100% coursework; a dissertation of not more than 15,000 words and viva/presentation involving internal and external examiners. This will assess Learning Outcomes 1 - 4.

This is a major piece of work to be carried out on an individual basis. Students are expected to highlight two separate strands during their work on the Dissertation: understanding and application.
The first part will demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the specialist domain; the second part will allow the demonstration of their abilities through investigation of the problem and the application of appropriate knowledge and skills in providing solutions.
The major aim of the Dissertation is to allow the student to extend and unify their understanding of the subject as developed in the underlying modules. The production of the Dissertation is supported by an academic supervisor, who will help develop their ideas.
The Dissertation will focus on a particular topic in their specialism. This will involve a critical study of recent developments in the field and will normally be illustrated by a practical component which may be a specification, a design document, an implementation or any other deliverable. It is expected that a deep analysis will be provided and, where appropriate, a prognosis of possible future developments.

Research papers and standard textbooks appropriate to the area of study.

None.

Software and hardware appropriate to the chosen project together with standard computing facilities.

All research projects must be underpinned by staff research expertise in the field, thus projects outside one of the School's major research areas will only be accepted in exceptional circumstances where other expertise can be demonstrated. The major aim of the research project is to extend and unify your understanding of the subject as developed in the modules. Throughout each designated specialism, students will be developing their knowledge and understanding of the current issues within their research area. It is within the research project that this knowledge and understanding will be considered, extended and clarified by scholarly activity.
The research project must demonstrate that they can apply their new knowledge. It will normally consist of a dissertation of not more than 15,000 words, and may also include other deliverables, as agreed with the supervisor.

Students will be invited to attend a University Week, and are expected to discuss and agree their project proposal with their appointed supervisor.