Masters Degrees (Database)

Database Systems has an emphasis on database design, from the logical and physical design through to the interface. MSc Database Systems provides the opportunity to develop the skills to manage the development and implementation of a maintainable database system, taking into account user requirements. You will also have the opportunity to work on a substantial database project of your own choice. In addition this course will help you to become Oracle accredited; however the course is not a training course in Oracle.

This course will help you to develop the skills and understanding needed as a database developer. You will learn how to choose and use appropriate analysis and implementation tools, implement a database system to make best use of the hardware and/or software constraints, and monitor/fine-tune the implemented database for optimum efficiency. You will also develop skills in database administration and an understanding of the database administrator role. You will develop transferable skills in evaluation of ideas and concepts, effective communication, synthesis of ideas and become a reflective practitioner. You will have the opportunity to plan and carry out a supervised project to develop a substantial database system.

Assessment methods will include individual and group assignments, presentation, seminars and examinations.

The School of Computing, Engineering and Physical Sciences provides an 'electronic learning' environment to facilitate flexible learning. This environment combines traditional face-to-face lecture/tutorial and practical sessions with additional, resource-rich, on-line materials allowing you to continue independent learning through a variety of approaches.

A course module that will help you plan your career is available as a free choice module (called an elective), which you can study as part of your degree programme.


September and January start dates are available

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This programme is aimed at students who require both academic and technical training in advanced information technology. It is designed to meet the needs of practising IT professionals and to foster an appreciation of the theoretical foundations and academic framework for such personnel. It also provides an entry point to the IT industry for graduates by supplying high-level technical training to supplement the academic content.

The programme is of particular interest to those who wish to develop enterprise-level database systems. It is supported by Oracle technology, which is widely used in industry for a diverse range of information needs. Those working in the IT industry, as well as anyone seeking a higher academic qualification in database technology and information systems, gain practical skills in Oracle technology (which are in short supply) and are able to develop database systems using the latest technology. Students also acquire the project management skills necessary for IT consultancy and strategic decision making.

Through our short course centre opportunity may also be provided to study for the following professional qualifications: Microsoft Technology Associate Exams; Certified Professional Java SE Programmer; Java Certified Associate; Oracle Certified Associate (OCA).

Visit the website http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/courses/pg/inftec/esdw

Computing - Information Technology

The School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences is an extremely successful part of the university and is recognised both nationally and internationally for its cutting edge research and its innovative approach to curriculum development.

Our up-to-date, relevant and exciting programs are designed in close collaboration with industry to provide the skills that employers really want. Our research record is outstanding, focusing on practical and important real-life problems.

What you'll study

Full time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

PG Project (CIS) (60 credits)
Data Warehousing (15 credits)
System Administration and Security (15 credits)
Database Architectures and Administration (15 credits)
Database Tools (15 credits)
Enterprise Systems Integration (15 credits)
User Centred Web Engineering (15 credits)
Essential Professional and Academic Skills for Masters Students
English Language Support Course (for Postgraduate Students in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

Mobile Application Development (15 credits)
Enterprise Software Engineering Development (15 credits)
Big Data (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

System Modelling (15 credits)
Programming Enterprise Components (15 credits)
Network Architectures and Services (15 credits)
Multi-structured Data and NoSQL Technology (15 credits)

Part time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Data Warehousing (15 credits)
System Administration and Security (15 credits)
Database Architectures and Administration (15 credits)
Database Tools (15 credits)
Essential Professional and Academic Skills for Masters Students
English Language Support Course (for Postgraduate Students in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)

- Year 2:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

PG Project (CIS) (60 credits)
Enterprise Systems Integration (15 credits)
User Centred Web Engineering (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

Mobile Application Development (15 credits)
Enterprise Software Engineering Development (15 credits)
Big Data (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

System Modelling (15 credits)
Programming Enterprise Components (15 credits)
Network Architectures and Services (15 credits)
Multi-structured Data and NoSQL Technology (15 credits)

Fees and finance

Your time at university should be enjoyable and rewarding, and it is important that it is not spoilt by unnecessary financial worries. We recommend that you spend time planning your finances, both before coming to university and while you are here. We can offer advice on living costs and budgeting, as well as on awards, allowances and loans.

Assessment

Students are assessed through examinations, coursework and a project.

Professional recognition

This programme is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS) and can lead to full exemption from the BCS Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma Project. Additionally, this qualification gives partial chartered engineer (CEng) status and can be combined with a partial CEng from an accredited BSc programme to give full CEng status. The programme also has accreditation from the European Quality Assurance Network for Informatics Education (EQANIE).

Career options

Graduates from this programme can pursue careers as database administrators, IT consultants, systems and network administrators or Oracle developers. Opportunities exist to develop a career working as independent consultants or within teams in diverse areas such as banking IT support systems, networking, business and IT, research, teaching and training.

Find out about the teaching and learning outcomes here - http://www2.gre.ac.uk/?a=643967

Find out how to apply here - http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/apply

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This course has been designed to enhance your professional abilities, and deepen your knowledge and understanding of emerging, state-of-the-art database technologies. It will equip you with the range of highly marketable, hands-on skills required in data modelling, and in designing, managing, monitoring and administering corporate database systems divisions, information centres and webenabled database applications.

The course combines academic study with Oracle certification training, and you will be encouraged to take the associated Oracle exams and become an Oracle Certified Associate. It is suitable for recent graduates who wish to study for a higher qualification and/or gain relevant technical and professional skills in database systems. It's also a strong course for practitioners looking to enhance their professional abilities, develop their careers, and update their technical skills, knowledge and understanding of state-of-the-art and emerging technologies.

Course content

The course addresses new technologies, and advanced theories and techniques, along with their application, implementation and integration with legacy systems. You will analyse new demands and the application of new technologies in the management of data and information resources, and examine emerging technologies shaping the way data is now processed, accessed, retrieved, structured and modelled.

Embedded into the course are these themes that will help you to develop skills in the use and application of specific area in the database discipline. One theme is related to database administration and the ability to deliver and administer web-enabled database solutions. A second theme is related to database application development, and the ability to deliver web-enabled information systems solutions. The third theme focuses on the role of data architect, and the skills and knowledge needed to organise and design data and manage projects in a way that harnesses potential emerging technologies.

Teaching methods include lectures, student-led activity and smaller, instructor-led groups. You are encouraged to gain greater understanding of topics through practical activity and the use of scaled down versions of real life scenarios. The Oracle training materials that we use will prepare you to take the Oracle Certified Associate (OCA) exams. Assessment usually involves a combination of exams and coursework, leading to a product such as a presentation, group investigation, technical solution, a piece of software or a research review. Exams are normally two hour long and take place at the end of the year.

Modules

The following modules are indicative of what you will study on this course.

