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Programme Outline
Programme
Structure
Module
Abstracts
Prerequisites
Tuition Fees
Aims of the Programme
The overall aim of our MSc in IT programme is to enable you to develop your theoretical knowledge of Computer Science and your practical problem-solving and analytical skills. You study and collaborate with classmates who are highly motivated IT professionals from across the world. Together, you bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the virtual classroom. This unique peer network, along with the academics and industry experts who are your instructors, will expose you to cutting-edge IT knowledge and global best practices.
You will work independently and in groups to research, design, implement and execute creative solutions to IT issues, thus developing greater confidence and improving your intercultural team-building skills.
Further, you will strengthen your communication and critical thinking abilities as you subject your work and that of your classmates to ongoing analysis and evaluation. Our flexible, customisable programme equips you with the theoretical foundations, practical abilities and ‘soft’ skills that will open the door to previously inaccessible career possibilities.
You can personalise your MSc in IT programme by choosing from a wide variety of elective modules or by following a pre-defined Specialisation Track in Internet Computing, Information Security or Software Engineering.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the programme, you will be able to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the latest, standards, thinking, terminology and practices in Computer Science. You will have confidence in your ability to evaluate the latest knowledge, IT issues and methodologies and apply this in practice to the analysis, design, programming and implementation of IT systems. You will be able to translate operational requirements into clear work processes and fully equipped to lead teams in the IT industry, within IT departments and within global organisations.
Programme Structure
The programme has a single core module, Computer Structures, which covers the foundations of computer science. Once this is completed, the student completes seven electives, enabling them to study as broadly or as specifically as they like, followed by a dissertation. Each module lasts eight weeks and it is possible to take a break of four weeks between modules, if work or other commitments demand it. By taking one module at a time you can explore a specific subject in depth without distractions.
Module
Abstracts
Core module
Computer Structures
Aim
To provide a comprehensive overview of core software and hardware technologies.
Description
Covers everything from computer architecture to databases, algorithms, languages, operating systems, communications, computer networks, artificial intelligence and the theoretical foundations of computation. This module will give you a sound theoretical and practical foundation on which to build your understanding of future technical developments.
Required for: MSc in IT programme and Specialisation Tracks; MSc in ISM
Elective modules (students choose at least one from each of the following two groups)
Group I
Object-Oriented Programming in C++
Aim
To provide an understanding of object-oriented programming and design using C++ and the skills needed to write well-structured object-oriented programs.
Description
This module combines theory and practice to provide a thorough understanding of object-oriented programming and design in C++. You will acquire skills and experience as you analyse structures and implement and test small object-oriented projects, using state-of-the-art methodologies.
Required for: Not a requirement for any programme or Specialisation Track
Elective for: **Students in the above-referenced programme and Specialisation Tracks may choose to study either Object-Oriented Programming in C++ or Object-Oriented Programming in Java, but cannot study both Object-Oriented Programming modules
Object-Oriented Programming in Java
Aim
To provide a theoretical and practical understanding of object-oriented programming and design using Java and the skills needed to write well-structured object-oriented programs.
Description
This module develops the essential problem solving and programming skills you need to write well-structured object-oriented programs in Java. On the way you will explore many other important techniques (e.g. modern distributed systems and component technology), which are based on the concepts that have made object-oriented programming today’s predominant software development method.
Required for: MSc in IT (Internet Computing)**
Elective for: **Students in the above-referenced programme and Specialisation Tracks may choose to study either Object-Oriented Programming in C++ or Object-Oriented Programming in Java, but cannot study both Object-Oriented Programming modules.
Programming the Internet
Aim
To give you the theoretical and practical tools necessary for building advanced, content-rich Internet sites.
Description
This module covers markup languages and advanced technologies, including HTML, Java Script, DHTML, CSS, XML and CGI. On completion, you will be able to design and create an advanced Internet site and will be equipped to undertake complex projects in this most innovative field of IT.
Required for: MSc in IT (Information Security); MSc in IT (Internet Computing)
Elective for: MSc in IT and MSc in IT (Software Engineering); MSc in ISM
Group I I
Databases
Aim
To provide a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles of database construction.
