A unique postgraduate degree which allows students to develop a highly-prized professional IT qualification without leaving their home or office has been launched by the University of Aberdeen.
One of the only degree programmes of its kind in the world, the Master of Science Degree (MSc) in Software Project Management uses virtual learning technology to enable students to study part-time from their home or work environment.
Studies are undertaken entirely online with no requirement for students to attend classes on campus.
Applications are now being accepted from both UK and international students for the course which begins in September this year.
Enabling students to undertake distance learning in order to progress their knowledge and skills is a key element of the degree as Programme Director Dr Ernesto Compatangelo, University of Aberdeen explains: "The MSc in Software Project Management is a unique and innovative course that utilises cutting edge web-based technologies to provide quality teaching for distance learning students.
"This virtual learning environment allows students undertaking the programme to essentially study wherever and whenever they like – be it from work, home or the other side of the world! Following enrolment to the degree, students will be issued with a user id and password to gain access to the learning material and course work.
"The distance learning aspect of the course is hugely beneficial. Because they are not moved away from their workplace, students can put their new found skills into practice as they progress throughout their learning. This combined with the fact that coursework assignments can be directly related to the student's work situation, means that the overall educational experience is enhanced."
The programme adds to the wide range of postgraduate distance learning courses already offered by the University and builds on the long established MSc Project Management programme.
The full MSc in Software Project Management takes three years to complete. There is also an option available for students looking to complete their studies within one or two years where a Postgraduate Certificate of Postgraduate diploma would be awarded respectively.
Alternatively individual module courses are also available for those seeking to continue their professional development.
For more information on the programme or to discuss entry requirements visit www.abdn.ac.uk/swpm, email href="mailto:cpsgrad@abdn.ac.uk">cpsgrad@abdn.ac.uk</a> or call the College of Physical Sciences Graduate Admissions Unit on 01224 272515.