MSc Computer Science
Skip to section
Key information
- Mode of delivery
- Online
- Start date
- September, January, May
- Duration
- Varies
- Qualification
- MSc
Contact
Contact our enquiries team
Contact usOverview
Delivered in collaboration with the global online learning platform, Coursera, this MSc pairs cutting-edge research with applied industry content from tech giants such as Google, IBM, and Meta. Build a strong theoretical foundation alongside the sought-after skills you need to propel your career forward.
The average computer science graduate's starting salary in the UK is £44,143. (Computer Science Salary Guide, SI UK)
If you're transitioning into a career in computer science or adjacent fields, or looking to advance to a more senior position, this MSc gives you the flexibility to earn a degree without taking a career break. Ideal for students who don’t have a formal background in computer science, this degree will equip you with knowledge of exciting new technologies so you can pursue a tech role with confidence.
Learn from academics in our School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, globally renowned for pioneering research and teaching. Even without a formal background in computer science, our performance-based admissions pathway enables you to access this expertise and earn your master’s degree. You’ll also have the chance to complete industry certificates from leading employer brands in specialist areas that match your career goals, at no additional cost.
In the first half of 2024 alone, over 4 million job postings and 266,141 companies worldwide - including Amazon, Accenture and Deloitte - sought computer science talent (Lightcast), making now the perfect time to shape your future. Stand out with a degree from the university that’s first in Scotland for Artificial Intelligence and home to the National Robotarium, the UK’s centre for Robotics and Artificial Intelligence.
Delivered with Coursera
Coursera is one of the largest online learning platforms in the world, with over 150 million registered learners. Our MSc Computer Science degree uses creative interactive approaches delivered through Coursera to provide immersive learning experiences.
Along with studying your MSc on the Coursera platform, you’ll receive free access to the Coursera Career Academy, which contains over 500 industry courses, projects and Professional Certificates designed by some of the world's biggest employers.
77% of learners on the Coursera platform report career benefits, such as new skills, increased pay, and new job opportunities (Learner Outcomes Report 2023, Coursera).
United States export control regulations prevent Coursera from offering services and content to users in certain countries or regions. More information about which countries or regions are affected can be found on Coursera's website. We advise that all learners check this information before applying for the degree.
As this programme is delivered in partnership with Coursera. We will share your application data with Coursera for the purposes of recruitment and they may reach out to you using your contact details provided regarding your application, enrolment, and registration journey. You can learn more about how we manage your personal information and your rights under data protection law by reviewing our Privacy Notice.
Degree duration
Our online programmes are available to study on-demand, at your own pace, wherever you are in the world. Start your degree at three points in the year – September, May or January and structure your studies in a way that fits around your life.
Each individual course requires approximately 200 hours of study, which also includes time to complete course activities and practice assignments. On average, it will take up to three years to complete your MSc, but it can be completed faster or over a longer period – you set your own pace.
Who should study this degree
This degree has been tailored to meet the needs of those pursuing careers in data and tech, including roles as a data analyst, software engineer, artificial intelligence consultant, or computer programmer.
This degree is ideal for learners who don’t have a traditional academic background in computer science and are looking to build a sound foundation in the subject, as well as those seeking to validate existing professional experience with a reputable qualification.
This degree will equip you with a foundation in mathematical concepts, a comprehensive overview of database management systems, and practical knowledge of advancing and revolutionary technologies such as AI, machine learning, and NLP that will enable you to solve complex real-world problems. Enrolling in our MSc in Computer Science will enhance your professional value and provide you with the skills and knowledge sought by organisations worldwide.
How you’ll learn
You will have access to a virtual learning environment (VLE) on Coursera’s platform that houses all your course content and acts as your online campus. Tools to track your progress through the course materials will help keep you on track with your learning. Other online resources such as quizzes and assessment practice are available in the VLE. Course materials will be available on demand for you to work through asynchronously, when it suits you.
Connect with peers and course leaders
Wherever you’re studying from, you’ll have access to collaborative discussion forums where you can engage with your peers around the world. With guidance from renowned academics who are experts in their field, you will critically engage with your course materials and discuss how they apply to real-world challenges. Optional live sessions will also be available for those who want to connect alongside their independent studies. You'll be able to chat with peers and ask questions directly to course leaders.
Receive additional support
The university provides a range of valuable resources to support you in your academic journey. This includes our study skills support, which aims to enhance your learning strategies and techniques. You will also be supported throughout your studies by our dedicated Student Success team. Whether it's time management, study planning, or assessment preparation, your Student Success Coaches will be on hand to offer you 1-2-1 and group support, workshops, tutorials, and resources.
Choose when to sit your assessment
Final course assessments are conducted online, meaning you can sit your assessment in the comfort of your own space. There are three assessment periods in each year, so you can choose when you sit your Final Online Assessments for each of your courses.
Taught by leading academics
Your programme director is Dr Abrar Ullah, Programme Director and Associate Professor of Computer Science at Heriot-Watt University, who has over 20 years of experience in both industry and academia. Your course has been designed by leading academics in the School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences including:
- Christos Chrysoulas - Associate Professor in Software Engineering
- Sara Lombardo - Executive Dean of the School of Mathematical and Computer Science at Heriot-Watt University
- Mario Soflano - Assistant Professor, School of Mathematical & Computer Sciences
Application deadline
Complete your application by 24 March 2025 to start studying in May 2025.
Request more information
Apply now or request more information about this programme from Coursera.
Course content
Year 1
The online MSc in Computer Science degree combines research-backed academic expertise with industry-developed content to equip you with the competencies most highly valued by today’s employers.
