Computer Science MSc

Duration

13 Months

17 Months

2 Years

Location

Stoke-on-Trent campus

Stoke-on-Trent campus

Stoke-on-Trent campus

Our Computer Science MSc is a blend of cutting-edge theory and practical experience with industry-standard technology. It encompasses a wide range of subjects, including Advanced Project Management & Entrepreneurship, Data Analytics, Enterprise Systems, Principles & Practices of Software Engineering, Cloud Computing, Management of Emerging Technologies, and Quantum Computing & Cryptography.

We’ve designed this course based on the current industry demands and to take your understanding of computer science to the next level. You can tailor your course to your career aspirations, and use the core modules to meet the challenges of employer-driven needs, emerging markets, research etc.

Throughout the course, you’ll explore the ins and outs of the latest technology and feel confident applying your skills within the industry and commerce.

If you choose to leave before completing the full 180 credit MSc course, you are entitled to a lower award if you have achieved pass grades for the necessary credits. This would be 60 taught module credits for a Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) or 120 taught module credits for a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip). 

We’ve designed this course based on the current industry demands and to take your understanding of computer science to the next level. You can tailor your course to your career aspirations, and use the core modules to meet the challenges of employer-driven needs, emerging markets, research etc.

Throughout the course, you’ll explore the ins and outs of the latest technology and feel confident applying your skills within the industry and commerce.

If you choose to leave before completing the full 180 credit MSc course, you are entitled to a lower award if you have achieved pass grades for the necessary credits. This would be 60 taught module credits for a Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) or 120 taught module credits for a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip). 

We’ve designed this course based on the current industry demands and to take your understanding of computer science to the next level. You can tailor your course to your career aspirations, and use the core modules to meet the challenges of employer-driven needs, emerging markets, research etc.

Throughout the course, you’ll explore the ins and outs of the latest technology and feel confident applying your skills within the industry and commerce.

If you choose to leave before completing the full 180 credit MSc course, you are entitled to a lower award if you have achieved pass grades for the necessary credits. This would be 60 taught module credits for a Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) or 120 taught module credits for a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip). 

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: MSc Computer Science

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: MSc Computer Science

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: MSc Computer Science

Part-time study

Computer Science MSc can be studied in three modes: full-time on-campus, part-time, or Distance Learning (DL). The full-time on-campus mode takes three semesters. The DL mode normally takes longer e.g. six semesters.

Blended learning

Some DL option modules e.g. networking modules can offer blended learning where DL students can come to the campus for a short duration e.g. 2-weeks to utilise the hardware and software.

Distance learning

In part-time DL mode, students can take two modules per semester. The DL mode can be suitable for the students who are working, have other commitments e.g. family, unable to travel to the UK etc.

Part-time study

Computer Science MSc can be studied in three modes: full-time on-campus, part-time, or Distance Learning (DL). The full-time on-campus mode takes three semesters. The DL mode normally takes longer e.g. six semesters.

Blended learning

Some DL option modules e.g. networking modules can offer blended learning where DL students can come to the campus for a short duration e.g. 2-weeks to utilise the hardware and software.

Distance learning

In part-time DL mode, students can take two modules per semester. The DL mode can be suitable for the students who are working, have other commitments e.g. family, unable to travel to the UK etc.

Part-time study

Computer Science MSc can be studied in three modes: full-time on-campus, part-time, or Distance Learning (DL). The full-time on-campus mode takes three semesters. The DL mode normally takes longer e.g. six semesters.

Blended learning

Some DL option modules e.g. networking modules can offer blended learning where DL students can come to the campus for a short duration e.g. 2-weeks to utilise the hardware and software.

Distance learning

In part-time DL mode, students can take two modules per semester. The DL mode can be suitable for the students who are working, have other commitments e.g. family, unable to travel to the UK etc.

Work placements

Throughout your course there will be opportunities for you to network with our contacts and guest speakers from our industry partners and collaborators. Many of these offer work shadowing or short work experience opportunities where you will be able to enhance your employability, which may lead to further graduate prospects. Our Computer Science graduates have gone on to work for a range of top companies such as Infiniti-Red Bull Racing, Airbus, Rolls-Royce, British Oceanographic Data Centre, Thomson Reuters etc.

Course content

Professional body accreditation

01103 Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT for the purposes of partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.

01105 Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for Incorporated Engineer and partially meeting the academic requirement for a Chartered Engineer.

BCS accredited degree logo

Professional body accreditation

01103 Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT for the purposes of partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.

01105 Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for Incorporated Engineer and partially meeting the academic requirement for a Chartered Engineer.

BCS accredited degree logo

Professional body accreditation

01103 Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT for the purposes of partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.

01105 Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for Incorporated Engineer and partially meeting the academic requirement for a Chartered Engineer.

BCS accredited degree logo

As an ethical hacker, I can’t believe the risks people routinely take when they access the internet in public

News

Christopher Hawkins, Lecturer in Cyber Security & Computer Science, writes for The Conversation

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Entry requirements

An undergraduate honours degree (grade 2.2 or above in a related computing discipline from a UK University or the international equivalent). 

If you do not meet the above but have significant appropriate experience, your application will be considered, provided that you satisfy the University that you are capable of responding to the challenge of postgraduate work. 

If your first language is not English, you will need to demonstrate that you are fluent enough to cope with the course. A minimum score of IELTS 6 or TOEFL 550 (213 computer-based) is normally required.

An undergraduate honours degree (grade 2.2 or above in a related computing discipline from a UK University or the international equivalent). 

If you do not meet the above but have significant appropriate experience, your application will be considered, provided that you satisfy the University that you are capable of responding to the challenge of postgraduate work. 

If your first language is not English, you will need to demonstrate that you are fluent enough to cope with the course. A minimum score of IELTS 6 or TOEFL 550 (213 computer-based) is normally required.

An undergraduate honours degree (grade 2.2 or above in a related computing discipline from a UK University or the international equivalent). 

If you do not meet the above but have significant appropriate experience, your application will be considered, provided that you satisfy the University that you are capable of responding to the challenge of postgraduate work. 

If your first language is not English, you will need to demonstrate that you are fluent enough to cope with the course. A minimum score of IELTS 6 or TOEFL 550 (213 computer-based) is normally required.

Staffordshire University shows substantial improvement in REF 2021

Blog

Staffs Uni has welcomed the results of REF 2021 which has recognised more of its research as "internationally excellent" and "world leading"

For equivalent entry requirements in your home country, please see the information on our country pages.

Choose your country

Check our entry and English language requirements for your country.

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Facilities

Networking Labs

The networking labs consist of three fully equipped Cisco labs with around 340 devices, plus a Juniper set-up which can be incorporated into courses. Read more

Find out more about our networking facilities. 

Software Development Tools

You'll have access to development environments for desktop, mobile and enterprise applications. Plus access to our mobile/smart devices development lab, with a variety of mobile devices for testing.

Usability Testing

Observations, eye-tracking data and recorded usability video footage can be used to analyse how people interact with software systems such as games, web and mobile applications.

Support for distance learners

Studying remotely doesn't mean that you will be left to study alone. Which is why we ensure that however you study with us, you'll still be able to access the same services as our on-campus students. Read more

However you study with us, or wherever in the world you’re based, you’ll still be able to access the same services as our on-campus students, including IT and study support, online library, careers and wellbeing service. We’ll help to connect with other online learners to help you get the most out of your learning experience and feel a part of the community. Find out more: Support for distance learners

Blackboard (VLE)

Blackboard is a virtual learning environment which houses your learning content. It enables online teaching/learning, provides spaces to build online communities and knowledge sharing.

Careers

After completing our Computer Science MSc, you’ll have the expertise you need to take on a variety of roles within the industry and commerce including:

  •  Computer programmer
  •  Computer systems specialist
  •  System engineer
  •  Technical consultant
  •  Application analyst.
  •  Business analyst.
  •  Data analyst.
  •  Database administrator.
  •  Information systems manager.
  •  IT consultant.

Eager for more knowledge? Upon completion, you’ll be ideally placed for further academic study e.g. a PhD.

All students have access to Career Connect, our dedicated careers team.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching

We know that everyone learns differently. So, not only do we use traditional ways of teaching like lectures, we also use problem-based learning to help you apply your skills.

For this course, you will:

  • Work with others on group work
  • Delve deeper into subject areas in workshops
  • Be expected to study independently

Our teaching is supported through our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) called Blackboard. This means you can access a range of materials to support your lectures wherever you are.

We’ll also assign you a supervisor to support you throughout your research project.

We know that everyone learns differently. So, not only do we use traditional ways of teaching like lectures, we also use problem-based learning to help you apply your skills.

For this course, you will:

  • Work with others on group work
  • Delve deeper into subject areas in workshops
  • Be expected to study independently

Our teaching is supported through our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) called Blackboard. This means you can access a range of materials to support your lectures wherever you are.

We’ll also assign you a supervisor to support you throughout your research project.

