Computer Science

Our Computer Science masters degree will develop your computational thinking skills. You’ll master the ability to break down complex problems as well as develop the skills and strategies to analyse and model complex problems.

On this course you’ll learn a range of software development practices and processes. This is a hands-on, practical course, so you’ll also learn how to use and adopt tools and solutions to solve real-world problems.

You’ll develop the skills to envision, evaluate and communicate solutions, which means you’ll be well-prepared for the workplace. You’ll also gain domain-specific knowledge and skills to solve technical problems. 

We don't assume anything about your skill level and your interests, so we start the first trimester with an intensive introduction to key concepts that you'll need throughout the course, alongside a practical start to programming. This is followed by more in-depth programming to develop specialisation, whilst also gaining an appreciation for software engineering.

Trimester two builds on your new skills with an Introduction to Artificial Intelligence - one of many areas your career may take you. You'll also work on a collaborative project, potentially with students from different courses, all working towards viable commercial prototype. Lastly you'll start preparing for your final project or dissertation by learning about research methods.

As the final stage of your course, you'll complete either a Project or Dissertation in the final trimester.

You're assessed in a variety of methods across the various modules on the course.

Most assessments are based on practical coursework and projects asking you to design and develop a varied portfolio of digital solutions, including software prototypes, experimental interfaces, algorithm designs, and physical products.

Project work is often supported by research papers, reflective commentaries, reports, and presentations.

We combine academic study with practice-based teaching.

You’ll learn through a variety of activities including lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials, with occasional online activities and discussion.  

Course staff offer you access to a wide range of academic and practical expertise in varied specialisms, and insights from guest lecturer from industry and academia.

You’ll also benefit from one-to-one tutorials and peer-led learning activities.  

We work with you to ensure that your experience and aspirations direct what you learn on the course, which then translates into effective professional practice and unlocks your potential. 

To find out more about how we teach and how you'll learn, please read our information on Your Learning and Teaching at BSU.

Throughout your course, simulated work-based problems and scenarios require you to operate as if in a real-world work environment. The curriculum focused by our connections with local business, research projects and awareness of emerging technologies.

Industry connections may also provide opportunities for collaboration, tasking you with coursework and assessments that encourage you to develop solutions to existing business problems and issues.

While you can opt for a traditional postgraduate dissertation, this course also offers the opportunity to undertake large project for your final 60 credit module. Choosing the project enables you to devise a solution to specific issue or challenge taken from the real world or in response to a live brief.

Based on your own research and contextualisation, your critical thinking and creative problem solving skills will help plan and implement a solution tailored to the project sponsor. This capstone project further develops your academic and research skills, and provides you with invaluable practical and professional experience.

MSc Computer Science supports entry into a range of computing technology roles. You’ll be able to demonstrate your value to a range of companies quickly, and later build on the management skills gained during your study to compete for more senior positions.

Career roles include, but are not limited to:

• AI and Machine Learning Developer
• Data Analyst
• Data Scientist
• Python Developer
• Statistical Analyst
• Business Analyst
• Database Administrator
• Software Engineer in Test
• Software Developer
• WebOps Developer.

As an MSc Computer Science student, you'll have access to our:

• Cutting edge Commons building, situated at the heart of our stunning Newton Park campus.
• High-end computing spaces, populated with dedicated PCs and access to 3D printers, VR kit and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
• Virtual Learning Environment
• Newton Park library
• Free access to software, creative, design and business courses via LinkedIn Learning
• Support from the ASk (Academic Skills) team
• If English is not your first language, the English Language Unit can support with your English language skills

You can also hire out equipment using SISO, Bath Spa University’s free equipment loan service.