Description
As already dominant database technology develops even further, you will analyse how data is stored, manipulated, queried (with an emphasis on relational databases) and backed-up. You will also become acquainted with various paradigms and technologies (parallel as well as distributed) related to database design, implementation and maintenance.
Required for: Not a requirement for any programme or Specialisation Track
Elective for: MSc in IT and all MSc in IT Specialisation Tracks
Computer Communications and Networks
Aim
To familiarise you with principles and techniques of computer networks.
Description
The development of computer communications is accelerating with the exponential growth of the Internet. In keeping with this dynamic field, you will study a range of hardware technology protocols and network applications. Learn the principles of communication networks and protocol architectures, assessing the suitability of different switching and multiplexing techniques for carrying a variety of distributed systems.
Required for: MSc in IT (Information Security); MSc in IT (Internet Computing)
Elective for: MSc in IT programme; MSc in IT (Software Engineering); MSc in ISM
Software Engineering
Aim
To provide a firm theoretical foundation and practical skills in software engineering.
Description
Encompasses the theoretical foundation and practice of the three key phases of problem definition, software development and maintenance. Covers identification, definition, design, analysis, verification and management of basic requirements, coding, testing, evaluation and quality assurance. You will emerge equipped to lead a programming project and deliver products on time and in budget.
Required for: MSc in IT (Software Engineering)
Elective for: MSc in IT programme and all other Specialisation Tracks; MSc in ISM
Elective modules (students choose up to five of the following)
Security Engineering
Aim
To provide an understanding of the principles and practice of building secure distributed systems.
Description
This module provides a foundation in the principles and practice of building secure distributed systems. You will discover how to protect systems against malicious attacks, using your understanding of technologies such as cryptology, software reliability, secure message transmission, tamper resistance, secure printing and auditing.
Required for: MSc in IT (Information Security)
Elective for: MSc in IT programme and all other Specialisation Tracks; MSc in ISM
Operating Systems
Aim
To cover the core concepts of modern operating systems, and provide an understanding of their application.
Description
This foundation subject covers modern operating systems from the three key perspectives of design, functionality and applicability, giving you insight into the what and why of their structure. You will apply what you learn from simulations and projects in areas such as Databases, Networking and Communications, Programming Languages and Development, Security, Distributed Systems, and Internet-based Development.
Required for: Not a requirement for any programme or Specialisation Track
Elective for: MSc in IT programme and all its Specialisation Tracks
Information Technology Project Management
Aims
To provide a full understanding of the management roles, responsibilities and techniques needed in technology projects.
Description
This module teaches how technology project management adapts as a computer system evolves from concept to implementation. You will master all areas of the subject, including organisation, work breakdown structure and scheduling, resources and project financing, project control and evaluation, management considerations, critical success factors and risk management.
Required for: MSc in IT (Software Engineering); MSc in ISM
Elective for: MSc in IT programme and all other MSc in IT Specialisation Tracks
Web XML Applications
Aim
To provide an overview of the uses of the XML language and its role in the next generation of e-Business applications.
Description
This advanced module provides you with an understanding of core XML technologies, the standardised development environment they provide and their implications on future developments with Internet applications. You will study XSL, Databases and the information discovery and exchange standards: SOAP, WDSL, UDDI and the use of XML for structuring data on the Semantic Web.
Required for: MSc in IT (Internet Computing)
Elective for: MSc in IT programme and all other MSc in IT Specialisation Tracks; MSc in ISM
Systems Analysis and Design Using an Object-Oriented Approach
Aim
To help you develop the critical skills to understand complex systems and problems and to create automated solutions.
Description
A modern object-oriented approach is taken to modelling systems and producing designs for software packages that can automate those systems. This module will teach you the skills you need to master this technique, as well as how to use the Unified Modelling Language (UML) to describe these models.
Required for: MSc in IT (Software Engineering)
Elective for: Other MSc in IT, MSc in ISM
Management of QA and Software Testing
Aim
To provide an extensive understanding of how to guarantee software quality, including testing, maintenance and effective management.