Core modules
-BUSINESS INFORMATION SYSTEM POSTGRADUATE PROJECT MODULE
-BUSINESS SYSTEMS PROGRAMMING
-DATA MANAGEMENT AND REPOSITORIES
-DATABASE LANGUAGES
-RESEARCH METHODS AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

Option modules
-DATA WAREHOUSING AND OLAP
-DATABASE ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT
-DATA VISUALISATION AND DASH-BOARDING
-ENTERPRISE UTILITY COMPUTING
-IT BUSINESS MODELS
-PROJECT MANAGEMENT
-REQUIREMENTS AND SYSTEM MODELLING
-SEMANTIC AND COLLABORATIVE TECHNOLOGIES
-SYSTEMS INTEROPERABILITY
-WEB-ENABLED DATABASE APPLICATIONS
-WEB AND SOCIAL MEDIA ANALYTICS

Associated careers

Graduates can expect to find employment as business systems analysts and designers, data analysts, database administrators, database application developers, database systems consultants, information resources managers, systems designers and systems integrators. Recent graduates have joined a variety of organisations, including Bank of America, Vodaphone, the Metropolitan Police, CGI, Network Rail, Business & Decisions, JCC Payment System, Jacobs Engineering, Virgin Media, Accenture, Chevron and a number of local authorities and NHS trust.

Professional recognition

This course is accredited by the British Computer Society for partial fulfilment of the academic requirement for Chartered IT Professional.

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Why take this course?

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) has grown rapidly to become a major component of information technology, creating distinctive methods of data analysis, algorithms and software tools.

This course emphasises the acquisition of practical GIS skills. We use a wide range of industry-standard software tools and a structured approach to the analysis of spatial data through project work.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Get hands-on experience of using instruments such as GPS, Total Stations and 3D laser scanners
Be taught by experts, who have extensive industrial and consultancy experience and strong research portfolios
Practise your GIS data collection skills in a range of environments

What opportunities might it lead to?

The wide range of career opportunities across public and private sectors and in university-based research, coupled with the rapid rate of technological change, mean that major organisations and industrial firms are finding it essential to update their skills through advanced study. We therefore aim to meet this demand by tailoring our course to the needs of both regional and national markets.

Here are some routes our graduates have pursued:

Environmental consultancies
Geographical information science specialists
Working for the Environmental Agency
Working for the Ordnance Survey

Module Details

The academic year is divided into two parts. The first part comprises the lecture, workshop, practical and field work elements of the course, followed by a dissertation which will take approximately five months to complete.

Here are the units you will study:

Principles of Geographic Information Science: Beginning with an overview of the development of GIS, the first part of this unit examines data sources and data capture, as well as hardware and software tools. The second part deals with vector-based data structures and data management, followed by vector GIS operations, such as overlay and buffering. You will undertake a project to create a GIS of your own, which may be presented as a seminar session. Practical exercises are undertaken using MapInfo. You will then go on to develop an understanding of raster-based approaches to GIS, cartographic modelling and related areas of image processing which are often applied in remote sensing. Topics include raster data models and data compression techniques, raster GIS and cartographic modelling, imaging systems and image processing, geometric correction techniques and GIS/remote sensing integration in the raster domain. Practical work uses MapInfo, ArcGIS - ArcMap and ERDAS Imagine.

GIS and Database Management Systems: Your major focus on this unit will be the use of industry-standard methods and tools to develop competence in the successive stages of database design, development and implementation. You will have an introduction to data analysis techniques, followed by an examination of alternative types of database system and the rules of relational database design. There is extensive treatment of the SQL query language in standard databases and for attribute query within a GIS. You will be introduced to advanced topics including database programming and computer-aided database design. You will also consider the Object-Relational databases and spatial data types, explore the use of spatial queries using the ORACLE relational database management system and examine procedural database programming and web database connectivity. Practical work for this unit uses the ORACLE relational database management system, running in full client-server mode.

Applied Geographic Information Systems: On this unit you will develop a general, inferential, model-based approach to the analysis of quantitative data within a geographical framework. You will examine a range of underlying concepts including model specification, bias, linearity, robustness and spatial autocorrelation. You will subsequently develop these in the context of a unified framework for analysis. Practical work is based on ArcGIS - ArcMap.

Research Methods and Design: This unit will introduce you to the basic principles of research design and methodology, enabling you to develop a critical approach to the selection and evaluation of appropriate methods for different types of research problem.

Modelling and Analysis and the Web: This unit gives you the chance to consider the use of GIS technology for creating terrain models and explore the basics of photogrammetry, as well as analytical and digital techniques for photogrammetric data capture. You will also look at Orthophotography, LiDAR and RADAR systems. ArcGIS is used for spatial analysis, such as buffering and overlay techniques. You will also explore and exemplify data transfer between GIS software systems and technologies for internet-based GIS.

Dissertation: This provides an opportunity for you to pursue a particular topic to a greater depth than is possible within the taught syllabus. It can take a variety of forms, for example GIS-based analysis of original data sources and digital datasets, case studies of GIS adoption in public or private sector organisations, the development of new software tools/applications or the design of GIS algorithms. The final submission takes the form of an extended written report or dissertation of a maximum of 15,000 words.

Programme Assessment

The course provides a balanced structure of lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops. You will learn through hands-on practical sessions designed to give you the skills in laboratory, computer and field techniques. The course also includes extensive field work designed to provide field mapping and data collection skills.

The majority of assessment takes the form of practical exercises and project-based activity. This enables you to become familiar with industry-standard software systems and develop your skills by applying your newfound expertise in areas that particularly interest you.

Student Destinations

GIS technology is now very widely deployed in many organisations ranging from utility companies, telecommunications networks, civil engineering, retailing, local and national government, international charities and NGOs, the National Health Service, environmental organisations, banking and finance, and insurance. GIS has become an essential part of the world's information infrastructure.

You can expect to go on to find work in organisations such as local authorities, health authorities, conservation organisations, banks and insurance companies, amongst others. Many of our previous graduates are now employed all over the world, working on a whole variety of GIS-related projects in a very wide range of different organisations and industries.

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This part-time course is designed for teachers of GCSE or A-level computing/computer science. You will gain a firm foundation in the principles of object-oriented programming (software development), design and testing, understanding the role of database systems in information management as well as the theoretical and practical issues that influence the design and implementation of database management, systems and languages, and emerging computing technologies.

This practical course will develop your methods in a number of areas, whilst key skills and techniques of computational thinking and problem-solving are emphasised throughout. You'll also investigate novel application areas and environments where computing can be potentially beneficial.

This programme is run on the Wrexham campus on an intensive block basis, during half-terms and holidays, for 15 days in total.

Key Course Features

-Develop essential computational problem solving skills.
-Design and develop Java programmes.
-You will be able to administer commercially operated database environments to the requirements of education and industry.
-Future and emerging technologies is a fast moving subject and the course will continue to evolve to reflect new developments in this area.

What Will You Study?

You will study 3 core modules:
-Introduction to Programming (Software Development)
-Database Systems
-Emerging Computing Technologies

In the Introduction to Programming module you will study:
-Principles of software design.
-Problem solving techniques.
-Introduction to a programming language (Java or similar).
-Control Structures.
-Assignment and arithmetic.
-Subprograms and modularity.
-Object-oriented programming.
-Testing and documentation.
-Using software tools, writing, compiling, executing, testing and debugging complex programs.

In the Database Systems module you will gain the skills required to create maintain and interrogate a relational database management system. It is a practical course that involves tasks such as:
-Designing a relational database management system.
-Manipulation and data retrieval operations using SQL.
-Defining modifying and deleting tables and views.
-Evaluate the consequences of such actions.

