postgraduate

&
courses
research
computing & media
technologies
computing & media technologies

welcome
Glyndŵr University offers over 150
postgraduate courses across a wide range
of subject areas. Most of these are offered
on a full and part-time basis.
Other subject booklets are available:
Our experts collaborate actively with those
in art, design, science and technology.

Our courses encourage entrepreneurship and

are designed with your employability in mind.
They are directly relevant to challenges currently
faced by our society, industry and economy. Art & Humanities

The computing and media technologies courses

and research opportunities outlined in this booklet
showcase the breadth of expertise we have at
Glyndŵr University.
Science & Technology
The University has a strong reputation or
research within computing and media
technologies and its research in the field of
Computer Science & Informatics was judged
to be 4* “world leading” in the last Research
Business & Management
Assessment Exercise (RAE 2008).

Our courses allow you to explore your own

creative and technical interests whilst our
expertise will inspire you into new directions and
prepare you for the job that you want.
Education & Society
I look forward to welcoming you to Glyndŵr
University and to the Graduate School.

Dr Peter Heard
Health & Nursing
Director of the Graduate School

Theology
 003
003

content

introduction 4
our expertise 6
research 10
student researcher profile 18
courses
audio technology 20
computer science 22
computing 24
media technology 30
student profile 32
entry requirements 34
how to apply 36
contact us 38
computing & media technologies
introduction to computing and
media technologies at Glyndŵr University
The University uses its expertise in these fields to
assist industry and develop solutions to industry
and society issues. The research interests in this
area are varied and all have innovation at their
heart.
Our expertise is regularly sought across the world
and our academics within these areas use their
passion about their subject to not only provide
original thinking and creative problem solving
but to engage as performers and sound experts
themselves.
leading expertise
The expertise within these areas at Glyndŵr
University covers a broad range of specialisms
including computer networking, computer game
development, human computer interaction,
radio production, media literacy, sound
production, broadcasting, and internet
technologies and applications.
The Centre for Applied Internet Research (CAIR)
team has research collaborations throughout
Europe. They have won several awards including
those for published work and UK and European
funding. They also organise and host an
international conference on internet technology
and its applications biennially.
The communications technology academics are
proactively involved in all aspects of the industry.
Their specialist expertise is regularly sought by
organisations. They also work with internationally
renowned musicians in relation to innovative
music technology interfaces and sound recording.
More details of the research interests within these
fields can be found on pages 10 - 17.
modern creative facilities
There have been significant investments in
creative facilities at Glyndŵr University.
Our new £5 million Creative Industries Centre
aims to foster the future workforce for the
creative industries. Housed in a highly
sustainable and environmentally friendly building,
the University aims to bring together and support
the different disciplines associated with the
sector. This space is for students specialising
and collaborating across art and design,
computing, theatre and performance,
engineering and the humanities.
The building contains professional television and
radio production suites. There is a large social
area where students and others in the industry
can bring together ideas from various fields of
study. The centre is a hub for the development of
a creative industries’ culture, for students, but also
for private and spin-out businesses.
 005
005

There are a number of creative/performance

facilities around the campus including a theatre
and performance facility which has two studios
with specially sprung floors, plus a third multi-
purpose studio. This has all the latest AV
equipment, a voice studio, an open-plan craft
area and a wardrobe space.

The University is also home to local community

radio station, Calon FM. This station gives
students opportunities to produce shows, organise
interviews and broadcast programmes.

Bands and artists from across the region have

utilised the recording facilities at the University.
The facility features a main performance area,
drum and vocal booths and a gallery control room.
State-of-the-art, industry standard equipment is
installed throughout – Cubase SX software, an
AKAI sampler and Shure microphones to name
just a few.

Computing students and researchers also

have access to state-of-the-art facilities at
the University including a specialist computer
laboratory dedicated to computer games
application and multimedia systems development;
a rapid prototyping facility where innovations
can come to life, and hardware and software
technologies relating to human computer
interaction where intelligent interfaces for games
and communications can be developed.

More details on our facilities and the student
experience at Glyndŵr University can be found in
our Guide to the University or on our website at
www.glyndwr.ac.uk
An artist’s impression of one of the
interior rooms of the University’s new
Creative Industries Centre. The centre
will bring together the subjects of
engineering, computing and art and
design for courses and research.
computing & media technologies
our expertise
These are a flavour of some of the academics
you’ll have the opportunity to be taught by, and
research alongside, at Glyndŵr University.
John Poulton - Programme Leader
John’s experience covers teaching in a large
number of computing and business subjects. He
is a Fellow of the British Computer Society and a
Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
His main areas of expertise are: business
information systems, e-business and e-commerce
application development, information systems
development and database modelling.
John also supervises a number of Knowledge
Transfer Partnership projects (KTPs). KTPs
are Europe’s leading programme, helping
businesses to improve their competitiveness
and productivity through the better use of
knowledge, technology and skills that reside
within the UK knowledge base.
John’s research interests include: web services,
business process integration, service-oriented
computing, web application development,
distributed database, enterprise data management.
Dr Rich Picking - Reader in
Human-Computer Interaction
Rich has worked as a consultant and advisor
on a number of projects including a Knowledge
Transfer Partnership project at Tradecounteruk
(Collister and Glover); an ambient user interface
design for assisted living (EU FP6 IST) EASY
LINE+ project; and an information visualisation of
complex decision making (NHS NEAT New and
Emerging Applications of Technology programme)
GRiST project.
He regularly acts as a subject expert for the
media, for example the BBC and CNET, on
issues of e-commerce in society and affordable
technologies for assisted living.
He specialises in teaching and researching
human-computer interaction, computer
programming, website design, and research
methodology and his research interests cover
human-computer interaction, interaction design,
information visualisation and e-learning.
 007
007

Dr Stuart Cunningham - He has just finished a European assistive

Academic Leader for Creative Industries,
Media & Performance
Stuart divides his time between teaching students
and managing the Creative Industries, Media &
Performance academic area within the University.
He received his PhD for research into musical
digital audio compression and his main interests
are digital audio and computer music: “I’m
interested in anything to do with sound in a
technical sense. But I’m also fascinated by the
psychological and emotional impact of music. I’m
researching how things like iTunes Genius, can
become adaptable to different emotional states.”
technologies project called Easyline+, developing
‘smart’ kitchen appliances designed specifically
for elderly and disabled people.
“We work constantly at the forefront of
technology,” he says. “I don’t know what I’ll be
working on in the future, but it’ll be fun.”
Mike Wright - Research Supervisor
and Principal Lecturer in
Communications Technology
Mike is reading for a DProf in higher education
institution change through creative industries.

