MSc Computing

Program Overview

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Computing MSc

Overview

The Computing MSc is a conversion course designed for those whose first degree is not related to computing, but who now want to move into the industry. It is designed to fit the current needs of employers with topics that include software development, networks, database systems, and web development.

Course Structure

We use a wide variety of teaching and learning methods which include lectures, group work, research, discussion groups, seminars, tutorials, and practical laboratory sessions. Compared to an undergraduate course, you will find that this Masters requires a higher level of independent working.

Assessment is 100% coursework-based with no exams. Methods include individual written reports and research papers, practical assignments, and the Masters project.

Course Modules

Core Modules:

• Foundations of Computer Science (30 credits) Study the formal methods of logic, deduction, and reasoning which provide the foundations on which the field of computer science was built. Starting with the birth of counting systems in the pre-Christian era and transitioning through to the present day, explore several key themes including number theory, algorithms, Boolean algebra, logic, state machines, sets, functions, graphs, and trees. Explore current research themes, including an understanding of social, ethical, and legal issues in computing and develop your research skills for critical understanding and writing.
• Software Development (30 credits) Gain significant skills in building complex object-oriented software artefacts while using a range of software engineering methodologies. Define common programming paradigms and the role that software plays in a computer system. Use an industry-standard language and development environment (Python). Understand how to design, build, and develop computer software. Examine a range of appropriate conceptual design tools in order to effectively specify, visualise, and document your software.
• Computer Architectures and Networks (30 credits) Examine the basic architectures of a modern-day computer system. Study the various functions and operations of all the key principle hardware and software elements as well as looking at the many different types of computer systems available. Get inside real computers and see how the various components and subsystems operate. Examine the fundamentals and concepts behind computer communications including networking hardware (routers, switches, servers, firewall devices, network physical and logical addressing, network topologies, network structured design, configuration, and troubleshooting, protocols, local and wide area network technologies). Learn the fundamentals of securing networks.
• Database and Web Information Systems Development (30 credits) Learn basic web design principles and emerging trends in web development. Use a variety of web mark-up languages to create pages containing formatted text, hyperlinks, images, lists, and tables. Study web page design and the use of CSS to control type and layout of pages. Explore the use of multimedia to add animation, video, and sound. Design and develop both traditional and web-based information systems using relational and advanced database technology. Cover fundamental topics of databases including data models, database selection, database design, security, integrity, transaction management, database performance, client-server, and web-based database architectures, and advanced database topics such as database security, Big Data systems, data warehousing, NoSQL systems.
• Computing Masters Project (60 credits) Develop a practical deliverable and investigate an area of academic research through the support of a sponsor for example: an IT strategy; an investigative study; a technically challenging artefact (e.g., a feasibility study, design, implementation, re-engineered solution); or undertake a theoretical review based on a novel research question (provided by a research-active member of staff). Underpin the project with a literature review that is a conceptual framework of your study - a systematic synthesis of concepts, assumptions, expectations, beliefs, and theories that supports and informs your research.

Facilities

Sunderland’s outstanding IT facilities include the David Goldman Technology Centre, which has hundreds of computers so it’s easy to find a free workstation with the software you need.

We are also an accredited Cisco Academy and have two laboratories packed with Cisco networking equipment.

Entry Requirements

Our typical offer is:

• Qualification: a bachelor's degree (3 years)
• Minimum grade: 2:2 classification

If you already hold a postgraduate qualification, please see our Applying for additional postgraduate degrees Help and Advice article.

If you don't meet our standard entry requirements, you can take one of the foundation pathways at our partners ONCAMPUS Sunderland. Find out more information and whether your course is eligible on our ONCAMPUS page.

If your qualification is not listed above, please contact the Student Administration team at [insert email] for further advice.

This course is for applicants who do not have an undergraduate degree in a discipline related to computing. We usually require at least a 2:2 honours degree in any discipline. We will also consider applicants with other backgrounds and experience. We expect you to have basic IT skills.

If English is not your first language, please see our English language requirements.

