Key information
Develop the programming, data and AI skills to thrive in one of the world’s fastest-growing fields. Learn flexibly online with Heriot-Watt University – a global leader in computer science and robotics research.
- Level
- Postgraduate
- Delivery type
- Self-paced
- Degree qualification
- MSc
- Location
- Online
- Duration
- Flexible
- Start date
- September, January, May
Programme overview
1st
1st in Scotland and 6th in the UK for AI (Daily Mail 2025 rankings)
200+ years
Founded in 1821, we are a leading UK university with 200+ years of in academic excellence in business and industry.
Upskill
Gain in-demand skills and build expertise in programming, AI, and data science - the skills driving global innovation.
Join Heriot-Watt University’s online MSc Computer Science to accelerate your career in technology, data and AI. Designed for working professionals and career changers, the programme builds expertise in programming, machine learning, and software development - allowing you to apply what you learn immediately to real-world challenges.
Designed around the fastest-growing fields in technology - artificial intelligence, data science and software engineering - preparing you for roles shaping the digital future.
Developed with Coursera and taught by leading academics from Heriot-Watt’s School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, this MSc blends rigorous computing theory with practical, industry-applied learning. You’ll gain expertise across programming, AI, data science and software design — building the skills employers demand in an increasingly digital world.
With access to Coursera’s Career Academy, you can earn professional certificates from Google, IBM or Meta, tailoring your studies to your career goals. Whether you’re advancing in your current field or moving into tech for the first time, this degree equips you to succeed in high-growth computing roles.
Throughout the MSc Computer Science, you will:
- Critically evaluate key concepts, theories, and frameworks in computer science and AI.
- Design and implement intelligent, data-driven computing solutions.
- Conduct independent research and apply advanced analytical techniques.
- Work effectively in professional or interdisciplinary teams, demonstrating autonomy and leadership.
- Communicate complex technical ideas clearly to both expert and non-specialist audiences.
Study at your own pace, from wherever you are in the world.
Start with just one course
With our Performance-Based Admissions route, you can start studying without traditional entry requirements - proving your capability through your first course and progressing to the full MSc when you’re ready.
Apply nowStudent experience
Heriot-Watt University was the first in Scotland - and among the first in the UK - to offer a Computer Science degree. A founding member of the Scottish Informatics and Computer Science Alliance and home to the UK’s National Robotarium, we’re a recognised leader in AI and robotics research.
Led by Dr Abrar Ullah, with over 20 years’ experience in industry and academia, this MSc builds expertise in programming, data science, machine learning and AI.
Course content
The degree comprises of seven core courses, an Industry Specialisation certificate and a Capstone Project. Courses are assessed by a Final Online Assessment.
Core courses
- Programming and Program Design
- Mathematics for Computer Science
- Databases and Knowledge Representation
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Mining and Machine Learning
- Software Design and Engineering
- Industry Specialisation
- Capstone Project
This is a new programme and is being continually enhanced, therefore it may be subject to change.
Expand your learning with Coursera Career Academy
As a Heriot-Watt Online student, you get unlimited access to Coursera Career Academy’s library of certificates from global leaders like Google, IBM, and Meta. Learn the digital, leadership, and technical skills you need, exactly when you need them, to complement your degree and stay ahead in a rapidly changing world.
Explore coursesOur teaching faculty
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.
Fees and funding
| Per course | Full programme |
| £1,285 | £8,995 |
The tuition fees listed are applicable for 2025. Fees include one assessment attempt and can increase annually. Find out more about our tuition fees.
Funding opportunities
Pay Per Course
All our programmes offer the flexibility to pay course-by-course, allowing you to spread the cost of your tuition over the lifetime of your studies.
Employer Sponsorship
Securing funding from your employer can help with financing your studies. For more information contact b2b@hw.ac.uik
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 your alumni discount contact hwonlineapps@hw.ac.uk.
Entry requirements
We have standard entry requirements for all of our courses that you will have to meet.
Heriot-Watt University offers a performance-based pathway for all learners for the MSc Computer Science. Admission doesn’t depend on your educational or professional background. The performance-based admissions pathway lets you showcase your ability to learn, rather than your credentials.
Successfully complete one course in Programming and Programme Design and you’ll be transferred to the MSc at the next available opportunity, taking the credits you’ve already earned with you.
Additional entry routes
Standard entry requirements
If you have traditional qualifications, you may also be eligible to start through a standard or international entry route. Typically we require proof of a recognised first or second class honours degree in a STEM-related subject, provided as an academic transcript from your university (with English translation if applicable).
Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
We are committed to providing study opportunities to applicants who have a wide range of prior experiences and recognise that some students entering our online programme will have completed prior academic study in subjects that align closely to this programme. Where this is the case, students may apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
- Applying for RPL: We can only consider requests for RPL at the time of application to a course of study.
- Maximum credits: You may be eligible to be granted exemption for a maximum of 20 credits.
- Eligibility: The qualification may be valid for RPL only if gained with the last 5 years. Evidence will need to be provided.
- Cost breakdown: The overall cost of your programme will be determined by whether you are awarded RPL for a 20-credit course, in which case you will not be required to register for that course. Programme fees can be found under the fees and funding section.
For more information contact hwonlineapps@hw.ac.uk.
English language requirements
If your first language is not English, or your first degree was not taught in English, we'll need to see evidence of your English language ability.
The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.
If you do not have IELTS 6.0, we offer a range of English language courses to help you meet the English language requirement for this programme prior to commencing your studies.
Why Heriot-Watt
We're the top university in Scotland for graduate outcomes and 5th in the UK, which means that more of our graduates are employed or in postgraduate education than any other institution in the country. We're also ranked 1st in Scotland for producing CEO and MDs (Novuna Business Cash Flow 2023).
We're Scotland's most international University, with five global campuses and a global community of 60,000 online students and alumni from over 158 countries. Our online programmes are designed and developed by the same faculty who teach on our global campuses - expert academics and leaders in research and innovation who work alongside industry to find solutions to some of the world's most pressing challenges.
Together, we shape your future.
30+ years
With 30+ years of online education experience, we're experts in designing our programmes to meet the needs of our diverse, global student community.
500+
From day one, you get access to 500+ industry courses on Coursera Career Academy – courses from global titans Google, IBM and Microsoft.
6000+
Join a global community of 6,000+ online learner professionals – engage in discussion forums, attend live webinars and collaborate across borders.
Employability
With our flexible model you can earn while you learn, build your CV, and apply new skills right away. Get free access to 500+ industry credentials and dedicated Careers Service support.
Our graduates now work at
Your Online experience
Explore Heriot-Watt Online as a student
Speak to an advisor
Our Enrolment Advisors can guide you through your options, explain the Performance-Based route, and help you begin your studies with confidence.
Book a call