Computer Science (Software Engineering) (MSc)

The Department of Computer Science at Aberystwyth has a strong research focus on techniques and applications of intelligent systems, working with many major companies. Our taught Masters degrees draw on this focus, and link to the expertise and interests of the Department. They are designed to meet the needs of both students wanting a foundation for a career in research, and those wanting to expand on their skills to accelerate their industrial career.

Contemporary software is frequently developed to function in distributed systems. Applications are deployed across multiple computers, interacting to provide services and to solve problems in a distributed way. This Masters course is suitable for students intending to pursue a career in the software industry, and is a qualifying Masters Degree for Chartered Engineer status. It can also lead to a career in research.

Overview

The course in Software Engineering is a full-time programme, taught over one year, and is divided into two parts over three semesters. In part one, you will establish a breadth of necessary skills in a number of core modules whilst directing your own study by choosing specialist modules, worth a total of 120 credits. In part two, you will apply your learning in the individual dissertation worth an additional 60 credits.

Previous study topics have included: Transmission of MIDI music over internet connection, Designing a network intrusion detection system, Online results and statistics using web service technology, Supply chain management system applications and Prototype railway track measurement system.

Whatever your own previous experience or future aspiration, with this course you will benefit from the marvellous integration of cutting-edge theory and practical application, within a world-class department.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should hold at least a second class honours in Computer Science, Software Engineering or a related subject. Sometimes it may be possible to substitute industrial experience (supplemented by preliminary study) for these academic qualifications.

Factfile

Duration:	One year full-time or two years part-time. The academic year (September to September) is divided into three semesters: September to January; January to June; June to September.
Contact Time:	Approximately 12 hours a week in the first two semesters. During semester three you will arrange your level of contact time with your assigned supervisor.
Assessment:	The taught part of the course (Part 1) is delivered and assessed through lectures, student seminars, practical exercises, case studies, course work and formal examinations. The subsequent successful submission of your research dissertation (Part 2) leads to the award of an MRes.
Entry Requirements:	A first class or 2:1 degree at undergraduate level. Candidates with equivalent experience and qualifications will be considered.
English Language Requirements:	If you have a Bachelor’s degree from a UK University, you do not need to take an English proficiency test. Non-native English speakers who do not meet this requirement must take a University-recognised test of academic English language proficiency: IELTS or TOEFL. The required IELTS minimum proficiency level is 6.5. For TOEFL, the minimum scores are as follows: 580 for the paper-based test; 237 for the computer-based test (with an essay rating of 5.0); and a score of 93 for the internet-based test. More information can be found on the IELTS and on the TOEFL websites.
Course Fees:	The fee for this course for 2012- 2013 is £4,650 for UK and EU students and £11,500 for international students. For details of other students’ fees, please view the Funding and Fees section of our website. There are a number of Aberystwyth Scholarships and International Excellence Scholarships (AIES) to help fund the studies of students who meet specific criteria. In addition, accommodation is guaranteed to all international students.