Critical Software Engineering MSc
Why study Critical Software Engineering?
As mission-critical systems become more and more distributed and embedded in society so does the complexity and consequences when they fail. Only by understanding the full interdisciplinary mix of software and distributed systems and the social context in which they are deployed, will mission-critical systems work effectively and reliably. This MSc builds on Lancaster’s long-standing reputation in the field of software engineering; combining cutting-edge software engineering expertise with more human-centred sociologically derived modes of requirements capture and design. The course provides hands-on expertise in the use of advanced software modularity mechanisms such as aspect-oriented software development when engineering such complex software systems.
Key Facts
Study core design, requirements, software engineering and technical skills to design and deploy mission-critical systems.
Choose from a range of complementary advanced level courses closely aligned to our areas of research expertise, including Aspect-Oriented Software Development.
Be taught by internationally renowned researchers, leading experts in their field.
Enjoy unique state of the art interactive learning including novel methods of teaching including joint modules with shared live and recorded lectures with carefully selected international partners.
Benefit from significant individual research or industrial led projects with one-to-one supervision.
Study in block mode, which offers the luxury of focusing on one course at a time as a full-time student spending a year on campus or convenience as a part-time student balancing this course and your role in industry.
Flexible full and part-time study options.
Course Details
The course contains a set of compulsory modules, option modules and a dissertation project.
Compulsory Modules
- Systems Engineering
- Advanced Interactive Systems Design
- Advanced Distributed Systems
- System Dependability
- Network and System Security
Option Modules
- Mobile Computing
- Ubiquitous Computing
- Advanced Networking and the Internet
- Contemporary Operating Systems: Inside Microsoft Windows and Linux
- Multimedia Systems Engineering
- Aspect-Oriented Software Development
- Advanced Topics in Networking
Dissertation Project
- A substantial piece of individual project work in the area of Software Engineering that is supervised by one of the internationally recognized members of staff.
Lola Oloniniyi - MSc in Critical Software Engineering, Graduate Software Engineer at Symsource
I chose Critical Software Engineering to further my career as a Software Engineer with a world accredited Masters Degree. I chose Lancaster as it was recommended by a family member – a recommendation I am more than glad to pass on to others.
What I found most interesting about the courses was the quality of attention received from lecturers.
During the program, I was exposed to new aspects of software development and this helped open my mind to various opportunities, such as mobile application development.
I also acquired new skill sets. For example, mobile application programming, which afforded me the opportunity to gain employment in a field I knew nothing about prior to my Masters.
My favourite place on campus was the learning zone because it created the type of work environment I enjoyed. It had lots of facilities that allowed both individual and collaborative study; all you need do was walk in.
One thing I’m most grateful for is the experience and the people I met; it is truly an international school with almost every part of the world represented.
Although the application process of getting a job in the UK is very different from that obtainable in my country, with perseverance and the help of CEEC and other resources I was able to get a job in mobile applications, which I find very interesting and stimulating.
Doing the mobile applications course during my time at Lancaster exposed me to a whole new range of possibilities in software development. It was challenging and I found it to be very mentally stimulating. So when I got an offer for a mobile applications job I was glad to take it!
Entry Requirements
At least a second class honours degree, or its equivalent, in Computer Science or a closely related discipline. Applicants who do not meet this criterion but who have significant industrial experience will also be considered subject to individual circumstances.
Overseas Students
For students whose first language is not English, there may be an additional requirement to demonstrate fluency in English. The school requires one of the following: a minimum of IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 580 (paper-based test), 238 (computer-based test), 93 (internet-based test); or Pearson PTE Academic 62.
You will require a visa to be able to study with us in the UK (you do not also need an ATAS certificate). The UK Border agency will be scoring applications against a new points based system. There is more information on the Home Office website.
To get a visa you will need to show that you have the money to pay the course fees and to support yourself for 9 months. You must have held the funds for 28 days when you apply for the visa. See here for more information.
Tuition fees
- For UK and EU students: £6,500(full time)
- For overseas students: £15,650(full time)
Fees are revised annually; the above information is for guidance and relates to the 2012/13 academic year. Fees are normally payable on Registration Day. Alternatively, you may opt to pay the fees in three instalments with the first instalment being due on Registration Day in October, then January and April.
Course fees do not cover residential accommodation or living expenses. However, as a campus based University, Lancaster is a relatively inexpensive place to study. As a guide, a reasonable estimate of living expenses is about £8,500 for 12 months including rent. Being in the North West, you will also find that the cost of accommodation, food and entertainment are all cheaper than more major cities like London and Birmingham.
Additional information is available on the University website.
Many students choose to work during their studies to help make their studies here more affordable. Normally visa's permit part-time work of up to 20 hours per week and full time over the vacations. More information about this can be found on the University website. The Knowledge Business Centre, based in InfoLab21, can help you find full and part-time work using their ICT JobShop.
Open Days
We recognise that it will not always be possible to visit us before considering whether to apply to Lancaster. So we are always happy to receive your questions via email, the phone, or through the postgraduate applications portal.
If you are able to visit then please do contact the school and we will normally be able to arrange for an informal tour of our facilities.
Online tours
There are a number of 'virtual tour' options and videos describing the campus and campus life that may be of interest to you.
Applying for a Masters
You will need to apply online via the Postgraduate Admissions Portal. Once you have created an account you will be able to fill in your personal details, background and upload supporting documentation. If you are experiencing any technical problems when trying to apply please feel free to contact Faculty Admissions