The Emerging Computing Technologies module includes the topics:
-Research, and analysis of current emerging Computing technologies.
-Futurology in the field of computing.
-Technology in Education.
-Internet of Things.
-Robotics.
-Biometrics.
-Wireless and mobile communication.
-Semantic web.
-Legal, ethical and cultural issues in future and emerging computing applications.
-Critically analyse the legal, ethical and cultural implications for emerging and future technologies.

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Assessment and Teaching

Assessment methods include:
Introduction to Programming (Software Development)
-A portfolio of Software design and running programmes.
-A OOP game programme using Greenfoot.

Database Systems
-A Design for a commercial relational database.
-Implementation of the database with running queries.

Future and Emerging Technology
-Group Presentation on an agreed topic.
-Report on the future of the agreed topic.

Career Prospects

On successful completion of the course you will have gained a range of new skills suited to teaching the new GCSE and A Level Computer Sciences courses and as such as these skills will be essential to your career development.

The Careers & Zone at Wrexham Glyndŵr University is there to help you make decisions and plan the next steps towards a bright future. From finding work or further study to working out your interests, skills and aspirations, they can provide you with the expert information, advice and guidance you need.

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The programme is designed to provide in-depth knowledge and skills within the field of computing. The course is aimed at students who already have a first degree in computing, have some existing software engineering skills, and wish to deepen their knowledge. This programme will have a strong focus on how data can be exploited within an organisation and will emphasise the communication of that data to a target audience.

Graduates would undertake a range of tasks associated with IT in organisations, and develop sophisticated solutions to IT problems.

Course Overview

The main themes of the programme are:
-Web based application development
-Database development, deployment and integration
-Project and team management in the computing sector

This programme will equip students with those skills at a high academic level and also crucially enable them to practically implement their knowledge because of the ‘hands-on’ emphasis of the programme.

Each of these themed areas is itself an area of significant international strategic importance and will enable students to gain important and valuable skills.

The Web based application development theme reviews current trends and technologies. Complex challenges faced by web developers are investigated in detail.

The Database development, deployment and integration theme covers the important areas of Data Warehousing and Data Analysis both of which are cited as important skills that are in great demand by businesses.

The final theme, Project and team management will concentrate on developing the skills of project management and systems analysis, both of which are in great demand by employers.

Modules

Part 1:
-Data Warehousing (20 credits)
-Distributed Web Apps (20 credits)
-Leadership and Management (20 credits)
-Managing Information Systems and Projects (20 credits)
-Research Methods and Data Analysis (20 credits)
-Web Technologies for e-Commerce (20 credits)

Part 2:
-Major Project (60 credits)

Key Features

This MSc provides significant technical content which will inform the management decision making process. In this context major organisations such as Tesco, Sainsbury and Amazon have been making significant investment into data warehousing and data mining technologies.

To effectively use this technology requires a large number of people to apply and manage the technology. The price of the technology has reduced significantly since the inception of data warehousing with Microsoft and Oracle supplying the appropriate add-on tools to their database management system products. These factors allow smaller organisations to gain a competitive advantage by utilising the large pool of transactional data that in some cases has been stored for many years.

In an industrial context, students may be required to manage teams of developers in small to large scale projects. To efficiently manage such projects, they will require a significant technical understanding of the issues arising to be able to appreciate the complexity of the tasks to be undertaken.

Indeed, in an SME this role is often fulfilled by a senior member of the development staff with both development and management duties. As either a developer or manager, the graduate would be expected to demonstrate their initiative and be able to use their research skills to rapidly adapt to the demands of new technology.

Assessment

Student works are assessed through combination of course works, lab based practical exams and written exam. The final mark for some modules may include one or more pieces of course work set and completed during the module. Project work is assessed by a written report and oral presentation. Part 2 of the MSc programme requires the student to research and prepare an individual project/dissertation of a substantial nature.

University students who are unable to successfully complete all aspects of the Part 1 may be eligible for a Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits) or Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits).

Career Opportunities

Students on this programme develop a broad range of technical skills and will study a number of topics related to information systems. The programme covers the three themes of Web based application development, Database development, deployment and integration, and Project and Team management in the computing sector.

A significant emphasis is placed on database management and the implementation of applications for manipulating information including both database systems and web applications. Additionally, graduates would be able to lead teams and manage projects.

It is expected that graduates would seek positions such as:
-Project manager (within the Computing field)
-Data analyst
-Database administrator
-Application developer
-Web developer

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Effective information management is key to the success of any organisation. The MBA Information Management develops knowledgeable and capable executives who will become managers in the IT / computing industry, or in companies in other sectors. The aim of the programme is to provide graduates with a range of management knowledge and skills, together with a thorough foundation in information management, information technology, and its commercial applications. The programme includes topical case studies, and reflects contemporary developments within the sector. The course is suitable for graduates in a wide range of disciplines, including Engineering, Finance, Social Sciences and other subjects.

Compulsory Modules:

Organisations and People: This module examines key issues arising from contemporary research in organisational behaviour (OB) and human resource management (HRM). It provides an integrated analysis of management, organisations and people, developing the conceptual, strategic and practical skills necessary for managers in complex, global organisational contexts. Specific topics include:

The nature of organisations
Organisation structures: strategy, design and function, job design
Organisation cultures: values, ethics, norms of behaviour
Theories and models of management: classical and contemporary
Individual differences: perception, learning, motivation, equality and diversity
Groups and teams in the organisation
Managing relationships: power, conflict, communication, engagement
Managers as leaders, people developers, coaches
Managing job satisfaction and performance

International Strategic Management: This module analyses strategic decision-making within business. You will develop a critical understanding of the strategic processes of business management, the interconnections with the functional domains of marketing, human resource management and corporate finance, and the management of knowledge systems. Specific topics include:

Concepts of strategic management applicable to business
Prescriptive and emergent strategies
Strategy implementation through capacity building and resource allocation
Managing, monitoring and reviewing strategic change
Organisational designs for strategic advantage
Human resources strategy, marketing and corporate financial strategy
Organisational learning and knowledge management

Management Research: This module analyses the philosophical basis for research in the management sciences, and examines a number of key methodological issues and approaches. Research designs for both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies are developed, including interviews, case studies, focus groups, surveys and experiments. Specific topics include:

Research methodologies and philosophy: positivism and interpretivism
Qualitative research methods and the search for meaning
Selecting a research strategy and design
Data gathering, documentary records, triangulation and mixed methods
Content analysis, conversation analysis, discourse analysis, grounded theory
Quantitative research design and methodologies
Univariate and multivariate analysis, factor, cluster and discriminant analysis

Web Technologies: This module provides an understanding of the basic technologies and structures for developing web applications, including internet resource creation, search techniques and programming languages for creating web content. You will create and use multimedia content in web applications, and gain familiarity with technologies for creating secure web applications. Specific topics include:

