Provides an introduction to programming and the concepts involved in the development of software. Describes a modern computing system and its operation and the maintenance, management and security of small networked systems. Introduces the fundamental issues in Human-Computer Interaction and WWW publishing and gives practical experience of interface development. The module provides an understanding of practical issues in database management systems in a large multi-user environment and practical experience of software used in such systems. There is an Induction Unit which provides the student with sufficient knowledge about computing and the University computer network to commence the course proper, and a Project Skills Unit which prepares the student for the demands of the project.
Assessment is by coursework, examination and the project.
Examinations take place at the end of each semester. Project work is undertaken in the summer months, and the report is submitted in early September. The formal project presentation takes place in mid-September. For part-time students, the first summer is devoted to project preparation. The MSc may be awarded at Pass or Distinction level.