ObjectivesThe MSc in Advanced Computer Science is suited to graduates in Computer Science and related disciplines, such as Software Engineering or Computing and Mathematics, who wish to complete their academic profile in specialist areas, and study in a research-led teaching environment. The programme provides students with an education in leading-edge aspects of computer science, and offers a wide range of elective modules that are informed by the department's research interests. The programme has an emphasis on research culture, promoted via a group research project (the Darwin project) which MSc students join for two semesters.
Entry requirementsApplicants should hold at least an upper second class Honours degree, or equivalent, in Computer Science or a closely related discipline, such as Computing and Mathematics
Academic titleMSc in Advanced Computer Science
Course descriptionCourse content
The programme consists of two semesters of taught modules and a dissertation project, which is completed during the summer. In the autumn semester there is a fast-paced introduction to Java and the unified modelling language (UML). Students also commence the Darwin research project and study advanced research topics. In the spring semester, students do preparatory work for the dissertation project. In both semesters, you choose a number of modules from an approved list.
The Darwin Research Project
The Darwin project is based upon academic research culture. The deliverable from the project is a substantial report written in the style of an academic paper. We expect that many such projects will generate publishable work. At the end of the year, students present their work at a 'mini- conference' and receive comments from their peers and from the lecturing staff. This provides useful feedback if you are considering submitting your work to a journal or conference.
Advanced research topics
This module is a flexible framework which gives you the opportunity to study a number of leading-edge topics in computer science, many of which are researched by staff in the department. You choose two units from a list of available topics. Assessment is by coursework or class tests. Typical research topics are listed in the table, but they will change from year to year, depending on the availability of academic staff in each specialist research area.
-Computational modelling and simulation in biology
-Computational modelling of cellular networks
-The theory of classification
-Computer facial animation
-Audio-visual speech processing
-Language engineering
-Dialogue models and dialogue systems
-Computational hearing
-Dataflow algebra
-Autonomous robotics
-Computational hearing
-Machine learning
Career opportunities
Students are well prepared for employment in industry, or for postgraduate study. A number of graduates from this programme are currently studying for PhD degrees in the Department, or in other UK universities.