Postgraduate study in Reasoning Analytics

Three exciting new MSc programmes in Reasoning Analytics; Reasoning Analytics with Legal Informatics; and Dispute Resolution, Negotiation and Argumentation will be available from Jan 2016. These courses will draw on the University of Dundee’s unique blend of practical argumentation tools and sound academic theory, and will train professionals to use both theoretical argumentation techniques and computational tools. ARG-tech, the Centre for Argument Technology at the University of Dundee, is one of the foremost international centres for research, pedagogy and practice in argumentation skills. Its ten-year track record has led to software that is now in use in many thousands of colleges and universities in almost one hundred countries, several books, an academic journal, and an enviable research reputation.

The structure of the programmes will consist of six compulsory modules (each worth 20 credits) provided by the School of Computing and a six month dissertation (worth 60 credits) on a topic which is specialised to the interests and experience of the individual. These will be delivered and supported by the staff of ARG-tech, the School of Computing and Policy, Governance and Legal Affairs at the University of Dundee. Visiting scholars who are experts in argumentation and related topics will provide guest lectures.

The courses are designed to be suitable for integration into Continuous Professional Development programmes. Delivery will be based on four intensive teaching weeks, two in February and two in April. Further study and assessment is carried out during the rest of the year supported by online study resources and direct contact with the course tutor.

We prioritise flexible learning, and students will be able to gain a PG Cert after completing three modules (60 points), a PG diploma after completing three modules (120 points) or an MSc after completing six modules and a research dissertation (180 points). Additionally, each module will be available as a standalone option, for which a PG cert in one module (20 points) will be awarded.

These Masters programmes are will appeal to home and international professionals who are dealing with large, messy or conflicting data and need to structure the information in such a way as to aid decision making, support an argument, or represent different aspects of controversial issues.  The key to effective decision making within an organisation lies not only in the formation of timely, well-justified decisions but also in the decision-maker’s ability to communicate them persuasively, defend them rigorously, and modify them in light of cogent responses. Many senior managers have rich experience that helps them in these tasks, but few have had the time to develop the wide arsenal of techniques required to handle ever changing scenarios and demands. Graduates of the course will be equipped with a range of innovative techniques which will be of practical benefit in their professional lives.

Students must hold either a first degree or show evidence of prior learning in order to enroll on these courses.

Any queries should be directed to Prof. Chris Reed, by email at chris@computing.dundee.ac.uk, or by telephone to 01382 388083

Please visit our course webpages.