The MSc in Mobile and Web Computing: Internet of Things Applications Programme is being offered by the School of Science & Technology of the University Center of International Programmes of Studies of the International Hellenic University.
The programme aims to provide graduate level education and is targeted towards graduates who wish to broaden their knowledge in the field of Information and Communication Technology Systems and specifically web and mobile applications. Since its invention in 1989, the World Wide Web has long been the main driver of development and progress, not only in the ICT sector itself but also, and most importantly, in virtually all aspects of human life. Standing on the shoulders of the WWW’s success, the introduction of smartphones brought about a new technological revolution, which many had foreseen as a necessary next step.
Today, these two technological fields have converged into a common track, where applications and infrastructure are advancing hand-in-hand toward the vision of Ubiquitous Computing and Web 3.0. In our effort to address this trend we introduce the “MSc in Mobile and Web Computing: Internet of Things Applications” programme. It has been designed to provide a mixture of state-of-the-art knowledge in relevant computer science, communications, web and mobile technologies, blended with essential business skills.
The lecture series by leading academic instructors from Greece and abroad, along with projects and dissertation work, mean that students graduate well equipped and highly competitive at international level. This programme is designed for University graduates of Informatics/Computer Science, and Electrical Engineering but also of Natural Sciences and Economic and Business Departments, with a background in ICT and a strong motivation to pursue a career in Mobile and Web Computing related domains.
The courses of the programme are taught exclusively in English. The academic staff comes from Universities in Greece and abroad. In addition, it is possible to attend the programme combining distance learning with traditional face-to-face teaching
Application deadline:September 2023 or until places are filled
Campus: Thermi, Thessaloniki
Duration/Mode: 18 months (full-time) or 30 months (part-time)/(available also in distance learning mode)/weekdays evenings
Taught language: English
Entry requirements: An undergraduate degree from a recognised University
Language requirements: English language knowledge documented with a relevant certificate, corresponding at least to the State Certificate of Language Learning Level B2 or other certificate proving good knowledge of English. Holders of an undergraduate or postgraduate degree at a Foreign University in English are exempt from this obligation.
To be considered for the programme, candidates are required to have:
an undergraduate degree from a recognized University
English language knowledge documented with a relevant certificate, corresponding at least to the State Certificate of Language Learning Level B2 or other certificate proving good knowledge of English. Holders of an undergraduate or postgraduate degree at a Foreign University in English are exempt from this obligation.
Upon arrival at the IHU all students attend foundation courses in Java and SQL, that aims to bring all incoming students to the same level with respect to some of the programming knowledge that is required. During the first term, all students are required to follow five (5) mandatory core courses. During the second term, all students follow a further three (3) required courses combined with two (2) elective courses. Finally, during the third term, work is dedicated exclusively to the Master’s dissertation.
This course will examine computer networks within the context of the Internet. We will study the fundamental principles, elements, and protocols of computer networks. We will investigate how the different protocols work, why they work that way, and their performance trade-offs. Using this knowledge, we will try to examine the way applications are deployed on the Internet and their performance trade-offs. In particular, we will try to examine some strategies that are commonly used to accelerate application level performance in the context of the operation of the Internet.
Learning Outcomes
On completing the course students will be able to:
Explain the operation of a range of computer networking applications such as email, web, and peer-to-peer file-sharing
Relate the architecture of the Internet to the underlying design principles
Illustrate the operation of common routing protocols, queuing mechanisms, and congestion control mechanisms
Develop elements of a network such as gateways and routers that conform to IETF standards with acceptable levels of simplification
Explain the performance of a given set of routing protocols, queuing mechanisms, and congestion control mechanisms on an example network.
Content
Introduction to Computer Networks
Sockets Programming
Protocol Stacks and Layering: Application Layer, Physical Layer, Link Layer Basics.
The students will get acquainted with all modern tools and principles of modern Web Information Systems through this course. An introduction will be given to basic internet protocols and applications and the course will guide the students in more advanced web architectures and implementation using modern programming language tools and security implementations.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of the course students will be able to:
Understand the principal protocols, architectures and standards for Internet and Web applications
Develop simple Web applications, using modern tools of Java, XML and PHP
Incorporate commonly used security protocols (SSL, HTTPS) in their information system design
Adapt their web design to enhance reliability, efficiency and internationalisation
Understand the basic principles and future directions of Web 2.0
Content
Internet and the Web protocols and standards.
