The aim of this course is to provide preparation appropriate for undertaking a PhD programme in computer science. Students select five taught modules from a wide range of advanced topics in computer science from networking and systems measurements to denotational semantics, and from natural language processing to current applications and research in computer security. Students may also choose from a selection of topics borrowed from the Department of Engineering. This course covers advanced material in both theoretical and practical areas as well as instilling the elements of research practice. The course aims: to give students, with relevant experience at first-degree level, the opportunity to carry out directed research in the discipline; to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests; to provide preparation appropriate for undertaking a PhD programme in computer science; to provide the Faculty with an extended period in which to train students and then to judge the suitability of students for PhD study and to offer a qualification that is valuable and highly marketable in its own right that equips its graduates with the skills and expertise to play leading roles in industry and the public sector. By the end of the programme, the students will have: a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature, applicable to their chosen area; demonstrated some originality in the application of knowledge, together with an understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their chosen area; shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies and demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.