The latter is a piece of independent work that draws on and demonstrates an understanding of the material from the taught modules and contains a substantial practical element. If possible, the project is undertaken with an external organisation in industry, commerce or local government. The taught modules run for two 15-week semesters and project work takes place mainly during the summer period. The part-time course runs two evenings a week. A module comprises approximately 150 hours of study time, of which 30 hours is class time made up of lectures, tutorials and laboratory periods.
Assessment is by coursework, examination and the project.
Eight taught modules and the project must be completed to qualify for the MSc, which is awarded at pass or distinction. Exit awards of PGCert or or PGDip can be made for students unable to complete the entire MSc diet. Applications forms should be returned to the Student Entry Team, Campus Office at Milton Keynes. Selection is by interview.