Computer Science MSc

Program Overview

The University College Birmingham's Computer Science MSc/PGDip equips students with essential skills and knowledge for a dynamic career in the digital world. The program emphasizes practical application, offering extensive experience in cutting-edge IT facilities and an optional industry placement. With a focus on problem-solving and industry-relevant topics, graduates are prepared for various roles in the IT industry, including software development, systems analysis, and web development.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

The University College Birmingham's Computer Science MSc/PGDip aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a dynamic career in the digital world. The program focuses on equipping students with essential problem-solving skills and attributes to design and implement IT solutions.

Description:

The University College Birmingham's Computer Science postgraduate program delves into an array of essential topics for working in the IT industry. Students will explore artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, web engineering, object-oriented programming, databases, networks, and human-computer interaction (HCI). Additionally, they will learn to develop and apply vital problem-solving attributes, behaviors, and competencies in planning and implementing practical IT solutions.

Distinctive Features:

• Practical Application: Students will gain extensive practical experience in the program's cutting-edge IT facilities, including the Cyber Security Lab.
• Optional Placement: (MSc only) Gain real-world experience and industry connections through a three- or six-month industry placement.
• In-depth Research: Conduct your own master's research project to explore a specific topic in computing and technology.
• No Exams: Focus on practical assessments and coursework, eliminating written exams.
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Gain a foundational understanding of core AI concepts and machine learning ideas, exploring various AI concepts such as problem-solving, knowledge representation, and different types of learning problems and algorithms.
It also offers practical experience in utilizing prototyping techniques for developing and evaluating interactive technologies.
• Masters Research Project: Conduct a research project to develop your skills and expertise in critical data appraisal, research design, theoretical framework building, and project execution.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

The program utilizes various assessment methods:

• Coursework: 50%
• Practical assessments/projects: 50%

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program follows a blended approach, including:

• Large group teaching
• Smaller group teaching
• Tutorials
• Subject advice sessions

Teaching Schedule:

Students can expect up to 12 contact hours per week, including approximately 10 hours of large group teaching, 1 hour of smaller group teaching, 1 hour of tutorials, and 1-3 hours of subject advice sessions. An additional 20 hours per week will be dedicated to individual study time.

Careers:

Career Opportunities:

The program prepares graduates for various career paths in the IT industry, including:

• Software developer
• Systems analyst
• Database administrator (DBA)
• Computer security consultant
• Web developer
• IT project manager

Average Salaries:

The program provides indicative average salaries for graduates in various roles.

• Software developer: £31,000
• Systems analyst: £30,000 – £40,000
• Database administrator (DBA): £30,000
• Computer security consultant: £44,000
• Web developer: £26,000
• IT project manager: £32,000 – £50,000

Other:

• Admissions Requirements:
• MSc Computer Science:
A grade classification of 2:2 or international equivalent (no subject pre-requisites).
• PGDip Computer Science: A grade classification of third-class or international equivalent (no subject pre-requisites).
• Work-based Applicants: Five years of relevant managerial work experience with a meeting with the program team.
• Fees:
• UK Students:
£8,750 (MSc), £6,350 (PGDip)
• International Students:
£14,500 (2023/24), £15,000 (2024/25)
• Facilities: Access to cutting-edge IT facilities, including the Cyber Security Lab.
• Optional Placement: Opportunity for a three- or six-month industry placement (MSc only).
• Unibuddy Community: Connect with other Computer Science students before starting the program.
• Industry Relevance: The program focuses on industry-relevant skills and knowledge.
• Award-Winning University: Recognition for the quality of the program and institution.
• No Exams: Emphasis on practical learning and assessment.
• Research Opportunities: Explore your interests through a research project.

MSc, MA) in 2023/24, your fee for this academic year will be £14,500 per year. The course fee for academic year 2024/2025 is £15,000 per year.