Degree structure

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The full time MSc lasts for 50 weeks, from late September until beginning of September of the following year. The full time PgDip lasts from late September until early June of the following year

The MSc is examined in two parts; by written examination (mainly in May), and by a dissertation on a main project to be submitted early in September.  This is called the main project to distinguish it from any projects that form part of a course unit. The PgDip has the same course structure but there is no main project.

Students initially choose 8 courses of which they specify six courses (20 credits each) during the second term that will count towards the examination. The two unspecified courses are `supplementary'.  Supplementary courses appear on students' transcripts but do not contribute to the final degree classification.

The six specified courses carry 20 credits each. The main project carries 60 credits, so that each MSc student will be registered for 6×20+60=180 credits and PgDip students will be registered for 6×20=120 credits.

Students write at least six examination papers of their specified courses but may choose to write examination papers in their supplementary courses in addition. The marks for the supplementary courses will appear on their transcript but do not count towards the degree classification.

A standard part time MSc programme lasts for 102 weeks, from September to September two years later. Part-time Masters Students are typically expected to take four course units in their first year (typically the core courses would be taken in the first year) and complete the remaining courses and the dissertation in the second year. Part-time students following the standard 2 year part time model will be encouraged to begin work on their dissertation during the summer between their first and second years. Part time students are permitted under College regulations to complete their programme of study over a period of up to 5 years.  Students who are unable to complete the programme within the standard 2 year timeframe should liaise with the programme director to agree a time frame for completion.

The Examinations office will probably ask you to specify the examination papers that you intend to write very early. The reason is the involved exam timetable. In the past, the department was able to negotiate a later deadline, watch out for information (by email) from the programme director.

Full details about your programme of study, including, amongst others, the aims, learning outcomes to be achieved on completion, courses which make up the programme and any programme-specific regulations are set out in the programme specification or course catalogue.