Program Overview

Program Overview

The Computer Science (Dubai) MSc / PGDip program is designed for individuals looking to change direction and become computer scientists in just a year. The program prepares students for an exciting new career, with the skills, experiences, and industry links that will put them in high demand.

Course Structure

The MSc is a 12-month full-time advanced course, comprising lectures, tutorials, labs, presentations, and project work. The course can also be taken on a part-time basis over two years. The PGDip is awarded after 120 credits.

Semester 1

In this semester, students will begin with core programming concepts, including Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), before progressing to AI and Machine Learning, covering combinatorial optimisation and neural networks.

Semester 2

The program also explores computer systems, data representation, and networking, while refining software development skills with advanced techniques such as templates, Bootstrap, and SQLAlchemy.

Course Highlights

• The program teaches students the principles of computer science, giving them the practical software development skills needed in the tech world.
• It is a technical degree, and students will spend significant time learning programming.
• As technology advances fast, computing graduates will be in higher demand than ever.
• Based at the new, technology-enhanced 'smart' campus, students will have a global experience and work alongside students in the UK and learn from academics from Birmingham as well as on the Dubai campus.

Course Delivery

Teaching combines lectures, labs, and projects guided by research-focused academics. During the conversion MSc project, students demonstrate their competence as computing professionals and apply their learned skills effectively.

Assessment

Student work will be assessed via a range of exams, coursework, presentations, and a dissertation.

Module Information

The modules described are the ones that are currently offered and will give students a good idea of the range of subjects that are taught.

2026/27

The following must be taken:

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | 20 credits
• Building Useable Software | 20 credits
• Computer Systems | 20 credits
• Data Structures, Algorithms, and Databases | 20 credits
• Project - Conversion MSc | 60 credits
• Software Workshop 1 | 20 credits
• Software Workshop 2 | 20 credits

Entry Requirements

To secure a place at the University of Birmingham Dubai, students must meet both the general entry requirements and the specific criteria for their chosen course.

• 2:2 Honours degree in any subject other than computing.
• English language requirements: students must demonstrate a good level of written and spoken English, which can be shown through IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or alternative qualifications.

Fees and Scholarships

The University tuition fee covers the cost of tuition, examination, and graduation.

• AED 84,304 per year (part-time, January 2026)
• AED 174,509 per year (full-time, September 2026)
• AED 87,254.5 per year (part-time, September 2026)

Paying Tuition Fees

Tuition fees can be paid in full or in three instalments per year of study.

Scholarships

Birmingham attracts the best and brightest students from across the globe. For students with the potential to thrive, there are a number of scholarships available at the Dubai campus.

Career Opportunities

Unlock a wide range of exciting careers by completing the MSc course. Students will achieve essential technical and transferable skills, allowing them to pursue a career in academia, industry, research, or commercial organisations.

Careers Network

In a competitive global market, students need to be ready for work before they graduate. At the University of Birmingham Dubai, the careers services will help students plan and achieve their ambitions.

Related Courses

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computer Science (Dubai) MSc / PGDip
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (Dubai) MSc
• Cyber Security (Dubai) MSc

Student Experience

At Birmingham, the university experience isn’t just about studying. Students will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills, and make friends for life at the Dubai campus.

Accommodation

Coming to the University of Birmingham Dubai to study might be a student's first time living away from home. The university's student accommodation partners allow students to enjoy their independence in safe, welcoming, and sociable surroundings.

Living in Dubai

Enrich life with endless attractions, entertainment, and lifestyle opportunities. In just over 50 years, Dubai has transformed itself from a tiny settlement to a glistening city and world-class destination.

Campus Life

The state-of-the-art Dubai campus is where the diverse community comes together, providing a home for up to 3,000 students to learn, relax, and socialise.

Student Support

Whoever the student is and wherever they come from, the university is committed to providing the best possible support to all students, both before they start and throughout their time on campus, so that they can get the most out of their university experience.