Fees and Finance

2025/26 fees are:

• £9,000 if you are from the UK/Europe
• £17,000 if you are an international student

If you're unsure whether you qualify as a UK, EU, or international student, find out more in our Help and Advice article.

See the scholarships and bursaries that may be available to you.

This information was correct at the time of publication.

Career Ready

This course features relevant work experience that will enhance your skills, build up a valuable network of contacts, and boost your employability.

Career Options

On completing this course, you will be equipped as a skilled professional with essential up-to-date knowledge in computer networking and mobile communication technologies. You will also have advanced knowledge of systems development, including web-based and database systems development.

Our graduates have gone on to work in roles such as PHP Web Developer, Solutions Developer, and JavaScript Developer, while others have continued their studies and undertaken PhDs and other research degrees.

Potential employment includes roles in:

• Internet and systems development
• Database administration and development
• User systems analysis and support
• Technical computing knowledge management
• Technical support
• Consultancy
• Research and education

As part of the course, you will undertake a project solving a real-world problem. These projects are often sponsored by external clients, and we encourage and support you to find your own client and sponsor.

Program Outline

MSc Computing - University of Sunderland

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Degree Overview:

• This program is designed for those with first degrees in subjects other than computing who want to transition to a career in the IT sector.
• Aims to meet the current needs of employers with topics including:
• Software Development
• Networks
• Database Systems
• Web Development
• Covers the fundamentals of computer science and the basic architecture of a modern-day computer system.
• Develops your knowledge and experience of fundamental computing concepts needed for your future career.
• By the end, you'll have an expert understanding of the processes and knowledge needed to design, implement, and support an IT system.
• Be able to make a significant contribution to IT research activities and team-based IT projects.
• Allows you to change the direction of your career.
• Meets the requirements for registration as a Chartered IT Professional with the British Computer Society.

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Outline:

• Core Modules (30 credits each)
• Foundations of Computer Science:
Logic, reasoning, number theory, algorithms, Boolean algebra, logic, state machines, sets, functions, graphs, trees. Research skills.
• Software Development:
Python programming, software engineering methodologies.
• Computer Architectures and Networks:
Functioning of hardware/software elements. Network fundamentals, configuring/troubleshooting, protocols. Secure networks.
• Database and Web Information Systems Development:
web design principles, web page creation, advanced database topics.
• Computing Masters Project (60 credits):
Develop a practical deliverable investigating an area of academic research. (see other section)

Assessment:

100% coursework based, no exams. Includes:
• Individual written reports and research papers
• Practical assignments
• Masters project

Teaching:

Lectures, group work, research, discussion groups, seminars, tutorials, practical laboratory sessions. Higher level of independent work compared to undergraduate program.

Careers:

• Skilled professional with up-to-date knowledge in computer networking, mobile communication technologies.
• Advanced knowledge of systems development including web-based and database systems development.
• Potential roles in:
• Internet and systems development
• Database administration and development
• User systems analysis and support
• Technical computing knowledge management
• Technical support
• Consultancy
• Research and education
• Project sponsorships help gain real-world experience.

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Other:

• Accredited Cisco Academy with networking labs.
• High-performance computing platforms for complex tasks.
• Public mobile cellular network equipment/licences.
• Dedicated academic technical support for teaching, projects, and IT solutions.
• Open plan learning spaces with technology available for independent study.
• Access to extensive digital libraries and online resources.
• Project lab for final year project work.
• Graduates have become:
• PHP Web Developer
• Solutions Developer
• JavaScript Developer
• Some have pursued PhDs and other research degrees.
• Course features relevant work experience for enhanced skills and employability.
• Meets the current needs of employers.

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Fees are: £8,000 if you are from the UK/Europe £16,500 if you are an international student

• European Union (EU), EEA (European Economic Area), and Swiss nationals who do not qualify for the EU Settlement Scheme are classed as international, however, for 24/25 admission you will receive a European student fee scholarship and will pay the home tuition fee rate for the duration of your studies.
The discounted fee will be reflected in your offer letter. Learn more in our Help and Advice article.