MSc Software Engineering & Database Technologies (MScSED)
Key facts
Entry requirements
The MScSED Degree is open to honours degree graduates (minimum 2nd class honours) in Science, Engineering or other relevant discipline, and to other degree graduates with three or more years of relevant experience, and to those otherwise satisfying the MSc entry standards (degree equivalent qualifications). Applicants with an ordinary or pass degree or Level 7 diploma must have at least three years relevant experience to be considered for the programme. If the applicant has no formal qualification at all then he/she is not eligible to apply.
Additional requirements
None
Duration:
2 years, part-time
Next start date: The programme is offered on an annual basis and commences in late August of each academic year.
ECTS weighting: 90
Average intake: Unlimited
NFQ level: 9
Course overview
This programme aims to provide a flexible, part-time, blended learning route for students to gain the necessary professional skills, conceptual frameworks, methods, technologies and hands-on experience of software development as a basis for a career in the IT industry. Students also acquire specialised knowledge of specific IT topics, particularly in the area of software development and database systems, and develop advanced research and/or development skills. The programme is offered jointly by NUI Galway and Regis University, Denver, USA.
Who is the course for?
This is an ideal programme for students who wish:
· to update their Information and Communication Technology development skills
· to learn about information technology with a specific emphasis on software development or database technologies while gaining advanced research skills
· who already work in the area, but would like to gain a recognised Masters qualification
Course outline
The core syllabus of the MSc in Software Engineering and Database Technologies comprises equally Software Development and Information Systems modules. Students undertake a number of optional modules during the second year allowing them to specialise in advanced software development and other computer science disciplines. Students also undertake a major research and/or development project, leading to a thesis.
The programme content is extensive and varied, and includes modules on:
o Computer Architecture & Operating Systems
o Application Programming
o Software Engineering
o Database Administration
o Database Concepts
o XML Concepts for Database Development
o Middleware Architectures and Database Applications
o Object Oriented Design
o Artificial Intelligence
o Graphics Programming
o Distributed Systems
o Object Oriented Programming
o Database Architecture
Applications and selections
Requirements and assessment
The MScSED programme is delivered entirely using online learning technology so students can study when and where they want. Course materials are easy to follow and are accompanied by continuous assessment exercises, research/review questions and recommended course textbooks.
Each module is delivered over an eight-week period via asynchronous online technologies using web-supported learning. The programme coordinators provide a recommended outline of study for each of the eight-week modules to ensure students keep their progress on track. Course tutors are highly experienced in facilitating online programmes and will provide all the support students need with the programme content, as well as giving feedback on weekly assignments.
Each module is individually assessed. Students are assessed by online examinations, online assignments and a Software Development Project and Thesis or an IT Research Project and Thesis in year 2 of the programme
Find out more
Catherine Cronin
Academic Coordinator
Department of Information Technology
NUI Galway
E catherine.cronin@nuigalway.ie
Nuala McGuinn
Programme Coordinator
Adult and Continuing Education Office
T 091 493746
F 091 494595 E nuala.mcguinn@nuigalway.ie
Fees for this course
EU (Total): €4,250
Non-EU (Total): €8,350
Fees for all adult & continuing education coursesFees & funding
Past students
Fiona Lawlor
MSc Software Engineering and Database Technologies
"...Having already graduated from NUI Galway with a degree in Geology 10 years ago, my career in Geographical Information Systems had brought me to a point where I felt I needed to fill the gaps in my IT knowledge. I would recommend this course to existing or emerging IT - or related discipline - professionals who wish to follow a formal learning path and gain a higher level qualification. New modules every eight weeks mean the material remains fresh, and the distance learning approach allows the flexibility to study while still working full time.
I am now implementing the Software Engineering and Database Management techniques I learned on this course in my day to day work, and also found that the time management skills developed through distance learning have lead me to manage my time better in general..."