Course summary
In a fast-moving world, computer science is the force behind the technological breakthroughs that have changed our lives for the better. The MEng in Computer Science develops the fundamental knowledge and practical skills that are in demand across the sector. During the first two years you will follow a similar structure to the BSc. From the third year the MEng introduces a wider range of modules and an Advanced Project which explore the subject to a deeper level. You’ll explore a wide range of innovative technological applications such as cryptocurrencies, quantum computing, machine learning, deep learning, computer vision and cybersecurity among others. Our close links with high-technology industries keep us up to date with changing priorities in the sector. This insight allows us to introduce new topics into the curriculum to keep in step with developments. The course emphasises programming and mathematical skills from the start. The first year provides an introduction into the fundamentals of computer science and gives you a glimpse into some of the research that has enabled major technological advances in society. As well as equipping you with academic knowledge, the curriculum develops the skills you’ll need to boost your career prospects. The Software Engineering module in Year 2 includes a team project in which you gain practical software development experience working with an external organisation. You will be taught by passionate researchers with diverse areas of expertise such as artificial intelligence, data science, bioinformatics, high-performance computing, graphics and fundamental algorithms. The final-year Advanced Project is an opportunity to fully engage with the cutting-edge research being carried out in the department. You can also apply to add a placement year or a year abroad to your MEng degree, increasing the course from four years to five.
Modules
Year 1 Core modules: Algorithms and Data Structures introduces the theory and practice of problem-solving in computing through the development of algorithms, and their associated data structures, for common computer science problems. Computational Thinking explores the breadth of Computer Science and the ways in which different topics relate to one another. You will learn the importance of computation and computational thinking in the modern world and the impact it has on technology advances in different settings. Computer Systems provides an understanding of the way in which modern computer systems (both hardware and software) can effectively represent, transport and manipulate data. Mathematics for Computer Science introduces key concepts from linear algebra, calculus and mathematics, and explains their importance in the field of computer science. Plus either Programming (Black) or Programming (Gold). Year 2 Core modules: Networks and Systems extends the understanding of the principles and practices of programming and using different computer systems. This module looks at distributed systems, networks, security and databases. Programming Paradigms will broaden your view of programming and programming languages as well as aiding your understanding of the systems and procedures related to computer programming. Theory of Computation introduces you to different models of computation and how they are related. You will learn the fundamental notions of computation such as 'computable' and 'efficiently computable' and the design and analysis of efficient algorithms. Artificial Intelligence provides an understanding of some of the core problem-solving principles of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the role of AI in the real world. Data Science introduces the techniques used for capturing, cleaning and analysing data and explores the ways in which different types of information can be represented and processed. The techniques covered include probability and statistics, graphics and visualisation, and image processing. Software Engineering provides a detailed understanding of the phases of the software development lifecycle, including the problems associated with each phase and how to identify best practice for their solution. This module includes a team software development project where you can work with an external organisation to gain practical software development experience. Year 3 Core modules: In Project Preparation you will work on essential research skills including researching a topic, writing, presenting, and begin preparation for your own Advanced Project. Examples of optional modules: Advanced Computer Systems Bioinformatics Compiler Design Computational Modelling in the Humanities and Social Sciences Computer Science into Schools Cryptography Deep Learning Design of Algorithms and Data Structures Human–AI Interaction Design Multimedia and Game Development Parallel Scientific Computing Recommender Systems Reinforcement Learning Virtual and Augmented Reality. Year 4 Core module: The Advanced Project is a substantial piece of research. It is possible that the resulting research might be published in a journal or at a conference, possibly as a prelude to higher level studies in Computer Science. Examples of optional modules: Advanced Algorithms Advanced Computer Graphics and Visualisation Advanced Computer Vision Applied Cryptography Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies Coding and Information Theory Learning Analytics Natural Language Processing Networks and their Structure Parallel Scientific Computing Quantum Computing Randomised Algorithms and Probabilistic Methods. Additional pathways Students on the MEng Computer Science can apply to be transferred onto either the ‘with Year Abroad’ or ‘with Placement’ pathway during the second or third year. Places on these pathways are in high demand and if you are chosen your studies will extend from four years to five.
How to apply
This course has limited vacancies, and is no longer accepting applications from some students. See the list below for where you normally live, to check if you’re eligible to apply.
EU
Wales
England
International
Scotland
Northern Ireland
Republic of Ireland
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- G406
- Institution code:
- D86
- Campus name:
- Durham City
- Campus code:
- O
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - Not accepted
A level - A*AA
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - D*DD
Access to HE Diploma - Not accepted
Scottish Higher - AAAAA
Scottish Advanced Higher - AAA
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme - 38 points
Welsh Baccalaureate - Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (first teaching September 2015) - Not accepted
Extended Project - Not accepted
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017) - H1, H2, H2, H2, H2
Cambridge International Pre-U Certificate - Principal - D2, D3, D3
OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma - D*DD
T Level
Our contextual offer for this programme is A level AA including Mathematics and B (or equivalent). To find out if you’re eligible, please visit: https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/how-to-apply/what-happens-to-your-application/contextual-offers/
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
English language requirements
Durham University welcomes applications from all students irrespective of background. We encourage the recruitment of academically well-qualified and highly motivated students, who are non-native speakers of English, whose full potential can be realised with a limited amount of English Language training either prior to entry or through pre-sessional and/or in-sessional courses. It is the normal expectation that candidates for admission should be able to demonstrate satisfactory English proficiency before the start of a programme of study, whether via the submission of an appropriate English language qualification or by attendance on an appropriate pre-sessional course. Acceptable evidence and levels required can be viewed by following the link provided.
English language requirements
https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/
Student Outcomes
The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Republic of Ireland | £9250 | Year 1 |
Channel Islands | £9250 | Year 1 |
EU | £32500 | Year 1 |
England | £9250 | Year 1 |
Northern Ireland | £9250 | Year 1 |
Scotland | £9250 | Year 1 |
Wales | £9250 | Year 1 |
International | £32500 | Year 1 |
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
Provider information
Durham University
The Palatine Centre
Stockton Road
Durham
DH1 3LE