Computer Science (MSci)

Program Overview

The Computer Science (MSci) program at Cardiff University is a 4-year full-time program that combines undergraduate and postgraduate study. It provides advanced mastery of computer science, with a focus on emerging technologies and research-informed teaching. Graduates are highly sought after in various sectors, with strong employment prospects and opportunities for further study and research.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Qualification: Master of Science (MSci) in Computer Science
• Duration: 4 years
• Mode: Full-time
• Structure:
• Combines undergraduate and postgraduate study.
• Year 1-3: Fundamentals of computer science with increasing complexity in later years.
• Year 4: Advanced topics, research focus, team project.
• Objectives:
• Develop advanced mastery of the discipline.
• Gain competitive edge in graduate employment and research careers.
• Enhance technical, analytical, and professional skills.
• Be exposed to a wide set of skills and knowledge across computer science research.
• Contribute to new research and technology with team-based project.

Outline:

• Year 1:
• Introduction to fundamental computing skills and concepts:
• Programming (Python, Java™)
• Internet and web technologies
• Computer architecture and operating systems
• Software engineering principles
• Mathematics for computer science
• Year 2:
• Advanced topics, choice in pathways:
• Theoretical computer science
• Applied/data analysis
• Systems
• Group project: Design and implement a software system
• Year 3:
• Focus on emerging technologies and advanced topics.
• Continuation of pathways chosen in Year 2.
• Individual project supervised by academic staff.
• Year 4:
• Compulsory team project under academic supervision.
• Selection of modules from carefully selected research-informed options.
• Modules grouped by research area:
• Visual Computing
• Cyber Security and Risk Management
• Knowledge Representation
• Penetration Testing and Malware Analysis
• Machine Learning for NLP
• Introduction to Computational Robotics
• Distributed and Cloud Computing
• Automated Reasoning
• Computer and Network Forensics
• Internet of Things: Systems Design
• Social Computing
• Advanced Topics in NLP
• Programming Paradigms
• Developing Secure Systems and Applications
• Principles of Machine Learning
• Applications of Machine Learning
• Computational Linguistics

Assessment:

• Each module will have its own assessment format:
• Written examinations
• Assessed coursework
• Combination of both
• Assessment designed to:
• Develop key skills: referencing, information retrieval, critical thinking
• Promote independent study and knowledge comprehension
• Assess programming and design skills
• Evaluate ability to perform well under time constraints

Teaching:

• Strong emphasis on research-informed teaching.
• Variety of teaching methods:
• Lectures
• Lab-based practicals
• Example classes
• Tutorials
• Help sessions
• Contact hours:
• Year 1: 15-20 hours per week
• Year 2-3: Reduced contact hours as skills development progresses
• Year 4: Series of full- or half-day contact sessions (lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials, labs)
• Additional resources:
• Learning through Cardiff University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Learning Central
• Online course materials

Careers:

• High demand for skilled computer scientists, leading to strong graduate employment prospects.
• Transferable skills for various career paths and sectors.
• Recent graduate success in roles like:
• Software Engineer
• Web Developer
• Computer Programmer
• Associate Software Developer
• Business Analyst
• Systems Development Officer
• Notable employers of graduates:
• Airbus Group
• Amazon
• BBC
• BT
• Cardiff University
• Capgemini
• Confused.com
• GCHQ
• IBM
• Lloyds Banking Group
• MoD
• Morgan Stanley
• Sky
• South Wales Police
• Thomson Reuters
• Further study and research opportunities also available.

Other:

• Course has excellent reputation, as evidenced by recent QAA review.
• Emphasis on feedback and improvement throughout the course.

Fees for home status

We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees in the second and subsequent years of a course as permitted by law or Welsh Government policy. Where applicable we will notify you of any change in tuition fee by the end of June in the academic year before the one in which the fee will increase.

Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland

We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Learn more about the undergraduate fees for students from the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.

Course specific equipment

What the student should provide: You will need to provide a calculator that satisfies Cardiff University examination regulations. What the University will provide: Computer laboratories equipped with modern computers.

Accommodation

We have a range of residences to suit your needs and budget.

Living costs

We're based in one of the UK's most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff.