MSc Software Engineering

 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 Software Engineering program are well-prepared for careers as Software Developers, Systems Analysts, DevOps Engineers, and Project Managers. The program emphasizes hands-on development using leading-edge commercial tools and teamwork skills, aligning graduates with industry demands in software engineering and technology sectors:

• Cardiff University's Careers and Employability Service supports students through career coaching, networking events, job fairs, and facilitating professional placement opportunities, including a 7-12 month paid work placement to gain valuable real-world experience.

• Employment statistics demonstrate strong graduate prospects with many securing positions at top tech firms, with competitive salary levels reflecting market demand for skilled software engineers.

• Industry partnerships with organizations such as tech startups and established firms provide live projects and exposure to Agile project management practices, enhancing employment readiness.

• The MSc has professional accreditation validating its alignment with industry standards, boosting its long-term value for career advancement.

• Graduates typically transition into roles involving software development, systems design, and IT consultancy with opportunities to grow into team leads or technical specialists.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue PhD research in software engineering, software architecture, or related areas, or obtain professional certifications in Agile, DevOps, and cloud technologies to deepen expertise and accelerate career growth in specialized and leadership roles.