Program Overview

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Overview

The Computer Science MSc is a computer science conversion course designed for non-computing graduates who want to gain the in-demand skills needed to launch into a fast-moving digital world. This course is suitable for those who have little or no experience in computing.

What You'll Learn

The taught part of the course follows three main threads:

• Programming: Introduces the Java programming language.
• Computer networks and architecture: Covers the basic structure of computers and computer networks.
• Software engineering: Considers the design and implementation problems of large computing systems produced by a team of designers and programmers.

You'll explore the fundamentals of computing science, database design, network technologies, programming, cyber security, human-computer interaction, and artificial intelligence (AI).

How You'll Learn

The course is delivered by the School of Computing. The first nine months of the course are devoted to taught modules (120 credits), which are examined by written papers. Your final three months are devoted to a dissertation project (60 credits).

You'll be taught using a range of methods, including:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Practical labs
• Workshop sessions
• Group work

You'll be encouraged to deepen your understanding through guided independent reading and study.

Assessment methods depend on your modules and may include:

• Computer assessment
• Design or creative project
• Dissertation
• Professional skills assessments
• PC examination
• Practical lab report
• Portfolio
• Problem-solving exercises
• Report
• Reflective log

Your Future

Our graduates have an excellent record of finding employment. Recent examples include:

• Associate Technical Architect at Accenture
• IT Practitioner - Devops at The Met Office
• Software Developer at China Communications Construction
• Project Manager at DXC Technology
• Software Developer at IBM UK
• Premier Field Engineer at Microsoft
• Software Developer at Procter & Gamble
• Graduate Developer at Scott Logic

This course provides a route into PhD level study, offering a well-rounded knowledge in both theoretical and applied aspects of Computer Science.

Quality and Ranking

• 42% of our research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• Global Top 140 University – QS World University Rankings 2026
• Global Top 160 University - Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
• Top 170 for Computing Science and Information Systems - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
• Top 25 in the UK and Top 100 in the world for sustainable development – Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024

Facilities

You'll have access to the latest tools in:

• Security analysis
• Cloud development
• Machine learning
• System development

The School of Computing is based in the £58 million Urban Sciences Building (USB), a flagship development located on the £350 million Newcastle Helix regeneration site in the heart of Newcastle.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for 2026 entry (per year)

• Home students: £14,500
• International students: £32,300

Tuition fee increases are expected each year, subject to government regulations and in line with inflation.

Entry Requirements

Academic entry requirements

A 2:2 honours degree, or equivalent, in any subject except those related to computer science.

Graduates of subjects related to computer science should apply for the Advanced Computer Science MSc.

We will consider your application on an individual basis if you have lower or non-standard qualifications provided you have relevant experience.

English Language requirements

You can check the English language requirements for your country and qualification on our website.

Admissions policy

This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.

How to Apply

The course starts in September, and there is no application closing date. However, we suggest international students apply at least two months before the course starts.

If you are an international student or a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you need a visa to study in the UK, you must pay a deposit of £1,500 or submit an official letter of sponsorship.

The deposit is payable after you receive an offer to study with us. The deposit is non-refundable, but we will deduct it from your tuition fees when you register.

Programme codes

Qualification: MSc Full time

Full time: 12 months| Programme Code:5055F

You can apply online through our application portal. The application portal has instructions to guide you through your application. It will tell you what documents you need and how to upload them.

You can choose to start your application, save your details and come back to complete it later.

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