Computer Science MSc

Overview

Our Computer Science MSc is a computer science conversion course. It's suitable for those who have little or no experience in computing.

Through a structured and intensive introduction to core computing concepts, you'll build the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to transition your career and break into the tech industry.

You'll explore:

• the fundamentals of computing science
• database design
• network technologies
• programming
• cyber security
• human-computer interaction
• artificial intelligence (AI) 

With digital skills in high demand across nearly every sector, this course opens the door to roles in:

• software development
• data analysis
• cybersecurity
• AI and more

Whether you're looking to switch careers, future-proof your skill set, or combine your existing expertise with computing, you’ll be ready for the next step in your future.

Our research expertise feeds into our teaching. This means that you learn at the cutting edge of the discipline. We incorporate new techniques and knowledge into your learning and have an active research community.

This Computer Science MSc can also be taken as Continuing Professional Development (CPD). For example, ICT teachers who are switching to the new computer science curriculum will find this course highly relevant.

We are a hub of digital innovation. You'll benefit from our:

• leadership of the National Edge AI Hub, next-generation innovations via edge computing
• recognition as an Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security, supported by the National Cyber Security Centre and the EPSRC
• direct link with the UK's National Innovation Centre for Data
• partnership with The Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s national institute for data science and AI

Quality and ranking

All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body

Recognition of professional qualifications outside of the UK

From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK

Check the government’s website for more information.

What you'll learn

The taught part of the course follows three main threads:

• Programming: Introduces the Java programming language.
• Computer networks and architecture: Covers the basic structure of computers and computer networks.
• Software engineering: Considers the design and implementation problems of large computing systems produced by a team of designers and programmers.

Modules

You will study modules on this course. A module is a unit of a course with its own approved aims and outcomes and assessment methods.

Course content changes

The module information below is intended to provide an example of what you will study.

Our teaching is informed by research. Course content changes periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.

Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.

To find out more please see our terms and conditions.

Optional modules availability

Some courses have optional modules. Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.

 

Computer Science MSc modules

Compulsory Modules	Credits
Professional skills and Portfolio	10
Software Development Advanced Techniques	10
Cybersecurity	10
Advanced Programming	10
Database Systems	10
Web Technologies	10
Software Engineering and Team Project	20
Computer Networks	10
Human Computer Interaction	10
Programming and Data Structures	20
Project and Dissertation for MSc Computer Science	60

How you'll learn

Delivery and teaching methods

The course is delivered by the School of Computing. The first nine months of the course are devoted to taught modules (120 credits), which are examined by written papers.

Your final three months are devoted to a dissertation project (60 credits).

You’ll be taught using a range of methods, including:

• lectures
• seminars
• practical labs
• workshop sessions
• group work

You’ll be encouraged to deepen your understanding through guided independent reading and study.

Assessment methods

Depending on your modules, you'll be assessed through a combination of:

• Computer assessment
• Design or creative project
• Dissertation
• Professional skills assessments
• PC examination
• Practical lab report
• Portfolio
• Problem-solving exercises
• Report
• Reflective log

Wellbeing advisor support

The School of Computing has a dedicated Wellbeing Advisor who understands the needs of our students.

They can be a confidential listening ear and provide guidance on a range of wellbeing issues.

Student support

Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to support from:

• academic staff
• personal tutors and research supervisors
• our University Student Services Team
• student representatives
• peers

You'll also be assigned an academic member of staff, who will be your personal tutor throughout your time with us. They can help with academic and personal issues.

Your teaching and learning is also supported by Canvas. Canvas is a Virtual Learning Environment. You'll use Canvas to submit your assignments and access your:

• module handbooks
• course materials
• groups
• course announcements and notifications
• written feedback

 

Our academic staff have international reputations for their contributions to the field and some have extensive experience as practitioners in industry.

Search our academic staff in the School of Computing.

Your development

Practical skills

You’ll become confident in: 

• using programming techniques to write and debug code
• designing and developing software applications, from concept to implementation
• understanding and applying algorithms and data structures to solve computing problems efficiently 
• applying software engineering principles in team-based projects

Professional skills

You'll gain transferable skills that are valuable across a wide range of careers, including:

• communication
• teamwork
• creative and critical thinking
• time and resource management
• using digital tools
• adaptability 

Your future

What are the job opportunities after completing an MSc in Computer Science?

