Course summary

The aim of the course is to provide preparation appropriate for undertaking a PhD programme in computer science. Students select five taught modules from a wide range of advanced topics in computer science from networking and systems measurements to category theory, and topics in natural language processing. Additionally, students take a mandatory, ungraded course in research skills which includes core and optional topics. Students also undertake a research project over two terms and submit a project report in early June. Research topic selection and planning occurs in the first term and the work is undertaken in subsequent terms. The taught modules are delivered in a range of styles. For example, there are traditional lecture courses, lecture courses with associated practical classes, reading clubs, and seminar style modules. The course aims to:

• give students, with relevant experience at a first-degree level, the opportunity to carry out directed research in the discipline;

• give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests;

• provide preparation appropriate for undertaking a PhD programme in computer science;

• provide the Faculty with an extended period in which to train students and then to judge the suitability of students for PhD study; and

• offer a qualification that is valuable and highly marketable in its own right that equips its graduates with the computer science related research skills and expertise to play leading roles in industrial and public-sector research.

• a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature, applicable to their chosen area;

• demonstrated some originality in the application of knowledge, together with an understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their chosen area;

• shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies; and

• demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.