Internet concepts; networks; ISO 7 layer model; basic network architecture; routing; domain names; email; ftp; telnet; HTTP
WWW concepts; Internet resources; URI, and URI resolution, URL, URN; relation to XML namespaces; search engines; search algorithms; search engine optimisation
JavaScript; PHP; CSS; programming tools and environments
Multimedia; WWW support for multimedia; file compression
Internet Security; Cryptography; standards for the Internet; public key systems; signatures; authentication; trust management; electronic cash; security issues; firewalls
Web programming; HTML; XML; form input; CGI scripting; Perl programming

Finance for Managers: This module is designed for those who aim to achieve a basic understanding of financial management and control, and who require an understanding of finance in order to manage an organisation effectively. Financial planning and control are central themes, as well as the appraisal techniques of investment projects. Specific topics include:

Principles underlying the preparation of accounting information
Recording business transactions
Preparation and analysis of financial statements
Preparation of budgets, financial planning and control
Costing methods, uses and interpretation of cost data
Investment appraisal techniques

Databases: This module shows how to design a database and intelligently query a database using SQL; and provides an introductory level of understanding in database systems. A mini project is carried out towards the end of the module. This project allows you to complete the entire development process, from informal user requirements, to ER/EER modelling, transformation into relations, normalisation, and finally to the SQL commands to create and query the database. Specific topics include:

Characteristics of a relational database
ER/EER modelling of simple applications
Relational model and relational algebra
Transformation of an ER/EER model into a relational database
Normalisation techniques
Uses of SQL language to create and query a database

Technologies for Internet Systems: This module introduces technologies and tools for Internet Systems and e-commerce systems. Technologies and structures for developing web applications are examined. Technical issues for implementing an e-system, and commonly-available technology components, are covered. You will implement a practical web based e-commerce system using relevant technologies, taking into account current market implementation. Specific topics include:

e-commerce ideas and concepts
Internet concepts; networks; basic network architecture; routing; domain names; email; telnet; HTTP
Architectures and technologies, e-payment, e-commerce software and hardware, e-security, auctions
Design and implementation: HTML, XML, CSS, JavaScript, DOM, SVG
Research awareness: agent-based e-commerce; web services; grid computing; virtual organisations

Information Systems: This module examines the major types and components of Information Systems, their functions, benefits and limitations. The theoretical underpinnings of Information Systems are analysed. You will study the main business and personal uses of Information Systems, and how such systems are developed, procured and deployed. Specific topics include:

Understanding the nature of organisations and the people within them, and their use of information for strategic business purposes
The influence of human and organisational factors on the successful introduction of information systems
Methods and techniques involved in project and programme management
The importance of business processes and techniques for process modelling

Part 2:

For MBA Information Management, you MUST:

Complete two of the following Applied Business Projects: Business Planning; e-Business and Chain Value; Human Resource Management; International Business; Operations Management; Investment and Private Banking.
Write a Computing project, Software Hut. Software Hut is a project in which students (in groups) analyse, design and implement a software product for an organisation.

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This programme involves advanced software engineering modelling and architecting concepts and practice for designing and building modern enterprise software systems. It includes an understanding of system administration and security, distributed programming, contemporary software technologies and a critical understanding of enterprise architectures, frameworks and strategies for building internet-enabled enterprise systems.

The main tasks facing industry at the moment involve the design and development of new internet-enabled systems, the integration of legacy systems into intranets and extranets, and advanced internet publishing. There is a recognised need for the efficient management of the software engineering process using modern approaches to software development management and system administration.

There is also a pressing need for people with skills in designing, building and maintaining modern enterprise systems, project management and management of the software engineering process. These skills should be accompanied by an appreciation of the business context and market forces behind the new technologies.

This programme educates students in the theory, practice, tools and applications necessary for the design, management and deployment of enterprise computing systems. Students can choose options specialising in network technologies, data architectures and database technologies, web services and clouds, or user centred and interactive systems.

Through our short course centre opportunity may also be provided to study for the following professional qualifications: Microsoft Technology Associate Exams; Certified Professional Java SE Programmer; Java Certified Associate.

The availability of some courses is subject to satisfying constraints that may come into effect in the year of entry. In addition, some options are negotiable, indicating that a course selection will need to be approved prior to the student undertaking the requested option.

Visit the website http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/courses/pg/com/cgese

Computing - General

Come and study in the award-winning Department of Computing & Information Systems on the magnificent Greenwich Campus. Welcoming home and international students from all backgrounds, CIS provides an exciting, diverse and friendly environment in which to study.

The latest university league table published in the Sunday Times, has rated the computer science department as seventh in the UK for teaching excellence.

What you'll study

Full time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

PG Project (SST) (60 credits)
Mobile Application Development (15 credits)
Systems Development Management and Governance (15 credits)
Enterprise Software Engineering Development (15 credits)
Enterprise Patterns and Frameworks (15 credits)
Programming Enterprise Components (15 credits)
Enterprise Systems Integration (15 credits)
Essential Professional and Academic Skills for Masters Students
English Language Support Course (for Postgraduate Students in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

Database Architectures and Administration (15 credits)
User Centred Web Engineering (15 credits)
Clouds, Grids and Virtualisation (15 credits)
Big Data (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

Enterprise Web Programming (15 credits)
System Administration and Security (15 credits)
Database Tools (15 credits)
Business Intelligence and Data Mining (15 credits)
Mobile and Network Technologies (15 credits)

Part time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Essential Professional and Academic Skills for Masters Students
English Language Support Course (for Postgraduate Students in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)

Students are required to choose 30 credits from this list of options.

Mobile Application Development (15 credits)
Enterprise Software Engineering Development (15 credits)
Enterprise Patterns and Frameworks (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 30 credits from this list of options.

Systems Development Management and Governance (15 credits)
Programming Enterprise Components (15 credits)
Enterprise Systems Integration (15 credits)

- Year 2:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

PG Project (SST) (60 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

Mobile Application Development (15 credits)
Enterprise Software Engineering Development (15 credits)
Enterprise Patterns and Frameworks (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

Systems Development Management and Governance (15 credits)
Programming Enterprise Components (15 credits)
Enterprise Systems Integration (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

Database Architectures and Administration (15 credits)
User Centred Web Engineering (15 credits)
Clouds, Grids and Virtualisation (15 credits)
Big Data (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

Enterprise Web Programming (15 credits)
System Administration and Security (15 credits)
Database Tools (15 credits)
Business Intelligence and Data Mining (15 credits)
Mobile and Network Technologies (15 credits)

Fees and finance

Your time at university should be enjoyable and rewarding, and it is important that it is not spoilt by unnecessary financial worries. We recommend that you spend time planning your finances, both before coming to university and while you are here. We can offer advice on living costs and budgeting, as well as on awards, allowances and loans.

Assessment

Students are assessed through examinations, coursework and a project.

Professional recognition

This programme is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS). On successful graduation from this degree, the student will have fulfilled the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP) and partially fulfilled the education requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Chartered Scientist (CSci). For a full Chartered status there are additional requirements, including work experience. Please contact the BCS for further information. The programme also has accreditation from the European Quality Assurance Network for Informatics Education (EQANIE).

Career options

Graduates from this programme will be proficient in software engineering and can pursue careers in such areas as the integration of legacy systems into intranets or extranets and advanced internet publishing. Students also have an appreciation of the business context and role of market forces.

