Semester 1: Core 20-credit module: advanced software development; plus 2 options; semester 2: core 20-credit module: advanced database techniques; plus 2 options; the project module serves as an initial exploration of the chosen area; students produce a technical report containing the background research and initial design of their project area; students then receive feedback on this from the supervisor and a 2nd assessor before embarking on the dissertation in the 3rd semester, where the design is developed and realised in a systematic, professional manner; plus a project which accounts for a further 60 credits in the assessment. Advanced software development; plus options: information engineering; networks and protocols; software project management; computer graphics; digital image processing; advanced database techniques; formal methods; human computer interaction (design and development); internet security and protocols; plus a dissertation.