MSc Computer Science and Technology with Business Development (Advanced Practice)

Program Overview

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MSc Computer Science and Technology with Business Development (Advanced Practice)

Master of Science

Branch Campuses

Course Overview

Level of study: | Postgraduate degree
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Tuition Fees | Fees and Finances
Entry requirements: | A 2:2 honours degree, or International equivalent in the subject areas of computing, engineering, mathematics or related discipline
English language requirements: | IELTS 6.0 with no component less than 5.5, or equivalent Other English language tests are accepted, click here to find out more.
Mode of study: | Full-time
Duration: | 21 months
Assessment method: | Coursework
Student finance: | Available
Locations: | London
Birmingham
Manchester

Start dates: | January, May, September
Application deadline: | Next application deadline

About this course

In today’s increasingly connected world, there is a growing need for graduates capable of implementing cutting-edge technologies and techniques to tackle a variety of challenges. Machine learning, Big Data, cloud computing and other advanced technologies offer significant opportunities for businesses and graduates to solve problems and have fulfilling careers.

The MSc in Computer Science and Technology with Business Development was designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in the modern digital landscape.

This programme blends technical and computing knowledge with understanding of contemporary business issues to prepare you for industry demands now and in the future.

The programme offers a range of modules that focus on key areas such as strategy for business development, digital transformation, Big Data, and business analysis. These modules are designed to provide you with a deep understanding of the concepts and technologies that are driving the digital transformation of organisations.

Advanced Practice

The compulsory Advanced Practice element of this programme takes place after you have studied the taught modules at the Masters’ stage.

• undertake a 15-week long internship in computing, or applied consulting project, working with a real organisation on a live business problem
• gain experience of the workplace environment and enhance your practical and employ ability skills while working on “real-life” case study
• gain enhanced knowledge of the workplace which will facilitate the completion of your Masters Project.

Please note if you undertake an internship this may be paid or unpaid.

Course Duration

On successful completion of each stage of this programme of study, the duration will be 21 months, according to the following specific intake schedule:

| Sept-Jan |Jan-May |May-Sept |Sept-Jan |Jan-May |May-Sept |Sept-Jan
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Sept Start | Year 1 – Semester 1 Masters stage | Year 1 – Semester 2 Masters stage | Year 2- Summer Break | Year 2 – Semester 3 Advanced Practice stage | Year 2 – Semester 4 Masters stage | |
Jan Start | | Year 1 – Semester 1 Masters stage | Year 1 – Semester 2 Masters stage | Year 2- Autumn Break | Year 2 – Semester 3 Advanced Practice stage | Year 2 – Semester 4 Masters stage |
May Start | | | Year 1 – Semester 1 Masters stage | Year 1 – Semester 2 Masters stage | Year 2- Spring Break | Year 2 – Semester 3 Advanced Practice stage | Year 2 – Semester 4 Masters stage

Teaching methods

• You will be taught using a wide variety of teaching methods across the modules including lectures, seminars and tutorials. Typically, you will have 12-17.5 hours of contact time per week.
• In addition to your time in class, you will also be expected to engage in approximately 35 hours of self-study time per week.
• You will have access to Blackboard , our online learning environment, where you can access module resources and reading lists that will assist your preparation for classes and self-study.
• You’ll be taught by experienced lecturers and academics who use their industry and research experience to demonstrate how to apply best practice in software engineering to the development of a wide range of information systems in organisations.

Assessment

Each module is assessed by coursework only.

Careers and postgraduate opportunities

Student and employer needs are reflected in the development of this programme and evidenced in the career destinations and further development of our graduates.

Graduates will be prepared for a range of careers across a variety of sectors, with some of the roles including:

• Business Development Analyst
• Cloud Solutions Architect
• Digital Transformation Consultant
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Technical/Business Analyst
• IT/Business Consultant
• Software Engineers
• Software Developer for Business Applications
• Tech Entrepreneur
• IT Project ad Programme Managers
• Machine Learning Engineer and more
• Artificial Intelligence Practitioners

Modules

All modules are core and 20 credits unless specified.

Scalable Advanced Software Solutions

In this module, you’ll be introduced to contemporary server environments and related concepts, commands, their management and operation.

You will gain practical and theoretical experience with the scalable, cloud-based, architectures offered by solutions providers such as OpenStack, Amazon Web Services and Azure.

Additionally, you will examine advanced programming/development concepts facilitating high performance solution development.

Business Analysis Fundamentals

This module aims to provide you with the skills and capabilities required to undertake effective business analysis to manage and implement change, including in tech-driven business environment.

