UTS and PricewaterhouseCoopers have combined resources to introduce a new Master of Science in e-Business Technology to counter the shortage of IT professionals with executive-level skills in this area.

The new degree, which starts next month, will equip postgraduate students with both technical and strategic e-business expertise.

The degree will promote a strong understanding of e-business strategy, project management and technology.

Drawing upon the e-business strategy and solutions expertise of the management consulting arm of PricewaterhouseCoopers, experienced consultants will directly contribute to the design of the program, the delivery of program segments and the provision of case studies.

Dean of the Faculty of Information Technology Professor Michael Fry said the fast pace of change in today's business world was a key driver of IT innovation.

"We have reached a point where IT academics and business must work hand-in-hand to ensure universities provide graduates with the opportunity to develop the skills they need to gain high-level jobs and be truly effective in the workplace," Professor Fry said.

"We believe that partnering with PricewaterhouseCoopers to develop advanced e-business course content will ensure knowledge is shared and the gap is reduced in postgraduate options for IT professionals."

Mr Fred Balboni, Asia Pacific Leader for IT and Systems Integration for PricewaterhouseCoopers, said the new Masters was a real commitment by PricewaterhouseCoopers and UTS to directly address the e-business skills shortage in Australia.

"The complexity and rapid development of e-business is fundamentally challenging business models and commercial operating processes, presenting a real challenge to business leaders," Mr Balboni said.

"The new Masters is a practical contribution to seeding the next generation of e-business leaders and innovators."

For information on the new course and other IT courses available this year at UTS, visit the Faculty of Information Technology, Postgraduate e-Business Technology Program.