To foster a critical understanding and evaluative approach to the concepts and principles of modern software engineering approaches; to develop the ability to evaluate and apply the concepts and principles of software engineering and to apply these to non-trivial problems similar to those found in industry; to develop a critical understanding and awareness of analysis, design and implementation of software engineering methodologies; to stimulate an enquiring, analytical, creative and reflective approach that encourages independent judgment and critical awareness; to further develop abilities to reason logically, work effectively in a team, communicate clearly, and to think critically; to ensure that the student has the basis for both future personal development and for continuing professional development.

Students will normally take three courses per Fall term, three per Winter term and two courses in the Summer term. The flexibility and freedom of online courses requires you to have significant motivation and self-discipline in order to set and keep up with your own study schedule. You will not have classes to attend, but you can expect each online course to require as much (or more) time and effort than a campus course. To succeed, you will need to develop and follow a regular study.

Students who follow this schedule can expect to complete the programme in Two Years.

You will need a reliable internet service provider with at least a 56k connection speed, and an email account that supports attachments. The on-line educational software (Blackboard) and the audio video conferencing software will be accessed over the internet-students will not need to purchase it. To be assured of compatibility with all Blackboard functions, students will need to use Netscape version 4.7 or Microsoft Internet Explorer version 5.0, or higher. You will need a computer with Windows 98, Microsoft Office 2000, and a printer. There will be occasional additional software packages or add-ons (e.g. statistical add-ons for Excel) required for specific courses. All entering flexible learning MSc-ClS students are expected to be competent in Microsoft Office 2000 (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Access), internet navigation, email use, management of files and folders, and downloading/uploading files. You will need to be able to learn and become comfortable with Blackboard functions such as threaded discussions, chat rooms, virtual classrooms, online assignments and testing. All students will be required to go through a comprehensive induction programme that will enable them to get comfortable with the Online mode of study. Technical help for Blackboard will be available 24/7 on-line and by telephone.

For additional information on the THINC-UOW MBA and other programmes please contact the following offices.