Masters of Science in Computer Science

Introduction

Graduates of this program are expected to model, analyze, design, implement, and validate complex computer-based systems, based on theoretically and technologically well-founded methods, tools, and techniques. The MSc. in Computer Science program will produce highly qualified personnel capable of developing complex computer system solutions consisting of hardware and/or software, using these methods, tools, and techniques.

Objectives

The objectives of the Master of Science in Computer Science are namely:

  1. To give students an advanced understanding of and competence in Software needed for the development and use of computer systems
  2. To train students in the specification, design, development, and implementation of computer-based systems customized for specific tasks and applications
  3. To equip students with advanced critical and evaluative perspectives of this discipline, together with analytical and creative problem-solving abilities
  4. To develop the students' professional attitudes and the interpersonal and entrepreneurial skills required by a practitioner in the industry.

 

Admission Requirements

To qualify for admission into the Master of Science in Computer Science program, candidates shall satisfy one of the following requirements:

  1. Beholders of at least an upper second class honors degree in computer science, computer technology, computer science, and technology, or a related field from a recognized university.
  2. Beholders of a lower second class honors degree in computer science, computer technology, computer science, and technology or a related field from a recognized university; and two years work experience or postgraduate diploma in computer science, computer technology, or computer science and technology from a recognized university;
  3. In addition to the above, applicants must meet specific requirements of the Master of Science in Computer Science degree program as approved by the Senate of Maseno University.

 

Course Distribution

Year 1  
  Semester I
CCS 801: Advanced Systems Analysis and Design
CCS 803:  Advanced Operating Systems
CIR 801:  Research Methods in Computing and Informatics
CCS 805:  Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms
CCS 807: Advanced Topics in Computer Architecture
CCS 809: Advanced Database Systems
CCS 811: Advanced Compiler Design
CAI 801: Essentials Artificial Intelligence
CCS 813: Principles of Distributed Computing
CCS 815: Programming Language Principles
CCS 817: Computer Networks
   
Year 1 Semester-II
CCS 802: Special Topics in Computer Science 
CCS 899: Research Proposal Writing
CCS 804: Advanced Software Engineering
CCS 806: Software Testing and Analysis
CCS 808: Parallel Computation
CCS 810: Internet Algorithms
CCS 812: Computer Security
CCS 814: Human Computer Interactions
CAI 813: Machine Learning
   
  Research Work
   
CCS 899: Research
CCS 899: Research/Thesis Submission

 

 

Expected Learning Outcomes

Students graduating with an MSc. in Computer Science from the Maseno University will be able to:

  1. Apply fundamental concepts of computer science, software engineering, science, and mathematics in the modeling and design of computer systems.
  2. Demonstrate an ability to implement, test, and deploy a computer-based system applying current and emerging methodologies and technologies.
  3. Demonstrate an ability to apply ethical and professional standards to ensure computing benefits individuals and society as a whole.
  4. Effectively function as a member of a team engaged in the process of modeling, designing, implementing, testing, and deploying computer-based systems.

Duration of the Programme 

The Master's programme shall normally extend over a period of two academic years distributed over four semesters of full-time/part-time study provided that part-time study shall not exceed a period of four calendar years from the date of registration.

 

Programme Structure

The Master of Science in Computer Science degree programme shall be undertaken either by coursework and thesis or by coursework and project.

 

Coursework and Thesis Option

The Master of Science in Computer Science degree programme by coursework and thesis shall consist of a minimum of fourteen (14) units and a maximum of nineteen (19) units as shown below:

Semester            Work                                Units

     1          Coursework                                      4-6

     2          Coursework                                      3-6

                          Research proposal Writing         1

      3            Research                                      3

      4            Research/Thesis Submission     4

 

Coursework and Project Option

The Master of Science in Computer Science degree program by coursework and project shall consist of a minimum of fifteen (15) units and a maximum of twenty-two (22) units as shown below:

            Semester              Work                            Units

                    1          Coursework                             4-6

                    2          Coursework                                3-6

                3          Coursework                             3-6

                                           Project Proposal Writing       1

                      4          Project Submission                  3

 

Mode of Delivery

Taught courses in the Master of Science in Computer Science degree programme shall be offered through one of the following alternative modes:

  1. Mode I: Face-to-face sessions, involving students and lecturers, amounting to forty-two (42) contact hours per course.
  2. Mode II: E-Learning.
  3. Research proposal writing, research work, thesis writing, and thesis submission shall be undertaken under the guidance and supervision of the departmental faculty. 
  4.  

    Examinations

    Maseno University Common Rules and Regulations for Examinations shall apply.