Research Methodology in Risk & Reliability
Risk and reliability analysis is concerned with modelling the ability of systems to function properly and exploring the consequences when they do not. Such analysis plays a fundamental role in supporting the design, development, operation and de-commissioning of complex systems.
Risk and reliability analysis is routinely conducted for systems used, for example, in power generation, oil and gas, air, rail, road and sea transportation, automotive engineering and telecommunication and involves both the engineering infrastructure and the associated business and service provision. Risk analysis must be aware of all factors influencing the system, especially the interaction of humans, computers and machinery.
The Master of Research (MRes) degree specialising in Risk and Reliability, launched in September 2004, aims to produce graduates who possess sophisticated research and technical skills that will enable them to address the challenges confronting risk analysis in modern industry where problems are typically multidisciplinary and highly context-dependent.
This MRes differs from conventional MSc qualifications in two ways. First, the split between taught courses and research project is equal for the MRes compared with most conventional MScs where the split is two-thirds taught programme and one-third project. Second, within the MRes there is a substantial emphasis on research training in the taught part of the course with the aim of producing graduates who can select appropriate methodologies with which to approach the industrial research problem at hand.
Course objectives
To produce graduates with:
- In depth understanding of the theory and practice of risk and reliability analysis
- Sophisticated research skills relevant to modern industrial challenges
Course structure
The first half is predominantly the taught element, comprising a mix of generic research methodology classes and technical classes.
The research methodology classes include:
- Philosophy of Research
- Research Methods 1
- Research Methods 2
The technical classes include:
- Foundations of Risk
- Quantitative Risk Analysis for ALARP Decision Making
- Goal-oriented Assessment of Reliability and Maintainability
The second half is devoted to the project, which is based on an industrially-motivated problem and draws on the theories introduced in the taught element.
A significant part of this degree is independent research; the Department has a reputation for providing a supportive learning and research environment.
Entry Requirements
Candidates should have a good first degree which contains a substantial quantitative element, such as mathematics, operational research, statistics, economics, psychology and engineering.
Modes of Study
The programme is available either full-time or part-time
Duration of Course
The duration of the programme is one full calendar year for full-time candidates and two years for part-time.
Fees and funding
For full information about current fee levels please contact the Management Science Department or Registry Business
EPSRC Studentships
Currently, there are Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council placements available for EU residents that will provide fee waiver payments for the first year tuition.
Careers and Research Opportunities
MRes degrees give students an opportunity to prepare for undertaking more extensive research in academia or industry. Graduates of this degree should be in a position to continue studies for a PhD, or to work as practising risk and reliability analysts.
Opportunities exist to continue studies towards a PhD for successful candidates.
Researchers
The degree is offered within the Department of Management Science which has several researchers actively involved in theoretical and practical risk and reliability projects. The common motivation is to develop modelling methodologies motivated by involvement in industrial problems. For example, current projects are being conducted in collaboration with the aerospace, rail, power and defence industries.
The Department of Management Science has led the formation of a University of Strathclyde Centre for Risk, Safety and Uncertainty Management. This is a collaboration between researchers in Business, Science, Social Science and Engineering and should provide a stimulation environment in which to work.
Further Information
For further information about the programme, please contact:
Dr John Quigley, Department of Management Science, University of Strathclyde, Graham Hills Building, 40 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1QE
Tel +44 (0) 141 548 3152 Fax +44 (0) 141 552 6686
Email: j.quigley@strath.ac.uk
How to Apply
Applications can be made at any time.
By Post Application forms are available from: Registry Business, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XQ, Tel: ++44 (0) 141 4170, Fax: ++44 (0) 141 5860
On Line Postgraduate Application Process