POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION

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1 POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION Programme Title: Awarding Body: Teaching Institution: Final Awards: Intermediate Awards: Mode of Study: UCAS Codes: QAA Subject Benchmarks: MSc Cloud Computing Staffordshire University Faculty of Computing, Engineering & Sciences MSc Cloud Computing PgC/PgD Cloud Computing Full Time/Part Time Not Applicable Master s Degrees in Computing 2011 JACS Code: Professional/Statutory Body: Date of Production: April 2013 Date of Revision: If you require this document in a larger text or a different medium please contact us. 1

2 EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME To develop masters-level knowledge and skills in Cloud Computing in context of employer-driven needs, emerging markets, and contemporary subject areas within the discipline. Extend and critically evaluate theoretical knowledge and practical skills directly associated with the development of cloud computing solutions. Acquire depth of knowledge and practical skills through the use of proprietary and industry-standard approaches to the development of cloud-based solutions and environments. Evaluate and apply emerging computer networking principles and practices to conceive and propose commercially relevant cloud-based solutions. Critically apply the theoretical aspects of cloud computing to case studies based on real-word scenarios that present realistic knowledge and skills development opportunities. Develop academic and discipline-specific rigour through applied scholarship to build or strengthen domain-specific understanding and transferrable skills thus equipping graduates for a career in industry or academia Develop and strengthen critical analysis, independent scholarship, and intellectual empowerment through a structured research-informed programme of studies. To use the rigour of academic knowledge development and training to develop applied practical skills for construction of cloud-based systems in real-world contexts. Provide a balanced programme of study, comprising principles & theories with the opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience. Develop effective communication skills of value to academic, technical and professional environments. Develop or strengthen the knowledge & skills for undertaking further research or undertaking employment in the field of computer networks & cloud computing. What is distinctive about this programme? This awards focuses on a contemporary area of Computing that of Cloud Computing. Cloud Computing represents a significant development in the use and capabilities of computer technology that can be exploited to leverage business solutions previously not possible. Growth in cloud-based applications and the in the infrastructure needed to support this is predicted to grow rapidly in the next 5-10 years The award builds on material covered in undergraduate computing courses or equivalent experience, and develops your understanding of this in context of 2

3 contemporary issues in Cloud Computing. By studying on this award, you will be at the heart of these exciting and innovative developments, and equipped for a future and promising career in this area. The award also aims to instil sound academic & professional skills required for lifelong learning & development. Students also have the opportunity to apply for an industrial placement and are assisted in this process by our placements team. Other distinctive features: Research-informed teaching that has direct value to industry, commerce and to you as an IT industry professional. Develop a detailed theoretical and applied knowledge within the field of Cloud Computing Benefit from support by enthusiastic staff with more than 25 years experience of teaching networking You can choose to undertake a 12 month industrial placement where the University will advise you and help you in finding a placement opportunity There will be opportunities to attend a variety of guest lectures, seminars, and mini-conferences Independent research features strongly throughout the course. You will be able to develop your research skills and apply these in the completion of an award-specific dissertation in Cloud Computing. This provides a good foundation for progressing to further research study. 3

4 PROGRAMME OUTCOMES What will this programme teach me to do? At the end of your studies you should be able to: Knowledge & Understanding Develop specific focus and depth of critical understanding and interpretation of theoretical and technical knowledge in Cloud Computing including that at the forefront of the field. Learning Demonstrate a competent & systematic approach and ability to the study of the body of theoretical and technical knowledge in Cloud Computing and its value in realworld contexts Enquiry Understand and apply advanced techniques of research and enquiry in Cloud Computing and related problems, and propose effective solutions that are applicable within complex and unpredictable contexts. Analysis Understand and demonstrate analytical powers of thought through critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis of subject material in Cloud Computing and its application to the resolution of complex problems. Problem Solving Use problem solving techniques to produce acceptable solutions in complex and unpredictable situations that encompass people, networking, and security technology within legal, ethical, and professional governance. Communication Convey, the educational experience and accrued knowledge & skills to academic and non-academic audiences, including its value in both an academic and commercial context. Application Adopt a critical lens and approach to the application of Cloud Computing-related concepts and practice to academic and commercial contexts in order to produce solutions of real value. Reflection Be able to fully identify and understand one s one intellectual capital in relation to Cloud Computing and its future value in the academic and commercial Knowledge Economy. 4

