This MSc has the development of holistic thinking skills and appreciation of multiple perspectives at its core. Systems thinking skills are relevant in many areas, such as business, development, engineering, environment, health, IT, and organisational change. You’ll gain insights into how other people think about situations and learn to apply concepts, tools and techniques developed by systems thinkers. You’ll choose option modules from business management, development management, engineering, environmental management and innovation management. The final project extends your ways of thinking and acting in practice to improve a complex situation of interest to you.
Code
F47
Course type
Masters Degree
Level
Postgraduate
Credits
180
Length
Part-time – 3 years
Start dates
May 2027
November 2027
Study method
Distance learning
Develop advanced systems thinking skills to understand and respond to complex, interconnected challenges
Apply practical tools and approaches directly to real-world situations in your own context
Customise your learning through module choices relevant to your career or interests
Strengthen your ability to lead change ethically and collaboratively, engaging stakeholders and improving complex systems
The first two-thirds of this MSc are the same as our Postgraduate Diploma in Systems Thinking in Practice (E28). The first third is the same as our Postgraduate Certificate in Systems Thinking in Practice (C72).
Code
F47
Course type
Masters Degree
Level
Postgraduate
Credits
180
Length
Part-time – 3 years
Start dates
May 2027
November 2027
Study method
Distance learning
Modules (180 credits)
To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits.
Stage 1
You'll study two compulsory 30-credit systems thinking modules and choose 60 credits from a range of option modules.
Modules
Credits
Next start
You'll study both of the following:
Making strategy with systems thinking in practice (TB871)
Build your capability for making strategy within your own chosen area of (professional) practice using ideas and tools from five traditions of systems thinking.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Managing change with systems thinking in practice (TB872)
This module is about effecting systemic and systematic change in uncertain and complex situations, change that can transform situations for the better.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Subject to regulations, if you’ve passed the discontinued module TU811 or TU812, you may count one or both of these instead.
You'll choose 60 credits from:
Financial markets and the financing of organisations (B815)
This module covers the core areas of corporate finance and investments, providing a basis for developing specialist financial expertise.
Next start date: 06 Nov 2027
See full description
30
06 Nov 2027
Creating and sustaining value (B872)
This module allows you to critically explore the ways organisations create, sustain and expand value in an increasingly complex and dynamic business environment.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Sustainable creative management (BB842)
This module explores creative, innovative and sustainable ways of developing and managing organisations and offers practical approaches for developing yourself, your team and your organisation.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
15
01 May 2027
Entrepreneurship in context (BB851)
This module will equip you with an entrepreneurial mindset and help you learn about entrepreneurship and different forms of entrepreneurial practice.
Next start date: 06 Nov 2027
See full description
15
06 Nov 2027
Leadership and management of public services (BB852)
In this module, you'll study the many dimensions of managing public services, which may be public, private for-profit or not-for profit.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
15
01 May 2027
Contemporary issues in organisations (BB853)
This module will help you become a knowledge leader by demonstrating that you're ahead of current organisational and business challenges.
Next start date: 06 Nov 2027
See full description
15
06 Nov 2027
Management of uncertainty: leadership, decisions and action (BZVM801)
Develop greater leadership skills and learn to make effective decisions in conditions of radical uncertainty.
Next start date: 02 Jan 2027
See full description
15
02 Jan 2027
Management of change: organisation development and design (BZVM802)
Discover tools and concepts of human-centred management and design, and develop skills to manage and lead in the 21st century.
Next start date: 02 Jan 2027
See full description
15
02 Jan 2027
Understanding global development (DD870)
This module introduces global approaches to contemporary development issues such as poverty, inequality and environmental sustainability, equipping you with the analytical tools to critically examine and respond to these challenges.
Next start date: 02 Oct 2027
See full description
60
02 Oct 2027
Information security (M811)
Explore the professional and technical skills to understand, document, manage and implement strategic and operational aspects of information security.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Digital forensics (M812)
Cover the history of forensics, criminal and criminal digital law, digital investigation techniques for desktop and mobile devices and forensic readiness.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Software development (M813)
Gain the fundamental knowledge, understanding, and analysis and synthesis skills needed to develop software artefacts for a real-world organisational context.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Software engineering (M814)
Explore advanced concepts and techniques used through the software lifecycle to effectively produce and manage large, complex, and long-lived software systems.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Project management (M815)
This APM-accredited module is for aspiring and practising project managers who wish to develop their knowledge and skills in managing technological projects.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Data management (M816)
Discover data management principles, practices and technologies to develop policies, procedures and systems that control and protect organisational data assets.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Network security (T828)
This module includes Cisco CCNA Security and Cyber Security Operations, which explore information systems security management and secure Internetworked systems.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Manufacture materials design (T805)
This module introduces materials processing from a design engineer's perspective, exploring the interactions between manufacturing, materials and design.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849)
Draw on theoretical perspectives from strategic and innovation management to produce a multi-layered, practical approach to technological innovation management.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Making environmental decisions (T891)
This module teaches a systems framework to integrate environment with other considerations when making decisions in complex environmental management situations.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Sustainable organisations: theory and practice (T892)
This module provides the background knowledge and practical skill set to lead the way in transforming or creating sustainable organisations of the future.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Technology and innovation management (TB801)
Examine innovation from a management perspective, and develop an understanding of how to contribute to the process and management of technological innovation.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Advance your independent learning (YXM830)
This innovative module allows you to take a topic of your choosing and focus on it in depth while developing your postgraduate study skills.
