| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Imperial College London's MSc Computing program offers a one-year, full-time immersion in computer science for graduates from non-computing fields or individuals seeking career advancement. The program emphasizes core skills, including programming, computer systems, and software engineering, while allowing students to explore specialized areas through elective modules. Students also work on a substantial individual project, developing their research and problem-solving abilities.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The MSc Computing program at Imperial College London is a one-year, full-time program designed for graduates of disciplines other than computing who wish to acquire core computing skills for a career in the computer industry. It is also suitable for those looking to retrain in IT or prepare for further PhD study. The program aims to provide students with:
- Intensive training in computer science: Students will deepen their understanding and knowledge of computer science, acquiring practical skills in basic and specialized topics.
- Core computing skills: The program equips students with the essential skills needed for a career in the computer industry.
- Exploration of major programming paradigms: Students will explore the major paradigms of programming, including declarative, imperative, and object-oriented programming.
- Development of a large software project: A significant focus of the program is on developing a large software project, allowing students to apply their knowledge and build problem-solving skills.
Core Modules:
- Principles and Practice of Programming: This module covers the principles of programming and provides practical experience in designing and implementing solutions to computational programming problems.
- Computer Systems: This module provides core knowledge of the organization and operations of a typical computer system.
Optional Modules:
Students must choose five elective modules from three groups:
- Group A: Logic and Mathematics for Computing (designed for students with limited or no logic/mathematics content in their undergraduate degree)
- Group B: Advanced Computer Architecture, Computational Finance, Scheduling and Resource Allocation, Principles of Distributed Ledgers
- Group C: Databases, Computer Vision, Graphics, Introduction to Machine Learning, Logic-Based Learning, Network and Web Security, Advanced Computer Graphics, Cryptography Engineering, Probabilistic Inference, Computer Networks and Distributed Systems, Software Engineering Design, Algorithms, Quantum Computing, AI Ventures
Individual Project (Core):
Students undertake a substantial individual project over the final five months of the program, culminating in a dissertation and oral presentation. The project can be based on a proposal from a member of staff, the student's own idea, or a combination of both.
Assessment:
The program uses a variety of assessment methods:
- Written exams: 36% of the overall assessment
- Coursework: 20% of the overall assessment
- Reports: Included in coursework assessment
- Presentations and demonstrations: Included in coursework assessment
- Written assignments: Included in coursework assessment
- Lab work: Included in coursework assessment
- Dissertation: 44% of the overall assessment
- Oral presentations: Included in dissertation assessment
Teaching:
The program employs a variety of teaching methods:
- Lectures: Delivering core concepts and theories
- Tutorials: Providing opportunities for students to ask questions and receive feedback
- Practical work: Applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios
- Group project work: Developing teamwork and collaboration skills
- Independent reading: Encouraging self-directed learning
- Lab work: Gaining hands-on experience with software and tools
- Individual research project: Fostering independent research skills
Careers:
The MSc Computing program prepares students for a variety of career paths in the computing industry and academia. Graduates are sought after in roles such as:
- Application/web development
- Networking
- AI
- Media
- Finance
- Robotics
- Computer games Other potential career paths include:
- Chip design
- Cyber security
- Data management
- Bio-medical systems
- Transport
Other:
- The program is delivered by the Department of Computing at Imperial College London.
- The course director is Dr. Anandha Gopalan.
Home fee:
£22,250
Overseas fee:
£41,750
Overview:
Imperial College London is committed to achieving excellence in research and education across science, engineering, medicine, and business, aiming to benefit society through its strategic vision. The college leverages its strong disciplinary foundations, collaborative culture, global partnerships, and top-tier ranking to address significant global challenges through its ambitious strategy, "Science for Humanity."
Mission and Values:
Imperial College London's mission is to harness science and innovation for the greater good, focusing on societal impact. The institution emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and aims to nurture talent, drive innovation, and tackle global grand challenges. Core values include a dedication to inquiry, precision, and a scientific mindset that drives understanding and transformation.
Unique Approach:
Imperial College London stands out for its commitment to interdisciplinary research and a comprehensive approach to addressing complex global issues. The college's strategy involves creating new cross-institutional Schools of Convergence Science, focusing on climate, AI, health, and space, among other areas. The Imperial Global network will enhance global collaboration to address grand challenges.
Academic Focus:
Imperial College London emphasizes a strong STEMB focus and interdisciplinary research to address complex challenges. The institution fosters connections across various disciplines and sectors to advance scientific knowledge and societal impact.
Student Life:
The college provides an inspiring environment for scientific inquiry and innovation, offering resources and support for students to explore, dream, and ask significant questions. It maintains a culture of discovery and entrepreneurial thinking.
Meaningful Impact:
Imperial College London operates with the agility and forward-thinking of a startup, pursuing breakthrough science with transformative impact. It is recognized as a trusted partner for research and innovation, contributing to the global landscape through its work in London.
Legacy of London:
Situated in a vibrant global city, Imperial College London benefits from London's energy, creativity, and opportunities, reflecting the city's diverse and dynamic character in its global impact.
Entry Requirements:
- Minimum academic requirement: First-class degree in any subject outside computing or computer science.
- English language requirement: All candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency for admission to Imperial. For admission to this course, you must achieve the higher university requirement in the appropriate English language qualification.
- International qualifications: We also accept a wide variety of international qualifications. The academic requirement above is for applicants who hold or who are working towards a UK qualification. If you have any questions about admissions and the standard required for the qualification you hold or are currently studying then please contact the relevant admissions team.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- All candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency for admission to Imperial.
- For admission to this course, you must achieve the higher university requirement in the appropriate English language qualification.