Description
Learn the techniques you need to design and implement tests, conduct inspections and employ release and maintenance procedures. This module also addresses the management aspects of the quality assurance process you need to consider.
Required for: MSc in IT (Software Engineering); MSc in IT (Information Security)
Elective for: Other MSc in IT, MSc in ISM
Advanced Topics in Computer Science
Aim
To provide an overview of the latest issues and innovations in Computer Science.
Description
This module focuses on evolving, cutting-edge issues and is therefore frequently updated. At weekly or bi-weekly seminars, you will discuss state-of-the-art applications like example Data Mining; Life, Simulated Life and Artificial Life; Distributed Computing; Human Computer Interaction; Distributed Multimedia Applications; Overlay Networks Grid and P2P; Wireless Technology, Software Metrics, Software Agents etc.
Required for: Not a requirement for any programme or Specialisation Track
Elective for: MSc in IT programme and all MSc in IT Specialisation Tracks
E-Commerce
Aim
To provide an overview of key issues relating to e-Commerce.
Description
An introduction to the fundamentals of e-Commerce, from business models through technical infrastructure and implementation to social, legal and ethical considerations. You will act as a CIO/CEO working on an e-Commerce business proposal, with evaluations from a peer review group. Learning to build an e-Business holistically in a risk-free environment will help you become a more effective and successful manager.
Required for: Not a requirement for any programme or Specialisation Track
Elective for: MSc in IT programme and all its Specialisation Tracks; MSc in ISM
Internet and Multimedia Technology
Aim
To introduce you to specialist technologies and theory required by practitioners in this field.
Description
Theoretical aspects encompass current developments in multimedia related to the Internet, setting the scene for later in-depth investigations of a variety of scripting and enabling languages. You will develop skills by applying your acquired theoretical and practical knowledge to a multimedia module for the Internet.
Required for: MSc in IT (Internet Computing)
Elective for: MSc in IT programme; MSc in IT (Information Security); MSc in IT (Software Engineering)
Artificial Intelligence
Aim
To enable you to evaluate and use new technologies which mimic human thinking and decision-making patterns.
Description
You will gain an understanding of the two main AI technologies. The first is logic-based, in which events are analysed and coded. The second is statistics-based, in which the computer mimics the minuscule workings of the brain (this subject includes Artificial Neural Networks such as the Preceptron, Back Propagation, and Competitive Layers). You will learn to evaluate AI tools and implement sophisticated technologies including pattern recognition and expert systems.
Required for: Not a requirement for any programme or Specialisation Track
Elective for: MSc in IT programme and all MSc in IT Specialisation Tracks
Computer Forensics
Aims
To provide an extensive range of forensic techniques to determine the root causes of breaches in computer security.
Description
With identity theft and information security of rising concern, this module teaches you how to identify, extract, document, interpret and preserve computer media as digital evidence and/or to analyse the root cause of security breaches. It will give you an understanding of electronic media, crypto-literacy, data hiding, hostile code, and Windows™ and/or UNIX system forensics in the digital environment.
Required for: MSc in IT (Information Security)
Elective for: Other MSc in IT, MSc in ISM
Dissertation
Students choose their dissertation topic in conjunction with their Personal Dissertation Advisor, an academic supervisor, who will provide support throughout the study and writing process.
Aim
The culmination of your programme, this original piece of written work demonstrates your mastery and integration of all the knowledge you have acquired.
An original, scholarly work that applies your new knowledge and work experience; the result must be of merit beyond the narrower scope of your particular need. It should demonstrate your ability to develop and manage autonomous computer science projects. If you wish to follow a Specialisation Track, you must produce your dissertation on an appropriate topic.
Required for: MSc in IT programme and Specialisation Tracks, MSc in ISM
Prerequisites
A Bachelors degree from a accredited college or university or a degree
from a recognized institution comparable and/or equivalent to a British
Honours degree.*
Two years professional IT experience working directly in an IT related
environment.
English Language skills relevant to an online program and comparable
to IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 600, or GCSE C.
* Applicants that do not directly meet the educational
requirements will be evaluated on an individual basis.
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