MSc Computer Science

The standard minimum entry requirements for this course are:

• An honours degree in a relevant subject such as Computer Science, Data Science, Computing, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, Joint Computer Science + Arts/Humanities programme. 
• OR a professional qualification recognised as equivalent to an Honours degree in a technology-related or engineering discipline. 
• AND typically, at least Grade B/Grade 6 at GCSE Mathematics.

For fees and funding information, please see website 

Computing graduates are highly sought after across many sectors and our degrees facilitate progression to a wide range of careers in both industry and academia. Graduates can join large companies or start their own business using their engineering skills and their knowledge of computational innovation.

Graduates can become:

• Software engineers for technology companies and film and television production industries
• Applications developers for dominant mobile platforms such as Apple and Google
• Cyber security specialists and technology analysts
• Web technologists and developers
• Founders of technology start-ups

Opportunities for Further study:

• PhD level study both within the CCI and at other institutions nationally and internationally

Term 1

Algorithms and Complexity (20 credits):

You will be introduced to advanced algorithms through mathematics and programmingfor advanced analysis of data and machine learning optimisation. You will create and analyse computational models using approaches such as stochastic and gradient algorithms, dynamic programming algorithms and primal and dual methods. This will develop your understanding of how algorithms might be improved to tackle current and emerging problems.

Advanced Data Structures for AI (20 credits):

You will learn advanced data structures and representations, including for complex multidimensional feature processing and storage. You will consider how different types of structures are useful for different kinds of contexts and problems from schemaless structures to complex multidimensional in-core representations. You will also explore linked lists, binary trees, heap/stack/queue data, dynamic arrays, hashing and graphs.

Term 2

Cyber Security Futures and Ethics (20 credits):

You will be given opportunities to gain experience in targeted penetration testing and undertake training and exercises such as cybersecurity essentials certification. You will be taught to use techniques including advanced static program analysis and report interpretation, threat analysis and mitigation. You will also have the opportunity to use tools such as Burpsuite to carry out live testing to analyse security risks in online applications.

Advanced Software Engineering (20 credits):

Software engineering methods are critical for software development. This unit will develop your understanding of how to work as part of a contemporary software team. You will be exposed to software engineering approaches across relevant industry standard languages, tools and frameworks including JavaScript, C/C++ and Python. Software engineering will feature heavily in project work, both supporting and adding to your learning.

Term 3:

Advanced Interactive Systems: Design and Development (20 credits)
Discover the synergy of Computer Graphics and Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) in this advanced unit. Unveil the power of Computer Graphics in shaping interactive systems, crafting immersive visual experiences. Delve into HCI principles merged with interface design, prioritizing intuitive user interactions. Explore how these elements converge, redefining innovation in interactive system design.

Computational Entrepreneurship and Ethics (20 credits):

This MSc course has a strong focus on ‘tech for good’ and seeks to contribute to UAL’s social purpose mission. In this unit, you will develop your skills in entrepreneurship and futures thinking and learn how to embed ethics into your computing practice. You will be introduced to a range of product development case studies, evaluating their social, cultural and ethical impacts. This contextual knowledge will help you to develop realistic, informed project plans, considering team requirements, investment requirements and market placement.

Summer Period

Thesis Project (60 credits):

The final thesis project will allow you to create a significant piece of work demonstrating the advanced knowledge and abilities you have gained during the course. Throughout your project, you will be supported by staff with professional experience in writing software for real-world scenarios. You will also be offered the option to work with staff to develop research projects based on staff expertise and topic specialisms.