Next start date: 02 Oct 2027
See full description
30
02 Oct 2027
Subject to regulations, if you’ve passed the discontinued module B716, B858, B870, BB835, BB844, BB845, BB846, BB847, BB848, D890, DD801, S808, T826, T827, T829, T848, T867, T877, T878, T879, TU872 or U810, you may count one or more of these instead.
Stage 2
You'll choose another 30 credits of option modules and complete your degree with a 30-credit project module.
Modules
Credits
Next start
You'll study the following:
Another 30 credits from the Stage 1 option modules.
MSc project: researching in context (T803)
T803 is the capstone module of multiple masters qualifications, during which you’ll complete a small research project.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Subject to regulations, if you begin the 60-credit Research project (T802) by October 2028, you may count this instead of T803 and a 30-credit option module.
Subject to regulations, if you’ve passed the discontinued module T847, you may count this instead of T803.
What you'll learn and the skills you'll gain
By studying the MSc in Systems Thinking in Practice, you’ll:
Strengthen holistic thinking – Develop core systems concepts, appreciate multiple perspectives and recognise the ethical dimensions of systems practice.
Apply systems approaches in real contexts – Use tools, techniques and enquiry methods to analyse complex situations and take creative, informed action.
Build professional capability – Manage stakeholder relationships, navigate politics and power, and evaluate your own systems-thinking practice.
Advance research and communication skills – Design systemic enquiries, present ideas effectively, and learn in varied, real-world environments.
You’ll study through supported online learning with structured materials and expert tutor guidance.
Awarded qualification
You’ll be awarded a Master of Science in Systems Thinking in Practice upon successful completion. You’ll be entitled to use the letters MSc Sys Prac (Open) after your name.
Your masters degree may be awarded with a distinction or a merit. The qualification regulations explain the criteria you’ll need to meet to earn one of these classifications.
You’ll also have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.
International recognition
If you plan to work or study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether this qualification meets local requirements. Find out more about the international recognition of Open University qualifications.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
MSc in Systems Thinking in Practice
We regularly review our curriculum to keep it up to date. This means the structure, availability, and content of the course or modules may change. We’ll update this page as soon as possible if there are any changes. If you have already registered for this qualification, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes where practicable. For more details, see our Academic Regulations or contact us.
You’ll study the MSc in Systems Thinking in Practice part-time, completing 60 credits per year over a three-year period. Typically, this translates to 16–20 hours of study per week.
The recommended hours include time to work through that week’s online study planner, complete recommended reading, and attend tutorials.
You must complete the MSc in Systems Thinking in Practice within eight years.
Supporting you every step of the way
At the OU, flexibility and support go hand in hand. You’ll be in control of when and where you study, with clear deadlines to guide your progress. Whether you’re balancing work, family or other commitments, our approach helps you fit learning into your life. Students consistently praise the support we provide, and from the very start, you’ll be part of a vibrant OU learning community.
As you progress through your qualification, you’ll have access to a dedicated online study space, expert tutor guidance, optional live tutorials, and a wide range of resources to help you succeed. The sections below outline what you can expect.
Manage your studies on the module website
Your module website will be a central hub for your learning, giving you easy access to:
a weekly study planner, along with course materials like readings, videos, recordings, and self-assessed activities
module discussion forums and collaborative activities to connect with other learners
a clear overview of assignments and due dates
tools to book tutorials, access online tutorial rooms, and contact your tutor.
Discover how the OU’s module websites, course materials, and support tools help you study online with confidence.
Dedicated tutor support
Each module has a dedicated tutor who will guide you through your studies. They’ll provide feedback, help you find resources, mark your assignments and support your learning journey.
Live online tutorials
For extra support, you can attend optional live tutorials with your tutor. These are usually conducted online, and most are recorded so you can review them later.
See how OU tutors and tutorials help you build confidence, connect with others, and get the support you need to succeed in your studies.
How your learning is assessed
Our assessments reinforce what you’ve learned and show your understanding. Assessment types vary by module and may include:
Computer-Marked Assignments – often multiple-choice questions completed online.
Tutor-Marked Assignments – tasks like essays, questions, experiments, or other activities. You’ll submit them by a set deadline and receive detailed feedback from your tutor.
End-of-Module Assessments – These are the final marked assignments for most modules. Modules with an end-of-module assessment usually don’t have an exam.
