MSc Computing

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

Edinburgh Napier University

Program Overview

The MSc in Computing at Edinburgh Napier University provides broad and flexible training across software development, systems, databases and web technologies. It suits both graduates new to computing and those seeking to advance existing skills for careers in software engineering, IT systems, or web development.


Curriculum Structure (Full-time, 1 Year)

Year of Study

Students begin with Software Development 1 & 2, Computer Systems, and Database Systems, where they gain core programming skills, understand how operating systems and hardware interact, and learn to design and manage data in relational databases. They continue with Web Design and Development and Programming for the Web, developing the ability to create dynamic web applications using front-end and back-end technologies. Depending on the intake period, students may also take Management of Software Projects and Digital Business Environments, gaining project-management skills and insight into how IT systems support modern organisations. The year concludes with a Group Project, in which students collaboratively design and implement a software or systems solution, integrating programming, system design, databases and web technologies.


Focus areas: “Software development, computer systems, databases, web development, software project management, applied project work”

Learning outcomes: “Write and design software solutions; understand system architecture and database management; build functional web applications; manage software projects; collaborate on end-to-end development through a group project.”

Professional alignment (accreditation): Designed to meet industry needs for computing and software professionals, preparing graduates for roles in development, IT services, web engineering and systems support.

Reputation (employability rankings): The university is well regarded for computing education, and graduates from the MSc progress into software development, IT systems roles, web development and technical consultancy.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MSc Computing at Edinburgh Napier University builds advanced technical skills through practical project work in modern computing labs. The programme focuses on applying current technologies and methodologies to solve complex computing problems across areas like software development, data, and networks.

Key experiential components:

  • Software & Tools: Professional development using languages and frameworks like Java, Python, C#, alongside database systems (SQL/NoSQL), web technologies, and cloud platforms.

  • Computing Facilities: Access to Napier's specialist computing labs, networking suites, and high-performance computing resources for software engineering, data analysis, and system design projects.

  • Group Projects: A significant collaborative systems development project, simulating an agile team environment where students design, build, and deploy a substantial computing application.

  • Industry-Relevant Specialisation: The programme offers pathways (e.g., Software Engineering, Data Science) allowing practical focus, culminating in an individual dissertation/project that involves developing a solution to a technical challenge.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Edinburgh Napier University's MSc Computing launch successful careers as software developers, systems analysts, IT consultants, and programmers across tech firms, consultancies, and public sector organizations:

  • Careers Service provides personalized CV workshops, mock interviews, employer fairs, and optional professional placements for hands-on experience.​

  • Over 95% employed or in further study within 15 months; average UK starting salaries exceed £30,000 with strong progression in IT.​

  • Jack Kilby Computing Centre facilitates industry-linked projects and collaborations with tech partners for real-world application.​

  • Prepares for professional certifications (e.g., BCS) supporting long-term advancement to senior IT leadership roles.​

  • Diverse outcomes include software engineering positions, consulting gigs, or research pathways.​

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue PhD programs in computing, software engineering, or related fields at Napier or other institutions, seamlessly extending their MSc dissertation research into advanced doctoral work.

Program Key Stats

£21,430 (annual cost)
Rolling


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

2.7
3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
6.5
88
2:2
55
5
70

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Software Developer
  • Systems Architect
  • Data Analyst
  • IT Project Manager
  • Network Engineer
  • Database Administrator

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