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Computing MSc module details

Block 1

Business Analysis & Modelling – 30 credits

This module covers the theory and ethical practice of systems analysis and design. It also covers the analysis of possibly complex data storage requirements and the design of appropriate databases to meet those requirements.

This module covers the complete lifecycle of systems analysis and database specification from investigation of the problem domain and construction of system requirements and data models, though to mapping those models into a relational database environment. Theoretical issues relating to database technology, such as relational theory, modern non-relational data models (for example, the object data model and the multi-dimensional data model), and approaches to the handling of concurrency, recovery and security, are also discussed. Ethical issues regarding data protection, security and privacy will also be studied.

Block 2

Enterprise Architecture – 30 credits

This module covers business, theoretical and practical aspects of computer systems, operating systems and computer networks. This module discusses the methodologies and tools of modern software and network systems, applied to the IT, business strategy and business transformations. In addition, it covers aligning IT with business processes to achieve organisational goals and objectives, as well as using IT as a strategic business tool and an enabler to achieve digital business transformation. Consideration will be given to the ethical dimension regarding data governance and big data solutions.

Block 3

Digital Commerce – 30 credits

Digital commerce has grown to transform business and the way it interacts with customers and other business stakeholders. In implementing and planning for e-commerce, organisations have to effectively strategies towards its integration and implementation. This module introduces students to e-commerce as a key type of information system. Strategies for e-commerce are explored, from building an e-commerce presence, and developing a business plan to designing the user experience and evaluating suitable marketing plans. Finally, the student is provided with an opportunity to implement their designs in the form of a prototype, using suitable applications (e.g., Figma, Adobe XD, Wix, etc.). Examples of some topics covered include:

  • Foundational concepts of e-commerce
  • Building an e-commerce presence
  • Business strategy, user experience, and marketing in e-commerce
  • Ethical, social and political implications of e-commerce
  • e-commerce application requirements gathering
  • Pathways for developing e-commerce applications
  • Extensibility and integrations in e-commerce applications

In addition to gaining greater knowledge and skills regarding digital commerce, students will enhance their general academic and employability skills in aspects such as critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, and interpretation.

Block 4

Human Factors, Research and Skills – 30 credits

This module introduces and explores the human factor issues that need to be considered when designing interactive systems and will provide the research expertise and skills that are critical to understanding the issues to consider when designing interactive systems. Critical to understand and identify those factors requires that research methods and methodologies (quantitative and qualitative, methods and paradigms) are studied. This will develop the student’s ability to consider the stages of research both regarding human factors, but also in line with their MSc Project. Students will pilot different methodologies such as questionnaires and interviews, and develop skills in data collection, interpretation and evaluation from a variety of perspectives. Students will gain the skills to apply these to their own original research for this module and for their dissertation.

Blocks 5 & 6

PGT Project – 60 credits

The aim of the project/dissertation is to provide students with the opportunity to carry out a self-managed in-depth study involving design, fact finding, analysis, synthesis and integration of complex ideas which are sometimes based on incomplete and contradictory data or requirements. The project is likely to demonstrate the application of skills acquired from the taught course to the solution to a particular problem or research topic. Normally the project is a self-contained piece of work of considerably greater depth than can be accommodated within a taught module and may reflect and build on the entire breadth of material studied by the student.