corporation, Telstra Wholesale and Volvo Australia.

Kumar Parakala, NSW chairman of the Australian Computer Society, said that a recent ACS survey found education and training to be top priorities for its members in 2004/2005.

"Education is essential to raise the standards of the whole IT industry," he said

"This course will help IT professionals develop their skills in IT."

Chief information officer at Sydney Water Vicki, Coleman, said that education, leadership, communication and management skills are often ranked as more important attributes in a CIO today than technical skills.

"Education is a requirement in IT now, not a consideration," she said.

"A course like this one will give information technology professionals a leading edge and help to differentiate them in an increasingly tough market place."

The degree consists of six core subjects and two electives. More information is available at www.fce.unsw.edu.au.

The Masters of Information Systems is accredited at the professional level by the Australian Computer Society. The degree can be completed in one year on a full-time basis, but can also be studied part time. It costs $1980.