MSc in Software Development
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Taught Masters
- Code
- F26
- Level
- Postgraduate
- Made up of
- 180 credit points
Description
The increased complexity of software systems and the dependence of many organisations on reliable computing systems stress the need for skilled software developers equipped with the knowledge and techniques to become the professionals at the leading edge of their field.
This MSc consists of courses from our postgraduate computing programme. It is designed to provide professionals in the field with a sound understanding of the software development process and the skills to take the lead in analysing complex problems and designing solutions. The diploma courses provide case study-driven learning, to provide extensible knowledge that can be applied to lead technological and organisational change in the business environment. Following completion of the Postgraduate Diploma, the final MSc dissertation course draws together the knowledge and skills you have gained, in a research-based project. The MSc is designed to be a more specialist degree than the MSc in Computing for Commerce and Industry (F05).
Planning your studies
To gain your MSc, you must first obtain the Postgraduate Diploma in Software Development (D69). You then carry out research and study in a specialist topic by taking the 60-point course Research project and dissertation (M801). You will need to select a research proposal topic that is in the area of software development. You may choose a topic from those offered by the University, or a topic of your own choice that is linked to one or more of the diploma courses you have studied.
You must register for the MSc research project and dissertation course either for the start date immediately following your completion of the diploma, or for the following start date. If you find that you are unable to meet the time limits set for study, you may switch at any time during your studies to the Computing for Commerce and Industry qualifications (see the Postgraduate Diploma in Computing for Commerce and Industry (C02)) or the Management of Software Projects qualifications (see the Postgraduate Diploma in Management of Software Projects (E19)) instead. These qualifications have no time limits.
You will need to begin thinking about and developing your ideas for your research proposal the year before you plan to study M801. A supervisor will be appointed to work with you on the development of your full project proposal. M801 requires you to complete your research project and write a dissertation of 10,000-15,000 words reporting on your work.
You must include in your MSc at least 60 credit points from OU courses that have not been counted in any other OU qualification you have been awarded.
Career relevance and employability
The courses in the programme are for professional computer specialists, engineers, technical managers and scientists who need to update their skills and knowledge in specific areas, and gain recognised qualifications to develop their careers.
For information on professional institutions, including the British Computing Society, and how they may value your OU study, please download our Recognition leaflet 3.7 Computing, or ask our Student Registration & Enquiry Service for a copy. You may be able to gain exemption from the BCS Professional Graduate Diploma and Professional Graduate Project by virtue of having gained your MSc.
For planning your next career steps, visit the OU Careers Advisory Service.
Courses
For this 180-point masters degree you require:
120 points from the Postgraduate Diploma in Software Development (D69)
And 60 points from the following compulsory course:
| Postgraduate compulsory course | Points | Next start |
|---|---|---|
|
60 | Feb 2010 |
Learning outcomes
The learning outcomes of this qualification are described in four areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
Read more detailed information about the learning outcomes, and how they are acquired through teaching, learning and assessment methods.
Credit for previous study elsewhere
Credit transfer is not permitted for this MSc except for any awarded as part of the postgraduate diploma.
On completion
On successful completion of 180 points’ worth of required courses you will be awarded an MSc in Software Development entitling you to use the letters MSc Soft Dev (Open) after your name. You will have the option of being presented at a degree ceremony.
If you obtain (i) a Distinction grade in the 60-point dissertation or project course and (ii) 30 points at Distinction grade and at least a further 30 points at merit or above in the Postgraduate Diploma taught courses required for this MSc degree, you will qualify for the award of the degree with Distinction.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the Award Regulations and the Student Regulations.
Award Regulations
- Introduction to the Award Regulations
- General Award Regulations
- MSc in Software Development
- Schedule B to the Award Regulations
Student Regulations
The Student Regulations (including the Code of Practice for Student Assessment and the Code of Practice for Student Discipline) are available on our Policy Documents for Students website.
How to register
To register for this qualification, read the description and check you meet any specific requirements (for example, some of our qualifications, require you to be working in a particular environment, or be sponsored by your employer). Then select the course you wish to study first and ensure it is suitable for you before following the registration procedure for that course.
About this page
A postgraduate qualification in Computing and ICT.
Study explained
- Credit points
- - show how much study is required to complete a course or qualification. One credit point represents roughly 10 hours of study.
- Financial support
- - find out if you qualify for support with your fees with our eligibility checker.
- Study explained
- - all you need to know about studying with the OU.
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