Among many outside interests, Stuart plays guitar He is Chairman of Calon FM, the community radio
with two bands including Pink Lloyd, a Pink Floyd station based at Glyndŵr University and a director
tribute band. of the Community Media Association. He has
30 years experience in the music industry,
including specialist knowledge of computers and
Professor Vic Grout - Professor of Network music, music processing and audio electronics.
Algorithms, Director of the Centre for
Applied Internet Research (CAIR) Mike also frequently delivers community
radio courses.
With a PhD in communication engineering,
Vic’s research interests cover all aspects
of computational mathematics, particularly
the application of algorithmic design to data
communications and networking problems.

He was involved at the Internet’s early stages,

designing networks and the protocols to make
them work.

He has published over 200 research papers and

several books, chairs numerous conferences, and
serves on several editorial boards.
computing & media technologies
our expertise
Professor Peter Excell -
Academic Leader for Electrical
Engineering & Computer Science
Peter obtained a BSc in Engineering Science
from Reading University and was awarded his
PhD from Bradford University for research in
electromagnetic hazards.
His long-standing research interests have
been in the applications and computation of
high-frequency electromagnetic fields. These
have led to numerous research grants,
contracts and patents in the areas of antennas,
electromagnetic hazards, electromagnetic
compatibility and field computation.
He has recently been involved with new
collaborative work on design of content for
mobile screens and on integration of mobile
devices with garments.
Peter is a member of several esteemed bodies
relating to his field including being a Fellow of
the British Computer Society and a Chartered
IT Professional and Chartered Engineer, an
Associate Fellow of the Remote Sensing and
Photogrammetry Society, and a member of the
Association for Computing Machinery, the Applied
Computational Electromagnetics Society, and the
Bioelectromagnetics Society.

His current work includes studies of the direct

effect of electromagnetic fields on biological
cells, advanced antenna designs for mobile
communications, and consideration of usage
scenarios for future mobile communications
devices. The latter topic is being developed in
conjunction with colleagues from wider discipline
areas, analysing human communications in a
‘holistic’ way and developing new ways of using
mobile multimedia devices.
 009
009

Dr Wanqing Tu - Lecturer in Computing

Dr Wanqing Tu spent a number of years

developing international research experience and
expertise in the areas of Computer Networks
and Communication Systems. She got her PhD
in Computer Science at the City University of
Hong Kong in 2006. She was awarded an Irish
National Embark Initiative Postdoctoral Research
Fellowship for the years of 2006 - 2008. She
was also awarded several invited visiting research
grants and fellowships from international institutes
(e.g. the University of New South Wales) in the
past few years.

She won a Best Paper Award in 2005 at the

International Conference on Computer Networks
and Mobile Computing. She has a number of
research publications in IEEE international
journals and conference proceedings such as
IEEE Transactions on Parallel and Distributed
Systems, IEEE Transactions on Multimedia, IEEE
Communications Magazine, IEEE ICNP, etc.

She is a member of the IEEE Computer Society

and IEEE Communications Society and her
research interests lie in computer networks
and communication systems. These particularly
concern wireless multi-hop networks, especially
wireless mesh networks and wireless sensor
networks; peer-to-peer networking, including
peer-to-peer multicasting and location-aware
network topology interference, etc; parallel and
distributed computing in both wired and wireless
networks; multimedia networking, including QoS
control, admission control, traffic control, and
performance analysis.
computing & media technologies

computing & media technologies research
The computing and media technology teams
combine research that is of proven world-leading
standard with innovative exploration of new
areas. The computing team was recognised as
including world-leading research work in the
British National Research Assessment Exercise,
conducted in 2008. In this, 90% of our research
submitted was judged to be ‘internationally
significant’, 40% within this was ‘internationally
excellent’ and particular projects world-leading -
the highest grade possible.
We are involved in research projects across a wide
spectrum of computer science and computing
applications structured around seven areas, each
with their own specialisms but working together
on many projects:
•• network algorithms
•• human-computer interaction
•• music technologies
•• games research development
•• imaging and remote sensing
•• wireless systems
•• high-performance computing
011
0011
In recognition of the team’s strengths in
networking and of the overwhelming significance
of the Internet in the modern world, a conference
series was set up here in 2005, the International
Conference on Internet Technologies and
Applications (ITA - see www.ita11.org). This
is held every two years and has gone from
strength to strength, drawing in major speakers
from around the world and demonstrating the
vibrancy of the computing and networking
research culture here.
The research teams are grouped under the Centre
for Applied Internet Research (CAIR), of which the
director is Professor Vic Grout. The activities are
summarised overleaf:
computing & media technologies
network algorithms
Networks are crucial to modern computing
systems and so it is appropriate that this group
is led by the director of the research centre,
Professor Vic Grout, who has a major international
research reputation in the field. The group
specialises in mathematical and theoretical
aspects of network research, although applied
aspects are not neglected. There are major
themes in network design and management,
routing and compression protocols, network
security and policies, network performance,
optimisation and automation.
An important recent project has been seeking
to improve the efficiency (reduce the latency)
of Access Control Lists (ACLs) on routers, using
real-time optimisation, advanced algorithms and
heuristics. Another project on optimal routing
has been searching for improved routing
algorithms, using domain optimal routing,
enhanced end-to-end cost metrics and
swarm intelligence optimisation.
There is strong synergy with the work
of the Wireless Systems area and the
High-Performance Computing area
(see below), both of which exploit
network theory extensively.
•• Grout, V., 2009, Complexity Issues in Traffic
Management, Keynote address at first
International Workshop on Traffic Engineering,
Modelling, Analysis, Control and Simulation
(TEMACS’09), Rome, Italy, (part of the second
International Conference on Simulation Tools
and Techniques - SIMUTools’09)
•• Rezaul, K.M. & Grout, V., 2009, Real-time
Network Traffic Management using the
Modified BPTraSha Algorithm, International
Journal on Advances in Telecommunications,
Vol. 1, No. 1.
human-computer interaction
Interaction with human beings is the ultimate
termination point of many computer systems
and networks and advancing technologies have
enabled this to be substantially enriched in recent
years. This means that significant empirical and
theoretical knowledge needs to be researched,
to establish the ways in which human beings
interact with such technologies and to tailor the
technologies to optimise this interaction in terms
of its basic efficiency and aesthetic pleasure.
There are many aspects to this study, including
enriched visual display units, audio interactions,
novel interaction paradigms for mobile devices,
special interaction modalities for elderly and
disabled people, and future-oriented concepts of
wearable technologies.
 013
0013

