MSc Computing
MSc Computing with placement
Designed for graduates who want to move into computing from another discipline, this one-year programme attracts students from diverse career and subject areas who wish to be introduced to the skills required for a technical computing role. The MSc Computing programme supports the technical abilities needed to develop effective software and systems. The world’s dependency on complex IT means that the skills you will learn on this course are highly valuable.
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
Through this programme you will get a first hand understanding of what computational systems can achieve and the vital problem solving role of software. You will learn, practice and demonstrate the professional skills required by all software engineers, individually or as a part of a team, when developing a software solution.
Through a gentle introduction and intensive support, you will be introduced to programming skills using important languages such as Java and Python. Emphasis is placed on handling data and you will develop essential skills in SQL (Structured Query Language) for advanced database functionality using industry standard products such as Oracle™.
A choice of taught optional modules allow you to further develop skills in areas of your choice. Finally 60 credits of the 180 credit programme concern a dissertation with 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 for 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 other than computing. 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,
Key facts
Duration: 1 year, full-time, 2 years full-time with a maximum 10 month industrial placement or 3 year, part-time study.
Typical entry requirements: A good honours degree (normally 2:2 or above), or equivalent professional qualification in a subject other than computing.
If your first language is not English you must provide evidence of competence in the language. Our standard requirement is an overall IELTS result of at least 6.5 with no area less than 6. Other qualifications are accepted.
Admission FAQ (Frequently Asked
Questions)
Email: comsc-pg@cs.cardiff.ac.uk
Telephone: +4429 2087 4812
Recognised by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT
Your future
Recent graduates have gained employment in roles such as systems analysts, business analysts, IT consultants, support engineers and software developers.
MSc Computing graduates are employed by organisations of all sizes locally, nationally and internationally. For example recent graduates have taken up positions with local NHS Trusts, Logica, Sun Microsystems, BT, and the National Library of Medicine in the USA.
"After completing my biological sciences degree in 1999 I had several jobs but began to feel that my career had lost focus and that I wasn't reaching my full potential. The MSc in Computing offered the perfect opportunity to learn new skills and move into a different area. I chose Cardiff because of the wide range of topics taught on the course and its reputation for having a high quality of teaching. Overall I found the course challenging but very rewarding."
S Bannister returned to education to study MSc Computing after achieving her first degree in the biosciences.
Related degrees
If you are considering studying this degree you might also be interested in these programmes: