Postgraduate Courses in Computing and Electronic Systems, Computer Science,
Computer Systems Engineering and Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering,
MSc Computer Science
Computer Science, Computer Systems Engineering, Electronics and
Telecommunications Engineering, Modules, Courses, MSc, degree scheme, course,
computing, computer science, electronics, electronic systems, postgraduate,
graduate, industry-based project, dissertation, MSc Computer Science
MSc Computer Science
Introduction
Do you already have knowledge or practical experience of computer science? Do
you want to extend your skills and employability by becoming an expert in
advanced computer science, software engineering and artificial intelligence
technologies? If you answered yes to these questions, our MSc in Computer
Science is the course for you.
The scheme will give you gives the greatest flexibility to familiarise yourself
with the areas of computing that interest and excite you the most. You will be
able to choose from a wide range of modules that encompass agent-based and
multi-agent systems, machine learning, pattern recognition, distributed
information management systems, embedded systems, robotics, evolutionary
computation, theoretical computer science, formal methods and many more.
Structure of the Scheme
The structure consists of eight taught modules plus an individual project and
dissertation. It is taught over 12 months (full-time) or 24 months (part-time).
Further Course Details
including offer levels, module structure, syllabus content details
Follow one of our suggested MSc themes or design your own
To get the most out of our MSc in Computer Science, it is important that a
choice of modules form a coherent and advanced programme of study. To assist you
in selecting suitable course combinations, we have designed three packages of
related modules called ‘themes’. These are described in detail below.
The themes are our best suggestions. If you decide to follow one of the themes,
you will still have plenty of options to tailor the theme to your own interests.
Alternatively, you can
design your own programme of study, subject to approval by a course director
to ensure that it forms a well-balanced and advanced plan of study in your
chosen area of computer science
Artificial Intelligence and Agents Theme
This theme is intended for students who wish to emphasise artificial
intelligence in their studies and hence to learn about some of the most recent
and exciting developments in this area. You will gain insight into the basic
principles of artificial intelligence and come to understand typical industrial
and other applications and their associated practical techniques. The School has
established expertise in most branches of Artificial Intelligence, and the range
of options available to you is correspondingly very wide.
Structure
Students must take the following compulsory modules
and the following four optional modules
This theme is aimed at students interested in learning the various
technologies involved in distributed information management. With this programme
of study you will acquire both the advanced enabling technologies that underlie
distributed computing, and the skills necessary to understand and solve the
theoretical problems that arise through the complexity of today’s networks. You
will gain practice in networks, distributed databases, the Internet, distributed
computation and control, the client-server methodology, data mining and
intelligent agent technology.
Structure
and the following optional modules totalling 45 credits (all modules are
worth 15 credit unless otherwise stated)
Software Engineering Theme
This theme is intended for students who wish to enhance their Software
Engineering skills. Thanks to this programme of study you will acquire advanced
knowledge and valuable experience of the various phases of the software
lifecycle including requirements engineering, system architecture, design of
web-based applications and persistence layers, advanced programming, testing and
project management.
Structure
and the following optional modules totalling 45 credits (all modules are
worth 15 credit unless otherwise stated)
Design Your Own Theme
As an alternative to following one of the three pre-defined themes above, you
can also devise your own study programme. Please note that in this case, our
experienced course directors will first need to check that the selected modules
form a well-balanced and advanced plan of study in your chosen area of computer
science.
In addition to the two modules and the dissertation mentioned in the
structure of the scheme, you select modules
worth 90 credits from the following list:
All of the modules listed are normally, but not necessarily, offered each
year. It should be noted, however, that some module combinations may not be
allowed on academic grounds or because of time-tabling constraints. In choosing
module options, students should attempt to maintain a balance across
both terms.
In appropriate circumstances, students may be permitted to take suitable modules
offered outside the School, subject to timetable constraints.
MSc INDUSTRY-BASED PROJECT AND DISSERTATION
With the School's approval, a student may take the MSc Industry-based Project
and Dissertation (CE911-7-SU)
as an alternative to
CE901-7-SU. This is designed to cater for students who are either taking the
MSc whilst in employment, or who have secured industrial sponsorship in
connection with their studies.
Preparation
Good programming skills are assumed for this degree scheme, including some
knowledge of Java. For suggested reading and a practice tool for Java, see
MSc E-Commerce
Technology. Although primarily for MSc E-Commerce Technology students, some
MSc Computer Science students may benefit from attending the introductory Java
Programming module in Week 1.