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Advanced Computer Science Master's Degree - MSc/PgD/PgC

About the Course

This Master’s degree in Advanced Computer Science will provide you with the skills and knowledge to develop high quality computer-based systems and manage all aspects of their production and maintenance.

All over the world, the demand for advanced Computer Science graduates is on the rise. Through a combination of practice-based learning and theoretical modules, you will gain the advanced abilities and competence required to progress in your career or undertake further study.

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, for the purposes of partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.

Compulsory Modules:

Algorithm Design & Analysis (20 credits)
In this module, the students will improve their analytical skills by designing and evaluating algorithms for a range of real-world applications.

Cloud & Edge Computing (20 credits)
The aim of the module is to provide an understanding of Internet of Things (IoT) and edge infrastructure in terms of data communication, processing, and analysis generated from IoT devices.

Wireless Networks (20 credits)
This module aims to provide detail understanding of wireless communication technologies, covering wireless LAN, adaptive protocols, cross-layer optimisation, coding, and error control.

Advanced Programming (20 credits)
The aim of this module​ is to deepen students’ proficiency in object-oriented programming principles and practices, enabling them to employ advanced concepts and techniques in designing and developing sophisticated software solutions.

Research & Professional Practice (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to equip the student with the skills, knowledge and techniques necessary to produce a dissertation with a research or technical focus.

Information Security (20 credits)
This module aims to provide an insight into the implementation of data security in computer systems and to encourage students to appreciate the practical and theoretical management principles associated with information security.

Technology Dissertation (40 credits)
The aim of the technology project is for the student to apply knowledge, skills and techniques developed during directed and independent study to solve a real-world technology related project. The technology project may take the form of an in-depth research project or the development of a computer system.

Emerging Mobile Applications (20 credits)
The aim of the module is to equip students with the knowledge and skills to design and develop mobile applications that leverage emerging technologies effectively.

To obtain an MSc degree, you must follow and successfully complete a total of 180 credits. PgC (60 credits) and PgD (120 credits) may be awarded as standalone or exit awards.

A range of teaching methods are used in the Cardiff School of Technologies, including lectures, practical workshops, tutorials, seminars and real-world case studies, all supported by online learning via Moodle. With a student-centred approach, the School operates an open-door policy to staff to support students, along with support from our careers team and academic skills.

Studios

Studios are a major part of the teaching strategy for the programme. Studios are an interactive and effective way of delivering core material and establishing a framework for a module against which other material can be set.

Workshops

Workshops involve a student or students working more actively to understand the topic of study. This can include strategies such as presenting previously prepared work to peers and a lecturer. In these classes students are able to practise and refine their skills in a supportive environment where they can receive feedback from a member of academic staff. Practical workshops represent a valuable transition between theory and the workplace.

Workshops are used to extend specific theoretical or practical concepts as well as introducing problem solving exercises. Workshops are used in most modules and provide students with valuable experience in practical and presentational skills as well as providing staff with a method of assessing student-centred learning.

Case Studies

Case studies are a teaching and learning strategy, employed in a range of modules; they also are a useful assessment tool. Students are presented with or asked to develop real or simulated complex problems which they are required to analyse in detail and then synthesise/present their own solution in writing or orally.

Moodle

The majority of modules will be supported by Moodle and provide students with a wide range of learning material and study guidance.

Assessments take the form of individual or group coursework, research based assignments, practical assessments, presentations, reports, class tests and a dissertation/development project.

Skilled graduates in Computer Science are met with a wide range of career opportunities. The Advanced Computer Science programme is career-focused and broad in scope, enabling you to enhance your existing skills to meet the increasing commercial demand for Computer Science graduates.

Applicants should meet one of the following:

  • Possess, or expect to obtain, an undergraduate honours degree or equivalent in a relevant area, e.g., Computing, Information Systems or Engineering with a minimum of 2:2 classification.
  • Hold a suitable professional qualification from an appropriate professional body.

Relevance shall be determined by the Programme Director with reference to the applicant’s transcript, and, if required, via an interview.

Equivalence shall be determined by:

  • International Admissions Team for applicants from outside the United Kingdom.
  • The Programme Director for applicants who present professional qualifications such as from the BCS. Such an applicant would be interviewed by the Programme Director to establish suitability.

English Language Requirements:
Applicants whose first language is not English should refer to English Language Requirements to confirm the level & evidence of fluency required for entry to the programme.

Students with extant level 7 qualifications wishing to enter the course may apply on the basis of RPL for admission with Credit. In such cases the regulations detailed in the Academic Handbook will apply and allows for a maximum RPL of 120 credits on a Master’s programme. In this case the remaining 60 credits would consist of the research methods module and the dissertation.

The admissions process is controlled by Cardiff Metropolitan University’s centralised admissions team in consultation with the Programme Director.

All applications from International students will be subject to an initial assessment of academic qualifications, English Language proficiency and overall suitability for the programme by the International Admissions Teams. However, the final decision remains the responsibility of the Programme Director.

How to Apply:
Applications for this course should be made direct to the University via our self-service facility. For further information please visit our How to Apply pages at www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/howtoapply.

Tuition Fees and Financial Support:
For up to date information on tuition fees and the financial support that may be available. Please refer to www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/fees.

Part-time Fees:
Charges are per Single Module unless specified:
Undergraduate = 10 Credits; Postgraduate = 20 Credits

Generally we find most students will complete 60 credits per year for both Undergraduate and Postgraduate study; to obtain a true costing please clarify this by contacting the Programme Director directly.

For general enquiries, please contact the Student Recruitment Team on +44 (0)29 2041 6044 or email askadmissions@cardiffmet.ac.uk.

For course specific enquiries, please contact the Programme Director, Dr Sheik Tahir Bakhsh:
Email: SBakhsh@cardiffmet.ac.uk

  • Location

    Llandaff Campus

  • School

    Cardiff School of Technologies

  • Starting

    September, January and May intakes available

  • Duration

    3 years part time.
    12-18 months full time, depending on start date.