We know that everyone learns differently. So, not only do we use traditional ways of teaching like lectures, we also use problem-based learning to help you apply your skills.

For this course, you will:

  • Work with others on group work
  • Delve deeper into subject areas in workshops
  • Be expected to study independently

Our teaching is supported through our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) called Blackboard. This means you can access a range of materials to support your lectures wherever you are.

We’ll also assign you a supervisor to support you throughout your research project.

Assessment

There are two types of assessments: practice (also called formative) or formal (also called summative).

Practice assessments do not count towards your final mark. These are your chance to test your understanding – and learn how to improve for the real thing.

You’ll have formal assessments at the end of each module. These could include essays, exams, or practical portfolios.

There are two types of assessments: practice (also called formative) or formal (also called summative).

Practice assessments do not count towards your final mark. These are your chance to test your understanding – and learn how to improve for the real thing.

You’ll have formal assessments at the end of each module. These could include essays, exams, or practical portfolios.

There are two types of assessments: practice (also called formative) or formal (also called summative).

Practice assessments do not count towards your final mark. These are your chance to test your understanding – and learn how to improve for the real thing.

You’ll have formal assessments at the end of each module. These could include essays, exams, or practical portfolios.

Learning support

Your course tutors will provide lots of support. But you can also take advantage of our Academic Skills team, who can help you with:

  • Study skills (including reading, note-taking and presentation skills)
  • Written English (including punctuation, grammar)
  • Academic writing (including how to reference)
  • Research skills
  • Critical thinking
  • Revision, assessment and exam skills (including time management)

Additional support

If you have additional needs like dyslexia or a sensory impairment, then our Student Inclusion Services are here to help make sure nothing stands in your way.

Feedback

We know that it’s important for you to be able to gauge your progress. So your tutor will give you feedback on any practice assessments you do.

We usually give you feedback on formal assessments within 20 working days. The format e.g. verbal feedback, written feedback, audio feedback etc. will vary for each module.

We know that it’s important for you to be able to gauge your progress. So your tutor will give you feedback on any practice assessments you do.

We usually give you feedback on formal assessments within 20 working days. The format e.g. verbal feedback, written feedback, audio feedback etc. will vary for each module.

We know that it’s important for you to be able to gauge your progress. So your tutor will give you feedback on any practice assessments you do.

We usually give you feedback on formal assessments within 20 working days. The format e.g. verbal feedback, written feedback, audio feedback etc. will vary for each module.

Your study time will include scheduled classes, independent learning and assessments. It will vary depending on your module choices.

Your study time will include scheduled classes, independent learning and assessments. It will vary depending on your module choices.

Your study time will include scheduled classes, independent learning and assessments. It will vary depending on your module choices.

Independent learning

As well as timetabled sessions, we know it’s important for you to discover things on your own terms. This could involve:

  • Reading journals, articles and books
  • Working on projects, alone or in a group
  • Researching in the library
  • Preparing coursework, presentations, demonstrations etc.
  • Getting ready for exams

We’ve invested in state-of-the-art facilities to help you make the most of your private study time. Whether you need a library, a computer, or a lab, you’ll find it at Staffordshire University.

As well as timetabled sessions, we know it’s important for you to discover things on your own terms. This could involve:

  • Reading journals, articles and books
  • Working on projects, alone or in a group
  • Researching in the library
  • Preparing coursework, presentations, demonstrations etc.
  • Getting ready for exams

We’ve invested in state-of-the-art facilities to help you make the most of your private study time. Whether you need a library, a computer, or a lab, you’ll find it at Staffordshire University.

As well as timetabled sessions, we know it’s important for you to discover things on your own terms. This could involve:

  • Reading journals, articles and books
  • Working on projects, alone or in a group
  • Researching in the library
  • Preparing coursework, presentations, demonstrations etc.
  • Getting ready for exams

We’ve invested in state-of-the-art facilities to help you make the most of your private study time. Whether you need a library, a computer, or a lab, you’ll find it at Staffordshire University.

Staff

You'll be taught by staff who have a range of academic and industry experience. 

Dr Mohammad Hasan

Senior Lecturer

Mohammad is a Senior lecturer who is involved in postgraduate research supervision, MSc course management, postgraduate and undergraduate teaching.

Mohammad's profile

Fees

For the course starting on 22 September 2025 the tuition fees are:

Tuition fees for MSc-Full-time, September start
Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Full-time £10,609 per course £16,750 per course

For the course starting on 27 January 2025 the tuition fees are:

Tuition fees for MSc-Full-time, September start
Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Full-time £10,300 per course £16,750 per course

For the course starting on 22 September 2025 the tuition fees are:

Tuition fees for MSc-Full-time, September start
Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Part-time £10,575 per course £10,575 per course

If you would like to know more about the fees listed and what this means to you then please get in touch with our Enquiries Team.

