Advanced Computer Science MSc (with optional Placement/Project year)

Program Overview

Overview

This course aims to enhance your current skills and introduce a variety of cutting-edge computer science competencies, enabling you to tackle complex technical challenges as a highly independent thinker and an advanced, reflexive practitioner.

Study Options

• Full-Time, Part-Time at Exton Park, Chester
• Full-Time with Project/Placement Year at Exton Park, Chester

Level and UCAS Code

• Postgraduate
• UCAS Code: N/A

Start Date and Duration

• Start date: Oct 2025, Jan 2026, May 2026, Oct 2026, Jan 2027, May 2027
• Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time

Location and Fees

• Location: Exton Park, Chester
• UK fees: £10,530 per year (2025/26)
• International fees: £15,000 (2025/26)

Optional 2-year Master's To Suit Your Needs

• Professional Placement MSc: a win-win for your career, giving you the chance to get real experience, apply your cutting-edge skills in the workplace and stand out to future employers.
• Professional Project MSc: your chance to get the experience you need to stand out to graduate employers and make a difference by solving real global business challenges and demonstrating practical application of your learning.

Why You'll Love It

• Exton Park, Chester: a city like no other and an amazing place to live as a student.
• Academic Skills Support: our Academic Skills team can help you enhance your academic, maths or statistics skills.
• Personal Academic Tutors: your Personal Academic Tutor is there to provide you with academic advice and guidance.

What You'll Study

• Year 1:
  • Research Methods (20 Credits) Core
  • User-Centred Design and User Experience (20 Credits) Core
  • Programming and Optimisation (20 Credits) Core
  • Databases and Security (20 Credits) Core
  • Bio-Inspired Computing (20 Credits) Core
  • Software Studio (20 Credits) Option
  • Robotics (20 Credits) Option
  • Statistical Programming (20 Credits) Option
  • Programming for AI/Machine Learning (20 Credits) Option
  • Digital Forensics and Penetration Testing (20 Credits) Option
• Placement/Project Year:
  • Professional Placement
  • Professional Project

Who You'll Learn From

• Dr Stuart Cunningham: Programme Leader for MSc Advanced Computer Science
• Dr Mike Morgan: Senior Lecturer
• Ashley Wood: Lecturer
• Dr Toyosi Oyinloye: Deputy Head
• Dr Richard Stocker: Senior Lecturer
• Dr Joe Collenette: Lecturer

How You'll Learn

• Teaching: via lectures, workshops, seminars and case studies
• Assessment: via coursework and exams
• This course is designed around in-person study
• There may be some online learning activities

Entry Requirements

• Home Students:
  • 2:2 honours degree or above in a computer science related discipline
  • at least 20 credits of programming modules at Level 5 or above
• International Students:
  • 2:2 honours degree or above in a computer science related discipline
  • at least 20 credits of programming modules at Level 5 or above

Where You'll Study

• Exton Park, Chester: a city like no other and an amazing place to live as a student.
• Modern learning resources and library: we have dedicated resources and IT services across campus, as well as our Seaborne Library.
• Fitness facilities: Exton Park boasts an impressive choice of indoor and outdoor sports and leisure facilities.
• Student Services: Exton Park is home to a number of our central support services.
• Chapel, chaplaincy and multi-faith spaces: the University Chapel offers regular services and a venue to services.
• Accommodation: most of our student accommodation is located either on or near Exton Park.
• Catering: we have several catering outlets available onsite, offering a wide selection of hot and cold food to students and visitors.

Fees and Funding

• Home Students: £10,530 per year (2025/26)
• International Students: £15,000 (2025/26)
• Additional Costs: the professional placement/project year will cost an additional £2,750, due at the start of the second year of the course.
• Bursaries: the University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships.

Your Future Career

• Careers service: the University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences.
• Related courses:
  • Applied Science MRes
  • Cybersecurity (Conversion) MSc
  • Data Science MSc
  • Electronic and Electrical Engineering MSc
  • Programme and Project Management MSc