MSc in Computer Science

On the MSc Computer Science, you’ll explore common computing trends and current developments, helping you gain an understanding of the latest software perspectives relevant to computing architecture and data representation. You’ll also develop practical skills and technical knowledge across a range of computing topics, while building on key leadership skills such as problem solving, research and teamwork.   Delve into a range of exciting topics including:

• the historical, architectural and practical perspectives of computer science  
• techniques and tools for designing, implementing, testing and debugging objected oriented programs in languages such as Python and Java 
• the underpinning concepts of Software Engineering Project Management 
• an introduction to Behaviour Driven Development (BDD)  
• security and governance principles and standards  

You’ll also develop a number of programs and applications throughout the duration of the course. And towards the end of your studies, you’ll be provided with a method for planning, executing, writing and defending a research project within the subject of computer science.

This degree is accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, for the purposes of partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP).

The University of Essex Online delivers 100% online and part-time courses in business, computing, education, health, law, criminology and psychology. The qualifications we offer include CertHEs and Bachelors degrees at the undergraduate level, and PG Certs, PG Dips and Masters degrees at postgraduate level, with study durations ranging from 8 months to 4 years.

You can study with us from anywhere with an internet connection and at a time that suits your schedule best. Your course will be delivered through a state-of-the-art virtual learning environment (VLE), which provides you with 24/7 access to high-quality resources, including lecture casts, discussion forums, live seminars and Q&A sessions, as well as extensive eLibrary.

Even your assessments will be completed entirely online – none of our courses has a requirement to travel to testing facilities or exam centres. In fact, the majority of our courses don’t have exams at all! For the few courses that have exam requirements, we use a virtual proctoring system that enables you to sit academically rigorous exams from the comfort of your own home. Otherwise, you’ll be completing written assignments, taking part in discussion forums or writing reflective journal entries.

Whether you're an experienced professional looking to progress your career or a recent graduate who wants to boost their CV, online study is a cost-effective, convenient and flexible way to get ahead.

Why study with us?

We are one of the longest-running providers of 100% online degrees in the UK. All our courses are specifically designed for online delivery, combining gold standard teaching with the latest technology and enabling you to gain a top-class education from anywhere in the world.

We achieved a gold rating in the government’s Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF 2018) for delivering consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for our students. With an 89% satisfaction rating, we are also the highest-rated online-only provider in the National Student Survey (NSS 2020).

Our online tutors are leading authorities and specialists in their respective fields. They are passionate about what they teach and combine their knowledge of industry practice with high-quality academic delivery, offering you an unparalleled learning experience.

Our team of dedicated student advisers and study skills specialists provide world-class mentoring and academic support to you from your first day to graduation. The team will be on hand to help and guide you as you progress through your studies. Whatever the question or issue, they will work with you to find a solution.

All our qualifications are awarded and validated by the University of Essex, an award-winning university with a 50-year heritage of teaching and research excellence. Upon completing your studies, you’ll be invited to graduate from the University of Essex’s Colchester campus. You will receive the same certificate as campus-based students – your mode of study is only mentioned on your academic transcript.

As part of the application process, you will be asked to take a short aptitude test which is designed to test your ability to handle the intellectual and practical demands of the course. Please note that we will consider your performance in the aptitude test as part of your overall application, so if you don’t pass the test you may still be accepted onto the course. Additionally, you will need to pass your first assignment set within your two-week induction period of the course in order to continue your studies.

Academic entry route In order to satisfy the academic entry route requirements for our MSc Computer Science, as a minimum you must have an undergraduate degree from an approved institution, equivalent to a UK Honours degree, or a relevant professional qualification.

Work experience entry route In order to satisfy the work experience entry route requirements for our MSc Computer Science, you must have at least three years’ relevant work experience.

English language requirements As our courses are delivered in English, a high proficiency with English is required. If English is not your first language, your English ability should be equivalent to an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5. Don’t worry if you don’t hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification – we offer a free online English test to assess your proficiency.

• Designated for postgraduate student loans in England.
• Simple monthly payment plan available, enabling you to spread the cost over the duration of your studies.
• Full payment discount of 5% if you pay upfront.
• Regional scholarship available for international students based overseas in eligible countries.
• Alumni discount of 10% of the tuition fee available if you are a previous graduate with the University of Essex or University of Essex Online.
• 10% corporate discount available when three or more of your employees study with us.

Please note, a maximum of two discounts or scholarships can be applied. The corporate discount can only be used in combination with our upfront payment discount, but not in conjunction with any other discount or scholarship. Find out more information about our discounts and scholarships.

There’s a global shortage of computer science professionals, which drives a huge demand for computing graduates. This course is designed to help you enter the computing field – and after completing your studies, you’ll be prepared to become a software developer, software engineer, web developer, requirements analyst, network analyst, information systems administrator or project manager. Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees and a BCS-accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords. Gaining a postgraduate qualification with the University of Essex Online also puts you in good stead for your career prospects. Results from our 2021 student survey showed:

• 92% of students said their course helped develop their research skills
• 89% of students say their studies fit with their future plans
• Almost 60% said their studies had a positive effect on their career
• 25% of students saw their salaries increase by up to 10%