Program Overview
The Computer Science Masters/MSc degree program at the University of Birmingham is designed for non-computer science graduates seeking a technical foundation in the field. It features an intensive Software Workshop for programming proficiency, compulsory modules covering core computer science concepts, and a significant summer project involving software development or research. The program prepares graduates for high-demand careers in software engineering, artificial intelligence, information technology, and other computing-related fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Computer Science Masters/MSc degree course is designed for students who hold a first degree in a subject other than computing. It is a technical degree with a significant programming component, offering a grounding in both the fundamentals of computer science and practical software development skills. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge, expertise, and skills highly sought after by employers.
Outline:
The program is structured around three core components:
- Software Workshop: This intensive two-term training program focuses on programming, including lectures, supervised laboratory work, and small-group tutorials.
- Taught Modules: Students complete a series of compulsory modules covering various aspects of computer science.
- Summer Project: Students spend four months working on a project, which can range from applied software engineering to research-oriented work. Projects typically involve the development of a large software system and are selected from a list proposed by teaching staff or suggested by students.
Modules:
The program consists of 180 credits, including the following core modules:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (20 credits): This module explores the principles and applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
- Building Useable Software (20 credits): This module focuses on the design and development of user-friendly software systems.
- Computer Systems (20 credits): This module covers the fundamental concepts of computer systems, including hardware, software, and networking.
- Data Structures, Algorithms, and Databases (20 credits): This module explores data structures, algorithms, and database management systems.
- Project - Conversion MSc (60 credits): This module involves the independent research and development of a significant software project.
- Software Workshop 1 (20 credits): This module provides intensive training in programming fundamentals.
- Software Workshop 2 (20 credits): This module builds upon the skills learned in Software Workshop 1, focusing on advanced programming concepts.
Assessment:
- Software Workshop: Assessed through assignments in practical sessions, team projects, and a final examination.
- Taught Modules: Assessed through a variety of methods, including summer written examinations, practical assessments, or a combination of both.
- Project: Assessed through a report and a practical demonstration.
Teaching:
- The program utilizes a combination of lectures, supervised laboratory work, and small-group tutorials.
- The teaching staff includes experienced academics and industry professionals.
- The program benefits from the University of Birmingham's state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated laboratories for computer science students and research laboratories for security, medical imaging, intelligent robotics, and computer vision.
Careers:
Graduates of the Computer Science Masters/MSc program are highly sought after by employers in various sectors, including:
- Software Engineering: Developing software systems on time, within budget, and with minimal defects.
- Software Applications: Applying computing and technology to solve problems in fields such as education and medicine.
- Artificial Intelligence: Developing computers that simulate human learning and reasoning abilities.
- Theoretical Computer Science: Investigating the fundamental theories of how computers solve problems and applying the results to other areas of computer science.
- Operating Systems and Networks: Developing the basic software computers use to organize themselves or communicate with other computers.
Other:
- The program is different from IT programs, focusing on technical aspects and a significant programming component.
- Students from all backgrounds are welcome to apply, but competency in mathematics and scientific subjects is required.
- The University of Birmingham is a partner in The Alan Turing Institute, the UK's national institute for data science and artificial intelligence.
- The Security and Privacy Group at the University of Birmingham is recognized as an EPSRC/GCHQ Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Research.
- The program offers a comparable Computer Science Masters program at the Dubai campus.
UK students £11,340 International students: £31,410 Application Fee For international applicants this programme is subject to a £50 non-refundable application fee. At the end of the application form, before you can submit it to us, you will be required to pay, or indicate how you will pay the required fee in order for us to process your application. Please complete and submit your application before paying your application fee. Are you an international applicant? All international applicants to this course will be required to pay a non-refundable deposit of £2,000 on receipt of an offer, to secure their place. Find out more about the deposit >>.