It focuses on developing the practical, evaluative, and analytical skills required to influence and develop strategy and performance that achieve sustainable outcomes.

You’ll learn:

• Analysis tools and processes
• How to understand and evaluate business needs
• Business problem solving
• Benefits realisation and impact measurement

Big Data & Infrastructure

Big Data is the term for a collection of datasets so large and complex that they become difficult to process using traditional database tools.

In this module, you will explore different ways of storing data, including:

• Traditional relational systems
• NoSQL and object stores
• Time series databases
• Semantic stores and graph stores

You will also learn about cloud computing and how to use it to access more resources. Additionally, you’ll explore the core concepts of distributed computing in the context of a data lake, including:

• Components of data lakes
• Workflows
• Functional programming concepts
• Use of MapReduce, Spark, Pig, and Hive

Digital Transformation

In this module, you’ll learn about digital transformation and how it can impact an organisation’s business model, products, and structure using digital technologies.

Digital technologies such as the Internet, social media, data analytics, and cloud computing have eliminated traditional boundaries of time and geography and created virtual communities with new demands for products and services. It has allowed businesses to improve productivity, reduce costs, and innovate.

By the end of this module, you’ll understand the impact of digital transformation in various organisational contexts, and you’ll be able to apply tools and frameworks to plan and implement a digital transformation strategy.

Data Science & Machine Learning

In this module, you’ll learn about data science and machine learning techniques that are used in many industries, including healthcare, finance, and sport. You will learn how these techniques are integrated into software applications and other solutions.

By the end of the module, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to understand the role of data science and machine learning in various industries and apply them to real-world problems.

Strategy for Business Development

This module is designed to help you develop strategic awareness and skills to analyse decisions in a range of contemporary perspectives and contexts.

It will provide you with an in-depth understanding of how strategy is created and sustained through the process of strategy development.

In this module, you will:

• learn about the process of strategic analysis and formulation from several perspectives and contexts
• develop critical and creative thinking skills to analyse strategic management processes
• have an opportunity to demonstrate an ability to learn and reflect on theory and practice to inform personal and organizational approaches to strategy.

Masters Project (60 credits)

This module is designed to provide you with the opportunity to implement the knowledge gained throughout this course and conduct in-depth literature research to solve a problem drawn from the research area.

The project will involve design, implementation, experimentation, and critical analysis of results.

The project will test your creativity, critical thinking abilities, project management, problem-solving skills and in-depth knowledge.

You will also learn how to analyse and critically evaluate concepts and demonstrate the ability to successfully conduct an independent programme of research and analysis with the aim of developing new knowledge and recommendations.

Applied Consulting Project in Computing (optional – 60 credits)

This applied module enhances your practical and employability skills by allowing you to undertake a consultancy project for real-life case study clients.

By participating in a Consultancy Project, you will gain practical experience in executing a real-life project that can be applied directly to your future professional endeavours post-graduation.

Internship in Computing (optional – 60 credits)

Through an internship in Computing, you will have the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills you have acquired throughout the course to a real-world organisational issue or problem.

You will also learn how best to present yourself to employers and develop professional workplace skills, which should enhance your future career prospects.

Academic requirements

• A 2:2 (second class) honours degree or International equivalent in the subject areas of computing, engineering, mathematics or related discipline

Non-standard entry

• In exceptional circumstances, if you do not meet the entry requirements above but have substantial and significant experiential learning, you may be able to apply as a non-standard applicant.

For country-specific entry requirements, please visit the entry requirements page.

If you are unsure whether your qualifications meet the entry requirements, please contact us and one of our team will contact you to discuss your options.

English language requirements

Applicants must satisfy our general entry requirements as well as meeting specific requirements.

• You will need to provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English (GCSE grade 4 – previously grade C – or equivalent).

The general entry requirements are any of the following:

• IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5, or equivalent

Tuition fees for 2024/25

• UK/Home students: £10,250
• International students:
  • London: £19,550
  • Birmingham: £18,000
  • Manchester: £18,000

Tuition fees for 2025/26

• UK/Home students: £10,250
• International students:
  • London: £20,050
  • Birmingham: £18,500
  • Manchester: £18,500

Deposit payments

All postgraduate students, both international and home, are required to pay a deposit towards their tuition fee. For more information about the deposit, please visit our finance page.

What do my tuition fees pay for?

