MSc Advanced Computer Science

This programme is designed to transform you into an expert computer scientist through a deeply practical, research-led curriculum that bridges advanced theory with professional application. You'll have access to our outstanding facilities in the School of Science, which houses our advanced computing laboratories, high-performance computing clusters, and specialised research equipment in our STEMLab facility. Your learning is powered by cutting-edge software and culminates in a substantial research project where you will tackle complex computing challenges, preparing you for leadership roles in both industry and research.

Here’s how you’ll gain advanced, hands-on experience:

• Advanced Computing Software & Frameworks: You'll gain deep proficiency in professional tools including TensorFlow and PyTorch for machine learning, Docker and Kubernetes for containerization, and Apache Spark for big data processing.

• The MSc Research Project: The cornerstone of your degree is a significant research project where you'll address a complex, real-world computing challenge, developing innovative solutions and advanced technical skills.

• High-Performance Computing Laboratory: You'll conduct experiments using our advanced computing clusters with GPU acceleration for training sophisticated models and processing large-scale datasets.

• Intelligent Systems Laboratory: You'll work with our AI and machine learning research equipment, developing and testing advanced algorithms for intelligent systems.

• Cyber Security Research Facilities: You'll have access to our secure testing environments for vulnerability analysis, network security testing, and developing defensive systems.

• Data Science Studio: You'll use our dedicated data analytics workspace with visualization tools and computational resources for working with complex datasets.

• Industry Collaboration: Many projects incorporate real-world challenges from our industry partners, providing valuable insight into current computing applications and research needs.

• Research-Led Learning: Your practical work is informed by cutting-edge research from our Centre for Information Management and other research groups, giving you exposure to advancements in AI, data science, and secure systems.

Graduates of this Advanced Computer Science master’s often step into roles like AI Engineer, Robotics Developer, Systems Architect, or Data Scientist. Because Loughborough combines theoretical depth with hands-on labs and strong industry ties, many leave with both credibility and immediate job readiness, ending up in both academia and high-tech companies soon after finishing.

Progression & Future Opportunities:
Here’s what you’ll get support from—and what you can expect—if you choose this programme:

• Which university services will help students to employ:
  Loughborough’s Computer Science department offers 24-hour labs (including a dedicated MSc lab), robotics and hardware labs, plus state-of-the-art facilities like virtual reality systems. You’ll get project-based learning and lab access to build real, demonstrable technical skills. 
  The University’s Careers Network provides support through CV workshops, interview preparation, alumni panels, and employer engagements to bridge the gap between study and work.

• Employment stats and salary figures:

  • While the specific MSc doesn’t always publish separate salary figures, Computer Science graduates at Loughborough report median earnings of £35,000 around 15 months post-graduation, increasing to about £40,500 at 3 years and over £52,000 by 5 years. 

  • Employers who have taken on graduates from Loughborough’s MSc programmes include Google, Credit Suisse, Ocado, Rolls-Royce, Winton Capital, and AVG Technologies among others. 

• University–industry partnerships (specific):

  • The programme has been developed with input from several UK and international organisations to ensure the curriculum keeps up with real-world needs. Modules like Artificial Intelligence, Robotics & Intelligent Systems, and theoretical computer science reflect this alignment. 

  • Key collaborating companies include BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Toyota, Sensinode, Arqiva, Jennic, and more. These connections shape research topics, guest lectures, and sometimes project or placement opportunities. 

• Long-term accreditation value:

  • The department has received the highest available commendation from the Quality Assurance Agency for its teaching quality. That long-term reputation signals to employers and academic institutions that this MSc is rigorous and well-respected. 

  • Your degree reflects both theoretical and practical mastery: strong foundation in computing theory, supplemented with robotics, hardware, and applied AI modules. This gives flexibility if you want to move into more academic research or specialized tech roles. 

• Graduation outcomes:

  • You’ll finish with a robust portfolio of work (projects, labs, possible industry collaborations), sharper problem-solving skills, and hands-on experience with advanced computing tools.

  • Many alumni enter roles in software development, system engineering, AI/ML, robotics, or pursue further studies. Employers value this programme for producing graduates who can contribute from Day One. 

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your MSc Advanced Computer Science, you have several solid pathways ahead: pursuing a PhD in areas like robotics, AI, or theoretical aspects of computing; entering research fellowships; or potentially specializing with postgraduate certificates or short courses in niche areas like autonomous systems, vision, or security. The programme’s research-led environment and industry connections make those transitions quite realistic.