Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
MSc Computer Science (Conversion)
Overview
This MSc conversion programme is for students from a variety of academic backgrounds who have little or no previous academic computing experience. The aims of the programme are to build:
- an understanding of the basis of computer science and its importance in software development;
- an understanding of the underlying principles of computer systems and their applications;
- an introduction to industrial-style methods of analysis, design, implementation, testing and documentation in software development.
Key Information
- Programme duration: One year full-time.
- Start date: September 2025
- Application deadline:
- Overseas applicants: 25 July 2025
- Home applicants: 8 August 2025
- Delivery method: On-Campus
- Location: Clifton
- Awards available: MSc
Programme Structure
The programme is split into two teaching blocks and a summer project that involves researching, planning and implementing a major piece of work with a significant scientific, technical or software development component. The main programming languages taught on the course are C and Java. There is a strong emphasis on individual and group projects for putting into practice what you learn about software engineering, web technologies, databases, computer architecture and research skills.
By the conclusion of the first teaching block, you will have a solid foundation in imperative programming and computer architecture. You will also have begun to acquire complementary technical skills through the software tools unit. By the end of the second teaching block, you will be able to apply industrial-style tools and techniques for software development and web applications in a teamworking context.
Over the summer you will implement and evaluate your project, and you will submit a dissertation describing your work in September.
Entry Requirements
- You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in any subject that is not related to computer science.
- Applicants with a degree in Computer Science or a related subject (including Computer Engineering, Intelligent Science and Technology or Software Engineering) are unsuitable for this conversion programme and cannot be considered.
- You will also need to demonstrate suitable mathematical skills, either with one unit of mathematics in your bachelor's degree or at least a Grade B/Grade 6 or above in GCSE Maths (or international equivalent).
Fees and Funding
- Home: full-time £18,400 per year
- Overseas: full-time £35,500 per year
- Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
Alumni Discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study.
Funding and Scholarships
- MyWorld Scholarships: UK offer holders for this programme may be eligible for a scholarship of up to £5,000 towards their tuition fees.
Career Prospects
This programme aims to provide a sufficiently comprehensive and practical foundation to enable you to start a new career in IT, or to stand out from the crowd and enhance your employment opportunities within your existing field.
It will also provide the required background in computer science to enable you to undertake further study, leading to the specialisation needed for a research career.
World-Leading Research
- The University of Bristol is ranked fifth for research in the UK (Times Higher Education).
- 94% of our research assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This MSc conversion programme is designed for students from diverse academic backgrounds with little to no prior computing experience.
- Acquire practical experience in industry-standard methods for software development, including analysis, design, implementation, testing, and documentation.
Outline:
The program is structured into two teaching blocks and a summer project.
Teaching Block 1:
- Focuses on imperative programming and computer architecture.
- Introduces research skills and familiarizes students with potential project topics.
Teaching Block 2:
- Emphasizes industrial-style tools and techniques for software development and web applications.
- Involves teamwork and collaboration.
Summer Project:
- Students research, plan, and implement a major project with a significant scientific, technical, or software development component.
Careers:
The program aims to provide a foundation for students to embark on new careers in IT or enhance their employment opportunities in their existing fields. It also prepares students for further study leading to specialized research careers.
Other:
- The program is taught on-campus in Clifton.
- The main programming languages taught are C and Java.
- There is a strong emphasis on individual and group projects.
- The University of Bristol is ranked fifth for research in the UK, with 94% of its research assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent.
UK: full-time £17,700 per year Overseas: full-time £34,200 per year For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
University of Bristol Summary
Overview:
The University of Bristol is a renowned public research university located in Bristol, England. It is known for its high academic standards, strong research output, and vibrant campus life. The university is ranked among the top universities in the world and the UK, consistently attracting top students and researchers.
Services Offered:
The University of Bristol offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Programs:
A diverse selection of academic programs across various disciplines.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Students' Union:
A dedicated student organization providing support, activities, and representation.Library:
Extensive library resources and facilities for research and study.Sport, Exercise, and Health:
Opportunities for participation in sports and fitness activities.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Bristol enjoy a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university is located in a dynamic city with a thriving arts scene, independent spirit, and alternative culture. Students have access to a wide range of clubs, societies, and events, fostering a strong sense of community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
High Academic Standards:
The university is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world and the UK, offering high-quality education.Strong Research Output:
The university is a leading research institution, with a focus on innovation and impact.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university offers a diverse and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community.Location in a Dynamic City:
Bristol is a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, independent spirit, and alternative culture.Excellent Career Prospects:
Graduates from the University of Bristol are highly sought after by employers.Academic Programs:
The University of Bristol offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts:
Arts, Music, Theatre, Film, and more.Science:
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and more.Engineering:
Aerospace, Civil, Electrical, and more.Medicine and Dentistry:
Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, and more.Social Sciences:
Economics, Politics, Sociology, and more.Law:
Law, Criminology, and more.Competence in mathematics must be demonstrated, with at least a B grade in GCSE Mathematics, A-level Mathematics or equivalent university-level experience. We will consider applicants whose grades are slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements, if they have a relevant postgraduate qualification. If this is the case, applicants should include their CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when they apply, showing details of their relevant qualifications.