MSc Applied Computing

Program Overview

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Applied Computing MSc

Overview

The Applied Computing MSc is a conversion course designed for those whose first degree is not related to computing, but who now want to move into the industry. It is designed to fit the current needs of employers with topics that include software development, networks, database systems, and web development.

Why us?

• This conversion course allows you to change the direction of your career, enabling you to gain a qualification in a new area.
• The course includes practical experience throughout, enabling you to transfer your new skills to industry.
• Sunderland boasts the second-fastest growth in digital turnover outside of London, and is the ideal city to study computing and set up a business.

Course structure

We use a wide variety of teaching and learning methods which include lectures, group work, research, discussion groups, seminars, tutorials, and practical laboratory sessions. Compared to an undergraduate course, you will find that this Masters requires a higher level of independent working.

Assessment is 100% coursework-based with no exams. Methods include individual written reports and research papers, practical assignments, and the Masters project.

The placement element of the course will be assessed by a portfolio of evidence gathered during your work, regular logs of your progress, progress reviews, and a final presentation or video.

Course modules:

Core modules:

• Foundations of Computer Science (30 credits) Study the formal methods of logic, deduction, and reasoning which provide the foundations on which the field of computer science was built. Starting with the birth of counting systems in the pre-Christian era and transitioning through to the present day, explore several key themes including number theory, algorithms, Boolean algebra, logic, state machines, sets, functions, graphs, and trees. Explore current research themes, including an understanding of social, ethical, and legal issues in computing and develop your research skills for critical understanding and writing.
• Software Development (30 credits) Gain significant skills in building complex object-oriented software artefacts while using a range of software engineering methodologies. Define common programming paradigms and the role that software plays in a computer system. Use an industry-standard language and development environment (Python). Understand how to design, build, and develop computer software. Examine a range of appropriate conceptual design tools in order to effectively specify, visualize, and document your software.
• Computer Architectures and Networks (30 credits) Examine the basic architectures of a modern-day computer system. Study the various functions and operations of all the key principle hardware and software elements as well as looking at the many different types of computer systems available. Get inside real computers and see how the various components and subsystems operate. Examine the fundamentals and concepts behind computer communications including networking hardware (routers, switches, servers, firewall devices, network physical and logical addressing, network topologies, network structured design, configuration, and troubleshooting, protocols, local and wide area network technologies). Learn the fundamentals of securing networks.
• Database and Web Information Systems Development (30 credits) Learn basic web design principles and emerging trends in web development. Use a variety of web mark-up languages to create pages containing formatted text, hyperlinks, images, lists, and tables. Study web page design and the use of CSS to control type and layout of pages. Explore the use of multimedia to add animation, video, and sound. Design and develop both traditional and web-based information systems using relational and advanced database technology. Cover fundamental topics of databases including data models, database selection, database design, security, integrity, transaction management, database performance, client-server, and web-based database architectures, and advanced database topics such as database security, Big Data systems, data warehousing, NoSQL systems.

Year 2 modules include:

• Computing Masters Placement (60 credits) Tackle real-world problems within an organisation. Develop an enterprising solution to a problem, either of your own devising or to answer a business need through the Digital Incubator. Alternatively, work on a research project with an academic colleague.
• Computing Masters Project (60 credits) Develop a practical deliverable and investigate an area of academic research through the support of a sponsor for example: an IT strategy; an investigative study; a technically challenging artefact (e.g., a feasibility study, design, implementation, re-engineered solution); or undertake a theoretical review based on a novel research question (provided by a research-active member of staff). Underpin the project with a literature review that is a conceptual framework of your study - a systematic synthesis of concepts, assumptions, expectations, beliefs, and theories that supports and informs your research.

Facilities

Sunderland’s outstanding IT facilities include the David Goldman Technology Centre, which has hundreds of computers so it’s easy to find a free workstation with the software you need.

We are also an accredited Cisco Academy and have two laboratories packed with Cisco networking equipment.

Entry requirements

Our typical offer is:

• Qualification | Minimum grade
  • a bachelor's degree (3 years) | 2:2 classification

If you already hold a postgraduate qualification, please see our Applying for additional postgraduate degrees Help and Advice article.

If you don't meet our standard entry requirements, you can take one of the foundation pathways at our partners ONCAMPUS Sunderland. Find out more information and whether your course is eligible on our ONCAMPUS page.

