Computing (Software Engineering) MSc

Course Content

• Course Details

  Today’s society needs software that communicates effectively with a number of devices, and so there is a need for qualified and skilled professionals who can design, develop and analyse software to improve our current provision. Our MSc in Software Engineering will equip you with this expertise. While this pathway is mostly technical in focus, you will also learn about the business context and develop interpersonal skills that are vital to problem solving in business.

  You will study six modules and complete a dissertation. Some of the optional modules are only offered according to staff availability and student numbers.

  Modules

  Information about the modules for this course can be found on the award map:

  View Computing (Software Engineering) MSc modules

  • Stage 1
    • Intelligent Systems (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM015

      Status: Compulsory
      To teach students the fundamental theory and practical applications of search methods and agents.The underpinning concepts will be introduced followed by examples of how intelligent systems are used in applications on the Internet.
    • Distributed Systems (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM016

      Status: Designate
      This module gives students a deeper understanding of the software programming design specification architecture implementation and applications of distributed computer systems.
    • Databases (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM017

      Status: Compulsory
      This module emphasises the importance of sound design using appropriate data modelling techniques (e.g. relational modelling entity-relationship modelling).
    • Media Techniques (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM018

      Status: Designate
      This module describes the way in which each media is stored and manipulated within a computer system. The module guides the student through the techniques used which are all demonstrated by practical examples.
    • Internet Programming (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM019

      Status: Designate
      This module focuses on creating client and server side software as well as web applications for the World Wide Web us. It concentrates on the technologies used to allow such software to be designed implemented and deployed.
    • Internet Security (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM020

      Status: Designate
      The module introduces the key concepts of Computer and Internet Security. The module is designed to provide the student with the necessary theoretical and practical understanding of the technology available to manage and implement secure computer applications in an Internet environment.
    • Programming (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM021

      Status: Designate
      This module is designed to give the student an awareness of programming using a commercially available portable language. Experience will be gained to understand and implement graphic applications consisting of two-dimensional graphics three-dimensional graphics and animation.
    • Dissertation (60 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM023

      Status: Compulsory
      This module provides the student with the opportunity to learn appropriate research techniques in order to carry out independent relevant and in-depth research in a topic of specific interest.
    • Specification, Analysis and Design (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM024

      Status: Designate
      The module aims to:? Provide the student with a comprehensive appreciation of the importance and process mechanics of requirements engineering and system specification.? Present the student with an assortment of methodologies and techniques that will allow system analysis and development of sound system designs for a variety of applications.
    • Visual Object Software (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM025

      Status: Compulsory
      This module concentrates on creating object-based solutions to software problems within a contemporary integrated development environment. It focuses on the concepts of object technology and the syntax and semantics of the underlying model while promoting good practice in software construction and testing.
    • Software Engineering (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM026

      Status: Compulsory
      This module will provide consolidation and an extension of the skills understanding and knowledge derived from an earlier module. More advanced topics will be studied in pursuit of robust re-usable and sophisticated design mechanisms. The main aim of the module will be to study in depth some of the major aspects of the various Design issues which impact on the building of the software systems.
    • Formal Methods of Software Construction (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM027

      Status: Designate
      The module aims to equip students with the concepts and techniques so they can begin as practitioners in formal methods software engineering.
    • Modern Computer Architecture (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM028

      Status: Compulsory
      This purpose of this module is to consider the structure and behaviour of the various functional modules of the computer and how they interact to provide the processing needs of the user. This module covers systems ranging from PCs through multiprocessors with respect to hardware design and instruction set architecture.
    • Computer Networks (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM029

      Status: Designate
      Computer Networks module focuses on developing practical networking skills alongside deeper understanding of network principles and protocols (wired and wireless). Although the necessary background is introduced as appropriate the course on the whole deals with problem-solving using current and emergent network hardware and protocols along with the development of applications to exploit these technologies
    • Mobile Device Software Development (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM030

      Status: Designate
      This module focuses on creating software for mobile computing devices. It concentrates on the necessary technologies used to allow such devices to communicate and how to develop software to allow them to do so.
    • Immersive Technologies (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM031

      Status: Designate
      This module gives students a deeper understanding of the principles and practicses of Virtual Reality technology. The module allows the students evaluate design and implement virtual environment solutions through the integration of standard components
    • Modelling for Serious Games (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSYM032

      Status: Designate
      This module is designed to give the student an awareness of common modelling software and practices as well as give an insight into the background and history of modelling.

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• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  How will I be taught on Computing (Software Engineering) MSc?

  Theoretical lectures and seminars are reinforced by practical examples and case studies, using computer simulation tools and laboratory facilities.

  What is the schedule?

  We have developed this course to be studied around other commitments and you may only need to attend the university for two days per week.

  Are there any specialist facilities?

  You will have access to approximately 150 PC and Linux workstation computers housed in six bespoke computer laboratories, all with digital projection facilities, and maintained by two technicians.

  We enrol small cohorts of students to ensure that you receive personalised care that will enable you to develop your skills and enhance your knowledge.

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• Entry Requirements

  Applicants will normally hold a recognised first or second class honours degree from a UK university or international equivalent in a relevant subject. We expect that you will have a working knowledge of computers and networks and it is essential that you have practical hands-on experience of at least one programming language.

  For information on how to apply to study with us, please see our How to Apply page.

  English Language Requirements

  All International and EU students applying for a course with us must meet the following minimum English language requirements:

  • Minimum standard – IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent)
    for study at postgraduate level.

  For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.

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• Fees and Funding

  21/22 Tuition Fees

  Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 21/22 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  • UK – Full Time: £7,470
  • UK – Part Time: £830 per 20 credits
  • International – Full Time: £14,000

  Additional Costs

  There are currently no additional costs anticipated for this course for 2021 entry.

  20/21 Tuition Fees

  Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 20/21 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  • UK and EU – Full Time: £6,840
  • UK and EU – Part Time: £3,800 (Year one 100 Credits) £3,040 (Year two 80 Credits)
  • International – Full Time: £13,750

  Additional Costs

  There are currently no additional costs anticipated for this course for 2020 entry.

   

  Postgraduate Loans

  If you are starting a postgraduate Master’s course in 2020/21 or 2021/22 either full-time or part-time* you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan through Student Finance England

  *Please note that the maximum period of study allowed for part-time courses is two years.

   

  For information on the scholarships available to you, please see our scholarships page.

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• Further information

  For further information, come along to our next Open Day or contact our Study team study@northampton.ac.uk.

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Careers and Employability

When you graduate from this course you will be able to embark upon a range of careers in the broad IT and computing industry. There is a continuing demand for well-trained staff in this industry.

Some examples of job roles include: Lead Software Developer, Project Manager, Embedded Software Engineer, Software Engineering Manager, Information Technology Manager, Chief Information Officer, Independent consultant.