Architecture and Components of Web-Based Applications (3-tier and multi-tier Client/Server systems, Web servers, Database servers).
Design and implementation of applications on the Internet environment with the use of modern tools (Java technology, XML, PHP etc).
Advanced Design Issues (Efficiency, Reliability, and Internationalisation).
Security / encryption protocols (SSL, HTTPS). Web 2.0.
Reading
Taniar D., Rahayu J. W. (2004) Web information systems Hershey, PA: Idea Group Publishing.
Vidgen R., Avison D., Wood B., Wood-Harper T. (2002) Developing Web Information Systems: From Strategy to Implementation, Butterworth-Heinemann Information Systems Series, Elsevier.
M. Stepp, J. Miller, V. Kirst (2012) Web Programming Step-by-Step, Step-By-Step Publishing
This course provides an introduction to the foundational aspects of cybersecurity and computer security. Most modern organisations face security and privacy risks that threaten their valuable assets. It is imperative to design secure and privacy-aware information systems that protect against these threats. This course provides a wide range of skills and knowledge of existing technologies, security and privacy principles to develop the professional skills and experience needed for information systems security.
Learning Outcomes
On completing the course students will be able to:
Develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to work as a computing security professional
Learn the concepts, principles, techniques and methodologies you need to design and assess complex networks, systems and applications
Develop the practical experience you need to plan, perform and direct security audits of information systems to the level required by standard security frameworks
Develop the appropriate legal and ethical skills you need to be a security professional.
Content
Information security –Security Policy
Identification -Authentication
Authorization –Access Control –Auditing -Accountability
Malicious Attacks-Malware
Hash Functions -Digital Signatures Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) -Digital Certificates
Computers have been a part of every aspect of human life for quite a while. A vast number of computing technologies, paradigms, architectures, solutions, applications etc. were born, evolved, matured and died, to give their place in new ones that can harness the ever growing potential of a continuously evolving landscape. Human creativity and ingenuity has played a crucial role in these developments. However, the software market has gone beyond discovering new technologies or improving the existing ones. Except from being operational, software has to be not just easy to use but also intuitive, engaging and pleasant. Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is a field that addresses the need to create user interfaces that can improve user experience, increase productivity while at the same time providing an environment that is safe and comfortable. HCI involves a confluence of many different disciplines, such as graphic design, cognitive science and psychology, education etc. Therefore, a familiarization of basic concepts of non-computing fields is necessary.
Mobile computing has recently emerged with the spread of smartphones and it has soon become the fastest growing ICT field. A significant percentage of businesses and organizations are already marketing their products and services through mobile sites and applications and those who haven’t already, they will have to do so in the near future. This course introduces the students to the basic concepts of mobile computing technologies as well as business principles and practices in order to exploit the full potential of the mobile application market. The students will learn how to imbue a business strategy with capabilities and functionalities offered by the new technological platform.
Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
Learn basic principles of marketing and B2B of mobile computing
Harness the potential that mobile computing offers to businesses
Learn about the technologies involved (wireless and mobile communications, web application development basics, security protocols involved, etc.)
Identify strengths, weaknesses, risks and opportunities and build a successful strategy
Content
Wireless technologies (Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G etc.)
Cross-platform mobile web applications
Native mobile applications that exploit the device’s hardware
Designing a mobile computing business strategy and evaluating risks and opportunities
Social networks for collaboration and marketing
Security and privacy aspects
Case studies
Reading
Mobile Design and Development: Practical Concepts and Techniques for Creating Mobile Sites and Web Apps, Brian Fling, O’Reilly Media Inc., 2009, ISBN 0596155441, 9780596155445.
Handbook of research in mobile business: technical, methodological, and social perspectives, Bhuvan Unhelkar, 2nd Edition, Vol.1 & 2, Idea Group Inc (IGI), 2009, ISBN1605661562, 9781605661568.