Our graduates have an excellent record of finding employment. Recent examples include:

• Associate Technical Architect at Accenture
• IT Practitioner - Devops at The Met Office
• Software Developer at China Communications Construction
• Project Manager at DXC Technology
• Software Developer at IBM UK
• Premier Field Engineer at Microsoft
• Software Developer at Procter & Gamble
• Graduate Developer at Scott Logic

Further study

This course provides a route into PhD level study, offering well-rounded knowledge in both theoretical and applied aspects of Computer Science. As a graduate, you'll be prepared to pursue advanced research opportunities and contribute to the academic community through doctoral programmes.

Postgraduate research degrees in computer science.

Industry links

The School of Computing and the academics which teach on this programme have industry and research connections with companies such as:

• Dyson
• Sage
• First Group
• Waterstons
• Accenture

Our links with industry ensure our course content stays relevant to current trends and technologies. This creates valuable opportunities for students, including: 

• guest lectures from professionals
• industry-led projects
• internships
• potential job pathways

Our Careers Service

Our expert Careers Service is here to help you take the next steps in your professional life. We will support you while you’re studying with us and for up to three years after you graduate.

You will have access to expert one-to-one advice and guidance through our campus careers centre and online, along with digital resources, workshops, networking opportunities, and careers and recruitment events.

We’ve been awarded 5 QS Stars for Student Employability (2025). Many of our degrees are shaped by strong links with national and international businesses. We are committed to helping you access real-world experience opportunities and develop key skills through paid work placements and internships.

Visit our Careers Service website

Facilities

You'll have access to the latest tools in:

• security analysis
• cloud development
• machine learning
• system development

Urban Sciences Building

The School of Computing is based in the £58 million Urban Sciences Building (USB), a flagship development located on the £350 million Newcastle Helix regeneration site in the heart of Newcastle. It brings together:

• academia
• the public sector
• communities
• business and industry

Postgraduate student facilities

As a Master's student, you'll have access to specialist teaching spaces and facilities in the USB. These are only available to postgraduate students.

Wellbeing and inclusivity are at the heart of our School. The USB has several wellbeing spaces for students, including:

• The Retreat: A sensory space with relaxing stimuli to distract from busy student life.
• Wellbeing room: Designed for relaxation and quiet time. Here you can take a moment to breathe and unwind. It can also be used by students with special medical requirements.
• Prayer room: For all faiths and none, this space can be used for prayer or quiet reflection.

Fees, Funding and Scholarships

Tuition fees for 2026 entry (per year)

Tuition fee increases

As a general principle, you should expect the tuition fee to increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, subject to government regulations on fee increases and in line with inflation.

EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals - tuition fee status

Depending on your residency history, if you’re a student from the EU, other EEA or a Swiss national, with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you’ll normally pay the ‘Home’ tuition fee rate and may be eligible for Student Finance England support.

EU students without settled or pre-settled status will normally be charged fees at the ‘International’ rate and will not be eligible for Student Finance England support. You may be eligible for a scholarship worth 25% off the international fee. Search our funding database. 

If you are unsure of your fee status, check out the latest guidance here.

Scholarships

We support our EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships. See our searchable postgraduate funding page for more information. 

What you're paying for

Tuition fees include the costs of:

• matriculation
• registration
• tuition (or supervision)
• library access
• examination
• re-examination
• graduation

Find out more about:

• living costs
• tuition fees

Deposit

If you are an international student or a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you need a visa to study in the UK, you may have to pay a deposit.

You can check this in the How to apply section.

Funding deadlines

If you're applying for funding, always check the funding application deadline. This deadline may be earlier than the application deadline for your course.

For some funding schemes, you need to have received an offer of a place on a course before you can apply for the funding.

Search for funding and scholarships

Find funding available for your course

Select your country

How to apply

Open days and events

Find out about how you can visit Newcastle in person and virtually

Overseas events

We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University.

Visit our events calendar for the latest events