University of Birmingham School of Computer Science
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Programme Specification for the MSci in Mathematics and Computer Science

Final Award MSci
Interim Awards None
Programme Title Mathematics and Computer Science
School/Department School of Computer Science
Banner Code 5197
Mode(s) of Study Full-time
Length of Programme 4 years
Total Credits 480
UCAS Code
Awarding Institution The University of Birmingham
Teaching Institution The University of Birmingham
Designed for accreditation by British Computer Society [See Footnote 2]
QAA Benchmarking Groups Computing
Completed by Dr J E Rowe
Date 9 May 2011
Educational Aims of Programme

The aim of this programme is to prepare high-level professionals in both computer science and mathematics who would be able to work as specialists in these subjects. This programme is an extension of the existing BSc programme of the same name. It provides a deeper understanding of both subject areas and enables students to get close to the frontiers of research.

Reference Points used to inform Programme Outcomes
Computing Benchmarking Statement, UK-SPEC, Requirements of Accrediting Bodies, the University and School Teaching and Learning Strategies.
Special features of the Programme
None.

 

Programme Outcomes and Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies

Knowledge & Understanding

Ref A. Students are expected to have knowledge and understanding of... Teaching, Learning & Assessment Strategies to enable outcome to be achieved and demonstrated
Learning & Teaching Methods Assessment Methods
1 Key mathematical concepts and topics Lectures and tutorials; computer practicals; projects. Class tests, examinations, assignments, oral presentation.
2 How mathematics can be used to analyse and solve problems including those at an abstract level Lectures and tutorials; computer practicals; projects. Class tests, examinations, assignments, oral presentation.
3 Essential concepts, principles and theories relating to Computing Lectures and tutorials; computer practicals; projects. Class tests, examinations, assignments, oral presentation.
4 How the Computer Science theory is related to modelling and design of computer-based systems Lectures and tutorials; computer practicals; projects. Class tests, examinations, assignments, oral presentation.
5 The latest trends and developments in research in either Computer Science or Mathematics Lectures and tutorials; computer practicals; projects. Class tests, examinations, assignments, oral presentation.

Skills & Other Attributes

Ref B. Students are expected to have attained the following skills and other attributes: Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategies to enable outcome to be achieved and demonstrated
Learning & Teaching Methods Assessment Methods
1 To abstract the essentials of problems and formulate them mathematically and in a symbolic form. Lectures, tutorials, computer practicals and projects Tests, examinations and oral presentations
2 To select and apply appropriate mathematical methods to solve problems including those at an abstract level Lectures, tutorials, computer practicals and projects Tests, examinations and oral presentations
3 To be able to construct and develop logical mathematical arguments with clear identification of assumptions and conclusions Lectures, tutorials, computer practicals and projects Tests, examinations and oral presentations
4 To present arguments and conclusions clearly and accurately. Lectures, tutorials, computer practicals and projects Tests, examinations and oral presentations
5 To specify, design and construct computer-based systems. Lectures, tutorials, computer practicals and projects Tests, examinations and oral presentations
6 To independently solve a substantial problem and present a solution both orally and in a dissertation Lectures and tutorials; computer practicals; projects. Class tests, examinations, assignments, oral presentation.
(transferable skills)

Footnotes

  1. The Learning & Teaching and Assessment Methods above are not intended to be exclusive, but to indicate the main methods in use. Module Descriptions contain more detail.
  2. Whether to award accreditation is a decision made from time to time by a professional body according to criteria which are then current; hence there is no guarantee that the programme will actually be accredited for any particular year of entry by any particular professional body.

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