Science and Engineering Pre-Masters

The Academic English Skills course teaches students the specific academic language skills they need to develop for success at Durham University. The course focuses on the receptive (listening and reading) and productive (speaking and writing) skills through practice in semi and authentic task-based activities which build a strong foundation in preparation for each student's future studies. This critical module places particular emphasis on developing academic reading and research skills; research-based writing along with presentation and seminar speaking skills.

In this module students concentrate on developing the critical skills specific to the reading and writing that will be required in their taught Masters degree programme. The course focuses on developing student criticality, fostering thorough scholarly skills and independent learning through the critical reading, analysis, evaluation and summary of authentic academic texts.

In this module students will focus on statistical tools that are integrated into science and engineering problem-solving processes. Areas covered will include descriptive statistics, probability and probability distributions, significance testing within an SPC context of Control Charts, building regression models and designing and analysing experiments.

The individual project provides students with a learning experience that will enable them to carry out independent research. Students are expected to plan, research and execute their project while developing skills in critical judgement and independent working, to demonstrate engineering / scientific competence. 

Engineering

• Computational Maths
• Advanced Applied Mathematics
• Lab Skills and Experimental Design (three-term only)

Maths

• Advanced Applied Mathematics
• Intro to Mathematical Analysis (three-term only)
• Computational Maths

Psychology

• Research Methods in Psychology
• Core Concepts in Psychological Science
• Lab Skills and Experimental Design (three-term only)

Advanced Applied Mathematics

This module covers the common mathematical techniques used in the study of engineering and natural sciences. During the course, special emphasis would be given on developing students’ abilities in respect of the practical application of the appropriate techniques.

Computational Mathematics

The main aim of the course is to equip the students with basic understanding of computational mathematics. The course includes detailed study of mathematical modelling techniques that can be used across wide range of practical problems in applied mathematics, and engineering. The course will provide a base for more advance applied mathematics and engineering courses.The course will not only cover the theoretical aspects of computational mathematics, but will also include practical examples using a suitable computer software package.

Core Concepts in Psychological Science

The module aims to enhance students understanding on a range of topics in Developmental Psychology with an emphasis on cognitive and social development across the life span. Particular attention is paid to the interacting contributions of biological, cognitive and environmental factors. Theory pertaining to all aspects of the course will be presented and critiqued in light of available empirical research. Across the course students will become familiar with different approaches to research and will have to evaluate research. Great emphasis is placed on independent and collaborative student learning. Thus, in addition to key reading, students are expected to study additional material (which will be provided).

Introduction to Mathematical Analysis

The aim of this module is to provide the opportunity for students to engage in logical reasoning using mathematical notations. It aims also to develop mathematical thinking skills, and the skills of formulation of rigorous mathematical derivations and proofs, as well as to develop students' mathematical problem solving skills through the exploration of open ended problems.

Research Methods in Psychology

This module provides students with a broad range of research tools used in Psychology. It aims to equip students with all aspects of the research process and to train them, through active participation, in a wide variety of research techniques.

The following degrees are available from the September 2021 intake at the International Study Centre:

• MSc Behavioural Science
• MSc Cognitive Neuroscience