MSc COMPUTER SCIENCE DEGREE

Overview & facilities

Our Computer Science masters enables you to gain in-depth knowledge and skills in a range of advanced topics in computer science. Core themes on the MSc Computer Science include programming languages and paradigms, specification, logic, program verification and object-oriented software development. Additional topics include system security, multimedia applications and internet application development.

There are three compulsory taught modules and one optional taught module. These are followed by an independent project. The course will provide you with a deep understanding of key concepts in computer programming, programming paradigms and software development and design, with a balance of computer science theory and practical, hands-on experience. You will also gain an under-standing of the professional, legal and ethical framework applicable to careers in computing.

The course is available both full-time and part-time.

Download the School of Engineering and Information Sciences brochure.

Content & modules

Modules

• Year 1

  Data Analysis (30 Credits) - Optional

  This course will provide an overview of data analysis concepts by employing stat-of-the-art computer information technology such as grid computing in medical and healthcare informatics. These core concepts will be further explored from theory to application on medical imaging analysis and management rooted in the practical problems of clinical practice. Since the programme is highly interdisciplinary data from other modules in the programme will be applied in this module

  Designing and Developing Object-oriented Software (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module covers in-depth, object oriented design and development of software systems using an industry-standard programming language and integrated development environment. The course will guide the student learner through the key phases of a typical software development methodology, from requirements elicitation to development, and testing. The course will have a strong focus on the application of object-oriented software engineering design patterns and tiered software architectures

  Development Project (60 Credits) - Optional

  The module aims to develop student s skills in planning and execution of an analytical study and critical evaluation of real research results drawing on their acquired knowledge from other modules. In addition, the module aims to develop student s communication skills to enable them to communicate their findings in written and oral form.

  Fundamentals of Computer Programming (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module enables students to study a range of advanced topics related to computer programming. Students will learn about the functional programming paradigm and the development of applications within it. They will also learn about program verification and formal specification techniques

  Internet Media and Technology (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module aims at providing students with the experience of working with cutting edge multimedia technology while designing and experimenting with advanced interactive applications. The module focuses on interactive virtual tools and interactive digital-analogue environments, together with the user experience with such scenarios. The module embraces contemporary theory of user-experience and the symbiotic relationship between the human user and virtual environments.

  Internet Programming (30 Credits) - Optional

  The challenges and complexities of the construction of advanced internet-based software systems will be addressed together with a detailed understanding of modern client-server technologies. This is a field where the pace of change is rapid, and students will gain an understanding of significant concepts so as to be able to assess and evaluate alternative technologies and design solutions. Hands-on experience of constructing internet and distributed multimedia applications will be given, along with opportunities to question and adapt systems to take account of the problems of security, usability and accessibility of distributed internet applications and multimedia systems.

  Postgraduate and Professional Skills (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  The module aims to provide students with the academic and professional skills and expertise needed to plan, run and report academic and professional projects. This includes advanced research and project management skills as well as academic writing skills at postgraduate level.

  Research Project (60 Credits) - Optional

  The module aims to develop student s skills in planning and execution of an analytical study and critical evaluation of real research results drawing on their acquired knowledge from other modules. In addition, the module aims to develop student s communication skills to enable them to communicate their findings in written and oral form. This module is where the interdisciplinary nature of the programme is demonstrated

  System Modelling and Simulation (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module will enable students to understand the scientific methods underlying the modelling of real systems. It will further expand their understanding of a range of sophisticated mathematical techniques and simulation methods using the examples facilitated by biomedical systems. Case studies will be used to illustrate how models may be validated against real measurements. Since the programme is highly interdisciplinary data from other modules in the programme will be used in this module. Assessment procedures are designed to enable students to deliver academically nationally significant modelling performances.

Attendance

You should attend all scheduled classes and prescribed activities to be eligible for formal assessment. Full-time students attend up to three days a week and part-time students one or two days.

Assessment

Taught modules are assessed by unseen examination and coursework, including group assignments, team presentations and project activities. The postgraduate project is assessed by a proposal, a milestone report and the final dissertation report.

Download the course specifications.

Entry & applying

We are looking for highly motivated graduates who are passionate about internet technologies and computer systems. Applicants should have at least a second class honours degree in computer science or a computer-related discipline including engineering and science and a substantial exposure to programming and IT . We exceptionally accept applicants with degrees in other disciplines, if they can demonstrate several years of relevant industrial experience. Non-native English speakers need an IELTS score of 6.5 or above.

