MSc Software Engineering
The continuing shortage of qualified software engineers means that graduates have been very successful in gaining software-related jobs by integrating their existing and newly acquired skills. If you do not have a formal computing background, this course will give you greater skills and understanding of the development of software applications, from initial requirements through to implementation, with an emphasis on programming. Alternatively, if you do have a significant background in software engineering, the course will enable you to build on your existing knowledge.
You will benefit from a broad and varied array of state-of-the-art technologies, including:
- Sunray servers connected to a 1GB fibre optic network with links to both the Super-Janet 4 network and the London Metropolitan Network, connecting the Greater London education and research community
- a Uni-Backbone network that supports IP Multicasts to deliver a constant stream of interactive, multimedia-rich content
- over 20 laboratories providing access to Unix, Novell and NT servers, all supported by high-bandwidth networks
- specialist technicians to ensure you can get the most out of these technologies.
Course content
The main theme of the course is software development using object-oriented design methods such as Unified Modelling Language (UML), and object-oriented programming languages such as C++ and Java. The course is aimed at programmers rather than managers, and is constantly updated to reflect the current trends in software engineering.
Core modules
Algorithms • Object-Oriented Programming • Research Methods • Software Design • Software Engineering Context • Software Project
Option modules, two from the following:
Database Systems • Enterprise Development • iPhone Application Development • Mobile Application Development • Systems Administration
There are a variety of teaching methods used on the course, with a particular emphasis on the practical nature of the subject. Formal lectures are used to convey basic facts and information, while tutorials in smaller student groups usually adopt a problem-solving approach.
Lab sessions are practical, and there are also student presentations or student-led seminars. Significant use will be made of web-based teaching materials. A variety of assessment methods are used to supplement formal exams, and course work assessments form an important part of the learning process.
Length of course
One-year, full-time or two to five years, part-time
Location
Central London (Cavendish)
Fee band
Fee band 1, see fees spreadsheet
Associated careers
Graduates are employed in a wide variety of roles related to software development, including internet programmer, programmer, software designer, systems administrator and web application programmer. The common theme of these roles is the need to understand and apply techniques related to the stages of the software life-cycle process.
Graduates also go on to undertake a research degree related to the object-oriented paradigm.
Entry requirements
You will normally have a good first degree (at least a Lower Second).
This may contain a significant amount of computing or software engineering, and you may wish to reinforce and build on your existing knowledge. Alternatively, this may be in a subject not containing a significant amount of computing or software engineering, in which case you will be expected to demonstrate prior interest in, or aptitude for, programming and working with computers. Under exceptional circumstances, if you do not have a degree, you may be considered if you have extensive professional experience of programming and software engineering. If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent.
If you satisfy the basic academic entry requirements you are invited to one of the University’s Open Evenings, where you can meet the course leader and discuss any issues regarding the course.