The ever growing penetration of computers in everyday life has led to the need to develop a vast number of software programs, which in turn resulted to the emergence of a large number of programming languages, frameworks, SDKs, paradigms and techniques. Being able to write functional and maintainable code entails good knowledge of the most important programming concepts, methodologies and techniques. This is even more necessary now because of the extended fragmentation of the programming market. This course aims to teach students popular principles, techniques, tools and methods used to develop software efficiently. Requirement analysis, UML, Object-oriented analysis, design and programming, usage of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), software maintenance, project and version management are some of the topics covered through theory and practice.
Learning Outcomes
On completing the course students will be able to:
Appreciate principles, concepts, and techniques used to develop software efficiently
Demonstrate how to effectively apply software engineering methods, tools and techniques
Plan, manage and collaborate on a Software Development group project
Obtain the knowledge and skills required for effective management of the software maintenance process
Have developed effective software engineering, management and communication skills
Content
Software development principles, techniques, methods and tools
Requirement analysis
UML
Object-oriented analysis, design and programming
Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)
Software maintenance and evolution
Project and version management
The elective courses
During the second term students tailor their programme further by choosing elective courses. The choice of elective courses must sum up to 12 ECTS (2 courses). Some of the elective courses may not be offered in a particular year, depending entirely on student demand.
The aim of this course is to broaden and expand knowledge of the concepts and techniques required for the design, operation and control of the modern upcoming e-commerce applications and e-government systems that are massively introduced by western governments to fight bureaucracy. The essential computing background to support such systems is presented, along with the individual requirements for a wide variety of modern life activities that can be performed online.
Learning Outcomes
On completing the course students will:
Develop knowledge of the information and communication skills to support and develop this type of information systems
Broaden their knowledge into e-commerce, covering business, marketing, organisational and payment security issues
Explain the concepts, processes behind developing an e-learning facility
Understand the technological, ethical, legal and practical requirements of an electronic government information system
Content
Current and emerging business models
The use of information and communications technology
Mobile commerce
E-marketing and e-business strategy
E-consumer behaviour and advertisement
Organisational and managerial challenges in the electronic environment
E-Payment systems
E-learning; security issues and the legal environment
Understanding eGovernment
eAdministration/G2G
eCitizens/ eAccountability
eDemocracy/eParticipation
eServices/G2C & G2B
Legislation for eGovernment
Integrated eGovernment, Group Presentations
Reading
Laudon K., Guercio-Traver C. (2008) E-Commerce 2009: Business, Technology, Society, Prentice Hall, 5th edition.
Turban E., Lee J. K., King D., McKay J., Marshall P., (2008) Electronic Commerce 2008, Prentice Hall. Abramson M., Morin T. (2003) E-Government 2003, Rowman & Littlefield, Lanham, MD.
Heeks R. B. (2006) Implementing and Managing eGovernment: An International Text, Sage Publications, London
The big data explosion has led to new computing paradigms, the most prevalent among them being cloud computing. Cloud computing is about vast computing resources on demand, that allow for centralized data storage and online access. Big data is a broad term that includes several concepts and tasks, such as data capture, storage, sharing, management and analysis. This course focuses mostly on the big data storage and management part, rather than the analysis as well as cloud service models, architectures and tools. Students will familiarize with modern big data and cloud technologies, understand the privacy and security concerns and learn about popular big data and cloud computing platforms.
Learning Outcomes
On completing the course, students will be able to:
Develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to work with Big Data.
Deploy a structured lifecycle approach to data analytics problems.
Apply appropriate analytic techniques and tools to analyzing big data.
Understand Cloud Computing Concepts and Mechanisms.
Learn the concepts, principles, techniques and methodologies you need to manage cloud services and resources.
Content
Big data concepts, principles and practical applications.
Big data capture, storage, sharing, management and analysis.
Cloud Computing Concepts and Mechanisms.
Cloud Architectures.
Working with Clouds.
Managing Cloud Services and Resources.
Big Data and cloud computing platforms.
Reading
T. Erl, R. Puttini, Z. Mahmood, Cloud Computing: Concepts, Technology & Architecture, Pearson, 2013.
EMC Education Services (Editor), Data Science and Big Data Analytics: Discovering, Analyzing, Visualizing and Presenting Data, Wiley 2015.