International entry requirements

We accept the equivalent of the above from a recognised overseas university, to find out more about the requirements from your country, see further information under support in your country.

English language requirements

You must have competence in English language and we normally require Grade C GCSE or an equivalent qualification. The most common English Language requirements for international students are IELTS 6.5 (with minimum 6.0 in all four components) or TOEFL paper based 575 (no less than 4.5 in test of written English) or TOEFL internet based 90 (with no less than 19 in each component) Middlesex also offers an Intensive Academic English course (Pre-Sessional) that ranges from 5-17 weeks, depending on your level of English. Successful completion of this course would meet English language entry requirements. For more information on applying for the pre-sessional please email english@mdx.ac.uk. For details of other equivalent English language requirements that Middlesex accepts see international entry requirements.

How to Apply

Apply now

Applications for postgraduate study should be made directly to the university. The quickest way to apply is by making an online application, once you have created your account and completed your application, you will be able to track the progress of your application online. Alternatively, you can fill in an application form and return it to the appropriate admissions office. UK and EU students should apply directly to the London office. Non-EU international students can apply to our international admissions office in London, or use our network of regional offices across the world to assist you with your application.

Fees & funding

The tuition fee for MSc Computer Science for the academic year 2012/13 is as follows:

UK/EU Students

Full-time students: £7,500

Part-time students: £63 per taught credit

Find out about our flexible payment plans for UK/EU students, and how they can help you spread the cost of your course.

International Students

Full-time students: £10,600

Part-time students: £93 per taught credit

Careers & placements

What can you do with a Computing and IT degree?

The MSc Computer Science degree will prepare you for employment in a wide range of areas within the software industry and for further research. The focus on principles and concepts will provide you with the skills to undertake self-directed learning throughout your career.

Graduate Roles

Below are just a few of the roles you can expect to go into after completion of the MSc Computer Science degree.

Software Developer - A software developer designs and build computer programs, enabling organisations to work more effectively. The work of a software developer involves designing, building, and developing. They work closely with senior programmers and business analysts, devising technical plans to meet the needs of the client. Roles can be found within the following industries: public services, business and industry, utilities and defence and research. With experience, you could become a senior developer with responsibility for project management, planning and research, or move into related areas, such as systems design, IT architecture and business systems analysis.

Starting salaries* for graduates are between £20,000 and £26,000 a year. Experienced developers can earn between £28,000 and £40,000. Software developers with management responsibilities can earn over £50,000 a year.

IT Security Coordinator/Information Security Analyst - An IT security coordinator/ information security analyst coordinates security measures to protect clients' information and data from unauthorised access, deliberate attack, theft and corruption. This can take the form of threats such as viruses, 'phishing' or hacking. As an IT security coordinator/information security analyst you can expect to find work with public service organisations, government departments, local authorities, financial institutions and software manufacturers. You could also work for specialist IT security consultancies.

Salaries* are often negotiable dependent on experience and length of contract. Typical salaries can be  between £25,000 and £60,000 a year.

Web Developer - A Web developer designs, builds and maintains new websites and upgrade existing ones based on their client's needs. The role involves good creative and development skills. As a web developer you can expect to find work in a variety of businesses and public sector organisations.

Starting salaries* for a web development are around £20,000 a year. With experience, this can rise to £30,000. Senior developers/programmers can earn over £35,000 a year.

Technical Architect/ IT Systems Architect - A technical architect/IT systems architect provides the link between a company's operations managers and the designers and developers who build their IT systems. Projects they work on can range from planning databases for the NHS, to the redesign of a building societies online banking system. You can expect to find work in government departments, public service organisations, financial institutions, utilities companies, the NHS and specialist IT consultancies. You could progress to senior architect jobs or specialise in a particular field, for example finance or security. You could also move into broader IT project management roles, strategy planning and consultancy.

Salaries* for technical architects/IT system architects can range between £30,000 and £50,000 a year. Senior technical architects can earn between £55,000 and £80,000.

Where do our graduates go?

Based on data from the respondents of the 2009-10 Destination of Leavers in Higher Education survey, six months after graduating:

• 66% of Computer Science graduates were in employment or further study
• 33% were doing something else, such as travelling, or assumed unemployed

(*These figures are intended as a guideline only)