Course summary
The MSc in Computing is a two year postgraduate degree. The first year imparts the knowledge and skills needed to study the subject at masters level in the second. This degree is open to graduates coming from any discipline. They will start by learning the art of software engineering, study some key computing topics and develop relevant research and technical English skills that prepare them for advanced study of computer science in the following year. • At the end of Year 1 students may progress to Year 2 or graduate instead with a Graduate Diploma in Computer Science. • Students can progress to study any of our single year masters programmes. Here is a full list of programmes available in 2024/25 Enhancements for Your Success At Heriot-Watt University, our MSc Computing (2 years) programme equips you with the knowledge and skills essential for a successful career in the dynamic field of Computing. Here's why our programme stands out: • Flexible Entry: We understand that not all students come from a computer science background. Our programme is designed to accommodate a wide range of students, from those with a strong computing foundation to those with less experience in the field. We provide the opportunity for all students to study the most advanced topics, ensuring that you can thrive in tomorrow's tech-centric careers. • Academic Excellence: Our programme is built on a foundation of academic excellence. We are committed to providing you with a rigorous and comprehensive education in the field of Computing. Our faculty includes renowned experts who are dedicated to your success. • Industry Connections: We have strong connections with industry leaders, allowing you to gain insights into what employers are looking for in computing professionals. This network provides opportunities for internships, guest lectures, and potential career placement. • Research Opportunities: For those interested in pursuing research, our programme offers opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects and contribute to the advancement of the field. • Global Perspective: With a diverse student body and international faculty, you'll gain a global perspective that is essential in today's interconnected world. The National Robotarium Located on Heriot-Watt University’s Edinburgh campus, in partnership with The University of Edinburgh, the National Robotarium creates innovative solutions to global challenges, working directly with industry to test and develop robotic, AI and automated technologies and rapidly move pioneering research from lab to market. The National Robotarium fosters the teaching and development of the next generation of roboticists, producing highly skilled graduates who are trained to conduct world-leading research with a market focus, and developing programmes to equip the current and future workforce with robotics, data and programming skills. Our Expertise & Facilities • Heriot-Watt University boasts a distinguished history of over five decades dedicated to the research and teaching of Computer Science. • World-Leading Faculty: Heriot-Watt University is known for its strong academic reputation, and this extends to its IT Business programmes. In fact, many of our academics are qualified data scientists, with many years of experience working in this field. • State-of-the-Art Labs: To facilitate hands-on learning, we have created state-of-the-art labs based in the Robotarium as well as at the GRID; including the Games & Design studio and the universities first VR labs. These resources are instrumental in providing students with a practical, real-world experience when working with authentic datasets and AI models.
Modules
Year 1 Mandatory September -Software Engineering Foundations Optional September -Databases and Information Systems -Introduction to Interaction Design -Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Agents -Data Communications and Networking Mandatory January -Advanced Software Engineering -Advanced Human Computer Interaction -Operating Systems & Concurrency -e-Commerce Technology Year 2 Mandatory September -Computer Network Security -Industrial Programming Optional September -Biologically Inspired Computation -Computer Graphics -Systems Programming -Intelligent Robotics Mandatory January -Project Management -Research Methods and Project Planning Optional January -Advanced Network Security -Big Data Management -Digital Forensics -Games Programming Mandatory May -Masters Project and Dissertation
Assessment method
You will be assessed by coursework, exams, and your research project, and will receive support and feedback throughout the programme.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for individual programmes vary, please check the details for the specific programme you wish to apply for on our website.
English language requirements
Applicants whose native language is not English and who have not been educated previously in the English language must provide evidence of their English language ability to ensure they can cope with the demands of a Heriot-Watt programme taught and assessed in English. Further information about the English Language tests that we currently accept as proof of English Language ability including our own English Language programmes, can be viewed on our website.
HWU English Language Requirements
https://www.hw.ac.uk/study/entry/english-language-requirements.htm
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
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
Sponsorship information
Postgraduate scholarships and bursaries We aim to encourage well-qualified, ambitious students to study with us and we offer a wide variety of scholarships and bursaries to achieve this. Over £6 million worth of opportunities are available in fee and stipend scholarships, and more than 400 students benefit from this support.
Provider information
Heriot-Watt University
Riccarton
Edinburgh
EH14 4AS