Find out about the teaching and learning outcomes here - http://www2.gre.ac.uk/?a=643966

Find out how to apply here - http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/apply

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The MSc in Data Science & Analytics, jointly offered by the Department of Computer Science and the Department of Statistics, provides an education in the key principles of this rapidly expanding area. The combination of sophisticated computing and statistics modules will develop skills in database management, programming, summarisation, modelling and interpretation of data. The programme provides graduates with an opportunity, through development of a research project, to investigate the more applied elements of the disciplines.

Visit the website: http://www.ucc.ie/en/ckr49/

Course Details

The MSc in Data Science and Analytics is a significant collaboration between the Departments of Computer Science and Statistics; designed to provide graduates with the skills and knowledge required to help companies and public bodies deal with ever increasing and complex data. The programme emphasises the application of Computer Science and Statistics methodologies helping transform data into useful information that can support decision making.

Format

A typical 5 credit module:
• 2 lecture hours per week
• 1–2 hours of practicals per week
• Outside these regular hours students are required to study independently by reading and by working in the laboratories and on exercises.

Structure

Students must attain 90 credits through a combination of:

- Core Modules (30 credits)
- Elective Modules (30 credits)
- Dissertation (30 credits)

Part 1 (60 credits)

- Core Modules (30 credits) -

CS6405 Data Mining (5 credits) - Dr. Marc Van Dongen
ST6030 Foundations of Statistical Data Analytics (10 credits)
ST6033 Generalised Linear Modelling Techniques (5 credits)

- Database Modules -

Students who have adequate database experience take:

CS6408 Database Technology (5 credits) - Mr. Humphrey Sorensen
CS6409 Information Storage and Retrieval (5 credits) - Mr. Humphrey Sorensen

- Students who have not studied databases take:

CS6503 Introduction to Relational Databases (5 credits)
CS6505 Database Design and Administration (5 credits)

Elective Modules (30 credits)

Students must take at least 10 credits of CS (Computer Science) modules and at least 10 credits of ST (Statistics) modules from those listed below:

CS6322 Optimisation (5 credits) - Dr. Steve Prestwich
CS6323 Analysis of Networks and Complex Systems (5 credits) - Prof. Gregory Provan
CS6509 Internet Computing for Data Science (5 credits)
ST6032 Stochastic Modelling Techniques (5 credits)
ST6034 Multivariate Methods for Data Analysis (10 credits)
ST6035 Operations Research (5 credits)
ST6036 Stochastic Decision Science (5 credits)

- Programming Modules -

Students who have adequate programming experience take:

CS6406 Large-Scale Application Development and Integration l (5 credits) - Professor Gregory Provan
CS4607 Large-Scale Application Development and Integration ll (5 credits) - Professor Gregory Provan

- Students who have not studied programming take:

CS6506 Programming in Python (5 credits)
CS6507 Programme in Python with Data Science and Applications (5 credits) - Dr. Kieran Herley

Part 2 (30 credits)

Students select one of the following modules:

CS6500 Dissertation in Data Analytics (30 credits)
ST6090 Dissertation in Data Analytics (30 credits)

Assessment

Full details and regulations governing Examinations for each programme will be contained in the Marks and Standards 2015 Book and for each module in the Book of Modules 2015/2016 - http://www.ucc.ie/modules/

Postgraduate Diploma in Data Science and Analytics

Students who pass each of the taught modules may opt to exit the programme and be conferred with a Postgraduate Diploma in Data Science and Analytics.

Careers

This programme aims to prepare students to manage, analyse and interpret large heterogeneous data sources. Graduates will design, compare and select appropriate data analytic techniques, using software tools for data storage/management and analysis, machine learning, as well as probabilistic and statistical methods. Such abilities are at the core of companies that constantly face the need to deal with large data sets.

Companies currently seeking graduates with data analytics skills include: firms specialising in analytics, financial services and consulting, or governmental agencies.

Companies actively recruiting Computer Science graduates in 2014-15 include:

Accenture, Aer Lingus, Amazon, Apple, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Bank of Ireland, BT, Cisco, CiTi-Technology, Cloudreach, Dell, Digital Turbine Asia Pacific, EMC, Enterprise Ireland, Ericsson, First Derivatives, Guidewire, IBM, Intel, Open Text, Paddy Power, Pilz, PWC, SAP Galway Transverse Technologies, Trend Micro, Uniwink, Version 1 (Software).

How to apply: http://www.ucc.ie/en/study/postgrad/how/

Funding and Scholarships

Information regarding funding and available scholarships can be found here: https://www.ucc.ie/en/cblgradschool/current/fundingandfinance/fundingscholarships/

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This programme is accredited by the British Computer Society and is designed primarily for students with a degree not in IT or computing, who wish to develop much sought after business-relevant IT knowledge and skills.

About the programme

Business requires IT professionals who can design, deploy and utilise business-relevant IT-based systems and services. The programme helps to satisfy this demand, deepening your understanding of modern IT-based business systems and addressing related development, acquisition and deployment issues in modern organisations. This programme has UK and international appeal as it can broaden and deepen your expertise.

Your learning

The programme consists of a combination of core and specialisation-option modules (specialisations offered subject to demand).

Trimester 1 – Topics include modern database design, network-based technology infrastructure and object-oriented analysis and design methods for modern IT systems development.

Trimester 2 – You may follow technically-oriented specialisations including Oracle-based advanced database development, Java based application development, web technology development, data and network security, wireless networking and Internet of Things.

Alternatively you may follow business-oriented specialisations including eBusiness, mobile business, technology management, strategic and project management, digital marketing and modern business intelligence and analytics.

Technically-oriented specialisations will enable you to focus on developing technical skills such as database and network design and development, application development, web development, creating IT solutions, and designing IT infrastructures for organisations. Business-oriented specialisations will enable you to develop skills and strategies that will help organisations configure and manage appropriate IT-driven and business relevant solutions and infrastructures.

You can also complete your Masters dissertation whilst working in industry.

Our Careers Adviser says

UWS graduates enjoy careers at Agrekko, IBM, T-Mobile, CAP-Gemini, Amazon, Atos, Adobe Systems, HP, Dell and SMEs. Positions include IT Consultant, IT Systems Developer, e-Business Specialist, Database Developer, Oracle Database Specialist, and doctoral (PhD) researcher.

Professional recognition

The programme is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS).

Financial support

In session 2015/16 the Postgraduate Diploma element of this programme carried SAAS postgraduate loan funding for eligible students. Check http://www.saas.gov.uk for 2016/17 loan info.

Cutting-edge facilities

As you would expect, we offer access to high-quality computing and state-of-the-art software systems as well as tried and tested in demand technologies such as Oracle, CIW, Adobe, CISCO, SAP and Microsoft.

Research and collaboration

We have a proven track record in knowledge and technology transfer in the form of applied research, training and consultancy. More than 65% of our research outputs were rated as world-leading and internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework 2014. We are proud that our research expertise informs teaching and our students are taught by academic staff who are at the forefront of their profession.