Alumni discount

If you've previously completed a University of Staffordshire undergraduate degree (excluding HND and foundation degrees) you may be entitled to a discount of up to 25% off your course fees for any subsequent postgraduate taught course (terms apply, see the alumni discount page for details). If you have any questions about how this relates to you, please contact feesandbursaries@staffs.ac.uk.

Included in tuition fees
Included in the fees:

Travel, and accommodation costs incurred by compulsory trips and visits away from the University that are directly linked to the learning requirements of a specific module.

The use of all laboratories, workshops and specialist facilities relating to the course of study.

Heavily discounted tuition fees during the (optional) placement year.

Travel, and accommodation costs incurred by compulsory trips and visits away from the University that are directly linked to the learning requirements of a specific module.

The use of all laboratories, workshops and specialist facilities relating to the course of study.

Heavily discounted tuition fees during the (optional) placement year.

Travel, and accommodation costs incurred by compulsory trips and visits away from the University that are directly linked to the learning requirements of a specific module.

The use of all laboratories, workshops and specialist facilities relating to the course of study.

Heavily discounted tuition fees during the (optional) placement year.

Not included in tuition fees
Not included in the fees:

The estimated cost of text books over the duration of the course. All essential text books are available from the library, but some students chose to purchase their own copies.

Travel, subsistence, entrance fees etc. incurred by optional trips and visits away from the University related to the course.

You are expected to have access to an appropriate PC/Laptop with admin rights so that you can install software in order to complete this course. 

Dependent on a student’s choice of final year project, some additional costs may be incurred for materials to support the development and delivery of the project.

The estimated cost of text books over the duration of the course. All essential text books are available from the library, but some students chose to purchase their own copies.

Travel, subsistence, entrance fees etc. incurred by optional trips and visits away from the University related to the course.

You are expected to have access to an appropriate PC/Laptop with admin rights so that you can install software in order to complete this course. 

Dependent on a student’s choice of final year project, some additional costs may be incurred for materials to support the development and delivery of the project.

The estimated cost of text books over the duration of the course. All essential text books are available from the library, but some students chose to purchase their own copies.

Travel, subsistence, entrance fees etc. incurred by optional trips and visits away from the University related to the course.

You are expected to have access to an appropriate PC/Laptop with admin rights so that you can install software in order to complete this course. 

Dependent on a student’s choice of final year project, some additional costs may be incurred for materials to support the development and delivery of the project.

Accommodation and living costs
Accommodation and living costs

Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees. 

For more information on accommodation and living costs, please see: Accommodation

Sources of financial support

Providing you are studying towards a full Masters qualification you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan of up to £11,570 to help with tuition fees, maintenance and other associated costs. Student loans are available for many of our postgraduate degrees and are provided by the Student Loans Company (SLC). The loan can cover a wide range of postgraduate study options; part-time, full-time and distance learning. 

For more information and how to apply visit masters loan.

Our students

It has been a wonderful learning experience.

The flexibility offered in providing a range of optional modules covering various aspects in the field of Computing is one of the main reasons that motivated me to study a Masters at Staffordshire University and it has been a wonderful learning experience. Module assessments are well structured providing both practical experience and research oriented study in every subject I have chosen.

The teaching staff are highly qualified, subject matter experts and have been quite friendly in making it a great learning experience.

 

Krishna Kumar Chellappa

MSc Computer Science

I had a good experience with the academics and industry experts.

It was an ambition of mine to do my Masters in England because of the people and the quality of education. I highly recommend Staffordshire University.

Studying in England is an amazing experience – everybody is so polite, and they help you in the University. And in my School of Computing I had a good experience with the academics and industry experts.

I'm now working as a Computer Programmer at Ticketmaster. I wanted to be a programmer in a global place and London is that kind of place and so fulfils my dream.

Artul Mishra

MSc Computer Science

Apply

Location Award Study option Start date Apply Link
Stoke-on-Trent campus MSc Full-time, September start 22 September 2025 Apply now

Rules and regulations

If you are offered a place at University of Staffordshire, your offer will be subject to our rules, regulations and enrolment conditions, which may vary from time to time.

Students of University of Staffordshire enter into a contract with us and are bound by these rules and regulations, which are subject to change. For more information, please see: University Policies and Regulations

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for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Social Inclusion

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021