Computing

This programme is suitable for those students who wish to focus on the practical skills and knowledge to meet the network challenges facing modern business and industry. You consider aspects of computer network systems ranging from the underlying technical principles of networks, including wireless and mobile systems, through to the links with business and industry.

What you study

This programme develops your knowledge to the forefront of network systems and increases your intellectual ability for abstract analysis and synthesis at the level for postgraduate research. It produces graduates who can make reasoned, critical decisions for selecting or implementing appropriate network solutions. You have sufficient technical and interpersonal skills to make an immediate contribution to major projects at the leading edge of computer networks. The course encourages enterprise and progression towards further research, including MPhil and/or PhD, and enables you to acquire a range of practical, professional and transferable skills.

How you learn

Lectures are used to introduce and develop material with research issues and recent developments included as appropriate. Subjects are explored in depth via tutor-led seminars, practical workshops, individual or group research, and contribution to discussion forums.

Lectures, discussion seminars and online discussions are used to develop intellectual skills. Directed self study and research are used in many modules to develop each student’s critical evaluation skills.

Lectures, including presentations from guest external practitioners, are used to deliver relevant subject-specific content. Practical work includes case studies from real scenarios and the development of significant computer applications.

The development of transferable skills, self-managed learning and professional development are core themes throughout the programme. Methods include group-based activities and discussions, self-directed learning and research, and tutor-led workshops.

How you are assessed

Most learning outcomes are assessed by individual coursework, including case studies, essays and the development of computer applications, with critical evaluation of processes or products, and evidence of research into a specified area. Some learning outcomes are assessed by group work. The School is very experienced in assessing group work with a research profile in that area. The assessment starts with a group, with a clear emphasis on process as well as product, but proceeds to individual assessment of each student by a variety of means.

Other assessments include individual portfolios of technical work and presentations to tutors of research findings. Assessment of a significant computer application, plus group work, is used as the vehicle for assessing planning and self-management. Other assessments of transferable skills include oral presentations and the development of portfolios of work to a professional standard.

Career opportunities

Typically graduates of this course would be well suited for careers in network management, support and administration, and network and information security.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have one of the following:

• BSc (Hons) degree, first or second class, in a computing subject (which must have taught networking subjects across all years); or
• equivalent qualifications, for example applicants with appropriate professional experience.

In addition, international students will require IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

More information

• Computing
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