Computing
MSc Computing
This new industry-facing MSc aims to provide an opportunity for postgraduate study for those whose first degree is not in computing, or for those whose degree in computing was awarded some years ago. The course will give students the skills needed to become a practising IT professional. It provides a challenging but stimulating course for highly motivated people who wish to acquire theoretical and practical skills in computing.
A rigorous programming and database course is accompanied by a variety of compulsory core modules providing core knowledge required to be effective in the computing industry, plus a number of optional modules covering additional specialised subjects. Students will also undertake a project during the summer, which will typically involve the design and implementation of a significant piece of software.
Career opportunities
On completion of this course students would typically be equipped to undertake a career in the software development industry, or work in network or database support and development. Possible other professional development options might include further specialist masters or research degree study.
Course structure
The course consists of two stages, comprising a taught element and a project / dissertation.
The course comprises four compulsory taught modules and two more taught, optional specialist modules from three specialist themes, each related to a different aspect of computing, and a project dissertation module.
The structure of the course, the levels and credit ratings, and the awards that can be gained are detailed below. Personal Development Planning is an integral part of the learning process of each element of the programme.
| Module title | Core / optional | Level | Credit value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Development: Object Oriented Programming | C | M | 20 |
| Database Systems | C | M | 20 |
| Postgraduate Study and Research Methods | C | M | 20 |
| Future & Emerging Technology | C | M | 20 |
| IT Project Management | O A1 | M | 20 |
| Professional Challenges in Computing | O A2 | M | 20 |
| Multimedia Development Environments | O B1 | M | 20 |
| Applied Sound and Music Production | O B2 | M | 20 |
| Networking Hardware & Software | O C1 | M | 20 |
| Networking Techniques & Technologies | O C2 | M | 20 |
| Commercial Website Design & Development | O D1 | M | 20 |
| Web and Mobile Application Development | O D2 | M | 20 |
| Dissertation / Project | C | M | 60 |
Students choose the paired options A1, A2, or B1, B2 or C1, C2 or D1, D2
Entry requirements
General academic requirements
The standard entry requirement for the MSc programme is an honours degree of at least 2:2 classification or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in a subject other than Computer Science. In some cases applicants with substantial commercial or industrial experience can be accepted, subject to interview and references.
English language requirements
In addition to the academic entry requirements, overseas students require a TOEFL score of 600 (paper) or 237 (computer), or an IELTS score of 6.5 (with no sub-part less than 6.0): this should have been achieved within the two years prior to application. Good English is essential for success on the programme.
