MSc in Computing Science

If your first degree is not in computing but you want to move into IT then our BCS accredited MSc in Computing Science is ideal for you.

Our course is rooted in real-world and industry-relevant experiences. It provides the basis for starting a career in computing and IT. We will teach you the fundamentals of:

• programming
• hardware
• networks
• software engineering.

You will develop a sound knowledge of computer software development for a range of problem areas, such as:

• interactive websites
• stand-alone applications
• network systems.

Our teaching staff have extensive experience in research and university teaching. As well as a wide range of previous industrial and commercial backgrounds.

Due to the emphasis on software system construction and management, and data organisation, this qualification is applicable to a wide variety of fields concerned with using computers. As well as directly to the computer industry itself.

Study modules

Compulsory modules

• Research, Scholarship and Professional Skills (20 credits)
  This module is designed to equip you with the tools necessary for the scholarship and research skills needed for the computing field as well as equipping you with the professional skills and outlook needed for a lifelong career in the computer industry.
• Object-Oriented Programming (20 credits)
  This module covers the principles of programming and object orientation, giving you the opportunity to apply these using an object-oriented programming language.
• Data Science Foundation (10 credits)
  This half-module presents an overview of core data science concepts and tools, focusing on real-life data science research questions with practical exposure to a suitable programming language as an integral part of the course.
• Introduction to Machine Learning (10 credits)
  This half-module will enable you to analyse a machine learning problem, critically evaluate the different approaches that are available, and create an effective solution.
• Advanced Software Development (20 credits)
  This module studies current practices, skills and techniques applied to managing software development related projects, individually and in project teams. It combines theory with pragmatic and professional insights and considers requirements engineering, project management, risk, quality assurance, usability and HCI issues.
• Modern Computer Systems (20 credits)
  This module introduces the concepts, operations and components of computer systems and the principles of computer networks. You will have the opportunity to create and maintain an IT system similar to that found in many SMEs.
• Cyber security and the web (20 credits)
  This module introduces key concepts in cyber security and web development giving you the skills to design and build interactive websites and to ensure that those websites are secure.

Final project

• MSc Dissertation in Computer Subjects (60 credits)
  This is an individual research and development project that allows you to study a topic of your choice in-depth, guided by your supervisor. The work may be undertaken in close co-operation with a research, industrial or commercial organisation. You undertake your dissertation over the summer period.

Learning and teaching

Lectures serve to provide a theoretical basis, while the practical sessions are used to strengthen your understanding by active involvement.

Coursework and projects form the basis for continuous assessment. Many of the modules are enriched by the teaching staff's research expertise. There are also visiting lecturers from research organisations and industries.

Assessment

We use the following assessment methods:

• coursework exercises
• projects
• presentations
• lab work
• reports
• examinations.

Research

The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics is home to world-leading and award-winning research.

Our focus is on user-inspired original research with real-world applications. We have a wide range of activities from model-driven system design and empirical software engineering through to web technologies, cloud computing and big data, digital forensics and computer vision.

Staff and students collaborate on projects supported by the EPSRC, the EU, the DTI, and several major UK companies.

Computing achieved an excellent assessment of its UoA (Unit of Assessment) 11 return for REF 2014 (Research Excellence Framework).

Students on this course can be involved with research in the following research groups:

• Institute for Ethical Artificial Intelligence
• Advanced Reliable Computer Systems (ARCoS)
• Applied Software Engineering and Data Analytics (ASEDA)
• Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity group (CCC)
• Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Group (AIR)
• Visual Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (VAIL)

Our MSc students come from all over the world and graduate to follow careers in technical, business-related and creative roles. For example as:

• developers
• engineers
• IT managers
• web developers.

Whatever their interest, our graduates tell us that the relevance of our courses and the skills they've learnt enable them to achieve their goals and build their careers.