MSc/Dip in Computer Science

Computer Science is an intellectually challenging subject that underpins the core technologies of the 21st century. Its scope ranges from the design of programming languages and algorithms, to models of computation, such as distributed, parallel and quantum computing, and the study of the limits of computation - what can we compute, what resources (time and space) are required. It is concerned with the understanding, design, implementation and use of computing systems ranging in complexity from the components of a single processor to computer networks as vast as the World Wide Web. It encompasses both hardware and software, and embodies a wide variety of practical techniques supported by a strong foundation of theoretical understanding.

Why Study Computer Science in Edinburgh?

The University of Edinburgh has one of the best Schools of computing in the world. Our degree program offers unmatched opportunities for both interdisciplinary variety and focused depth, depending on which best suits you. At Edinburgh, computer science can be studied in individual depth or in a more integrated way as the science of Informatics. To sum up, studying computer science in Edinburgh will give you depth of study, breadth of study, flexibility and a degree that is respected by academia and industry.

Programme Content and Structure

The course spans a full 12-month period from September to August the following year and consists of two parts: taught and research. During the taught part of the course, September to April, you will attend lectures, tutorials and group practicals and acquire the theoretical foundation to enable you to engage in independent research.

Between May and August, you will get the opportunity to make a practical application of your knowledge by undertaking a major individual research project on which you will write a dissertation. The project is normally isupervised by a member of academic staff as one of his/her research interests, with assistance from his/her research team. To give you an idea of the kinds of projects our students undertake, please see our recent MSc Thesis List.

Our research strengths are reflected in the content of the degree programme. One of the following  areas will form the main focus of your studies:

• Analytical and Scientific Databases
• Computer Systems and Software Engineering
• Theoretical Computer Science

You might also be interested in some of our other Masters degrees in Informatics, Artificial Intelligence and Cognitive Science or the MSc in High Performance Computing taught jointly with our colleagues from the Edinburgh Parallel Computing Centre.

Entry Requirements

You should have a first or upper second class honours degree or its equivalent, and in an area of Informatics, such as Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Science or Computer Science. You should also have experience in computer programming.

Applicants with degrees in these disciplines will also be considered: Education, Electrical Engineering, Psychology, Mathematics, Philosophy, and Physics.

Course Costs

Costs include a tuition fee, research costs fee and living expenses.

Fee type	Home/EU	Overseas
Tuition Fee	£4,600	£14,000
Additional Programme Costs	£200 for Diploma £600 for MSc

Fees are subject to annual revision. For the latest information on fees, please visit Registry Office web site.

Living expenses are estimated at around £190 per week. More... [an error occurred while processing this directive]

Careers

Almost a third of the UK's IT industry and research activity in Informatics is concentrated in the area around Edinburgh. In addition, Scotland is actively encouraging talented graduates to settle and work within its borders. Our reputation means that our graduates are well regarded by potential employers, both at home and abroad. Our students make direct vocational use of their degree and are employed as researchers, software developers and engineers, in academia and in industry. See our careers page for possible career routes and alumni destinations.