This area is led by Dr Rich Picking, who has an

extensive track record in the field. An important
recent project, which won substantial funding from
the European Union and which was undertaken in
collaboration with major European partners, is the
‘EASY-LINE+’ project “Low Cost Advanced White
Goods for the Elderly and Disabled”.

This project involved development of accessible

interfaces for intelligent domestic appliances,
including fridges, dishwashers, cookers, washing
machines etc., principally using the domestic
television as the main visual interaction device,
since many of the typical clients are traditionally
reluctant to accept a computer in the home
(in fact, the television is a computer screen and
the information on these computer-generated,
but the user does not have to be concerned with
the detailed control of a computer as such).
This project was extremely successful and
included the creation of a fully functional usability
laboratory on site, in which volunteer clients can
be taken through a range of usage scenarios
with real-world computer-controlled domestic
appliances and their reactions monitored using
discreet cameras.

Some other themes being studied include:

network interfaces; reusable components;
standards; information visualisation; e-learning;
computing ethics; systems failure; the effect of
cultural differences; holistic representation of
distributed knowledge; mobile content design;
collaborative decision-making; privacy; wearable
computing and its relationship to garment design.
computing & media technologies
The computing team has been very successful
in the winning of knowledge transfer partnership
grants (KTPs) and many of these fall broadly into
the HCI area. Examples include: a user-friendly
interface to multi-physics software packages for
electric motor design; user-friendly interfaces
to complex industrial production systems; a
software framework for an intelligent tutoring
and assessment system; design of interfaces for
mobile devices with location-dependent content;
tailoring of radio frequency identification devices
to nonspecialist users.
•• Picking, R., Robinet, A., Grout, V., McGinn,
J., Roy, A., Ellis, S. & Oram, D., 2010, A case
study using a methodological approach to
developing user interfaces for elderly and
disabled people, The Computer Journal,
Vol. 53, No. 6, pp842-859.
wireless systems
Wireless technologies now have a dominant place
in computing systems, both as an enabler of
communications and as an intrinsic component of
distinctive types of networks. This area is led by
Dr Wanqing Tu, who has extensive experience of
research in wireless ad hoc networks and wireless
sensor networks. This is complemented by the
theoretical network expertise of researchers
that include Professor Vic Grout and the
wireless technology expertise of Professor Peter
Excell. Additional expertise is contributed by
internationally recognised visiting professors:
Professor Raed Abd-Alhameed and Professor
Luciano Tarricone.
A major recent project investigated wireless
network optimisation. Themes within this included
algorithms for design of least-cost bridge/
relay networks and spanning trees, drawing on
the various fields of combinatorial optimisation,
heuristics, greedy algorithms, tabu search and
simulated annealing.
•• Tu, W., Jin, X. & Excell, P.S., 2009. Performance
Analysis for Overlay Multimedia Multicast on
r-ary Tree and m-D Mesh Topologies, IEEE
Transactions on Multimedia, Vol. 11, No. 4,
pp696-706.
•• Jin, X., Tu, W. & S. H. Chen, G., 2009.
Challenges and Advances in Using IP Multicast
for Overlay Data Delivery. IEEE Communications
Magazine, Vol. 47, No. 6, pp. 157-163.
 015
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imaging and remote sensing

This area is led by Dr Zhishun She, who has long-term interests
in development of mathematically-based algorithms for detection
of features in medical images. He also has interests in image
processing for satellite remote sensing and this is complemented by
the international reputation of Professor Graeme Wilkinson, who is a
recognised expert in satellite remote sensing and is also Associate
Editor of IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Letters. In addition,
Professor Peter Excell has undertaken work in satellite remote
sensing, developing algorithms for detection of atmospheric dust
and he also undertakes fundamental research on electromagnetic
fields, input including inverse full-wave methods for remote sensing.

•• She, Z. Liu, Y. and Damatoa, A. 2007. Combination of features

from skin pattern and ABCD analysis for lesion classification.
Skin Research and Technology, Vol. 13, Issue 1, pp. 25–33.

music technologies

Audio and music technologies play an important part in computing

and media technologies at Glyndŵr University. The team is led
by Dr Stuart Cunningham, who undertakes scientific research
on compression algorithms for digitised music. This includes
efficient file formats and transforms, search techniques and pattern
matching, perceptual testing and coding. However, there are
extensive complementary skills in the rest of the team, covering
topics that include perceptual modelling and spatial awareness in
sound spaces; psycho-acoustics; the inverse acoustic imaging of
historic sound spaces (e.g. cathedrals) in order to recreate historic
soundscapes; design of recording studios and postproduction
facilities and radio broadcasting.

