Computing (Software Engineering) MSc

Program Overview

The University of Northampton's Computing (Software Engineering) MSc degree offers a comprehensive study of software system design, analytics, and research. Through a combination of theoretical lectures and hands-on application, students develop expertise in software engineering, interpersonal skills, and business context. The program culminates in an individual thesis that allows students to explore a particular area of interest.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Study the design of software systems at a greater depth with the University of Northampton’s Computing (Software Engineering) MSc course. Alongside exploring areas of computer software engineering, you will also have the opportunity to develop your analytics and research skills during this Computing master’s degree. Students will complete an individual thesis which will investigate an area they find of particular interest.

Outline:

There is a huge demand for software that communicates effectively with a number of devices. The University of Northampton’s Computing (Software Engineering) MSc will equip you with this expertise. Although this software computing master’s degree does have a technical focus, students will also develop their interpersonal skills and understanding of business context: both of which are vital to being able to problem solve in business. On the software engineering masters, you will study six modules and complete a dissertation.

Modules:

• Intelligent Systems (20 Credits)
• Module code: CSYM015
• Status: Designate
• Description: 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.
• Databases (20 Credits)
• Module code: CSYM017
• Status: Compulsory
• Description: This module emphasises the importance of sound design using appropriate data modelling techniques (e.g.
relational modelling, entity-relationship modelling).
• Internet Programming (20 Credits)
• Module code: CSYM019
• Status: Designate
• Description: 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
• Description: The module introduces the key concepts of Computer and Internet Security.
• Dissertation (60 Credits)
• Module code: CSYM023
• Status: Compulsory
• Description: 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.
• Visual Object Software (20 Credits)
• Module code: CSYM025
• Status: Compulsory
• Description: 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
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.
• Modern Computer Architecture (20 Credits)
• Module code: CSYM028
• Status: Compulsory
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
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
It concentrates on the necessary technologies used to allow such devices to communicate and how to develop software to allow them to do so.

Teaching:

Alongside learning through theoretical lectures and seminars, this computing software masters degree course takes a hands-on approach. You will be able to utilise laboratory facilities and computer simulation tools to further your knowledge and reinforce it through case studies and practical examples.

Careers:

There is a high demand for well-trained individuals within the computing and broad IT industries. Graduates from our Software Engineering Computing master’s pathway will be able to pursue a range of careers, including the following roles:

• Chief Technology Officer
• Project Manager
• Lead Web Programmer/Developer/Designer
• Lead Software Developer
• Cyber Security Manager
• Source Code Auditor
• Students on this software engineering masters course will be able to access around 150 Linux and PC workstation computers, along with digital projection facilities.
These are housed across six bespoke computer laboratories which are maintained by two technicians. This way, we can ensure you develop your skills and knowledge to your full potential.

2024/25 Tuition Fees Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 24/25 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years. UK – Full Time: £8,250 UK – Part Time: £920 per 20 credits International – Full Time: £16,995 2023/24 Tuition Fees Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 23/24 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years. UK – Full Time: £8,010 UK – Part Time: £890 per 20 credits International – Full Time: £16,500