Research Project and Dissertation

M801 is the final element in the Open University's

• MSc in Computing for Commerce and Industry

• MSc in Software Development

and

• MSc in Management of Software Projects

It is a thirteen month period of independent, supervised work on a research project selected by you, using the University's process of supported open learning, and leads to the production and poster presentation of a 10,000-15,000 word dissertation describing the project and your research conclusions.

You can study M801 only if you hold one of three Open University Postgraduate Diplomas:

• the general Diploma in:

  • Computing for Commerce and Industry

• or the specialist Diplomas in:

  • Software Development

  • Management of Software Projects

To gain an MSc in one of the specialist areas you must hold the relevant Diploma and choose a project topic in an appropriate subject.

There are some time limits on the length of your study for the MSc in Software Development and MSc in Networks and Distributed Systems; but, for the MSc in Computing for Commerce and Industry, and MSc in Management of Software Projects you may register for M801 in any year after you have gained the Diploma; there is no time limit.

Follow this link for details of what is required for the specialist MScs.

To see what other students thought about the course. visit the testimonials page.

To apply for M801, you need to be a current postgraduate computing diploma student, and be nearing completion of your Diploma. You can reserve a place on M801 while you are completing the final modules of your Diploma.

Please note that there is preparatory work to be done before the course start date. Click here for details of how to register and an outline timetable.

For full details see the course description

How do I do it?

How to register for the MSc

The next presentation of M801 for which you can apply starts in 2012.

For advice as to what you should do if you are returning to M801 having started last year click here.

Professional recognition

The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS) offers exemption from some if its membership requirements for holders of an appropriate MSc in computing from The Open University. For more details view or download our Recognition leaflet 3.7 Computing. BCS regulations are on their website.

Thanks to Gnome.org for allowing the use of their icons and graphics.