Computing

The Master Program in Computing aims to deliver an up to date knowledge in the area of computing and to graduate qualified graduates to enhance the Palestinian sector in the IT fields. In addition, it aims to enhance the research in the field of Computing and to make it possible for the graduates to pursue their PhD studies in top universities around the world.

  • To graduate students with master's degrees in computing
  • To contribute the local market with skilled and professional graduates in the IT fields
  • To contribute to the scientific research in the IT fields.
  • Knowledge of basics in mathematics, science and engineering principles.
  • Ability to understand the impact of computing solutions in a global and societal context.
  • Knowledge of contemporary issues in computing.
  • Ability to identify, formulate and solve computing problems.
  • Ability to analyze, compare and distinguish between different algorithms/techniques/methods; and select the one suitable for each problem.
  • Ability to evaluate computing system implementations and recommend changes and improvements.
  • Applying the techniques, skills and modern computing tools necessary for engineering/computing practice.
  • Design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs.
  • Design and conduct research methods (e.g. surveys, case studies, experiments); and analyze and interpret data.
  • Ability to communicate effectively.
  • Recognition of the need for and an ability to engage in life-long learning.
  • Ability to function on multidisciplinary teams.
  • Understanding of professional and ethical responsibility.
  • Palestinian Public sector that needs qualified employees in any of the IT fields.
  • Palestinian private sector that needs qualified employees in any of the IT fields.
  • International opportunities in the IT fields.
  • PhD opportunities.
Program Requirements

The program has two concentrations: “Computer and Engineering” concentration and “Mathematics and Natural Sciences” concentration. In both concentrations, students are required to complete no less than 36 credit hours distributed as follows:

  • 12 credit hours of Compulsory courses 
  • 18 credit hours of elective courses 
  • 6 credit hours of either thesis track or seminar track in concentration area

 

1. Compulsory Courses: (12 Credit Hours)

Computer and Engineering Concentration Compulsory Courses: Students in this concentration who did not study “Data structures” and “Advanced Programming” courses are required to register for these courses in their first semester (these courses will not be counted for those who studied them).

Students are required to finish 12 credit hours of Compulsory courses as follows:

 Course No.

Course Title

Prerequisite(s)

MCOM6300

Computing 1: Design and Analysis of Algorithms

COMP231COMP232

*MCOM6301

Computing 2: Principles of Computer Systems Engineering

 

MCOM6304

Research Methodology and Tools

 

MCOM6307

Probability, Queuing Theory and Statistics

 

MCOM6308

Advanced Computer Networks

MCOM6301 or equivalent

*MCOM6301(Computing 2) will not be counted for computer systems engineering students and those who have sufficient knowledge in that course. In this case, MCOM6308 is considered the Compulsory course replacement. 

 

“Mathematics and Natural Sciences” Concentration Compulsory Courses: Students with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, biology or chemistry, who have not studied linear algebra and differential equations, are required to complete MCOM6305 within their first semester in the program, provided that it will not be counted for students who have taken the course previously.

Students are required to finish 12 credit hours of Compulsory courses as follows:​

Course No.

Course Title

Prerequisite(s)

MCOM6300

Computing I: Design and Analysis of Algorithms

COMP231COMP232

MCOM6302

Mathematical Modeling and Simulation

 

MCOM6304

Research Methodology and Tools

 

MCOM6307

Probability, Queuing Theory and Statistics

 

Note: All students are required to complete MCOM6304 within the first 15 hours of their registration in the program.

 

2. Elective Courses (18 Credit Hours)​: Students are required to take 18 credit hours from the following elective courses

“Computer and Engineering” Concentration Elective Courses:

Course No.

Course Title

Prerequisite(s)

MCOM6308

Advanced Computer Networks

 

MCOM7321

Computational Fluid Mechanics

 

MCOM7322

Real Time Systems

 

MCOM7323

Information Theory and Coding

 

MCOM7324

Digital Signal Processing (DSP)

 

MCOM7325

Cryptography and Network Security

 

MCOM7340

Software Engineering 

 

MCOM7341

Advanced Artificial Intelligence 

 

MCOM7342

Topic in Knowledge Management 

 

MCOM7343

Advanced Graphics and Visualization  

 

MCOM7348

Special Topics in Advanced Computer Science 

 

“Mathematics and Natural Sciences” Concentration Elective Courses:

Course No.

Course Title

Prerequisite(s)

MCOM7312 

Numerical Optimization 

 

MCOM7313 

Introduction to Discrete Dynamical Systems and Chaos Theory 

 

MCOM7314 

Statistical Design and Analysis Methods 

 

MCOM7330 

Quantum Mechanics and Spectroscopy 

 

MCOM7331 

Statistical Mechanics 

 

MCOM7332 

Atomistic and Molecular Simulations 

 

MCOM7333 

Computer Aided Molecular Design (CAMD)  

 

MCOM7334 

Advanced Electronic Structure Theory

 

MCOM7338

Special Topics in Computational Physical Sciences

 

 

3. Track A or Track B: 6 Credit Hours: Thesis or Two Seminars in Concentration Area

Track

Track Title

Courses

Prerequisite(s)

Track A

Thesis

MCOM860

The completion of all Compulsory courses

Track B

Seminar

MCOM830
MCOM831

  1. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in one of the science or engineering fields from a university recognized by Birzeit University, with a minimum overall assessment of “Good”. 
  2. Applicants are required to have good knowledge and skills in computer programs and advanced programming languages, in addition to a background in applied mathematics.
  3. Applicants are interviewed to determine their readiness and the strength of their academic backgrounds.