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High-Performance Parallel & Distributed Systems - COM00036H

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  • Department: Computer Science
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25

Module summary

This module introduces and explores the use of high-performance computing, and related technologies.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2024-25

Module aims

This module introduces and explores the use of HPC and related technologies, covering on and off node parallelism, accelerators, and memory management. Students will understand the increasingly important role that HPC plays in science and engineering. Throughout the module, students will practice by developing programs using a range of parallel programming paradigms like OpenMP and MPI.

Module learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate the development of parallel programs on shared memory systems using popular programming paradigms.
  • Be able to understand appropriate metrics to assess the performance of applications and systems.
  • Demonstrate the development of parallel programs on distributed memory systems using appropriate parallel programming libraries.
  • Be able to explore the design space afforded by parallel and distributed systems, including issues of GPU programming, high-speed networking, and I/O.
  • Be able to reason about the performance, portability, and productivity of different approaches to developing HPC applications.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Module feedback

Feedback is provided through work in practical sessions, and after the final assessment as per normal University guidelines.

Indicative reading

Introduction to High Performance Scientific Computing, Eijkhout, Victor; van de Geijn, Robert; Chow, Edmond


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.