The Consulting Project will require students to apply knowledge gained in classroom into practice. Students will tackle real-life problems and challenges facing companies or organisations in order to provide actual business solutions. Following a procedure of specifications/requirements, design and implementation, students will prepare and present their concrete and practical solutions in a final deliverable report.
Learning Outcomes
On completing the course, students will be able to:
Understand real-world problem faced by companies/firms and propose functional solutions.
Develop critical thinking and ability to integrate data and information towards the optimal solution.
Understand the structure, operational mode and challenges of real-world companies.
Content
Understanding and recording a company’s needs and challenges.
Project requirements.
Data analysis, implementation and company feedback.
During the third term, students work on their Masters Dissertation project, the thematic area of which is relevant to their programme of studies and their interests. The dissertation provides a good opportunity to apply theory and concepts learned in different courses to a real-world problem or challenge. Students are supervised throughout their projects by a member of the academic faculty and the academic assistants. After submission of the dissertation, students present their projects to classmates and faculty at a special event.
The duration of the full-time study programme in order to obtain the MA degree is three (3) academic semesters. For students who so wish, there is also the possibility, upon request, of attending the programme on a part–time basis. In this case, the duration of the MA will be five (5) academic semesters. Lectures mainly take place on weekday evenings. The programme is also available through distance learning. Distance Learning teaching methods involve: (a) Face-to-face or classroom based learning: Students will be required to be physically present at the University for a weekend at the beginning of each semester (b) Synchronous learning: Student will have to attend remotely the classes which will be held regularly during each semester, weekday afternoons (about 2-4 times per week depending on the mode, always after 17:00) and possible Saturday morning (c) Asynchronous learning: Students will use online learning resources and will be assessed through a variety of diagnostic tools and formative assessment techniques (d) Summative assessment: Students will be typicallyrequired to be physically present at the University for the final exams at the end of each semester.
The programme fees for the MSc in Mobile and Web Computing: Internet of Things Applications is 2900€. The amount is payable in two instalments for the full time mode or in four instalments for the part time mode at the beginning of each semester. The fees are also eligible for financing through LAEK 0,45% – OAED programme.
Deposits
If you have been accepted to a postgraduate programme, you will need to make a payment of the deposit of 500 Euros to secure your place. This amount will count towards the first instalment of your tuition fees. The deposit is non-refundable once you have commenced your studies at the IHU. Prior to that, a refund can be made but a 20% administrative fee will be retained. The deposit can be paid by bank transfer or bank draft. Credit card payments can be made through electronic banking (contact your Bank as handling fees may apply).
Scholarships
The School of Science & Technology offers a number of scholarships for the programmes it offers, covering a significant proportion of the fees. These scholarships are competitive. Award criteria include the quality of the first degree, the undergraduate grades of the candidate, his/her command of the English language and overall profile. Candidates for scholarships should include a separate letter with their application documents in which they request to be considered for a scholarship, stating the reasons why they think they qualify.
Next “MSc in Mobile and Web Computing: Internet of Things” Applications class starts in October 2023. Interested parties are invited to submit their application by September 2023or until places are filled, by following instructions at the application page.
Graduates from the MSc in Mobile and Web Computing: Internet of Things Applications programme can play a pivotal role in the development of software products and services of any company or organization, contributing to their growth and competitiveness. Many non-ICT companies of every sector are also investing in IT departments in order to in-house develop their own, tailor-made software. Therefore, a multitude of employment opportunities are envisaged for graduates of this programme. Indicatively they include:
Software companies
e-business companies
Mobile network providers and broadband Internet providers
Research institutes
Businesses that are investing in in-house software developmen
Marketing and advertising
Free lancing
In addition to technical skills gained through study, our students benefit from the University’s excellent Careers Office, in order to attain essential soft skills (e.g. communication skills, interview preparation, CV writing etc.) to better prepare for the job market.
The MSc in Mobile and Web Computing: Internet of Things Applications takes place in the facilities of the School of Science & Technology of the University Center of International Programmes of Studies of the International Hellenic University in Thermi-Thessaloniki.
Postal address: School of Science & Technology Department of School of Science & Technology University Center of International Programmes of Studies 14th km Thessaloniki – Nea Moudania 570 01 Thermi, Thessaloniki, Greece Tel: +30 2310 807 529 Email: : infotech@ihu.edu.gr
