MSc Computer Science
MSc Computer Science with placement

Designed for computing graduates who wish to differentiate themselves further through an advanced mastery of the discipline, this flagship programme offers exposure to state-of-the-art topics that are driving key technological developments and trends.

To enhance your CV further you can opt for a two-year programme and apply for a paid 12-month work placement (year in industry).

The course

Computer Science is one of the fastest moving academic disciplines and the outcomes of research and innovation in this field have a massive social impact. The subject spans all aspects of modern life, and this programme offers you the opportunity to apply new skills and advanced techniques to the area of your choice, whilst allowing you to demonstrate that you are at the forefront of your discipline.

Core to this programme is the opportunity to further develop the scope of your problem solving skills by studying advanced programming languages and new programming paradigms. A module in e-commerce and innovation will enhance your transferable skills and employment prospects. You will choose to study optional, research-led modules that allow the freedom to build a distinctive personal portfolio of skills and knowledge. In 2012-13 optional topics will include Web and Social Computing and Forensics, Trust and Identity (which includes the opportunity to gain external accreditation for use of forensic tools including the market-leading Micro Systemation XRY forensic software).

During the summer months you will undertake an individual research project and complete a dissertation under the supervision of a member of academic research staff. The topic for this will be driven by your own interests.

Successful graduates will be able to demonstrate to employers both a deep understanding and broad knowledge concerning state-of-the-art computer science from a research and development perspective. 60 credits of the 180 credit programme concern the dissertation and individual supervision. The programme is delivered using our cutting edge learning resources, which have been voted as the best in the UK by our students in 2010-11.

This degree programme follows a modular pattern based on two semesters of taught material, followed by an individual project. To achieve the MSc degree you will need 180 credits; 120 credits will come from taught modules and 60 credits from your project.

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Modules taught in 2012-13

See all modules and documents relating to this degree. Please note that these documents are valid for the current academic year only.

Full time, part time or with placement

Study for one-year full time or part time over three years (60 credits per year with the dissertation in year 3). Full time students may choose to apply for a paid 10-month work placement to be undertaken on completion of Spring semester and before completing the MSc programme with a 60 credit dissertation. Subject to satisfactory progress we will support you with our professional and experienced work placement consultants who aim to satisfy your individual preferences.

Admissions criteria

We welcome applications from computer literate graduates who have a good honours degree (normally 2i or above), or equivalent professional qualification in a subject such as Computer Science or a related subject. We are always pleased to consider suitably qualified international applicants. If your first language is not English you must provide evidence of competence in English. Our standard requirement is an overall IELTS result of at least 6.5 with no area less than 6 (other English Language qualifications are accepted by the University), the University offers English language courses which can help you achieve this. We are committed to providing equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

How to apply

The course starts in September each year but applications are considered as they arrive throughout the year. Full details of the university application process, and the Online Application Service are available from the University's pages for prospective students. Please feel free to supplement your application with a detailed CV or any other supporting material you may consider to be appropriate.

If you have any questions about the course or the application process please contact the Admissions Tutor,