COURSE CURRICULUM

This program offers an in-depth exploration of advanced topics in software engineering, focusing on cloud systems, high-assurance systems, IoT, critical systems, modern programming, and research methodologies. It begins with Cloud-Based System Design and Software Quality Assurance, where students gain skills in software requirement analysis, architecture, and quality assurance. Emphasis is placed on systematic software testing, formal methods, quality metrics, and industry practices for managing change and configuration. Internet of Things and High-Assurance System Design introduces IoT technologies, cloud integration, and data visualisation, alongside automata-based approaches for designing systems where failure has severe consequences. Critical Systems and Modern Programming Techniques explore the multidisciplinary nature of critical systems engineering and ethical concerns, while also covering functional programming languages like Scala or F#, highlighting their role in creating reliable, concurrent systems. Advanced Research Topics and Research Methods encourage students to engage with state-of-the-art software engineering practices and technologies through a holistic lens. They are expected to research emerging topics, understand ethical and legal frameworks surrounding cybersecurity and digital forensics, and explore professional standards in practice. The final component is the 60-credit PGT Project, allowing students to undertake substantial independent work that applies the knowledge gained throughout the course. Students may pursue various project types, including development, research, consultancy, data analysis, conceptual analysis, or literature studies. Each project type emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and the synthesis of ideas, with assessments based on outcomes such as working systems, research results, or detailed evaluations. Overall, the program is designed to prepare students for professional roles or further academic research by providing a solid foundation in modern software engineering principles and emerging technologies, coupled with practical experience and critical analysis.