Advertisement for 2008 - 2009 MSc in Coding Theory.
Master of Science in Information Theory, Coding and
Cryptography --- Fifth Intake
Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for admission into the Master of Science in
Information Theory, Coding and Cryptography at Mzuzu University. This will be the fifth group of students to
go through this training at Mzuzu University.
Introduction
Information Theory is an area of mathematics dealing with the transfer of information from one location to another, or
the storage of information for later retrieval. Both of these operations can be regarded as passing information or data
through a channel from a source to a receiver. There are three central aspects of the subject:
- Efficiency - efficient encoding of the information (source coding or data compression).
- Reliability - removal of errors caused by noise in the channel (error control coding).
- Security - protection against eavesdropping, intrusion, or tampering (cryptography)
These three topics, which we collectively refer to as Coding Theory, are live and exciting areas of research today. The
great advances in all types of electronic communication over the past few years are, in part, due to the continuing
developments in Coding Theory. Mzuzu University is giving a Master of Science program in Information Theory,
Coding, and Cryptography, which will allow qualified Malawians and other interested qualified persons to become
involved at the highest levels of research in the whole area of Coding Theory.
Career options Graduates, besides taking part in research at the highest levels, should eventually be
able to apply the knowledge gained in this course to many areas, including mobile telephony, high density
computer and optical disks, digital audio, DVD, financial and internet services, video-conferencing, digital
television, miniaturization in electronic devices, ATM cards and other smart cards.
The programme is ideally suited to candidates with a Bachelors of Science degree with a large component of
mathematics, particularly those who have done Abstract Algebra. Electrical and Electronic Engineers are also
encouraged to apply. This is a full time programme and will run for a period of two years beginning from April
2008.
Details of course
Title
MSc in Information Theory, Coding and Cryptography.
Duration
A total of two years starting April 2008. There will be two semesters per year. Each semester will be of 16 weeks duration.
Content
There will be six taught modules (26h lectures and 13h tutorials in each) namely Error correcting codes I, Error correcting
codes II, Cryptography I, Cryptography II, Information Theory or Error Correcting Codes III, Data compression and a
project. Four of these modules will be covered during the first year in order to leave more time for the project/research
work during the second year.
Project
The project will be weighted at the equivalent of 4 taught modules and will be based on a thorough study of some aspect of
the theory with reference to current applications.
Computer Programming
Students will use computer algebra packages such as Maple and Magma.
Assessment
Each of the six modules will be assessed by 1) two Continuous Tests each lasting one hour and a half and 2) a 3-hour Final
Examination, each module being examined on its completion. The Continuous Testing and the Final Examination each
contribute 50% of the module marks. Each module will contribute 10% of the overall marks. The project will contribute
40% of the overall marks.
Entry Requirements A primary degree course with a high level of mathematical content. The course is
ideally suited to those who have done Abstract Algebra, however Electrical and Electronic Engineers and those with a BSc
with a large component of mathematics are welcome to apply.
Fees
The following fees will apply : Details of fees will soon be inserted here.
Students are advised to bring along a book and stationary allowance of $US 350 per year.
Application Procedure
Preliminary inquiries can be made directly to the Coordinator of the programme,
Professor John A. Ryan, PhD on E-mail jar@mzuzu.org
or
Head, Department of Mathematics on (265) 1 333 575
E-mail drmadise@yahoo.com .
For official application, use the form below, and send it to
The Registrar,
Mzuzu University,
Private Bag 201,
Luwinga,
Mzuzu 2,
Malawi,
giving a detailed account of the courses covered in the first degree together with an academic transcript.
Applications should reach the Registrar before 28th September 2008.
Click here for Application Form.
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