Heriot-Watt University
Study Postgraduate

MSc Software Engineering

The course

Delivery type
Weekdays (full-time) / Weekends (part-time)
Duration
1 year (full-time) / 2 years (part-time)
Intake date
September, January* (* part-time only)
Location
Dubai
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Overview

Software engineers create and maintain software applications using best practice from computer science, project management, engineering, application domains and other fields. Students will learn how to apply state-of-the-art techniques and methodologies to develop high quality software to professional standards.

The aim of this MSc programme is to impart the understanding and skills to engineer software at an advanced level to professional standards. Students can specialise in particular areas such as the development of mobile applications or advanced interactive systems like games.

Professional recognition

The MSc Software Engineering degree is accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT.

January entrants

Students starting the programme in January should note that it runs part-time only for 4 semesters (24 months) + dissertation (March to August, 6 months) (total 30 months). 

Students enrolling for the January intake programmes are not required to be be on campus during the summer break.

Accreditation

Read more about the UAE Federal Accreditation.

Course content

Students undertake 4 courses in semester 1 and a further 4 courses in semester 2.

On this programme, the following taught courses are mandatory:

  • Rigourous Methods for Software Engineering
  • Advanced Software Engineering
  • Research Methods and Project Planning
  • Industrial Programming

Students can then choose 4 courses from the following:

  • Data Mining and Machine Learning
  • Systems Programming
  • Applied Development Operations 
  • Computer Network Security
  • Mobile Communications and Programming
  • Advanced Interaction Design
  • Big Data Management
  • Computer Games Programming
  • 3D Graphics and Animation
  • Project Management
  • Biologically Inspired Computing

In addition to these taught courses, students pursuing the Masters qualification undertake a Masters project, which culminates in a dissertation.

Career

New career prospects and opportunities for career enhancement are both excellent. The continued growth in new technologies and mobile applications in industry, commerce and the public sector is increasing the demand for experts who can design, implement and maintain complex software systems.

Entry requirements

For MSc entry, a good relevant Honours degree (first or second class) or equivalent overseas qualifications will be considered. Given the clear practical element of the programmes, we will also consider non-graduate candidates holding less than a good Honours degree, or its equivalent, but with compensating qualifications or experience may be admitted to the Postgraduate Diploma programme. Transfer to the MSc will be possible later on if exams and course work are at MSc level.

To find out about the entry requirements for this programme, please send an email to dubaienquiries@hw.ac.uk

English language requirements

Where English was not the medium of instruction at secondary school, applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.5 (with all elements passed at 6.0 or above). Applicants who have completed secondary and tertiary education will need to provide documentary evidence. A minimum of one year full-time study in English will be required.

Fees and funding

  • AED 91990*

* All tuition fees inclusive of VAT

Scholarships and bursaries

See our range of degree entry, undergraduate, postgraduate taught and PhD scholarships and discounts.