The facilities available to the team include a large professional-

standard sound recording studio and comprehensively equipped
audio-visual postproduction facility with full 5.1 surround sound, plus
a licensed professional community radio station.
computing & media technologies
Soon to be available in the new Creative
Industries building will be complementary
facilities for television and video production and
postproduction.
•• Cunningham, S. and Papworth, N., 2010.
Supporting wellness with digital audio
activities, 24th BCS Conference on Human-
Computer Interaction (HCI 2010), Dundee, UK,
September 2010.
games research development
Computer games research has become a thriving
area in recent times and the computer games
industry is a very significant part of the IT industry
in Wales. The team, led by our alumnus Richard
Hebblewhite, is involved in various projects in
network and Internet gaming, including the
application of the concepts to other types of
human-computer interaction. There is a very
productive collaboration with computer animation
specialists in the creative industries team and
there are also links to the holography researchers
at the University. All of these areas pose massive
challenges for raw computing power, required
for the rendering of synthesised scenes, and
cost-effective provision of such power is a major
consideration.
With the rise in significance of mobile devices,
the development of games and game-like
applications for such devices is also now an
important area of research. The team has access
to a range of platforms, majoring on PC format,
but including Apple Macintosh and a range of
current mobile devices: it also has access to
supercomputing facilities (see high-performance
computing group).
high-performance computing
High-performance computing involves solutions
to very large simulation problems on linked sets
of processors, interconnected by very high-
performance communications. It includes such
concepts as supercomputing, parallel computing,
multi-core processors, vector processing, grid
computing and cloud computing, as well as
exploiting skills in high-performance networking,
such as InfiniBand and gigabit ethernet. The
team is led by Professor Peter Excell, who has
extensive experience of HPC in engineering
applications, supported by the networking
specialists led by Professor Vic Grout. A strong
contribution to the team is also made by influential
visiting professors with international reputations:
Professor Luciano Tarricone, Professor Terry
Hewitt and Professor Raed Abd-Alhameed.
The area is a leading contributor to the team that
is developing the “HPC Wales” distributed Welsh
supercomputer system and is also contributing
to the development of the supercomputing
facilities at the Hartree Centre of the Daresbury
Laboratory, which is not far from Glyndŵr
University. In addition, it has access to the “Blue
Ice” IBM teraflop-performance machine at one of
the Welsh Technium research centres.
 017
0017

get in touch

We welcome applications for research degrees

(MPhil, PhD, Professional Doctorate) from anyone
interested in the areas of computing, networking,
communications technology, human computer
interaction, imaging, remote sensing, wireless
systems and music technology.

This booklet showcases just some of the research

interests of academics within this area; if you have
a related research proposal that you would like us
to consider please get in touch.

Application forms can be downloaded from

our website and should be sent through to
mphil-phdadmissions@glyndwr.ac.uk
computing & media technologies
student
research profile
Monir Bhuiyan
Research Student
Monir is attached to the University of Dhaka
in Bangladesh where he lectures in software
development lifecycle. He has also worked
globally as an engineer in the software industry.
He initially came to Glyndŵr University on
a scholarship to do his Masters, but is now
undertaking a PhD.
His PhD research project is about how humans
interact with computers and focuses on gesture
controlled communication.
“We are working to find the effective and efficient
ways of interacting with digital systems, such as
TVs, using gestures,” he explains. “Its aim is to give
the elderly and disabled greater independence.”
Monir was very impressed with the support he
received from the University in his first few
weeks here.
“I was very much alone when I first arrived but the
international student support officer was great,”
he says. “She showed me around and helped me
settle in. It was like already having a friend here.”
“I like the size of the University. Because it is
smaller than some other institutions, I think they
give a bit extra.”
“The research facilities are excellent. We work
in the University’s Centre for Applied Internet
Research and Usability lab. Gesture-based
research is just one of many projects aimed at
making life easier for elderly and disabled people.”
“Good supervisors are a vital part of PhD research
and my supervisor is very much there for me. I
meet him every week for a formal session, but we
discuss the research informally too.”
“I will continue my career back home, and my
PhD research has been very important for that.
There are good career opportunities anywhere
for anyone who holds a PhD or is experienced
in research.”
019
0019
audio technology
Course duration MSc Creative Audio Technology
Full-time MRes Creative Audio Technology
MSc: 1 year
MRes: 1 year
A practical course where you will gain experience through
Part-time hands-on use of our extensive facilities. These include a
MSc: 2 years state-of-the-art sound studio and MIDI suite, media suite,
MRes: 2 years and audio labs within the Audio Studios complex.
Location
Wrexham The MSc course provides a rich
Start month cross-disciplinary programme of
September study, enabling you to develop
skills in the area of multimedia,
audio production and post-
production, and other digital
technologies applied to sound.
It is designed to train graduates
to meet the growing demand
for audio in industry and also to
enable employees to reach their
full potential.
The MRes is ideal for those
interested in pursuing a
research programme in a
creative environment. It is
aimed at meeting the needs
of research-focused
graduates with experience
in music technology or
audio engineering.
Through progression from
generic research methods and
investigative contexts through
the application of subject
specific knowledge towards an
independent research project,
the course aims to support the
deepening of your research
interests, whilst strengthening
your understanding of specific
research issues.
key facts
•• Research activities are
associated with the
University’s computing
research group, the Centre
for Applied Internet Research
(CAIR)
•• Access to the well-equipped
multimedia suite on campus.
•• A new conference and
theatre centre on campus
•• There is a large recording
studio which operates
24 hours a day
•• Calon FM 105 community
radio station operates on the
Glyndŵr University campus
so you will have access to
a professional radio station
which helps support student
career development. This
is the only university-based
community radio station in
Wales
•• This is the only university-
based community radio
station in Wales
•• Our new £5 million Creative
Industries Centre contains
professional television and
radio production suites.
The centre is a hub for the
development of a creative
industries culture, for students
and industry