5 PROGRAMME STRUCTURE, MODULES AND CREDITS Programme Title: MSc Cloud Computing PRELIM STUDY CE Networking Concepts. Preliminary course (2 Weeks) zero credit rated Teaching Block 1 (12 weeks) CESCOM Virtualisation CE Professional Switched Networks.doc CESCOM Network Security.doc CESCOM Mobile Computing and Wireless L E V E L 7 Teaching Block 2 (12 weeks) CESCOM-TBC Computer Networks Research Methods CESCOM Server Side technologies CE Professional Routed Networks.doc CE Maintaining a Converged IP Based Network.doc Teaching Block 3 (16 weeks) CESCOM MSc Dissertation (60 Credits) Potential Awards: Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits) comprising a total of 60 credits from any of the modules listed above. Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits) comprising PG Cert plus a total of 60 credits from any of the modules listed above. MSc (180 credits) total of 180 credits from any of the modules listed above including the MSc Dissertation. Progression: In order to progress to the Industrial Placement (Internship) you must have passed at least 45 credits. In order to progress to the MSc Dissertation you must have passed at least 105 credits. 5

6 HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT AND ASSESSED? Teaching and Learning A substantial variety and range of teaching and learning strategies are used on this award. These take the form of class attendance (for on-campus students), directed reading, independent reading (this is very strongly encouraged), electronic delivery of learning material, computer simulations, discussions with supervisors, practical work, problem solving, working with peers in group activities, working with people in industry, undertaking literature reviews and critically appraising published work, giving presentations, being interviewed, report writing, industrial visits and seminars. This variety of methods is designed to encourage you to become an independent learner so that you can continue to increase your knowledge even after you finish the course (and thus is contributes to your employability). Teaching and learning within the University is supported by electronic distribution of information and course management through the Blackboard virtual learning environment. Each module within the Faculty has a presence on Blackboard. This allows you to engage in your studies in a structured, directed and flexible manner. The system also provides a means of formal and informal communication between students and lecturers through discussion forums. Many of the modules on the MSc have been developed to make full use of this facility and are used as exemplars of good practice. The information on Blackboard is in support of, and not as a replacement for, attendance at taught classes each week attendance is a requirement (for on-campus students). You will also approach your studies from both practical and theoretical perspectives; and also learn from the range of assessment activities that you will be subjected to. These activities include delivering presentations, engaging in interviews, recording logbooks, programming, and report writing. You will receive both written and verbal feedback on these activities from tutors to assist you in further developing your skills. The substantial range of facilities available within the Faculty and the University, contribute to generating a research/academic community environment and culture that impacts favourably on MSc students. However, the resource that influences the learning of students most on these awards is probably the staff - their approach to supporting you, their specialist subject knowledge, and their knowledge of appropriate specialist texts and other support material that can contribute to your learning. Thus, we believe in, and practice, Research Informed Teaching. Assessment Assessment serves two purposes. Firstly it gives you the opportunity to demonstrate that you have successfully understood the information you have been given. Secondly, and most importantly, assessment is also a continuation of the learning process. Revision for examinations and writing reports allows you to practice what you have been taught and the feedback received from the lecturer can further direct you to enhance your knowledge and skills further. Modules on the course are assessed by a mixture of coursework (written and practical work) and by examination. The coursework is designed to assess practical skills and problem solving ability whereas the examination will focus more on assessing knowledge and understanding. Some modules aim to teach practical applied skills and so may be assessed entirely by coursework - this might include laboratory work, report writing 6

7 and presentations. It is recognised that peer-group support is an important part of the overall learning process so you may be occasionally encouraged to work in small groups where appropriate, and in this case the work may be assessed as a group ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Entry Requirements (including IELTS score) What qualifications would I need to join this programme? The entry requirements for the award are normally: An Undergraduate Honours degree BSc/BEng (2.2 or above) in a related Computing subject, or in Telecommunications or Electronic Engineering with Telecoms/ Network modules from a UK University, or the international equivalent. Applicants with appropriate experience in networking and/or professional qualifications will also be considered providing they can satisfy the University that they are capable of responding to the challenge of postgraduate study. Disability Statement Staffordshire University operates a policy of inclusive teaching and learning to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to fulfil their educational potential. Details about how to apply to have your needs assessed can be found at: AWARD SPECIFIC INFORMATION Assessment of the programme will be undertaken in accordance with the University awards regulations. The preliminary study period is zero credit rated, but student must pass this in order to proceed to the first study period. Students are encouraged to undertake a suitable Industrial Placement (Internship) lasting up to a maximum of 1 academic year. This placement must be completed before the student starts the MSc Dissertation. The placement is zero credit rated and so does not contribute to the final award. Further information about the award can be found in the relevant Student Handbook and on the University Website. This includes information about optional modules, student support, and academic regulations. ==================================== 7