Research training component (RTC)
The Research Training Component (RTC) of the EngD programme is a taught component. It allows the Research Engineer (RE) to undertake advanced, taught modules as part of the preparation and background for the Individual Research Component (IRC).
Taught modules
The RTC normally requires REs to complete eight advanced, taught modules. However, after admission, based on an individual applicant’s experience and educational background, it may be possible to receive exemptions for some of the 8 modules. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis for each applicant.
The eight modules are typically taken four at a time, four in Semester 1, and four in Semester 2. However, Semester 1 can be completed in the first year of the EngD and Semester 2 can be completed in year two. The two possible schedules are shown below, and each RE can chose which schedule to follow, by consultation and agreement with the Industrial Supervisor and Academic Supervisor.
| Month | Activity |
|---|---|
| 01-09 | RTC Semester 1 + 2 |
| 10-44 | IRC |
| 45-47 | Writing-up of dissertation |
| 48 | Submission and viva voce examination |
| Month | Activity |
|---|---|
| 01-04 | RTC Semester 1 |
| 05-16 | IRC Part 1 |
| 17-21 | RTC Semester 2 |
| 22-44 | IRC Part 2 |
| 45-47 | Writing-up of dissertation |
| 48 | Submission and viva voce examination |
Choosing modules – Advising Period
Modules are selected by a RE in consultation with both the Academic Supervisor and Industrial Supervisor during an Advising Period at the start of each Semester. The intention is that the chosen modules will provide a major part of the knowledge, understanding and skills that are needed for the RE to undertake the activities in the IRC.
Assessment
Each module will be assessed by a mix of coursework assignments and exams. Coursework assignments are undertaken normally during the first 11-12 weeks of each semester, with written exams at the end of semester, normally in weeks 13-15. The University awards marks and grades on a 20-point scale, and REs will be required to achieve a mean grade of 13.5/20 across all modules in the RTC in order to qualify for completion of the IRC and the submission of an EngD dissertation.
Modules for the RTC
The modules available for the RTC are the same as those offered in the Computer Science Masters programmes. These are predominantly 5000 level modules, however additional 4000 level modules may also be available, a maximum of 2 can be selected subject to some constraints (availability, educational background and RE's experience).
In some cases, modules may also be available from the School of Mathematics and Statistics, and the Business School. These can be selected by arrangement only.
Please note that the University is in a continuous process of developing and evolving courses to maintain the highest quality. So, some details with respect to the modules and selection of modules may change. Modules listed are illustrative and may be subject to change, please see the University’s position on Curriculum Development.
If you are a RE, Industrial Supervisor, or represent the Industry Sponsor, you can always obtain the most up-to-date information directly from the School.
Also, some modules have pre-requisites and anti-requisites, which will be advised on a case-by-case basis for each RE.
Graduate Skills
The University also runs an excellent Graduate Skills programme. This is open to any research student (EngD and PhD) in the University, and offers many options for training in transferrable skills. Note that courses run via the Graduate Skills programme are all optional, and not required for award of the EngD.