Course summary

We've designed this course for graduates who may not have a background in computing but are looking to launch their careers in this fast-paced, in-demand field. As computing continues to evolve at a remarkable pace, the expertise to harness the latest technology becomes more vital every day for organisations in every sector. Our MSc Computer Science course provides that expertise – helping you develop the specialist skills for a career in computing. On this computer science masters you’ll explore programming, advanced computer networks, cloud development and information systems. You will learn concepts, techniques and technologies to equip you for the practical side of investigating real-world problems and creating a system or solution to match. Through this, you’ll gain a set of skills made for the modern professional world of computing. You’ll also have the flexibility to set the direction for your postgraduate studies with a masters project of your own design. While you’ll have the one-to-one support of your supervisor, it’s a solo project – as much about developing computing skills as it is about building confidence and autonomy, vital skills for the workplace. By the time you’re finished, you’ll be equipped with both theoretical understanding and practical abilities in computer science – ready to apply your knowledge to real-world situations. Features and Benefits:

• Industry-standard facilities – The department has an extensive range of equipment in our own specialist laboratories, so together with the support of our dedicated technical staff, you’ll graduate with the skills to work in professional facilities.

• Thriving technology sector – Manchester is home to one of the largest creative and digital technology sectors outside of London, making us well-placed to deliver this course.

• Institute of Coding – The Department of Computing and Mathematics is part of the new £40m national Institute of Coding (IoC). Our masters students will have access to the IoC’s cutting-edge computer lab to hone their skills in this area.

• Professional accreditation – This course is accredited by the BCS (the Chartered Institute for IT) providing strong industry links and a professional focus.

• Optional placement year – Boost your career prospects and put theory into practice with the option to take an industry placement year.

• Investing in your future – We’ve invested over £115 million to transform our science and engineering campus into a space to thrive. Opening in 2024, our new Dalton building provides a professional study environment equipped with dynamic learning spaces, world-class teaching and research facilities and collaborative study zones to further prepare you for your future career.

• Dedicated computing studio space – Designed in collaboration with our current students, a new studio provides you with a professional environment to work individually and in groups. As well as being a great learning environment, the space can be used outside of your classes to organise hackathons, develop your own video games or simply space use your imagination to create the technology of the future.

• Learn alongside world-leading research – 86% of our research outputs in Computer Science are rated world-leading and internationally excellent (REF, 2021). Our Cyber Security research provides ‘zero-trust’, artificial intelligence-enabled and cryptographic solutions to a range of cyber security challenges helping to deliver secure, resilient, and efficient services.