Research Methodology

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This is an innovative, research-oriented degree at the same academic level as our taught Masters. One-third of the degree is taught, and includes technical modules that are freely drawn from across the whole spectrum of ECS MSc postgraduate courses. The remainder is dedicated to an individual research project, working directly with your supervisor and based in one of the ECS research groups.

Except for this shift in balance between taught and research modules, the MSc by Research is different in a number of aspects. First of all, it runs (only) from the start of the 2nd semester (February), and might hence be an appropriate option if an October start is impossible or inconvenient. Secondly, an individual member of staff will need to agree to supervise you based upon your requested area of research. This is especially an advantage if you have already funding lined up for a PhD, and want to ensure that you can do exactly what your sponsor wants.

Please note that for the MSc by Research we will only do unconditional offers, so you should have satisfied all academic and English level requirements by the time of application. You should also add a brief description of your area of research interest.

Career opportunities
This programme provides a stepping stone to a PhD, or can lead directly to an research and development career in industry.

Key Facts
* Southampton is ranked in the top 51-100 universities for Computer Science in the 2012 QS World Rankings
* We are ranked in the top three universities in the UK for computer sciences and IT
* Southampton University has pioneered many of the most important advances in computer science and web technology of the past 10 years

The MSc Research programme is available as one of three themes:

* MSc Research Computer Science
* MSc Research Electronic Engineering
* MSc Research Electrical Engineering

The programme will provide you with comprehensive knowledge and understanding of:

* advanced theoretical foundations of Computer Science, Electronic Engineering or Electrical Engineering
* techniques for design and evaluation of computing, electronic and/or electrical systems
* current important research issues and recent research developments in specialised areas

Honours Degree: Our normal entry requirement is a first-class or upper second-class degree (or equivalent) in a related discipline, such as Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a closely related subject. English Language Requirements: If English is not your first language, you will be required to pass an approved English test to ensure you can enjoy the full benefit of your studies. We normally ask for an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 (with a writing score of 6), or a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 580. International Qualifications: We welcome applications from international students. For information on applying, visit the International Office website. Selection Process: All individuals are selected and treated on their relative merits and abilities in line with the University's Equal Opportunities Policy. Disabled applicants will be treated according to the same procedures as any other applicant with the added involvement of the Disability Office to assess their needs. The programme may require adaptation for students with disabilities (eg hearing impairment, visual impairment, mobility difficulties, dyslexia), particularly the practical laboratory sessions, and we will attempt to accommodate students wherever possible. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 TOEFL paper-based test score : 580 IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa. The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.

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Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships
Some students taking the course are sponsored by industry, while other students obtain financial support from local authorities, from professional institutions such as the Institution of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) or from Career Development Loans. If you wish to obtain such sponsorship, you must make your own private arrangements.