Computer Science MSc / PGDip

Program Overview

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COMPUTER SCIENCE

MSc / PGDip

Overview

Our computing master’s course explores an array of current core topics for working in the IT industry. You will explore areas including artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, web engineering, object-oriented programming, databases, networks and human-computer interaction (HCI). In the process, you will also learn to develop and apply vital problem-solving attributes, behaviours and competencies towards planning and implementing IT solutions.

Why should I choose to study Computer Science MSc / PGDip?

• PRACTICAL APPLICATION – Develop your practical computing skills in our excellent IT facilities including a dedicated Cyber Security Lab
• WORK PLACEMENT (MSc only) – Complete an optional three-month or six-month placement in the IT sector to boost your experience and industry connections on successful completion of the taught part of the course
• IN-DEPTH RESEARCH – Explore a topic within computing and technology in depth by conducting your own master’s research project
• NO EXAMS – If you are not keen on exams, this course is for you. Unlike many degrees in this field, you will have no written exams during or at the end of the course and will be assessed through practical assessments and coursework only
• AWARD-WINNING UNIVERSITY – Study at the highest-ranking university in the region according to student choice (Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023)

Our facilities

As a student on our postgraduate computing course, you will have access to cutting-edge IT facilities on campus, including our purpose-built Cyber Security Lab.

Course breakdown

Core Modules

• Object-Oriented Programming for Software Development
  • This module introduces and develops object-oriented design and programming skills. You will learn object-oriented design and programming skills using data structures, design patterns, polymorphism and concurrency (threads and multi-processing). You will work individually to develop an application based on a specification that you will analyse to produce a design, implement and test.
• Web Engineering
  • In this module, you will learn to build websites using emerging web engineering techniques and standards. You will cover web standards, system frameworks and protocols before moving onto development of multi-platform, multi-device web applications. You will learn how to use automated testing and version control before finally deploying your application securely.
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • This module will introduce you to the fundamental understanding of core artificial intelligence (AI) concepts and machine learning ideas. It explores various AI concepts such as problem-solving (problem representation, uninformed and informed search), knowledge representation (logic-based languages, e.g. description logic, ontologies and the semantic web) and machine learning. This module will further cover the types of learning problems (classification, regression, clustering etc.) and the taxonomy of machine learning algorithm topics such as Bayesian networks, decision tree learning, support vector machines, supervised, unsupervised and reinforcement learning. You will learn how to apply these methods to real-life problems.
• Data Warehousing
  • This module aims to provide the key concepts and principles of data technologies ranging from database to data warehousing. You will learn database fundamentals, how to apply appropriate tools to design and develop a database system, SQL syntax and queries to manage a database for a substantial problem. It will further help you acquire in-depth specialised knowledge in data warehousing areas, including principal theories, analytical foundations, and the key considerations for data warehousing development. This module also explores new ideas and emerging trends such as data analytics, big data, and cloud computing associated with data warehousing.
• Computer Networks and Virtualisation
  • This module covers advanced topics in networking and data transmissions by setting an in-depth understanding of the issues associated with network services. It considers modelling, simulation, emulation, planning and optimisation of communication networks. It explores various networking algorithms to provide you with an insight into cutting-edge and emerging computer network technology, such as network virtualisation, concepts of virtualisation and cloud computing, including network principles and architectures. By the end of this module, you will be able to design, explain, and test different networks and protocols, select appropriate approaches to the network stack level, and justify the choices made by implementing physical and logical networks.
• Human-Computer Interaction
  • This module introduces principles of human-computer interaction (HCI) in the context of evaluation paradigms. It contains the fundamental concepts and methods for understanding users, stakeholders, contexts and requirements, and a practical experience of how these requirements can be met using methods for requirements elicitation, interface design, and usability evaluation. The module aims to provide you with a working knowledge of interaction design and user experience principles with an end-to-end interaction design process. By the end of the module, you will be able to utilise prototyping techniques for developing and evaluating interactive technologies using appropriate tools and software.
• Masters Research Project
  • This module introduces you to the disciplines and techniques required for critical appraisal of complex data and industry practice; creating research designs and accompanying research techniques; building theoretical frameworks, and the scheduling and execution of a research project. The module will develop your skills and expertise in the essential research tools you will need both for successful postgraduate study and as a leader in your chosen service industry sector.

Entry requirements

• MSc Computer Science – A grade classification of 2:2 is required, or international equivalent.
• PGDip Computer Science – A grade classification of third-class is required, or international equivalent.
• There are no subject pre-requisites for this programme.

Work-based

• We also consider applicants who are currently employed and wish to apply to University College Birmingham.
• To apply, you must have five years of relevant managerial work experience, demonstrating in-depth knowledge of the sector for the subject matter you are interested in pursuing.
• A reference detailing your roles and responsibilities from your line manager and a meeting with the programme team will usually be scheduled prior to a place being offered.

International students

For academic and English entry requirements for EU and international students, please visit the Country Specific Information page.

Additional

If you have any questions, please complete our enquiry form.

Key information

• Teaching and assessment
  • Note: Indicative information only – actual timetables and assessment regimes will be issued at your induction.
  • Teaching
    • Example of a typical teaching week (up to 12 contact hours):
      • Large group teaching – 10 hours (in lecture rooms/specialist facilities)
      • Smaller group teaching – 1 hour
      • Tutorials – 1 hour
      • Subject advice sessions – 1-3 hours
    • You will also need to commit around 20 hours per week for individual study time.
  • Assessment
    • Estimated breakdown of assessment for this course:
      • Coursework – 50%
      • Practical assessment/projects – 50%

Timetable

We understand that you need to balance study with work, so wherever possible your lessons will be timetabled into 2-3 days a week for full-time and one day a week for part-time study.

Tuition fees for home students

If you are a home student enrolling on a postgraduate degree course at University College Birmingham in 2024/2025, the tuition fee for full-time study will be £9,350 per year. For part-time study, the fee will be £4,675 per year.

In 2025/2026, the tuition fee for [Band 1] courses for full-time study will be £9,500 per year. For part-time study, the fee will be £4,750 per year.

Tuition fees for international students

If you are an international student (or have been fee assessed as an international fee payer) and enrolling on a full-time postgraduate degree course in 2024/2025, the fee for the academic year will be £15,000. If you complete a placement year, there will be an administration fee of £500 for a full year or £250 for a half-year placement.

In 2025/2026, the tuition fee for [Band 1] courses will be £17,000 for the academic year.

Work placements

Work placements are vital for gaining real-life experience and for building your confidence and skills before you finish your course – and they may even lead to a job when you graduate.

Our MSc Computer Science course features the option of a three-month or six-month placement on successful completion of the taught part of the course. You are required to secure your own placement with the support of our experienced HIRED team.

Career opportunities

The example roles and salaries below are intended as a guide only.

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

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

The program utilizes various assessment methods:

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

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The program follows a blended approach, including:

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

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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.

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Careers:

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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

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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

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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.

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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.