Exams – Some modules have exams you will sit remotely. However, we regularly review the assessments in our modules, so we may update the examination methods used in this qualification to include in-person exams or online invigilated exams.
If you have a disability or additional need
The Open University provides advice and guidance to help students who have disabilities, long-term health conditions, specific learning difficulties or mental health difficulties.
We can offer information about accessibility and ways to help you engage with your studies.
Some study materials and activities may present particular accessibility challenges, depending on your needs.
Support options vary, and in some cases, you may be eligible to apply for the UK Government’s Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) for additional help.
Contact us as early as possible for advice about what support may be available.
For more information, visit our Disability support page.
Discover how the OU’s Disability Support Team helps students with advice, adjustments and resources.
Other support and resources
Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to a wide range of support services and be part of a vibrant learning community. Our subject-specific Student Support Teams can help with general queries and any updates to your OU account. You’ll also benefit from:
access to the OU’s extensive online library, filled with study resources
the ability to use other university libraries across the UK and Ireland
the online Help Centre, offering study tips and support
free access to Microsoft Office 365 software
IT support through our Computing Helpdesk
the chance to connect with the OU community.
Discover the support network and learning tools you'll have access to throughout your studies.
Entry requirements for this course
There are no entry requirements for this qualification.
However, some option modules do have entry requirements. We’ll ask you to prove you meet them when you register for any of these modules:
Financial markets and the financing of organisations (B815)
Creating and sustaining value (B872)
Principles of social and psychological inquiry (DD801)
Advance your independent learning (YXM830)
Although this qualification has no entry requirements, we recommend you have:
A UK honours degree (or equivalent).
Minimum IELTS (International English Language Testing System) scores of:
Reading: 5.5
Writing: 5.5
Speaking: 5.5
Listening: 5.5
Overall: 6.0.
Our free course, Succeeding in postgraduate study, helps you develop the skills and confidence to manage the requirements and demands of postgraduate study.
Have you studied before?
If you’ve studied at university level before, you may be able to transfer the academic credit you've been awarded towards an OU qualification. This could save you time and money by reducing the modules you need to study.
You should apply to transfer credit before registering, at least four weeks before the registration closing date. We will need to know what you studied, where, and when, and you will need to provide evidence of your previous study.
For more details and to download an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.
The fees and the funding information shown below relate to the 2026/27 academic year.
Modules starting in the 2027/28 academic year are open for pre-booking, which means you can reserve your place ahead of the fees being confirmed.
We’ll publish updated 2027/28 fees and funding information in March 2027.
Tuition fee in England
You’ll pay for your qualification one module at a time, rather than the full cost upfront. Since module fees can vary, the total cost of the qualification will depend on the modules you choose. The fee for each module is listed in its description.
Total fee for qualification at current prices
£10,085–£15,265*
What's included?
Your module materials, tuition, assessment and exams are all included in our module fees.
There are some additional costs that aren’t included.
You’ll need your own computer and internet access.
The option module B870 includes a compulsory UK-based residential school. You’ll need to cover travel to and from the venue.
Further information is available in the module descriptions.
*The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. For further information about the University's fee policy, visit our Fee Rules.
What are my funding options?
Learn more about postgraduate loans and our other funding options below.
Postgraduate loans in England
Get a non-means-tested maintenance loan of up to £13,206, paid directly to you.
Your first instalment is paid after you’ve started studying an eligible postgraduate qualification.
Repayments only start when you earn over the current income threshold of £21,000 a year.
Open University Student Budget Account (OUSBA)
Repay in monthly instalments while you study.
Card payments
Pay for each module with a debit or credit card in one quick, simple payment.
Employer sponsorship
More than 1 in 10 OU students are sponsored by their employer.
Bank transfers and mixed payments
We’ll show you how you can pay by bank transfer or combine payment methods.
Additional support
You may be eligible for:
help with funding a postgraduate qualification if you're an OU honours graduate looking to build on your first degree
help with study-related costs like set books and internet access
a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) to cover study support costs if you have a disability. It’s not means-tested, and there’s no age limit
support from our Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship Fund for a full Open University qualification if your disability is a result of being injured in, or due to, military service.
Career relevance
Those with both professional interests and responsibilities in managing complex situations will find this masters qualification valuable in their work. It will also provide the opportunity for those wanting to progress to demonstrate their potential to develop new skills. The flexibility of the module choice allows you to tailor the content to your needs and can be applicable across a wide range of sectors, including health, education, environment, international development, community engagement, manufacturing, IT and science. The study of systems thinking in practice provides knowledge and understanding that is equally applicable in the public and private sectors. If you are self-employed, the knowledge developed by studying this combination of modules offers the opportunity to take a more objective and innovative view of the systems you have already created and how to change them for the future.
Exploring your options
Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you'll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice, including: online forums, a website, interview simulation and vacancy service, as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.
How to apply
Select the module you will study first, read the full description, and follow the instructions to register.
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How to apply
Select the module you will study first, read the full description, and follow the instructions to register.
