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MSc Computer Science

The Computer Science degree course from University of Birmingham is for students who have a first degree in a subject other than computing. Established in 1969, it is now the longest-running conversion programme to computing in the UK.

Quick Facts

  
Full-Time Duration: 1 year 
Starting in: September
Tuition Fee: £27,540 per year
Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom

The Computer Science degree course from University of Birmingham is different to IT programmes, in that it is a technical degree with a significant programming component. It is designed to give you a grounding in both the fundamentals of computer science and practical software development skills through a series of compulsory modules. Students from all backgrounds are welcome to apply. Competency should be demonstrated in mathematics and scientific subjects, for example at ‘advanced’ high school level, which should allow understanding of the new Computer Science subjects.

The core components of this degree course are a software workshop, taught modules and a summer project. The software workshop involves two terms of intensive training in Java programming, including lectures, supervised laboratory work and small-group tutorials.

The four summer months are spent working on your project. Projects vary from applied software engineering through to work that is linked to our research groups. The common factor is that almost all projects involve the development of a large software system. Usually, projects are selected from a list of topics proposed by the teaching staff (possibly on behalf of an external customer) or you can suggest your own project, providing it is appropriate.

Courses included:

  • Data Structures, Algorithms, and Databases
  • Software Workshop
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Building Useable Software
  • Computer Systems

“The transition from undergrad to postgrad can be a big step up in terms of workload and what is expected of you, but there is so much support available to you as a postgrad student, from academic writing support (if you’ve been out of education for a few years or just want a bit of extra help) to mental health and wellbeing services. The careers support is fantastic – the uni puts on employer fairs throughout the year and you have access to one on one support from the Careers Network team, who can help you develop your skills ready for your next step!”

Emma Sutton // PhD Psychology

Careers

A dynamic, fast-moving sector that offers exciting careers and excellent rewards.

The term computing covers every kind of digital technology that we use to create, store, communicate, exchange and use information. This makes it the foundation for small and large businesses to build their strategies and grow. It is also the key to making our personal lives easier and more fun: mobile phones, online shopping, social media – we owe them all and a lot more to computer science.

Requirements

  • 2:1 Honours degree in any subject other than computing. Students who have not studied in English must pass a recognised English test.
  • Please note that we are operating a staged admissions process for this programme as it is very competitive, and as such this is the minimum entry requirement.

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