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Drawing on our research excellence in this area, this innovative programme of study in big data and business intelligence is designed to give graduates a competitive advantage in the modern, fast growing business domain. This is one of the first MSc programmes in the UK covering these leading-edge technologies. The programme provides students with the deeper knowledge, advanced skills and understanding that will allow them to contribute to the development and design of big data systems as well as distributed/internet-enabled decision support application software systems, using appropriate technologies, architectures and techniques (e.g. data analytics, business intelligence, NoSQL, data mining, data warehousing, distributed data management and technologies, Hadoop, etc.).

Additionally, the programme enables students to understand and assess the security and legal implications of e-commerce applications and provides students with appropriate knowledge of business and commerce relevant to transacting business on the internet. The courses take a software engineering approach to the construction of applications and focus on modern software engineering methods, tools and techniques that enable an integrated life-cycle software development view.

Through our short course centre opportunity may also be provided to study for the following professional qualifications: Microsoft Technology Associate Exams; Certified Professional Java SE Programmer; Java Certified Associate; Oracle Certified Associate (OCA).

Visit the website http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/courses/pg/com/cgbdbi

Computing - General

Come and study in the award-winning Department of Computing & Information Systems on the magnificent Greenwich Campus. Welcoming home and international students from all backgrounds, CIS provides an exciting, diverse and friendly environment in which to study.

The latest university league table published in the Sunday Times, has rated the computer science department as seventh in the UK for teaching excellence.

What you'll study

Full time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

PG Project (CIS) (60 credits)
Data Warehousing (15 credits)
Database Architectures and Administration (15 credits)
Database Tools (15 credits)
Business Intelligence and Data Mining (15 credits)
Enterprise Systems Integration (15 credits)
Big Data (15 credits)
Essential Professional and Academic Skills for Masters Students
English Language Support Course (for Postgraduate Students in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

Requirements Analysis & Methods (15 credits)
Software Tools and Techniques (15 credits)
User Centred Web Engineering (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

System Modelling (15 credits)
Systems Development Management and Governance (15 credits)
Programming Enterprise Components (15 credits)
Multi-structured Data and NoSQL Technology (15 credits)

Part time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Database Architectures and Administration (15 credits)
Business Intelligence and Data Mining (15 credits)
Enterprise Systems Integration (15 credits)
Big Data (15 credits)
Essential Professional and Academic Skills for Masters Students
English Language Support Course (for Postgraduate Students in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)

- Year 2:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

PG Project (CIS) (60 credits)
Data Warehousing (15 credits)
Database Tools (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

Requirements Analysis & Methods (15 credits)
Software Tools and Techniques (15 credits)
User Centred Web Engineering (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options.

System Modelling (15 credits)
Systems Development Management and Governance (15 credits)
Programming Enterprise Components (15 credits)
Multi-structured Data and NoSQL Technology (15 credits)

Fees and finance

Your time at university should be enjoyable and rewarding, and it is important that it is not spoilt by unnecessary financial worries. We recommend that you spend time planning your finances, both before coming to university and while you are here. We can offer advice on living costs and budgeting, as well as on awards, allowances and loans.

Assessment

Students are assessed through examinations, coursework and a project.

Professional recognition

This programme is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS). On successful graduation from this degree, the student will have fulfilled the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP) and partially fulfilled the education requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Chartered Scientist (CSci). For a full Chartered status there are additional requirements, including work experience. The programme also has accreditation from the European Quality Assurance Network for Informatics Education (EQANIE).

Career options

Graduates from this programme can pursue careers as data scientists, database designers and administrators, consultants, senior team members, programmers, analysts.

Find out how to apply here - http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/apply

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MSc Bioinformatics

The two-year MSc Bioinformatics concerns a new scientific discipline with roots in computer science, statistics and molecular biology. Bioinformaticians apply information technology to store, retrieve and manipulate these data and employ statistical methods capable of analysing large amounts of biological data to predict gene functions and to demonstrate relationships between genes and proteins.

Programme summary

DNA contains information about life, but how is this information used? Biological data, such as DNA and RNA sequence information produced by next-generation sequencing techniques, is accumulating at an unprecedented rate. Life scientists increasingly use bioinformatics resources to address their specific research questions. Bioinformaticians bridge the gap between complex biological research questions and this complex data. Bioinformaticians use and develop computational tools to predict gene function(s) and to demonstrate and model relationships between genes, proteins and metabolites in biological systems. Bioinformatics is an interdisciplinary field that applies computational and statistical techniques to the classification, interpretation and integration of large-scale biological data sets. If different data types are joined then complex interactions in biological systems can be studied. The use of systems biology methods to study complex biological interactions offers a wealth of possibilities to understand various levels of aggregation and enables control of biological systems on different scales. Systems biology approaches are therefore quickly gaining importance in many disciplines of life sciences, such as in applied biotechnology where these methods are now used to develop strategies for improving production in fermentation. Other examples include bioconversion and enzymatic synthesis, and in the study of human metabolism and its alterations where systems biology methods are applied to understand a variety of complex human diseases, including metabolic syndromes and cancer. The Wageningen Master programme focuses on the practical application of bioinformatics and systems biology approaches in many areas of the Life Sciences. To ensure that students acquire a high level of understanding of modelling and computing principles, the students are trained in the fundamentals of database management, computer programming, structural and functional genomics, proteomics and systems biology methods. This training includes advanced elective courses in molecular biology and biostatistics.

Thesis tracks

Bioinformatics
The bioinformatics track focuses on the practical application of bioinformatics knowledge and skills in molecular life sciences. It aims at creating and using bioinformatics resources to address specific research questions. The knowledge and skills gained can be applied in many life science disciplines such as molecular & cell biology, biotechnology, (human) genetics, health & medicine and environmental & biobased technology.

Systems Biology
The systems biology track focuses on the study of the complex interactions in biological systems and on the emerging properties derived from these. Systems biology approaches to complex biological problems offer a wealth of possibilities to understand various levels of aggregation. It enables control of biological systems on completely different scales, ranging from the molecular cellular level to marine, plant, or animal ecosystems to a desired state. The knowledge and skills gained can be applied in many life science disciplines including molecular & cell biology, applied biotechnology, genetics, medicine and vaccine development, environmental and biobased technology.

Your future career

Bioinformatics and Systems Biology are new fast growing biology based interdisciplinary fields of research poorly served by the traditional curricula of Life Sciences. As demand has outpaced the supply of bioinformaticians, the first job after graduation is often a PhD project at a research institute or university. It is expected that five years after graduation, about one third will stay employed as a scientist at a university or research centre, while the others choose for careers at research-oriented pharmaceutical and biotechnological companies.

Alumnus Tom van den Bergh.
"It is sometimes difficult for doctors to diagnose genetic diseases caused by missense mutations. A missense mutation does not necessarily mean that you have the gene-associated disease and will become ill since not all missense mutations lead to appreciable protein changes." Tom created a database for Fabry’s disease for his final thesis. He wrote a computer programme that reads publications and stores all information about Fabry mutations in its database. Genetic researchers can, in turn, quickly access this database to determine if the mutation they found in a patient has already been addressed in literature and what the effects were.

Related programmes:
MSc Biotechnology
MSc Molecular Life Sciences
MSc Plant Biotechnology

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Jointly run by the University of Salford and Manchester Metropolitan University, UNIGIS is a three year programme, with the first two years comprising taught units, and a final year to complete a dissertation.

The Geographical Information Systems (GIS) pathway aims to provide students with a broadly based postgraduate qualification in the field of GIS. Importantly, it offers students choice in the selection of their application area (with a range of units available). The pathway helps students to develop an in-depth knowledge of the issues involved in applying GIS to solving spatial problems with an understanding of the constraints imposed by the application area(s) and the interactions between data, methods, people, and technology.

The first year of study (equivalent to PgC in GIS) involves three core units:

Foundations of GIS -
This unit provides an introduction to Geographical Information Systems (GIS) from conceptual, theoretical, and practical perspectives. Students will learn about the different methods used in geographic encoding and spatial data modelling before employing such datasets in a software environment. The unit concludes with a review of contemporary issues in GIS. Key elements of the curriculum include: Origins of GIS; Representation, Modelling and Geovisualisation; Software Skills; GIS: Today and Tomorrow.

Spatial Data Infrastructures -
Spatial data is key to any GIS project. This unit investigates how spatial data is sourced and also aims to provide students with the requisite knowledge and practical skills to identify and evaluate, against recognised national and international quality standards, spatial data for use in GI-based projects. Key elements of the curriculum include: Spatial Data; Data Standards and Infrastructures; Sourcing Spatial Data; Data Quality; Evaluating Fitness for Purpose.

Databases -
GIS are fundamentally information systems which provide specialist facilities for the creation, storage and manipulation of spatial and attribute data. Much of the functionality offered by GIS software is shared with conventional database software. Indeed, most GIS - at their core - have a conventional database management system (DBMS) around which spatial functionality has been wrapped. It is essential that GIS specialists have a thorough understanding of database theory, design and implementation. Key elements of the curriculum include: Why Databases?; Relational Databases; Critiquing Relational Databases; Implementation and Interrogation.

The second year of study (equivalent to the PgD in GIS) involves one core and two elective units:

Methods in GIS (core) -
The concepts, theories and methods behind the application of GIS are examined in detail. The unit explores research design, data analysis and interpretation and presentation. Special focus is given to methods of spatial analysis and their implementation using GIS software. Key elements of the curriculum include: Research Design; Qualitative and Quantitative Techniques; Fundamentals of Spatial Analysis; Recent Advances in Spatial Analysis.

Two elective units are chosen from:

Distributed GIS -
This unit discusses the most vibrant and rapidly developing area of geospatial technology. Desktop GIS packages are increasingly looking like the specialist packages for serious users that, in truth, they always were. Now, for the very large majority of people who really only want to look at the location of things, we can offer WebGIS systems that deliver what they need directly into their web-browsers. This unit explains the concepts and methods of Internet GIS, development and its applications. Key elements of the curriculum include: From Desktop to Distributed GI Services; Technologies in Distributed GIS; Building the GeoWeb; Tutorials.

Environmental Applications of GIS -
GIS and related technologies such as remote sensing have been widely employed in environmental applications for almost forty years. The advent of satellite remote sensing allowed reliable synoptic data to be available to scientists who have developed numerous models. This together with the decision-making tools and spatially-referenced framework of GIS offers significant support to researchers investigating different environmental phenomena. Data from remote sensing, GPS and other sources provide a valuable input into GIS models for environmental monitoring, modelling and prediction. This unit introduces case study examples of how GIS and related technologies can be used in environmental applications and seeks to critically evaluate their potential value. Key elements of the curriculum include: Applicability and benefits of GIS; Practical Problem Solving and Evaluation using techniques such as Terrain Analysis, Multicriteria Evaluation, Landscape Metrics etc.

Remote Sensing for GIS Applications -
This unit provides students with an introduction to the principles of remote sensing and explores its role in data gathering/information extraction for GIS applications. Key elements of the curriculum include: Principles of Remote Sensing; Satellite Systems; Quantitative Data; GIS Integration.

Social Applications of GIS -
Where an investigation into social, economic, political, and cultural characteristics and phenomena is required, GIS provides a powerful tool. For social applications such as crime mapping and healthcare resource management, GIS can be used effectively to help model, monitor and enable (spatial) decision making based on existing criteria. Social systems are often highly organised and complex - GIS allows this complexity to be effectively distilled into an abstraction representing the most causally related behaviour. This unit introduces case tudy examples of how GIS can be used in social applications and seeks to critically evaluate their potential value. Key elements of the curriculum include: Exemplars of GIS use in Social Applications, e.g. health, crime and urban transportation; Evaluation of the Benefits of GIS; Practical Problem Solving techniques.

Spatial Databases and Programming -
The importance of programming and GIS as part of a larger system, which involves spatial databases, software development and programme coding, has been increasingly realised in GIS practice. This unit aims to develop your geospatial skills in building enterprise oriented databases (e.g. geo-database and server) and creating application-oriented GIS models through programming. This unit also helps you to critically evaluate the issues and trends in enterprise GIS and GIS application development from the perspective of software engineering and geospatial technology. Key elements of the curriculum include: Spatial Databases; Design and Quality; Programming; Tutorials.

The final year of study (the MSc stage) requires the student to design and undertake a substantial and unique independent research project, to be presented as an academic dissertation (max. of 15,000 words).

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Jointly run by the University of Salford and Manchester Metropolitan University, UNIGIS is a three year programme, with the first two years comprising taught units, and a final year to complete a dissertation.

The Geographical Information Systems (GIS) pathway aims to provide students with a broadly based postgraduate qualification in the field of GIS. Importantly, it offers students choice in the selection of their application area (with a range of units available). The pathway helps students to develop an in-depth knowledge of the issues involved in applying GIS to solving spatial problems with an understanding of the constraints imposed by the application area(s) and the interactions between data, methods, people, and technology.

The first year of study (equivalent to PgC in GIS) involves three core units:

Foundations of GIS -
This unit provides an introduction to Geographical Information Systems (GIS) from conceptual, theoretical, and practical perspectives. Students will learn about the different methods used in geographic encoding and spatial data modelling before employing such datasets in a software environment. The unit concludes with a review of contemporary issues in GIS. Key elements of the curriculum include: Origins of GIS; Representation, Modelling and Geovisualisation; Software Skills; GIS: Today and Tomorrow.

Spatial Data Infrastructures -
Spatial data is key to any GIS project. This unit investigates how spatial data is sourced and also aims to provide students with the requisite knowledge and practical skills to identify and evaluate, against recognised national and international quality standards, spatial data for use in GI-based projects. Key elements of the curriculum include: Spatial Data; Data Standards and Infrastructures; Sourcing Spatial Data; Data Quality; Evaluating Fitness for Purpose.

Databases -
GIS are fundamentally information systems which provide specialist facilities for the creation, storage and manipulation of spatial and attribute data. Much of the functionality offered by GIS software is shared with conventional database software. Indeed, most GIS - at their core - have a conventional database management system (DBMS) around which spatial functionality has been wrapped. It is essential that GIS specialists have a thorough understanding of database theory, design and implementation. Key elements of the curriculum include: Why Databases?; Relational Databases; Critiquing Relational Databases; Implementation and Interrogation.

