Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Computer Science)
ObjectivesThe Postgraduate Diploma in Science is designed to:
* allow students to study a selection of Computer Science topics in depth and to work on an investigative project;
* provide an introduction to research methodology;
* provide experience in system development;
* improve career opportunities in research-oriented jobs, or in systems design and implementation;
* encourage critical thought and novel ideas in computer science;
* improve abilities to evaluate information and analyse experimental data;
* improve oral and written communication skills.
Academic titlePostgraduate Diploma in Science (Computer Science)
Course descriptionThe course consists of 75% coursework and 25% research.
The coursework is shared with BCS (Hons) and BSc (Hons) in Computer Science.
Coursework Component
Students (full-time or part-time) must pass 6 subjects. Students can take one 600-level subject as part of their coursework. They can also take up to three 300-level subjects. A student can also ask the Honours Coordinator's permission to take a relevant 400-level subject outside the Department. Assessment consists of written assignments, oral presentations and written examinations.
Thesis Component
As well as advancing the student's knowledge of computer science, the Postgraduate Diploma is intended to introduce students to the world of research. Part way through their first semester, students will select a supervisor and project from a list of topics that academic staff have indicated they are willing to supervise. These projects involve a search of the relevant literature, some investigation or application by the student, and preparation of a final written report summarising the results of the investigation and its relation to other work in the area. Students are required to present a written summary of their project proposals towards the end of their first semester, and to give a final oral presentation of their research shortly after the deadline for theses. The thesis should not exceed 12,000 words. The thesis contributes 25% towards the final mark. The thesis will be examined by the supervisor and two other members of academic of staff. Guidelines for marking will be made available to students.
Seminars
The Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering holds regular seminars; attendance at these is required for Postgraduate Diploma students. Other talks may also be recommended by the teaching staff; these, too, are considered to be part of the course.