MSc Computer Science

If you're looking to build a strong, practical foundation in computer science, whether you're new to the field or looking to formalise your skills, the MSc Computer Science at NTU is designed to get you hands-on from day one. You'll be based in our modern computing department, where the focus is on applying theory to real-world scenarios. You'll learn by doing, using industry-standard software in labs specifically designed to mimic a professional development environment, all while being supported by academics with strong industry links.

Your learning here is deeply practical, focused on giving you the tangible skills that employers are actively looking for:

• Industry-Standard Software & Tools: You will gain practical, hands-on experience with the essential tools of the trade, including professional development environments like Microsoft Visual Studio, database management systems like Oracle, and other relevant platforms used across the software industry.

• Specialist Computing Labs: Your teaching will take place in our specialist computing laboratories, which are equipped with high-specification PCs and software to provide a dedicated and professional environment for your studies and project work.

• Live Project Briefs & Group Work: A key part of the NTU experience is working on live project briefs. You'll often tackle challenges set by industry partners, working collaboratively in teams to design and develop software solutions, mirroring the agile workflows used in the tech sector.

• MSc Project: The programme culminates in a significant individual MSc project. This is your chance to dive deep into a area like software engineering, web applications, or data-centric systems, applying everything you've learned to a substantial piece of work for your portfolio.

• Bootcamp Style Learning: For those without a computing background, the programme starts with an intensive bootcamp-style module to rapidly bring you up to speed on fundamental programming concepts, ensuring everyone is ready to engage with the advanced material.

• Extensive University Resources: You will have full access to NTU’s Brackenhurst Library and its comprehensive collection of computing texts, e-books, and academic journals, alongside the University’s online learning platform and virtual desktop for remote access to software.

This programme is your launchpad into a tech career. It's structured to transform you into a confident, capable, and industry-ready practitioner, equipped to take on roles in software development, systems analysis, and technical consultancy.

Graduates from NTU’s MSc Computer Science typically move into roles such as Software Engineer, Data Analyst, Systems Developer, or Cybersecurity Specialist. Because the course offers both hands-on development experience and optional placement opportunities, many leave the programme well prepared to step into technical roles quickly.

Progression & Future Opportunities:
Here’s how NTU supports you, and what outcomes you can realistically expect:

• Which university services help students to employ:

  • The course offers a placement year option (full-time with placement year) which gives you real industry experience integrated into your master’s study. This is a major plus for building your CV and demonstrating workplace readiness. 

  • NTU’s teaching is very industry-focused: labs, programming project work, and real system solution development are part of the programme. Also, NTU has considerable support via their career services for CVs, interview prep, employer networking, and workshops.

• Employment stats & salary figures:

  • After 15 months post-graduation, NTU Computer Science graduates report average earnings around £30,000, with most graduates in work or further study. 

  • After 5 years, many graduates report earnings that increase to about £34,500, depending on role, location, and experience. 

• University–industry partnerships (specific):

  • NTU Computer Science graduates go into reputable employers such as Cisco Systems, BT, Experian, Boots, and others. These companies hire from NTU regularly. 

  • The department emphasises live projects, lab work, and problem-solving aligned with industry needs; this helps you graduate with relevant skills such as software development, debugging, systems design or security. 

• Long-term accreditation value:

  • While specific professional engineering or chartered body accreditation for this MSc is not highlighted, the degree’s practical approach, placement option, and strong employer recognition give it credibility. NTU graduates are seen by employers as having a competitive edge due to hands-on learning. 

• Graduation outcomes:

  • When you complete the MSc, you’ll have technical capability in designing, implementing, and evaluating computing systems, possibly with experience from a placement.

  • Graduates tend to enter roles in software engineering, system development, cybersecurity, product implementation, or data roles. Many also go into roles that require adaptability, such as business analyst or consultant roles where computing or programming skills are valued. 

Further Academic Progression:
After finishing your MSc in Computer Science at NTU, you have several strong options:

• You could pursue a PhD in computing science or related specialisms (e.g. AI, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction) if you're interested in research.

• Alternatively, you might enhance your skills via short specialist certifications or training (cloud computing, security certifications, etc.) to make your profile stronger for technical specialist or leadership roles.

• Another route is to combine the MSc with industry experience (via placement) and build toward senior technical roles in software development, systems architecture, or cybersecurity.