The second year of study (equivalent to the PgD in GIS) involves one core and two elective units:

Methods in GIS (core) -
The concepts, theories and methods behind the application of GIS are examined in detail. The unit explores research design, data analysis and interpretation and presentation. Special focus is given to methods of spatial analysis and their implementation using GIS software. Key elements of the curriculum include: Research Design; Qualitative and Quantitative Techniques; Fundamentals of Spatial Analysis; Recent Advances in Spatial Analysis.

Two elective units are chosen from:

Distributed GIS -
This unit discusses the most vibrant and rapidly developing area of geospatial technology. Desktop GIS packages are increasingly looking like the specialist packages for serious users that, in truth, they always were. Now, for the very large majority of people who really only want to look at the location of things, we can offer WebGIS systems that deliver what they need directly into their web-browsers. This unit explains the concepts and methods of Internet GIS, development and its applications. Key elements of the curriculum include: From Desktop to Distributed GI Services; Technologies in Distributed GIS; Building the GeoWeb; Tutorials.

Environmental Applications of GIS -
GIS and related technologies such as remote sensing have been widely employed in environmental applications for almost forty years. The advent of satellite remote sensing allowed reliable synoptic data to be available to scientists who have developed numerous models. This together with the decision-making tools and spatially-referenced framework of GIS offers significant support to researchers investigating different environmental phenomena. Data from remote sensing, GPS and other sources provide a valuable input into GIS models for environmental monitoring, modelling and prediction. This unit introduces case study examples of how GIS and related technologies can be used in environmental applications and seeks to critically evaluate their potential value. Key elements of the curriculum include: Applicability and benefits of GIS; Practical Problem Solving and Evaluation using techniques such as Terrain Analysis, Multicriteria Evaluation, Landscape Metrics etc.

Remote Sensing for GIS Applications -
This unit provides students with an introduction to the principles of remote sensing and explores its role in data gathering/information extraction for GIS applications. Key elements of the curriculum include: Principles of Remote Sensing; Satellite Systems; Quantitative Data; GIS Integration.

Social Applications of GIS -
Where an investigation into social, economic, political, and cultural characteristics and phenomena is required, GIS provides a powerful tool. For social applications such as crime mapping and healthcare resource management, GIS can be used effectively to help model, monitor and enable (spatial) decision making based on existing criteria. Social systems are often highly organised and complex - GIS allows this complexity to be effectively distilled into an abstraction representing the most causally related behaviour. This unit introduces case tudy examples of how GIS can be used in social applications and seeks to critically evaluate their potential value. Key elements of the curriculum include: Exemplars of GIS use in Social Applications, e.g. health, crime and urban transportation; Evaluation of the Benefits of GIS; Practical Problem Solving techniques.

Spatial Databases and Programming -
The importance of programming and GIS as part of a larger system, which involves spatial databases, software development and programme coding, has been increasingly realised in GIS practice. This unit aims to develop your geospatial skills in building enterprise oriented databases (e.g. geo-database and server) and creating application-oriented GIS models through programming. This unit also helps you to critically evaluate the issues and trends in enterprise GIS and GIS application development from the perspective of software engineering and geospatial technology. Key elements of the curriculum include: Spatial Databases; Design and Quality; Programming; Tutorials.

The final year of study (the MSc stage) requires the student to design and undertake a substantial and unique independent research project, to be presented as an academic dissertation (max. of 15,000 words).

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International economics with a strong empirical and analytical emphasis on the low and middle income countries of the Global South.
This specialisation offers you the opportunity to follow a state-of-the-art curriculum in International Economics with a strong empirical and analytical focus on the low and middle income countries of the Global South. Hosting one of the largest databases for developing countries in the world, we offer you a unique possibility to analyse poverty, inequality, and economic development in these countries in an international context. Using recent theoretical insights and modern empirical methods, you will be actively involved in comparative research on issues in developing countries such as the impact of globalisation on economic growth, corruption, the education of children, child labour and women’s empowerment.

Why should you choose International Economics & Development in Nijmegen?

- A broad perspective on issues pertaining to low and middle income countries
- Strong comparative and empirical orientation
- One of the world’s largest micro-level database for developing countries
- Small group teaching and close contact with professors and their research
- Excellent reputation in the Netherlands and abroad

Change perspective

Radboud University Master’s specialisation in International Economics & Development pushes your curiosity to understand and evaluate the economic situation in low and middle income countries. You will be taught to look at the bigger picture and to analyse micro-level data in order to discover what is going well and what isn’t. Your analysis will provide information on intra-country or cross-national disparities. It aims to inform both national governments as well as international development organisations, and might lead to programmatic action aimed at bringing about positive changes to people’s lives in the poorest regions of our globe.

Career prospects

Scientific and societal relevance go hand in hand in this programme. We address contemporary issues like child labour, women’s empowerment, human development, children’s schooling and economic growth by evaluating societal developments with the help of sound academic theories. We not only discuss pressing issues of today but also issues we believe will be pressing in the near future.
Upon completing the Master’s programme in International Economics & Development, you will be knowledgeable about recent developments in the field. You will be an up-and-coming professional that is able to:
- Understand and reflect on the international, professional and academic literature in the field of international economics & development.
- Report independently on various issues in international economics and development, including state of the art empirical and theoretical studies.
- Use and apply statistical tools and methods.
- Conduct independent research.
- Present and clearly and consistently defend your views and research outcomes.
- Maintain a critical attitude towards your own work and that of others in your field.

We make sure our graduates have the strong academic background they need to be able to work as economists, policy-makers and researchers for international organisations (The World Bank, UN), development-oriented consultancy firms, NGOs, national governments as well as universities and research institutes.

Our approach to this field

The Master’s specialisation International Economics & Development is theoretically unique in that we not only deal with the problems that poor countries face, but also with interesting new developments taking place in the Global South. We will discuss the rise of the BRIC countries, concentrating on both the potential they have as well as the challenges they face. We will also look at unique new economic phenomena within developing countries, like the emergence of a complete pro-poor banking system based on mobile phone credits in Kenya and other parts of Africa (known as m-pesa).

- Understanding economic changes in the developing world
Our unique and interesting combination of subjects will provide you with a well-rounded understanding in this field. Apart from development economics students will get an academic understanding of economics methodology, the role of international financial markets, behavioural economics and the important influence culture has on economic phenomena. And thanks to a choice of elective subjects, you can give your programme a unique focus that meets your academic interests.

Students taking this Master’s specialisation will learn how to understand and analyse economic changes taking place throughout the developing world. Students will be taught how to discover determinants and develop indicators that make it possible to monitor changes at the sub-national level in great detail. These indicators can be used scientifically, but also for creating detailed overview scans of regions for political or humanitarian purposes.

- Database Developing World and the MDGs
One of the tools our students can use is our Database Developing World (DDW). This database constitutes a unique window to the developing world, making it possible to study important processes on a scale and with a degree of detail that is unique in the world.

The DDW also holds indicators for seven of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) which range from halving extreme poverty rates to empowering woman and providing universal primary education. The target date of 2015 is fast approaching and although enormous progress has been made, the UN is working with governments, civil society and other partners to carry on with a post-2015 sustainable development agenda. As a graduate of this Master’s specialisation, you could go on to be one of the professionals that helps to achieve the MDGs and thereby making a real difference in people’s lives.

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