If your qualification is not listed above, please contact the Student Administration team at for further advice.

This course is for applicants who do not have an undergraduate degree in a discipline related to computing. We usually require at least a 2:2 honours degree in any discipline. We will also consider applicants with other backgrounds and experience. We expect you to have basic IT skills.

If English is not your first language, please see our English language requirements.

Fees and finance

Fees are:

• £9,250 if you are from the UK/Europe
• £19,000 if you are an international student

See the scholarships and bursaries that may be available to you.

This information was correct at the time of publication.

Career ready

This course features relevant work experience that will enhance your skills, build up a valuable network of contacts, and boost your employability.

Career options

On completing this course, you will be equipped as a skilled professional with essential up-to-date knowledge in computer networking and mobile communication technologies. You will also have advanced knowledge of systems development, including web-based and database systems development.

Our graduates have gone on to work in roles such as PHP Web Developer, Solutions Developer, and JavaScript Developer, while others have continued their studies and undertaken PhDs and other research degrees.

Potential employment includes roles in:

• Internet and systems development
• Database administration and development
• User systems analysis and support
• Technical computing knowledge management
• Technical support
• Consultancy
• Research and education

Professional practice placement

This course provides you with the opportunity to undertake professional practice by either undertaking a placement in an industry organisation (subject to availability) or undertaking professional or relevant, research-based practice work.

The placement will allow you to develop your research, knowledge, and technical skills, and will improve your interpersonal, team working, and project management skills, boosting your academic performance and future employability prospects.

We cannot guarantee external placements for all students but will support you in securing these and will offer professional or research-based practice projects if an industrial placement is not possible.

Program Outline

MSc Applied Computing at the University of Sunderland

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Degree Overview:

This program is designed for individuals who do not have a computing-related undergraduate degree but want to transition into the IT sector. It equips students with the fundamentals of computer science, focusing on modern-day computer system architecture and providing opportunities to put newly acquired skills into practice through placements or research projects.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with expertise in developing and supporting IT systems.
• Enable participation in collaborative IT research and team-based projects.
• Provide hands-on experience with the latest technologies and tools used in the industry.
• Foster confidence in practical application of acquired knowledge and skills.

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Outline:

• Core modules (30 credits each):
• Foundations of Computer Science
• Software Development
• Computer Architectures and Networks
• Database and Web Information Systems Development
• Year 1 modules:
• Computing Masters Placement (60 credits)
• Computing Masters Project (60 credits)

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Assessment:

• 100% coursework-based assessment.
• Methods include:
• Individual written reports and research papers
• Practical assignments
• Masters Project
• Portfolio of evidence for placement students.

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Teaching:

• Lectures, group work, research, discussions, seminars, tutorials, practical laboratory sessions.
• High level of independent working expected compared to undergraduate courses.
• Strong focus on employability with modules designed in collaboration with employers.
• Academic Technical Support team available to assist with teaching, projects, and software.

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Careers:

• Potential careers in:
• Internet and systems development
• Database administration and development
• User systems analysis and support
• Technical computing knowledge management
• Technical support
• Consultancy
• Research and education
• Opportunities to pursue PhDs or other research degrees.

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Other:

• Course start date: September 16, 2024.
• Duration: 2 years.
• Full-time study mode.
• Current fee: £9,250 for UK/European students, £17,400 for international students.
• Placement element of the course is subject to availability.

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Additional Resources:

• Program website: https://www.sunderland.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/msc-applied-computer-science
• Open Days: https://www.sunderland.ac.uk/visit-us/open-days
• Contact the Student Helpline: 0191 515 3000, email: student.helpline@sunderland.ac.uk
## Conclusion The MSc Applied Computing program at the University of Sunderland offers a comprehensive and practical education for individuals seeking a career in the IT industry. The program's focus on modern technologies, hands-on experience, and close collaboration with industry partners provides graduates with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce.

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Fees are: £9,250 if you are from the UK/Europe £17,400 if you are an international student

• European Union (EU), EEA (European Economic Area), and Swiss nationals who do not qualify for the EU Settlement Scheme are classed as international, however, for 24/25 admission you will receive a European student fee scholarship and will pay the home tuition fee rate for the duration of your studies.
The discounted fee will be reflected in your offer letter. Learn more in our Help and Advice article.