Master of Database and Information Systems
Course Overview
The Master of Database and Information Systems is a postgraduate degree delivered entirely online through LOU's virtual learning environment, designed for senior data professionals and technology graduates seeking executive data governance, information systems research capability and the strategic leadership skills required for Chief Data Officer, Data Director and senior data architecture roles. Over 12 to 18 months, the programme develops rigorous understanding of enterprise data architecture policy, information governance frameworks, cloud data strategy and the regulatory and ethical dimensions of data management at board level. Content is aligned with BCS and ISACA postgraduate professional frameworks.
Students study from anywhere in the world, completing an online research methodology module and a substantial capstone or dissertation applying original data research to a real organisational or sector challenge. By graduation, you will have the policy perspective, research depth and executive leadership capability to govern enterprise data at the highest organisational level.
Key Features
- Postgraduate programme aligned with BCS and ISACA executive data governance frameworks
- Enterprise data architecture policy, Chief Data Officer governance and information strategy modules
- GDPR, data ethics, AI governance and regulatory compliance modules at executive level
- Advanced online research methodology covering data science, case study and governance research approaches
- Live online lectures, recorded sessions available on demand, and virtual tutorial sessions with Chief Data Officer-level practitioners
- Digital library access to BCS publications, ISACA standards, data governance literature and academic databases
- Online career support including executive CV coaching, board-level data leadership interview preparation and CDO network introductions
What You Will Learn
- Develop enterprise data governance frameworks aligned with corporate strategy, regulatory requirements and stakeholder expectations
- Evaluate advanced data architecture models including cloud-native, multi-cloud and hybrid information systems at executive level
- Apply AI governance, machine learning oversight and algorithmic accountability principles at board level
- Conduct original research into data governance, information systems strategy or enterprise data management
- Assess the global regulatory environment affecting data — including GDPR, CCPA and emerging AI legislation — and their implications for organisations
- Design information security governance programmes appropriate for board reporting and external audit
- Lead enterprise data transformation projects, managing stakeholder alignment and change management
- Integrate data strategy with corporate governance, financial planning and executive communication
Who This Course Is For
- Bachelor of Database Technologies graduates seeking postgraduate research and executive data credentials
- Senior database managers and data architects targeting CDO, CIO and executive data governance roles
- Data scientists and information systems professionals with substantial experience applying via the 5-year experience route
- IT governance consultants seeking research-informed postgraduate data management credentials
- Professionals who need flexible online study to complete a Master's in data governance alongside executive careers
Career Pathways
- Database Administrator
- Information Systems Manager
- Data Scientist
- Digital Transformation Manager
- Technology Consultant
- Cloud Architect
- Chief Technology Officer
LOU's online career support service provides executive CV coaching, LinkedIn optimisation, online interview preparation and employer introductions for graduates targeting Chief Data Officer, data director and enterprise information systems leadership roles.
Entry Requirements
- A UK 2:2 (Lower Second Class) honours degree or overseas equivalent in any discipline
- Applicants without a first degree may be considered with 5+ years of senior professional experience
- IELTS 6.5 overall (no band under 6.0) or equivalent English proficiency
- A 500-word research statement covering the applicant's chosen area of specialisation
- Two academic or professional references and a short online interview
Why Study at LOU
LOU — London Online University — delivers every postgraduate programme through its virtual learning environment, with live online lectures, recorded sessions available on demand and digital library access ensuring that executive data governance education is accessible to senior professionals worldwide. The Master of Database and Information Systems is aligned with BCS and ISACA, providing graduates with the highest-level professionally referenced data credentials available through online study.
LOU's research supervisors guide Master's students through the capstone or dissertation process, supporting original investigation into real data governance challenges. Every student benefits from dedicated online career support and virtual tutorial sessions throughout their postgraduate journey. Graduates of the Master of Database and Information Systems are positioned for CDO, data director and board-level technology leadership roles.
Apply for Master of Database and Information Systems
The Master of Database and Information Systems at LOU develops executive data governance, enterprise information systems strategy and original research capability, delivered entirely online and aligned with BCS and ISACA professional standards. Advance your career with an LOU Master's degree delivered entirely online. Enrol Now
