career opportunities
Students who complete the
course will have gained an in-
depth theoretical and practical
knowledge in technical aspects
of music/audio and recording
technology, enabling them to
specify, characterise, integrate
and apply music technology in
studios, theatre, concerts, TV
and radio, sound for multimedia
applications and games and
research into new technologies.
The part-time route is suitable
for existing technologists,
lecturers and teachers in
academic institutions and work
carried out on the course may
lead to outcomes that are
valuable to a current or
potential employer.
Practical experience will be
gained through use of our
extensive facilities, which
include a state-of-the-art sound
studio and MIDI suite, media
suite and audio labs within the
Audio Studios complex.
course content
The course is designed to meet
existing professional standards,
and to educate you to the
highest level in the creative use
of audio exploring how creative
ideas and new technologies
can be combined, enhanced
and re-defined, whilst securing
your control and experience of
professional audio and visual
equipment.
MSc Creative
Audio Technology
•• Postgraduate Study and
Research Methods
•• Future & Emerging
Technology
•• Creative Sound Design
•• Live Performance Technology
•• Applied Sound and Music
Production
•• Multimedia Development
Environments
•• Dissertation/Project
MRes Creative
Audio Technology
•• Postgraduate Study and
Research Methods
•• Future & Emerging
Technology
•• Creative Sound Design
•• Live Performance Technology
•• Research Project
021
0021
entry requirements
Entry for the MSc course is
through an honours degree
of at least 2:2 classification
or equivalent although in
some cases applicants with
substantial commercial or
industrial experience can be
accepted, subject to interview
and references.
For the MRes course an
honours degree of at least
2:1 classification is required
for graduates with experience
in music technology or audio
engineering. Graduates from
other disciplines may be
accepted at the discretion
of the admissions tutor. In
some cases applications with
substantial commercial or
industrial experience can be
accepted, subject to interview
and references.
computer science
Course duration MSc Computer Science
Full-time MRes Computer Science
MSc: 1 year
MRes: 1 year
These new industry-facing courses are intended for graduates
Part-time from computing disciplines who wish to update or focus their
MSc: 2-3 years computing skills and competencies for effective work within
MRes: 2-3 years the computing industry.
Location
Wrexham
Start month The MSc course is designed
September to provide graduates with the
skills to meet industrial and
commercial needs and enable
them to practise as computing
and IT professionals. It is
designed to be flexible, so that if
you have particular interests and
skills from your previous studies
or experience you can choose
from the widest selection of
modules. It combines core
modules in essential computing
with specialist themes that
reflect contemporary areas of
demand. In this way you can
match a portfolio of modules to
your preferred career path.
The MRes course is a research-
based Masters degree for
people who already have a first
degree or conversion Masters
in computer science, who would
like to explore and develop their
own potential by undertaking
research at postgraduate
level. The content focuses
on advanced techniques for
information and multimedia
based system development.
key facts
•• Opportunity to study a wide
variety of topics in depth
•• Optional modules enable you
to develop specialist skills in a
variety of areas
•• Lecture/tutorial and practical
sessions are enhanced with
additional, resource-rich,
online materials allowing
you to continue independent
learning through a variety
of approaches
•• Taught by staff leading
research into the areas of
the internet and computer
networks
•• Research activities are
associated with the
University’s computing
research group, the
Centre for Applied Internet
Research (CAIR). Within
the Centre are research/
project teams concerned
with various aspects of
Internet Technologies and
Applications including
Network Algorithms, Network
Design & Management and
Human Computer Interaction

career opportunities
These courses open up a wide
range of career opportunities
in industry, commerce and
academia, with graduates
taking up posts as software
designers and engineers,
analysts or consultants in the
computer software industry. The
MSc can also lead to further
postgraduate study or research.
Graduates will have
demonstrated a systematic
understanding and critical
awareness, much of it at the
forefront of the discipline; a
comprehensive and practical
understanding of applicable
techniques; originality in the
application of knowledge;
the ability to evaluate current
research and methodologies;
and the independent learning
ability required for continuing
professional development.
course content
Personal Development Planning
is an integral part of the learning
process of each element of
the course.
MSc Computer Science
•• Postgraduate Study and
Research Methods
•• Future & Emerging
Technology
•• Networking Hardware &
Software
•• Networking Techniques &
Technologies
•• Dissertation / Project
Options
•• IT Project Management
•• Professional Challenges in
Computing
•• Multimedia Development
Environments
•• Applied Sound and Music
Production
•• Commercial Website Design
& Development
•• Web and Mobile Application
Development
MRes Computer Science
•• Postgraduate Study and
Research Methods
•• Future & Emerging
Technology
•• Research Project
Options
•• IT Project Management
•• Professional Challenges in
Computing
•• Multimedia Development
Environments
•• Applied Sound and Music
Production
•• Networking Hardware &
Software
•• Networking Techniques &
Technologies
•• Commercial Website Design
& Development
•• Internet and Mobile
Application Development
023
0023
entry requirements
The standard entry requirement
for these courses is an
honours degree of at least 2:2
classification in a computer
science related subject area, or
equivalent in any science-based
degree with a strong computing
and/or engineering element.
In some cases applicants with
substantial commercial or
industrial experience can be
accepted, subject to interview
and references.
assessment
Assessment is through a range
of coursework techniques
including practical work, online
tests, reports on lab-based
problems and assignments
using case studies.
For the MRes you will be
expected to give a seminar
on your research project in
addition to submitting a
written thesis. Several of the
taught modules will include
guided study of the research
literature, including seminars
and tutorial discussions.
computing

Course duration MSc Computer Networking

Full-time
1 year
A practical industry-focused course which will enable you to
Part-time plan and develop complex networks.
2-3 years
Network technology is used throughout the private and public
Location
sector enabling the sharing of information, applications and
Wrexham processes. This area continues to grow so the demand for
Start month specialists in this field has never been higher.
September

