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Computer Science (Conversion course) at Buckinghamshire New University - UCAS

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2024 - 2025
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Course summary

Are you are looking to move into the fast-paced world of IT? MSc Computer Science (Conversion) provides you with a solid foundation in computing and specialised knowledge in computer science. With flexible learning options, hands-on projects, and industry-focused modules, you will develop the technical abilities, transferable skills and confidence to succeed in exciting and challenging IT-related roles in a range of industries. Why study MSc Computer Science (Conversion) at BNU?

  • Industry-Focused Curriculum
The MSc Computer Science (Conversion) course has been developed with direct input from industry professionals. This ensures that the curriculum allows you to develop technical capabilities, transferable skills and other personal characteristics that are directly aligned with the needs of today’s employers. You will study the latest advancements in areas like AI, cybersecurity, and software engineering, making you highly competitive in the job market.
  • Flexible Learning Options
We understand the importance of flexibility in modern education. Our programme offers a blend of intensive ‘block delivery’, traditional face-to-face learning and online support. This allows you to tailor your studies around work, family, or other commitments. You can choose between full-time and part-time study modes to suit your lifestyle. Where a module is taught in a 5-week ‘block’ format, you will have an intensive first week of taught sessions and practical workshops, comprising ten x 3-hour sessions. The remaining four weeks of the block will include weekly online surgeries and tutorials to support your learning. Such discussions and interactions will help you to link theoretical concepts with practice, to address the needs and problems of different industry and business contexts. You can also seek further guidance on assessments as required. A traditional module format will involve 6 hours of on-campus taught content per week over a 10-week period.
  • Conversion Degree
This Masters degree is specifically designed for people looking to pivot into computer science, where your previous academic and professional experience has been in a different field. You will develop knowledge and skills that can stimulate your career change to a rewarding role in the field of computer science.
  • Hands-On Experience
We place a strong emphasis on practical learning. Through real-world projects, case studies, and an extended research project, you’ll have the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in meaningful ways. This hands-on experience not only solidifies your knowledge but also gives you a portfolio of work to showcase to potential employers. What will I study? During this course you will acquire skills covering computation theory, fundamentals of computer science, compliers and operating systems, information theory, basic programming, systems and architecture, software development and testing, web applications and databases, algorithms and data structures, whilst building secure web and mobile applications, alongside analysing life-critical systems. Typically, as either an individual or working on team-based software project; exploiting an agile development approach. You’ll learn how to develop highly dependable and reliable systems, within an object-oriented design approach, using a range of Industry standard approaches, such as UML. In addition, you will gain an understanding of the process involved in managing the development of large-scale software projects. Furthermore, specialist modules allow you to further explore the areas of Artificial Intelligence, Media Programming, Real-time Systems, Cloud Computing and Security. You'll develop your programming skills by focusing on solving real-world business challenges. Throughout the course, you'll engage in research methods, culminating in an extended project that allows you to apply your knowledge to a practical, real-world problem.

Modules

  • Computer Science: An Overview
  • Network Security Systems
  • Information Systems & Database Design
  • Artificial Intelligence, Biometrics & Smart Systems
  • Software Quality Assurance & Engineering
  • Programming for Business
  • Research Methods
- Extended Project

Assessment method

You will be taught through a blend of interactive lectures, practical sessions, seminars, and group work designed to give you both theoretical understanding and hands-on experience. The course uses a mix of block mode and face-to-face teaching, allowing you to balance your studies with other commitments. Block mode involves intensive one-week teaching sessions followed by four weeks of guided independent study, while face-to-face sessions in the later terms provide more traditional classroom learning. Regular online tutorials spread across the course will support your learning, provide help with your assessments, and help you to complete your research project. Assessment is varied and designed to measure your understanding and practical application of the material. You’ll be assessed through a combination of individual assignments, exams, case study analyses, presentations, and online discussion posts. Additionally, you’ll complete an extended research project, which allows you to explore a topic in depth, applying what you've learned in a real-world context. Feedback is provided regularly to help you improve and guide your learning throughout the course.

Entry requirements

Applicants will be assessed on their academic qualifications although previous experience and interest in computing, IT, business or management is desirable. A typical offer will require a 2:2 honours degree or equivalent qualification. Along with experience in computing or IT If you do not meet the entry requirements, but you have relevant professional experience, you may still be invited for an interview. You will then be required to demonstrate the necessary knowledge and understanding for entry into the course.

English language requirements

TestGradeAdditional details
IELTS (Academic)6We require an IELTS score of 6.0 (with no element lower that 5.5) or a recognised equivalent.

If English is not your first language or if you have studied in a non-majority English-speaking country, then you will typically be required to demonstrate your English language ability (speaking, listening, reading & writing) by way of a test such as IELTS.

BNU English Language Requirements

https://www.bnu.ac.uk/study/general-entry-requirements

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

England £10500 Year 1
Northern Ireland £10500 Year 1
Scotland £10500 Year 1
Wales £10500 Year 1
Channel Islands £10500 Year 1
Republic of Ireland £10500 Year 1
EU £15550* Year 1
International £15550* Year 1

*This is a provisional fee and subject to change.

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

Most courses will involve some additional costs that are not covered by your fees. You could benefit from financial support through a bursary or scholarship during your time as a student. For more details visit our financial support, bursaries and scholarships section.
Computer Science (Conversion course) at Buckinghamshire New University - UCAS