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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 Research Training Component normally requires Research Engineers 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 eight 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 Research Engineer can chose which schedule to follow, by consultation and agreement with the Industrial Supervisor and Academic Supervisor.

Choosing modules – Advising Period

Modules are selected by a Research Engineer 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 Research Engineer to undertake the activities in the Individual Research Component.

Assessment

Each module will be assessed by a mix of coursework assignments and exams.

• Coursework assignments are undertaken normally during the first 11 to 12 weeks of each semester.
• Written exams take place at the end of semester, normally in weeks 13 to 15.

The University awards marks and grades on a 20-point scale. Research Engineers will be required to achieve a mean grade of 13.5 out of 20 across all modules in the Research Training Component in order to qualify for completion of the Individual Research Component and the submission of an EngD dissertation.

Modules for the RTC

The modules available for the Research Training Component (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 two 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 Research Engineer, 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 Research Engineer.

Graduate Skills

The University also runs an excellent . 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.