MSc Computing

This programme allows you to dive into the most current and complex areas of the field, from artificial intelligence and data science to cybersecurity and human-centred computing. You'll be based in the Abacws building, our stunning new £45.5 million home for the School of Computer Science and Informatics, which is purpose-built to foster collaboration and provide a world-class environment for innovation and hands-on experimentation.

Your learning is built around applying advanced theory to solve real-world problems, supported by exceptional resources:

• State-of-the-Art Specialist Laboratories: You will have direct access to our suite of specialist labs within the Abacws building. This includes the Data Science Lab, the Cyber Security Lab with its isolated network for ethical hacking and digital forensics work, and the Human-Centred Computing Lab for practical work in UX and interactive systems.

• Industry-Standard & Research Software: You will gain hands-on experience with the tools that drive innovation. This includes data science and deep learning platforms like Python with TensorFlow and PyTorch, big data tools like Apache Spark, and professional environments for software engineering, simulation, and secure systems development.

• Research-Led Teaching & Group Projects: You'll be taught by active researchers from groups like the Artificial Intelligence Research Group and the Security, Privacy and Human-Centred Computing Research Group. A core part of your experience will involve collaborative projects, tackling challenges that mirror the cutting-edge work happening in our research centres.

• Substantial Individual MSc Project: The programme culminates in a significant individual research project. This is your opportunity to work deeply on a specialist topic of your choice, often supervised by one of our research experts, to create a substantial and impressive piece of work for your professional portfolio.

• High-Performance Computing (HPC) Resources: For projects requiring significant computational power, such as processing large datasets or running complex simulations, you will have access to the University's Advanced Research Computing (ARCCA) facilities, including the supercomputer Hawk.

Graduates of Cardiff University's MSc Computing program are well-prepared for roles in the computing and ICT industry, securing positions such as Software Engineer, Web Developer, Business Analyst, and Systems Development Officer. The program's blend of technical skills and professional development equips students to thrive in a variety of technology-driven roles:

• Cardiff University's Career and Employability Service supports students with career coaching, internship opportunities, job fairs, and networking connections especially through their placement year support and a dedicated Placement Officer.

• Employment statistics indicate strong graduate employability with Cardiff ranked 12th in the UK for graduate employability; graduates secure roles in leading companies like IBM, Airbus, Amazon, and Morgan Stanley.

• The university fosters robust industry partnerships providing real-world internship placements and year-in-industry experiences with organizations such as Admiral, Airbus, Hewlett Packard, and Red Bull Racing.

• The MSc Computing degree maintains professional accreditation and long-term recognition in the computing sector, aligning with current industry standards.

• Typical graduation outcomes include high rates of job placement in competitive roles across software development, data analysis, IT consultancy, and systems design.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue doctoral research (PhD) in advanced computing fields, data science, or artificial intelligence at Cardiff or other renowned universities. They may also consider specialized professional certifications or MSc programs in cybersecurity, machine learning, or software engineering to deepen expertise and broaden career opportunities.​