MSc Computer Science

As computing continues to evolve at a remarkable pace, the expertise to harness the latest technology becomes more vital for organisations in every sector. Our MSc Computer Science course provides that expertise – helping you develop the specialist skills for a career in computing. 

On this Computer Science masters, you’ll explore themes around object-oriented programming, advanced computer networks, cloud software development and information systems and databases. You will learn advanced concepts, techniques and technologies to equip you for the practical side of investigating an issue and creating a system or solution to match.  Through this, you’ll gain a set of skills made for the modern professional world of computing.

You’ll also have the flexibility to set the direction for your postgraduate studies with a masters project of your own design. While you’ll have the one-to-one support of your supervisor, it’s a solo project – as much about developing computing skills as it is about building confidence and autonomy, vital skills for the workplace.

By the time you’re finished, you’ll be equipped with both theoretical understanding and practical abilities in computer science – ready to apply your advanced knowledge to real-world situations.

On our MSc Computer Science course, you’ll study seven core units covering a range of topics from programming fundamentals, to advanced level programming and software development.  You’ll also complete an independent, in-depth research project, supported by our academic team.

You can choose to study the course full-time over one year, or part-time, where you’ll complete the units over two years. You may also choose to take an additional one-year optional industry placement on the full-time route.

To bring you up to an advanced level of object orientated programming, you’ll examine topics such as user interfaces, database connectivity and techniques for building web-based applications using client-server systems, languages and protocols. To further advance your skills, you will also focus on principles, architectures, and protocols used in modern large-scale networked systems as part of the Advanced Computer Networks unit.

You’ll focus on enterprise applications and gain an understanding of software engineering techniques, programming, development and design for organisations to meet business needs. And, to give you a detailed understanding of cloud software development, you’ll study a unit looking at the practical implementation of cloud applications, using current software methodologies and cloud suppliers.

Finally, you will complete an in-depth, independent research project. With the support of our academic and technical team, you’ll undertake a piece of research on a topic of your choice related to your studies. This will involve designing, implementing and evaluating a substantial piece of software and documenting the research through writing a dissertation. 

Studying as part of the Department of Computing and Mathematics, you’ll have access to an extensive range of industry-standard equipment in our specialist labs. Our exceptional team of experts in their field are there to support you at every step, alongside our researchers who are working at the cutting edge of computing science.