MSc

Advanced Computer Science (with integrated year in industry)

Key Facts

Course Code G498

  • Qualification

    MSc

  • Course duration

    2 years

Available for September start 2025

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Contemporary software is usually developed in teams using agile methods. Strong software engineering skills and specialist technical knowledge needs to be combined with planning, teamwork and communication skills to develop applications on time and on budget. The MSc in Advanced Computer Science with integrated year in industry at Aberystwyth University aims to develop these skills and is suitable for students intending to pursue a career in the software industry. It can also lead to a career in research.

This is a flexible programme allowing you to specialise in a wide range of areas, from software development to machine learning, while gaining valuable work experience on your industrial placement. This degree is ideal for anyone with a first degree in any Computing subject who wishes to accelerate their career as a software engineer.

Typical Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements 2:2 Bachelors (Honours) degree in a relevant subject area, or equivalent.  Non-graduates will be considered individually based on relevant work experience.

English Language Requirements IELTS 6.0 with minimum 5.5 in each component, or equivalent

Other Requirements Applicants are encouraged to submit an up-to-date CV as part of their application.

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Fees and Finance

Course Fees:

Please see the tuition fee pages for current tuition fees. Please note that all fees are subject to an annual increase.

Funding:

Possible funding opportunities can be found in our funding calculator.

Course Overview

This is a two-year full-time programme. The taught component is identical to MSc Advanced Computer Science (G493), after which you will spend a year working in industry.

This course broadens your experience of the tools, methods and techniques used by professional software engineers, and focuses on the application of advanced software engineering, preparing you for responsible positions in the software industry. Whatever your own previous experience or future aspirations, with this course you will benefit from the marvellous integration of cutting-edge theory and practical application within a world-class department.

Recent MSc project topics include machine learning for the internet of things, augmented reality applications for tourism, analysis and management of agricultural emissions data, network intrusion detection and supply chain management.

Modules September start - 2025

Please note: The modules listed below are those currently intended for delivery during the next academic year and may be subject to change. They are included here to give an indication of how the course is structured.

Core

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Agile Software Development Project CSM2020 20
Research Topics in Computing SEM1020 20

Options

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Advanced Data Analytics CSM6720 20
Computational Intelligence CSM6520 20
Machine Learning for Intelligent Systems CSM6420 20
Fundamentals of Intelligent Systems CSM6120 20
Internet Technologies CHM5720 20
Modelling, Managing and Securing Data CSM3120 20
Statistical Concepts, Methods and Tools MAM5120 20

Core

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Sandwich Year (PG) CSS0260 60
MSC Project CHM9360 60

* Also available partially or entirely through the medium of Welsh

Careers

Our taught Masters degrees are designed to meet the needs of students wanting to expand their skills to accelerate their industrial career or those seeking a foundation for a career in research. Employment opportunities for computer scientists are wide-ranging, and include IT consultancies and IT service providers, aerospace and defence sectors, agricultural and financial services, telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, retail and the public and third sectors. Graduates also set up their own companies, providing web design and consultancy.

The University Careers Service can provide advice on employment opportunities, setting up your own business and freelancing.

Teaching & Learning

How will I be taught?

In the first year you will establish a breadth of essential skills in a number of core modules, whilst directing your own study by choosing from a number of specialist modules. In the second year, you will gain valuable experience working in industry and apply your learning in the individual Project.

What will I learn? 

In the first two semesters of Year 1, you will undertake a number of core and optional modules. The modules will be delivered through lectures, problem classes, seminars, workshops, group and individual projects, and invited lecturer series. The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, skills, qualities, and other attributes in the following areas:

·      Comprehensive understanding of design principles used in software systems to meet security, performance, quality of service and reliability requirements.

·      Critical awareness of current practice, opportunities and limitations relating to advanced software engineering.

·      Knowledge of the legal, social, ethical and professional issues that apply to software development and delivery.

·      Understanding of important standards, best practices and legal issues that govern the construction, operation and use of software systems.

·      Knowledge of important architectural frameworks, tools and techniques for developing complex software systems.

·      Critical awareness of current problems and/or recent development within the discipline.

·      Knowledge of several development methodologies that might be employed when developing complex systems.

·      Application of discipline principles, methods, approaches, concepts, skills and/or theories in a professional context, as well as understanding the challenges of working in a professional environment.

During the second year, you will develop relevant professional skills through your work placement in the first two semesters. You will also complete your Masters project in the third semester, for which you will arrange your level of contact time with your assigned supervisor.

How will I be assessed? 

Assessment is a mix of written assignments, programming assignments, practical portfolios, practical examinations, oral presentations and written examinations. Relevant professional skills will be evidenced by a report on the industrial placement accompanied by a corresponding report from the employer.