The following is included in your tuition fees:

• Your teaching in class – this included seminars, lectures and tutorials
• Campus facilities and social spaces, including computers, Wi-Fi, printers, lockers and multi-faith rooms
• The ACE Team (Academic Community of Excellence) who can support you with your studies and assignments
• Careers and Employability Service, which provides help with CVs, applications and interviews through workshops, drop-ins and 1-2-1 appointments
• Facilities (computers, on-campus wi-fi, printers, vending machines)
• Library resources, both on-campus resources and an extensive online catalogue of resources
• Student Support, including the Welfare Team, Finance Team and more
• Students Advice & Support Centre (SASC), which is the first point of contact for all student support enquiries

Tuition fees do not cover the cost of subject books, stationery, printing and photocopying costs, accommodation, living expenses, travel, hobbies, sports or any other extracurricular activities.

Student finance loan

If you’re a UK postgraduate student, you may be eligible for government-funded financial support, such as:

• Tuition Fee Loans : Paid directly to the university for undergraduate students or to you for postgraduate students, requiring you to transfer the payment to the university

Visit the finance page to find more information.

Living costs

Tuition fees cover registration, teaching, and access to learning resources and support services. However, students are responsible for covering additional living expenses, including books, stationery, accommodation, and travel.

International students must meet UKVI financial requirements for visa purposes:

• £1,483 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses in London
• £1,136 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses outside of London

For detailed information, refer to the UKVI financial requirements.

Scholarships and discounts

For self-funding students, we also offer a range of academic scholarships and fee discounts. If you completed your undergraduate degree at an Ulster University branch campus, you may be eligible for an alumni scholarship. Scholarship availability and eligibility requirements vary. Contact us to find out more.

Program Outline

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MSc in Computer Science and Technology with Business Development (Advanced Practice)

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Degree Overview:

This MSc program equips you with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the digital era, combining technical expertise with understanding of business challenges. The program's curriculum blends advanced computing and technology knowledge with contemporary business issues to prepare you for industry demands now and in the future.

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Objectives:

• Develop adeptness in utilizing cutting-edge technologies and techniques to tackle various challenges.
• Acquire comprehensive knowledge in machine learning, Big data, cloud computing, and other advanced technologies to solve problems and pursue fulfilling careers.

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Outline:

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Modules (All are core and 20 credits unless specified):

• Scalable Advanced Software Solutions:
Acquires practical and theoretical experience with contemporary server environments, including advanced programming and development concepts facilitating high performance solution development.
• Business Analysis Fundamentals:
Provides skills and capabilities for effective business analysis to manage and implement change in tech-driven business environments. Focuses on practical, evaluative, and analytical skills to influence and develop strategy and performance for sustainable outcomes.
• Big Data & Infrastructure:
Explores various data storing methods including traditional relational systems, NoSQL and object stores, time series databases, semantic stores and graph stores. Delves into cloud computing for accessing more resources, and explores core concepts of distributed computing in the context of a data lake, including components, workflows, functional programming concepts, and use of tools like MapReduce, Spark, Pig, and Hive.
• Digital Transformation:
Understands the impact of digital transformation on business models, products, and structures using digital technologies. Learns about creating and sustaining strategy through the process of strategy development.
• Data Science & Machine Learning:
Acquires knowledge and skills in data science and machine learning techniques used in various industries, including integrating them into software applications and other solutions.
• Strategy for Business Development:
Develops strategic awareness and skills to analyze decisions in a range of contemporary perspectives and contexts, understanding how strategy is created and sustained through the development process.
• Masters Project (60 credits):
Independently designs, implements, experiments with, and critically analyzes results in an in-depth literature research project to solve a problem drawn from the research area. Tests creativity, critical thinking abilities, project management, problem-solving skills and in-depth knowledge. Analyzes and critically evaluates concepts, demonstrates ability to independently conduct program of research and analysis, and develop new knowledge and recommendations.
• Applied Consulting Project in Computing (optional - 60 credits):
Enhances practical and employability skills by undertaking a consultancy project for real-life case study clients. Gains practical experience executing a real-life project applicable to future professional endeavors post-graduation.
• Internship in Computing (optional - 60 credits):
Applies knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course to a real-world organizational issue or problem. Learns how to best present oneself to employers, develops professional workplace skills, and enhances future career prospects.

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Assessment:

Each module is assessed by coursework only.

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Teaching:

• Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, and tutorials, typically with 12-17.5 hours of contact time per week.
• Requires approximately 35 hours of self-study time per week in addition to class time.
• Access to Blackboard online learning environment with module resources and reading lists for preparation and self-study.
• Experienced lecturers and academics with industry and research experience demonstrate best practice in software engineering for developing various information systems in organizations.

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Other:

• Program subject to approval.
• 21-month program duration with various intake options and start dates.
• Located at London and Birmingham Campuses.

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UK/Home students: £10,250 International students: London: £19,550 Birmingham: £18,000