This course focuses on key facts

practical networking rather
than abstract concepts in data
communications. Although
the necessary background
is introduced as appropriate,
the course on the whole deals
with problem solving and the
provisioning of real network
services, using current and
emergent network hardware
and protocols along with the
development of applications to
exploit these technologies.
In addition to developing an
understanding of underlying
principles, students are engaged
in the practical application of
network design, implementation,
trouble-shooting and
management for real-world
problems. For dissertations/
theses, students will be
expected to investigate cutting-
edge technologies, implement
and test novel networking
solutions, or develop or analyse
original network applications.
•• Opportunity to study a wide
variety of topics in-depth
•• Optional modules enable you
to develop specialist skills in a
variety of areas
•• Lecture/tutorial and practical
sessions are enhanced with
additional, resource-rich,
online materials allowing
you to continue independent
learning through a variety
of approaches
•• Taught by staff leading
research into the areas
of the internet and computer
networks
•• Research activities are
associated with the
University’s computing
research group, the
Centre for Applied Internet
Research (CAIR). Within
the Centre are research/
project teams concerned
with various aspects of
Internet Technologies and
Applications including
Network Algorithms, Network
Design & Management and
Human Computer Interaction

career opportunities
Successful completion of the
course enables you to derive
greater focus in your future
career and educational paths.
You will have the knowledge
and competence necessary
to continue to develop
professionally in the workplace.
You might take the opportunity
to progress to higher-level
academic investigation. It is
expected that you will be able
to gain employment at higher
technical and managerial levels,
develop particular specialist
technical and consultative skills,
and be capable of embarking
upon Doctoral level study.
course content
The course comprises six
compulsory taught modules.
Personal Development Planning
is an integral part of the
learning process of each
element of the course.
•• Postgraduate Study &
Research Methods
•• Networking Hardware and
Software
•• Networking Techniques &
Technologies
•• Future & Emerging
Technology
•• Network Protocols &
Algorithms
•• Remote Access & Security
•• Dissertation / Project
025
0025
entry requirements
The standard entry requirement
is an honours degree of at least
2:2 classification in a computer
science related subject area, or
equivalent in any science-based
degree with a strong computing
and/or engineering element.
In some cases applicants with
substantial commercial or
industrial experience can be
accepted, subject to interview
and references.
assessment
Assessment is through a range
of coursework techniques
including practical work, on-line
tests, reports on lab-based
problems, assignments using
case studies.
computing
Course duration MSc Computing
Full-time
1 year
Part-time Business and personal dependency on computer systems has
2-3 years never been greater. This dependency brings with it new issues
to deal with on a daily basis - the evolution of ideas, security
Location
issues, and design issues, to name but a few.
Wrexham campus
Start month
September
This new industry-facing MSc
aims to provide an opportunity
for postgraduate study for
those whose first degree is
not in computing, or for those
whose degree in computing
was awarded some years ago.
The course will give students
the skills needed to become
a practising IT professional.
It provides a challenging but
stimulating course for highly
motivated people who wish to
acquire theoretical and practical
skills in computing.
A rigorous programming
and database course is
accompanied by a variety of
compulsory core modules
providing core knowledge
required to be effective in the
computing industry, plus a
number of optional modules
covering additional specialised
subjects. You will also undertake
a project during the summer,
which will typically involve the
design and implementation of a
significant piece of software.
key facts
•• Opportunity to study a wide
variety of topics in depth
•• Optional modules enable you
to develop specialist skills in a
variety of areas
•• Lecture/tutorial and practical
sessions are enhanced with
additional, resource-rich,
online materials allowing
you to continue independent
learning through a variety
of approaches
•• Taught by staff leading
research into the areas
of the internet and computer
networks
•• Research activities are
associated with the
University’s computing
research group, the
Centre for Applied Internet
Research (CAIR). Within
the Centre are research/
project teams concerned
with various aspects of
Internet Technologies and
Applications including
Network Algorithms, Network
Design & Management and
Human Computer Interaction

career opportunities
On completion of this course you
will be equipped to undertake
a career in the software
development industry, or work
in network or database support
and development. Possible other
professional development
options might include further
specialist Masters or research
degree study.
course content
The course comprises:
•• four compulsory taught
modules
•• two taught, optional specialist
modules (drawing from three
specialist themes, each
related to a different aspect of
computing)
•• a project dissertation module
Personal Development Planning
is an integral part of the learning
process of each element of
the course.
•• Software Development:
Object Oriented Programming
•• Database Systems
•• Postgraduate Study and
Research Methods
•• Future & Emerging
Technology
•• Dissertation/
Research Project
Options
•• IT Project Management
•• Professional Challenges in
Computing
•• Multimedia Development
Environments
•• Applied Sound and Music
Production
•• Networking Hardware &
Software
•• Networking Techniques &
Technologies
•• Commercial Website Design
& Development
•• Web and Mobile Application
Development
027
0027
entry requirements
The standard entry requirement
for this course is an honours
degree of at least 2:2
classification or an overseas
qualification of an equivalent
standard in a subject other
than computer science. In
some cases applicants with
substantial commercial or
industrial experience can be
accepted, subject to interview
and references.
assessment
Assessment is through a range
of coursework techniques
including practical work, online
tests, reports on lab-based
problems, assignments using
case studies.
computing

Course duration CCNA Cisco Networking Academy

Part-time
CCNA: Six months minimum,
but extended delivery over
longer periods possible
(e.g. two years at three hours
per week)
CCNP: An additional minimum
of six months, but similar
extended delivery also possible
Location
Wrexham
Start month
September
CCNP Cisco Networking Academy
Gain certification in computer networking which
is highly sought by industry.
The Cisco Networking
Academy awards internationally
recognised professional
qualifications in computer
networking. The course is
designed to teach you the
skills needed to design, build
and maintain small to medium
sized computing networks. It will
provide you with an opportunity
to enter the workforce, or
further your education and
training in computer networking.
key facts
•• Combination of learning
methods: instructor-led and
online learning with hands-on
laboratory exercises
•• Study at your own pace
•• Emphasis on skill
development
•• In-depth theory. Challenging
labs to help you develop
critical thinking, problem
solving and collaboration
skills, as well as practical
knowledge
•• The course includes a
module on embedded
E-doing. This allows you to
complete interactive activities
that stimulate learning
and improve knowledge
retention. E-doing involves
rich multimedia, including
flash-based activities, videos
and interactive quizzes.
These address a variety of
learning styles, increase
comprehension and provide a
rich learning experience

career opportunities
Computer networking
professionals are in high
demand. According to the
Bureau of Labour Statistics,
computer networking careers
are expected to grow by 30
percent from 2008 to 2018.
course content
The Academy programme
combines instructor-led,
online learning with hands-on
laboratory exercises, where
you can apply what you learn
in class while working on
dedicated computer networks.
Study the theoretical aspects
of the course at your own pace.
Each of the modules involves a
practical element, so practical
sessions, along with tutorial
support for the theoretical
material, are scheduled
throughout the year.
029
0029
•• Network Fundamentals
•• Routing Protocols and
Concepts
•• Local Area Network (LAN)
Switching and Wireless
•• Accessing the Wide Area
Network (WAN)
•• LAN and WAN Technology
•• Network Management
•• Network Configuration and
Troubleshooting
•• Internet Technology; TCP/
IP, ISDD, Hubs, Switches,
Routers and Gateways
media technology

