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A Postgraduate Study in Computing

During 2009-10 this programme will be delivered at the Chester Campus, and at the Warrington Campus according to demand. The University of Chester offers postgraduate study in:

You will gain a University of Chester qualification which, depending on the amount of time you wish to commit and the duration of study, will be either:

The Awards

The University of Chester's postgraduate programmes in computing are modular in structure. You study a number of 20-credit modules. Eligibility for an award depends on the number of credits you have accumulated at the end of your studies:

  • Postgraduate Certificate. If you have completed 3 modules (60 credits)
  • Postgraduate Diploma. If you have completed 6 modules (120 credits)
  • Master of Science Degree (MSc) If you have completed 6 modules (including the Research Methods module) and produced a 60-credit dissertation of 12,000 to 16,000 words on an agreed topic (180 credits in total).

Most students on the programmes are in employment, studying part-time. Taking 1 module each term allows the student to gain an MSc in 3 years. Students may study full-time and complete the MSc in 12 - 15 months. It is important not to overload yourself by taking on too much work - you are permitted to take up to 6 years to complete the MSc.

Postgraduate Teaching and Learning

Most modules require attendance of 25 hours over a ten-week period, for lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical sessions. Some modules are delivered by e-learning, eliminating the need to attend the University for weekly classes, and it is the programme teams' intention to extend this approach. At present, with a preponderance of part-time students, classes are normally in the evenings. Daytime classes will be arranged if the number of full-time students makes this a viable option.

You are expected to undertake a considerable amount (175 hours) of independent study: reading, researching, practical work, and work on assignments. Often assignments are such that you can apply principles and techniques to your place of work or particular interests.

Students who have access to a PC away from the University find this an advantage. The Department's labs are available for students to use whenever they are not being used for teaching on weekdays, and at weekends. A good deal of information and useful materials can also be accessed remotely, via the Internet and the university Intranet (IBIS).

Lecturers and administrators make extensive use of email and on-line bulletin boards to maintain speedy and regular contact with students. Students are encouraged to discuss issues amongst themselves using an on-line forum. Thus students develop a feeling of identity and confidence that is often lacking in part-time study.

The programmes integrate consideration of principles and theories with practical experimentation and implementation, and with analysis, evaluation and innovation. You will engage in a range of activities, including directed individual reading, individual and group problem-solving, seminar presentation, use of computer tools, individual and group discussion, tutorials, and projects.

Postgraduate Assessment

To give an indication of the effort involved, assessment for a module is notionally an assignment involving a written submission of 4,000 words. However, each module's specification defines the particular method of assessment. Assessments are often related to the student's workplace environment, so that theoretical material is put into context.

The Dissertation is between 12,000 and 16,000 words and must demonstrate a systematic approach to planning, research, development and evaluation, together with an element of innovation. It is a substantial piece of work, equivalent to 3 modules, undertaken independently but with the guidance of a supervisor, involving research and critical evaluation and possibly product development. The Research Methods module is an important element in preparing the student for the project that leads to the Dissertation.

Accreditation of prior learning and experience.

If you can demonstrate prior achievement of learning outcomes through study or other means, at the level of the postgraduate pathways, you can apply for Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL). This entitles you to be granted advanced standing for up to the equivalent of half the taught modules for your award. Evidence may arise from other postgraduate pathways, specialist training courses, research, publications, or work-based responsibilities.

Opportunities in Research

The Department's academic staff actively research in areas of computer science such as artificial intelligence, internet systems, and rapid application development. A number of opportunities arise each year for good graduate students to register for postgraduate research leading to MPhil or PhD awards.

Entry Requirements

Normally we expect the applicant to have at least a second-class honours degree from an accredited UK higher education institution, or an equivalent from a recognised overseas institution. Depending on the chosen pathway, this may be in a subject other than computing. For the Information Strategy pathway, for example, understanding of management and business practice is a pre-requisite, while for a pathway on Artificial Intelligence, an understanding of philosophy, mathematics, linguistics, engineering, biology or psychology can be helpful.

The University of Chester is committed to a policy of widening access and participation by groups currently under-represented in Higher Education. To this end, we will consider a diverse range of entry qualifications and, if you are a mature applicant, and you do not hold the minimum formal qualifications, your application will be treated on an individual basis and your previous experience will be taken into account when assessing your suitability for the pathway.

English Language Proficiency

Applicants whose first language is not English must have English proficiency certification before applying. Typically, this would be:

  • TOEFL at 550/213 points or above
  • IELTS 6.5 overall with no less than 5.5 in each band

Further Information and Applications

To request a prospectus or application form, or for further information or advice ring 44 (0) 1244 511 000 and ask for the Admissions Office or the CSIS Department's postgraduate administrator, or write to:

  • Student Adviser
  • Admissions
  • University
  • Parkgate Road
  • Chester
  • CH1 4BJ

Alternatively, you can view our website at www.chester.ac.uk or e-mail postgrad@chester.ac.uk or enquiries@chester.ac.uk

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