📖Program Curriculum
Designed specifically for graduates from non-computing disciplines the MSc in Computer Science is a conversion course with a broad focus on the core competencies and knowledge required for a career in the design and management of information systems.
With a September start date this course is studied full-time over one year. Should you wish for more flexibility with your studies we also offer 100% online part-time Computer Science programmes with routes in Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
During the first part of the programme you will study eight core taught modules (120 credits) over the first two semesters. These modules provide you with a solid knowledge of the underlying principles and concepts of Internet technologies web-based applications and enterprise and data analytics systems. They will also develop and extend the practical skills that are necessary for the designing building deployment and evaluation of distributed information systems and enterprise applications over the Internet.
The second part of the programme gives you freedom to choose between either a ‘traditional’ formal academic project supervised by an academic expert from the School or opt for an industry placement. You’ll be able to discuss with your academic supervisor which type of project or placement is most suitable based on your performance during the taught modules. Both options will enable you to put in to practice and apply the skills and knowledge learned throughout the course.
To achieve the MSc you must complete 180 credits. There are two interim awards available depending on how many modules have been successfully completed: a Postgraduate Certificate for any two modules (60 credits); and a Postgraduate Diploma for all four taught modules (120 credits).
Indicative Modules
CSC-40064 Fundamentals of Computers and Networks (15 credits – Semester 1): This module will provide you with an overview of the core concepts of the discipline and act as a foundation for other modules in the programme. It will enable you to understand the links between different modules on your course and to understand them in context. The module provides valuable transferable skills in critical thinking and problem solving and the content is applicable to those who are seeking careers in computing research network security network management and other digital communication and network areas.
CSC-40044 System Design & Programming (15 credits – Semester 1): This module provides a comprehensive introduction to system design and programming for those who did not graduate from a computer science or related programme. You will be able to develop programs in a major programming language using principles taught on this course. This module covers:
The principles and practice of system design in the context of an available set of requirements
Introduction to programming (algorithms data structures data storage and manipulation and user interfaces)
Introduction to object oriented programming
The development of computer programs using appropriate technology and including accessing data over the internet
The use of user interfaces to manipulate and display data
CSC-40043 User Interaction Design (15 credits – Semester 1): The module provides the knowledge and skills required for a student to be able to work on User Interaction Design based on an evaluated assessment of the factors associated with a given application or user interaction scenario.
CSC-40054 Data Analytics & Databases (15 credits – Semester 1): This module equips you with the knowledge of database operations and a variety of tools and statistical techniques to enable you to make sense of the exponential growth of big data. You will understand big data issues advanced analytics and statistical modelling techniques and evaluate their applicability for different types of problems.
CSC-40046 Web Technologies and Security (15 credits – Semester 2): The module provides an understanding of contemporary web technologies used for both server and client side development of web applications with particular focus on mobile applications. The module will consider technology and its application as well as a critical evaluation of when and where to apply specific approached. The module will provide an understanding of security aspects of such web and mobile applications and of the defence methods and techniques employed to defend against security threats.
CSC-40050 Research and Consultancy Skills (15 credits – Semester 2): The module aims to enhance students' skills and knowledge in preparation for their MSc Project or Industrial Placement and for a successful career as a computing professional.
CSC-40066 Software Engineering (15 credits – Semester 2): This module provides students with knowledge of the techniques and processes to undertake the team-based software engineering. Students will gain experience in agile software development with design/code and evaluation/testing activities.
CSC-40068 Advanced Programming in Python (15 credits – Semester 2): This module provides a deeper understanding of object-oriented programming and of the concept of parallelism and concurrent programming.
Optional Modules
PROJECT OR INDUSTRIAL PLACEMENT (60 CREDITS)
After you have completed the taught modules you have the choice to undertake a formal academic project supervised by academic staff in the School or to take an industry placement. In both options you will apply the skills you have learned during the taught modules.
The decision about the type of project or placement you will do will be made together with the academic supervisors and will be based on your performance during the taught modules.
Academic Project
The Academic Project assessment is based largely on a substantial final written report of 10000 - 15000 words.
You will be able to select your project from a list of projects offered by the academic supervisors. We also encourage students to develop their own projects. Your supervisor who will guide and support you through the project.
Industrial Placement
The aim of the Industrial Placement is to give you an opportunity to apply the theoretical and practical content taught during the course in the workplace; solving a problem that relates to the needs of a local business or organisation. You will not only gain valuable computing related work experience but also further develop professionalism and communication skills that employers are looking for.
We find projects through the our existing links with business or you can develop your own project. You will get personal supervision from an academic member of staff in the School and also direction from the industry partner.
Our excellent central location is ideal for industrial projects with over 40 companies situated next to the campus in the Keele Science Park.
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