Course duration MSc Creative Media Technology

Full-time
1 year
The world is being transformed by the growth of new
Part-time technologies. Fuelled by the convergence of information
2-3 years and communications technologies, multi–channel digital
broadcasting and creative and interactive media is one of the
Location
world’s fastest growing industries.
Wrexham
Start month
September
Demand for informative The course aims to bring
entertainment and educational together a broad range of
content in all sectors is growing. graduates from a variety of
This is most apparent in the different backgrounds and
creative and entertainment encourages applications from
industries, where innovative 3D visual designers, programmers,
animation, audio and music, music technologists and
motion graphics and interactive technologists in other
environment technologies are convergent areas. It offers
progressing rapidly. an opportunity to work
collaboratively, preparing
It is a practice-based course students for the team-working
focusing on the creative style of the industry. The course
employment of technology. options allow students to
The course’s innovative feature develop practical competence
is to explore the dissolving in a range of different
boundaries between industry, technologies (visual, sound and
design, visual arts, and computer internet-based).
and communication technology
as a result of digital technology.

This course meets this

growing demand for
multimedia, sound, music,
film and television professionals
able to combine technical
knowledge with creative flair
and commercial awareness.
Developing advanced skills
in all these areas, you will be
encouraged to work across
boundaries to contribute to
this exciting industry.

key facts
•• The applied sound and music
production module provides
you with experience in
using the sound capabilities
generally found on modern
computers, and available
from multimedia applications.
Application to a wide
range of areas is examined
including virtual environments,
computer music, computer
speech, voice command
of computers and other
applications as well as
the production of coherent
and appropriate sequence
of sound, for a specific
application
•• You will study multimedia
development environments
which cover the main areas
of interactive multimedia and
current tools and techniques
used in the implementation
of multimedia systems
including Adobe CS3, Adobe
Flash, Adobe Director, Abode
Premier, 3D Studio Max
and Maya
•• You will have the opportunity
to study commercial website
design and development.
This practical course
covers the methods, tools
and techniques required
to develop high quality
and secure web-based
systems. You will also learn
about Internet and mobile
application development;
developing Internet based
business applications over the
Web using C#, AJAX, ASP.
NET and mobile applications
including Web 2.0 and XML-
based applications (e.g. Web
Services, xhtml-mobile)
•• Lecture/tutorial and practical
sessions are enhanced with
additional, resource rich,
online materials allowing
you to continue independent
learning through a variety of
approaches
•• Taught by staff leading
research into the areas of
the internet and computer
networks
•• Research activities are
associated with the
University’s computing
research group, the
Centre for Applied Internet
Research (CAIR). Within
the Centre are research/
project teams concerned
with various aspects of
internet technologies and
applications including network
algorithms, network design
& management and human
computer interaction
career opportunities
Upon successful completion
of the MSc you will have
demonstrated a systematic
understanding and critical
awareness, much of it at the
forefront of the discipline; a
comprehensive and practical
understanding of applicable
techniques; originality in the
application of knowledge;
the ability to evaluate current
research and methodologies;
and the independent learning
ability required for continuing
professional development.
031
0031
course content
Personal Development
Planning is an integral part of
the learning process of each
element of the course.
•• Postgraduate Study and
Research Methods
•• Future & Emerging
Technology
•• Applied Sound and Music
Production
•• Multimedia Development
Environments
•• Commercial Website Design
& Development
•• Internet & Mobile Application
Development
•• Dissertation/Project
entry requirements
The standard entry
requirement for the MSc
is an honours degree of at
least 2:2 classification or
equivalent, although in
some cases applicants with
substantial commercial or
industrial experience can be
accepted, subject to interview
and references.
computing & media technologies

student profile

Rajvir Singh
MSc Computer Networking

Rajvir Singh joined the MSc Computer Networking

at Glyndŵr University in September 2009.

“I joined the course with a degree in electronics

and communication engineering but studying at
postgraduate level has expanded my knowledge
into new fields. The University is friendly, has a
good reputation and offers degrees from the
University of Wales which are recognised around
the world. The cost of living in Wrexham is low.
Sometimes I feel life is hard at Glyndŵr because
I’m so far away from my home country – but
the lecturers here make it so easy. They’re very
helpful and always willing to support you if you
need anything.”
033
0033
computing & media technologies
entry requirements
taught courses
The entry requirement for taught postgraduate
courses is normally a recognised honours
degree in a relevant subject. This usually means
equivalence to at least second-class honours
degree standard. Entry to a professional course
depends on the level of the award offered. Please
see the course listing for your chosen course for
details of any specific requirements.
All applicants are considered on an individual
basis and motivation and commitment are
considered alongside academic requirements. All
applicants should be able to show their ability to
complete their chosen course successfully.
accreditation of prior learning
and experience
If you are able to demonstrate appropriate
knowledge and experience in your chosen
subject, you may be eligible for exemption from
parts of your course.
criminal records bureau checks and
independent safeguarding authority
Some of the courses may involve regular and
unsupervised contact with children or vulnerable
adults. Where this is the case, a Criminal Records
Bureau (CRB) check is required for which you
will be required to complete a form and pay the
appropriate fee.
Having a criminal record will not necessarily
exclude you from studying with us. A decision
as to whether to offer you a place will depend
on the nature of the programme and the
circumstances and background of any offences.
If you are accepted for a course which involves
contact with children or vulnerable adults and are
admitted to this course, in addition to needing
a satisfactory CRB disclosure you will also
be required to register with the Independent
Safeguarding Authority or to inform the University
if you are already registered. You will receive
further information about this when you apply.
The Vetting and Barring Scheme for Wales,
England and Northern Ireland has been
introduced to help prevent unsuitable people
from working with children and vulnerable adults.
The Independent Safeguarding Authority has
been set up to oversee the operation of this
scheme and will work in partnership with the
Criminal Records Bureau. The fee for registration
with the Independent Safeguarding Authority
is £28, in addition to the fee of £36 for CRB
disclosure, a total fee of £64 (as at the time of
being published).
international students
For international students applying to study
at Glyndŵr University, please send copies of
your transcripts and certificates (translated into
English), along with the completed application
form, to the Glyndŵr University International
Office. They will be happy to advise you on
whether you meet the entry requirements. The
British Council in your own country will also offer
advice if needed.
See page 39 for further details.

