MSc in Software Development

If you're looking to build a comprehensive and highly practical skill set to launch a successful career as a software professional, the MSc in Software Development at Queen's University Belfast is specifically designed for that purpose. This intensive, hands-on programme is perfect for those coming from a different academic background, as it immerses you in the entire software development lifecycle from day one. You'll be based in the state-of-the-art Computer Science Building at the heart of a thriving tech hub, learning the tools, methodologies, and collaborative practices used by industry leaders right here in Belfast.

Your learning will be almost entirely practical, focused on building a robust portfolio of development skills:

• Industry-Led Curriculum with Key Partners: The programme is developed in collaboration with key industry partners from Northern Ireland's vibrant tech sector, including companies like Kainos, ensuring the skills you learn are exactly what employers are looking for.

• Dedicated Software Laboratories: Your teaching will take place in our specialist computing laboratories, which are equipped with high-specification PCs and all the necessary professional software to provide an ideal environment for collaborative coding and project work.

• Industry-Standard Tools & Environments: You will gain daily, hands-on experience with the essential tools of a professional developer. This includes programming languages like Java for enterprise development, modern JavaScript frameworks for web development, SQL and NoSQL databases, and version control with Git.

• Agile Team Projects: A core part of the Queen's experience is working in team-based projects that mirror a real software studio. You'll apply Agile methodologies, participate in sprint planning, and develop a fully-functional application, preparing you perfectly for the modern workplace.

• Professional Portfolio Project: The programme is built around practical application, culminating in a substantial team software project. This is a chance to design, develop, and deliver a fully-functional software application for your portfolio, giving you a concrete demonstration of your skills to show employers.

• Extensive University Resources: You will have full access to the McClay Library, one of the most modern in the UK, with its vast collection of computing texts, e-resources, and academic journals, as well as 24/7 access to designated computer labs.

This programme is your direct pathway into the tech industry. It's meticulously crafted to transform you into a job-ready, confident software developer, equipped with the practical experience to step into roles such as software engineer, application developer, or web developer from day one.

After completing MSc Software Development at Queen’s Belfast, many graduates move into roles like Software Developer / Engineer, Web or Full-Stack Developer, Database / Backend Developer, or Software Tester / QA Engineer. Because this is a conversion-friendly programme (for students without a computing background), the course opens doors into tech that are often otherwise difficult to access.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

Here are how Queen’s supports you, what kinds of benefits you’ll get, and what to expect as you start your career:

• University Services that Help Students to Employ:

  • The Careers & Employability Service at Queen’s offers workshops (CV writing, interviews, networking), employer talks, and job / internship postings—these are integrated into the MSc programme. 

  • For hands-on labs, projects and group work: the programme emphasizes “learning by doing,” giving you experience of real software development processes and tools. 

  • Professional & Employment Skills Workshops: regular sessions on technical interview technique, assessment centres etc., plus opportunities to meet large employers in Belfast’s software sector. 

• Employment Stats & Salary Figures:

  • Specific salary figures for this exact degree are not broadly published in Queen’s official documents. However, the programme claims a very high graduate employability rate for this MSc. 

  • Fees for international vs UK / local students are clearly detailed: domestic (Northern Ireland / GB) rates are much lower than the international one, which indicates policy of accessibility. While not a salary stat, it’s useful for cost-benefit calculations. 

• University-Industry Partnerships / Curriculum Relevance:

  • The MSc is “designed in collaboration with industry” to keep content current and relevant. Modules reflect what is valued by software employers in the region. 

  • Students get exposure to group-based projects, web & software development tools, database work, agile and other development methodologies. These are all industry standard or close to it. 

• Long-Term Accreditation / Value:

  • According to the programme specification, the MSc Software Development does not (at least in the 2023/24 spec) list a PSRB (Professional, Statutory, or Regulatory Body) accreditation. 

  • However, Queen’s strong reputation, its modern facilities (new Computer Science Building etc.), and its history help with recognition. The university is well-known, which helps when employers or further academic programmes assess you. 

• Graduation Outcomes:

  • Graduates are well-prepared to take roles in software development, web applications, backend systems, database design, and related fields. Because it’s a conversion course, even without prior computing, you gain these core technical and analytical skills. 

  • Many find employment in Belfast / Northern Ireland’s tech sector, where there are growing numbers of software, fintech, and IT firms. The employability workshops and employer networking built into the course also help with this. 

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the MSc in Software Development at Queen’s Belfast, here are some logical next steps you might consider:

• PhD / Research Degrees: If you find yourself interested in more theoretical or cutting-edge topics (algorithms, software engineering methodologies, human-computer interaction etc.), you could pursue doctoral study. Queen’s has research activity in these areas.

• Specialised Certifications & Upskilling: Once you’re working or after graduating, gaining certifications in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), software architecture, security, agile/scrum, DevOps etc. can help you specialise and increase earnings.

• Advanced or Specialized Master’s / Diplomas: If you want further specialization (for example, in AI, data science, cybersecurity, or mobile development), you might take short courses, postgraduate diplomas, or other masters focused on those areas.

• Industry / R&D Roles or Teaching: Some graduates move into research & development positions in companies or labs, or even into teaching / training roles. If you do well, you might also support other students or get involved in project supervision.