Program Overview

Lifecycle Management (SPCE0024)

Key Information

• Faculty: Faculty of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
• Teaching department: Space and Climate Physics
• Credit value: 15
• Restrictions: This module has been specifically designed for the programmes of the UCL Centre for Systems Engineering. It is not available to students from Departments outside the Department of Space and Climate Physics.

Alternative Credit Options

There are no alternative credit options available for this module.

Description

Content

To provide an understanding of the processes that make up the different stages in the lifecycle of a system and an appreciation of the context in which the lifecycle of the development of a system is relevant, its adaptation process (tailoring), the different types of lifecycle models, the diverse stages in the lifecycle and how they relate to each other and to the development of the system and to the business in general. It also explores the importance of integration, verification and validation (IV&V) on successful system development and its consideration throughout the lifecycle including traceability to the user requirements through the design. The course introduces aspects to consider pre-project, within a project and post-project at 'product' level and at organisational level. Case studies are used to illustrate the application and relevance of taught concepts, while delegates relate learning to their own experience through group exercises.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this module, the student will be able to:

1. Create a tailored lifecycle to meet the objectives of the organisation, project, system and technology.
2. Assess design maturity throughout the lifecycle to maintain project outcomes.
3. Evaluate organisational process effectiveness with respect to successful system development.
4. Formulate an effective and efficient approach to demonstrate the system of interest is fit for purpose.

Themes for the Module (Module Outline)

1. Lifecycle basics
2. Tailoring the lifecycle
3. Systems engineering process
4. Design maturity
5. Integration, verification and validation (IV&V)
6. Transition to operations and through-life support

Teaching Delivery

This module is taught in-person in a one week block running from Monday to Thursday. There is a Welcome session held the week before the teaching session and a Wrap Up session held the week after the teaching session.

Module Deliveries for 2026/27 Academic Year

• Intended teaching term: Term 2
• Postgraduate (FHEQ Level 7)

Teaching and Assessment

• Mode of study: In person
• Methods of assessment:
  • 50% Fixed-time remote activity
  • 50% Coursework
• Mark scheme: Numeric Marks

Other Information

• Number of students on module in previous year: 34
• Module leader: Dr Douglas Cowper

Preferred Option

This is one of the preferred option modules for the MSc Management of Complex Programme.