research degrees
To register for an MPhil, with or without the
possibility of transfer to PhD, you will be
expected to possess a good UK honours
degree, normally with at least upper second
class honours, or an academic or professional
qualification which the Research Degrees
Committee deems to be equivalent.
You will also need to be able to demonstrate
competence in the use of the English or
Welsh language to the satisfaction of the
Research Degrees Committee. Students who
have studied in the UK for three years within
the previous six years or have a UK Bachelors
or Masters degree shall be deemed to have
demonstrated such competence.
035
0035
In addition at least two references are
required, concerning your academic ability
and fitness to conduct research.
Exceptionally, you may be considered for
admission directly as a candidate for PhD,
if you possess, in addition to the
requirements above, a UK Masters degree
in a relevant subject, which included
a substantial research element, or an
academic qualification which the Research
Degrees Committee deems to be equivalent.
computing & media technologies

how to apply
taught courses
To apply for any of our taught postgraduate
courses, contact our enquiries and admissions
team on 01978 293439 or e-mail
sid@glyndwr.ac.uk. We will then provide you
with an application form. Alternatively, you can
download an application form from our website
www.glyndwr.ac.uk
Once you have submitted your application form to
Glyndŵr University, we will arrange for the relevant
course leader to assess your suitability for the
course you have chosen. You may be required to
attend for an interview with the admissions tutor.
If you are successful you will be sent a formal
letter offering you a place which you can then
sign and return to Glyndŵr University to confirm
you wish to start the course.
research degrees
To undertake a research degree you will need to
identify a suitable topic/project which will be an
appropriate intellectual challenge and has not
previously been researched.
Support will be provided by the University to
give you a contact person who will discuss your
topic/project with you and help you make any
modifications to your outline proposal.
In some circumstances a subject area may already
have a sponsored topic/project which they are
looking for a research student to pursue.
You must initially complete a research programme
application form and submit it to the Graduate
School. You can download a research application
form from our website www.glyndwr.ac.uk.
037
0037
This should then be returned as an e-mail
attachment to mphil-phdadmissions@glyndwr.ac.uk
If the necessary expertise for supervision
is available, applicants for research degree
programmes shall normally be interviewed by
at least two members of academic staff as
consistent with Glyndŵr University’s Code of
Practice for Research Degree Programmes,
and the QAA Code of Practice for Postgraduate
Research Programmes (2004).
The application will be considered in terms of
its academic merit and its viability within the
resources available.
international students
If you believe that you are an international
student for fees purposes, or are unsure, please
contact the Glyndŵr University International
Office admissions hotline on 0044 1978
293390 (outside of the UK) or 01978 293390
(from within the UK). Alternatively, please
email international@glyndwr.ac.uk. For further
information about studying at Glyndŵr University
as an international student please visit www.
glyndwr.ac.uk and click on the ‘International
students’ link on the homepage.
*subject to validation
In our publications, an asterisk (*) next to a course
title indicates that this is a new or revised course,
and that at the time of going to print, the details
of the course e.g. module topics and titles, are
subject to, and in the process of being approved
by, appropriate validation processes. Please visit
www.glyndwr.ac.uk for the latest information on
each course.
computing & media technologies

If you are thinking about coming to Glyndŵr University we would recommend that you come along
to one of our Open Events. This will give you the chance to see our facilities, talk about the courses
and find out more about studying at the University.

Saturday 4 December 2010, 10.00am–3.00pm

Saturday 4 June 2011, 10.00am–3.00pm
Saturday 20 August 2011, 10.00am–3.00pm

Find out about our Open Events at www.glyndwr.ac.uk

 039
0039

contact us

visit us online for more information campus tours

glyndwr.ac.uk Campus tours are held at 2pm every day and

offer a chance to view accommodation, lecture
You can find more information about courses, rooms, workshops, laboratories, and catering
fees and funding, our research, student support, outlets. Contact us for more information.
our campuses – and much more.

Contact the enquiries and admissions team with

international students
your questions, concerns or any feedback on
01978 293439 or sid@glyndwr.ac.uk
If you believe that you are an international
student for fees purposes, or are unsure, please
Our enquiries and admissions team are on hand
contact the Glyndŵr University International
to help. They can deal with your questions on
Office admissions hotline on 0044 1978
anything from our courses to accommodation.
293390 (outside of the UK) or 01978 293390
And they can put you in touch with the right
(from within the UK). Alternatively, please
person if you need to speak further with an
email international@glyndwr.ac.uk. For further
academic programme leader or a member of
information about studying at Glyndŵr University
the student support team.
as an international student please visit
www.glyndwr.ac.uk and click on the
If your questions relate mainly to applying
‘International students’ link on the homepage.
for a research degree please contact our
Graduate School on 01978 293576 or
e-mail mphil-phdadmissions@glyndwr.ac.uk
(applications) or h.dennis@glyndwr.ac.uk
(general enquiries).

open days

Our open days are held regularly throughout the

year and give you a chance to meet with lecturers,
tour our campuses and get a feel for what life is
like as a student here. Visit our website for a list of
upcoming open days, or contact the enquiries and
admissions team.
unlock your potential

Glyndŵr University
Mold Road,
Wrexham LL11 2AW

T: 01978 293439
F: 01978 290008
E: sid@glyndwr.ac.uk