The degree comprises of seven core courses, an Industry Specialisation certificate and a Capstone Project. Courses are assessed by a Final Online Assessment.
Degree structure
Core
- Programming and Program Design
- Mathematics for Computer Science
- Software Design and Engineering
- Databases and Knowledge Representation
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Data Mining and Machine Learning
- Artificial Intelligence
- Industry Specialisation
- Capstone Project
This is a new programme and is being continually enhanced, therefore it may be subject to change.
Detailed degree guide
Assessment Policies
Assessment will be based on a combination of final online assessment, project, and coursework. The HW online programme necessarily places more emphasis on final online assessment with some modules being assessed 100% by final online assessment.
"In an era where technology drives almost every industry, there is a critical demand for highly skilled computer science graduates. This master's reflects our commitment to developing the next generation of tech leaders."
Programme Director and Associate Professor of Computer Science
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Additional fee information
The MSc degree comprises of seven courses, an Industry Specialisation certificate, and a Capstone Project. You can pay per course to help you spread the cost over the programme over your studies.
Standard fee
Per course: £1,285
Full programme: £8,995
Course fees include all necessary study materials and assessments. The full programme fee includes the Industry Specialisation certificate and the Capstone Project, which is made available for free upon completion of all taught courses. You will also get complimentary access to 500+ industry courses and projects on Coursera Career Academy as a student on this MSc programme.
Please note: The tuition fees listed are for courses starting in 2025. Fees normally increase annually. The full programme fee listed does not take any annual increases into account.
Find more information in our FAQs.
Scholarships and bursaries
We aim to encourage well-qualified, ambitious students to study with us and we offer a wide variety of scholarships and bursaries to achieve this. Each year, hundreds of students enhance their educational experience through a variety of Heriot-Watt and externally funded scholarships, including opportunities funded by the University's generous alumni community, based all over the world.
View our full range of postgraduate scholarships.
20% Alumni Discount
If you are a Heriot-Watt alumnus, you qualify for 20% off your programme fees. For more information on how to claim for your alumni discount contact hwonlineapps@hw.ac.uk
Entry requirements
We offer two routes to entry onto the MSc in Computer Science: the Standard Application pathway or the Performance-Based Admissions pathway.
Students whose native language is not English and who have not been educated previously in the English language must provide evidence of their English language proficiency.
Please note, only applicants aged 18 and above are eligible to apply.
Find more information in the FAQs.
Standard Application pathway
For entry through the Standard Application pathway, we require proof of a first or second-class honours degree, provided as an academic transcript from your university (with English translation if applicable).
Performance-Based Admissions pathway
The Performance-Based Admissions pathway makes this programme available to those without a background in computer science or a prior degree. To qualify through the Performance-Based Admissions pathway, you’ll need to successfully complete the first course on the programme: Programming and Program Design. Upon passing, you’ll be eligible to transfer to the MSc programme at the next available opportunity, with credits earned from this course carried forward.
As part of your application, you’ll need to provide a brief and compelling supporting statement explaining your motivation for applying to this programme, along with your professional or academic goals.
Additional information
You can choose to submit the following materials as part of either your Standard or Performance-Based application pathway, however, these are not required.
Your CV or resume: Submit a current CV or resume, detailing your academic and professional experiences.
Qualification certificate: Provide proof of any other qualifications relevant to your application.
Supporting statement (optional for the Standard application pathway, mandatory for PBA): Explain why you’re interested in the programme and outline your career or academic ambitions.
English language requirements
If English is not the applicant's first language a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent is required with all elements passed at 5.5 or above.
Applicants who have previously successfully completed courses delivered in the medium of English language may be considered and will be required to provide documentary evidence of this. Examples would be secondary school education or undergraduate degree course. A minimum of at least one year of full time study (or equivalent) in the medium of English language will be required.
We offer a range of English language courses to help you meet the English language requirement prior to starting your masters course:
- 20 weeks English (for IELTS of 5.0 with no skill lower than 4.5)
- 14 weeks English (for IELTS of 5.0 with minimum of 5.0 in writing and no skill lower than 4.5)
- 10 weeks English (for IELTS of 5.5 with no skill lower than 5.0)
- 6 weeks English (for IELTS 5.5 with no skill lower than 5.5)
Employability
Heriot-Watt University has a reputation for producing high-calibre, employable students with 84% of our graduates in employment or further education 15 months after graduation (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025). We have also been named first in the United Kingdom for producing CEO’S (Novuna Business Cash Flow).
The MSc in Computer Science in collaboration with Coursera will provide you with the knowledge and skills to apply knowledge of AI including machine learning and natural language processing to solve real-world problems. This is the ideal launch pad for your career in a computer science role at a global organisation.
Additionally, the online, flexible format of the programme allows you to learn while you work. This means that if you’re already in the computer science field you can apply your learning immediately in your current job. If you’re just starting your career in this area, it means you can build your work experience while you study. You will also get access to the Careers Service to support your career planning.
Build a global professional network
At Heriot-Watt you’re part of a global community, even after graduation. Upon completing your studies, you will automatically join the UK's oldest alumni association The Watt Club for life, with 166,000 graduates in 190 countries.
Skills Development for Business
If you are an employer looking to develop the academic and professional skills of your staff, please contact our B2B team who can help with a range of development opportunities b2b@hw.ac.uk.
Potential career paths
This programme positions you for long-term success in roles such as:
- Data Scientist
- Cloud Architect
- DevOps Engineer
- Mobile Developer
- Artificial Intelligence Consultant