MSc Advanced Computer Science

As a student in our MSc Advanced Computer Science programme, you won't just be learning theory; you'll be hands-on from day one, building the practical, high-demand skills that employers are looking for. You'll be based in our fantastic Computational Foundry, a world-class, £32.5 million facility that is your dedicated hub for cutting-edge computer science. This isn't just a building—it's your immersive learning environment, packed with the latest technology and collaborative spaces designed to turn ideas into reality.

Your experiential learning is central to the programme, and you'll have access to incredible resources:

• State-of-the-Art Facilities: You will learn and work within the Computational Foundry, home to specialised labs including a Visualisation Lab with a ¼-cylindrical screen, a TechHealth Lab for human-centric computing, and a Cyber Security Lab with isolated networks for security research.

• Industry-Standard Software & Tools: Gain proficiency with the tools used by professionals, including advanced programming environments, data analytics suites, and specialised software for artificial intelligence and human-computer interaction research.

• Collaborative Group Projects: The programme emphasises teamwork through significant group project work, mirroring the collaborative environment of the tech industry and allowing you to tackle complex problems alongside your peers.

• Research-Led Teaching & Institutes: You’ll be taught by active researchers from renowned institutes like the Swansea Academy of Learning and Analytics (SALANA) and the Cyber Threats Research Centre (CYTREC), giving you direct exposure to current, real-world challenges in data science and cybersecurity.

• Extensive Digital & Library Resources: You will have full access to the University’s extensive digital library, online journals, and academic databases, alongside the physical resources of the Library and Information Centre located just a short walk from the Computational Foundry.

This programme is meticulously designed to equip you with not just a degree, but a portfolio of practical experience. You'll graduate with the confidence and the proven skills to excel in your chosen career, whether that's in software engineering, AI, cybersecurity, or research.

Graduates of Swansea’s MSc Advanced Computer Science frequently move into roles like Software Engineer, AI/ML Specialist, Security Analyst, or Data Scientist. You’ll leave not only with solid technical knowledge but with experience in research-level tools and project work, making you well prepared for competitive industry roles or further academic work.

Progression & Future Opportunities:
Here’s how Swansea supports you—and what you can expect when you complete this degree:

• Which university services will help students to employ:
    The Careers & Employability Service offers individual advice and guidance from qualified careers advisors, help with finding jobs, internships, and volunteering opportunities, plus employer talks and regular careers fairs. Swansea alumni also receive support up to two years after graduation. 

• Employment stats and salary figures:
    Typical salaries for computing graduates at Swansea are about £30,000 at 15 months after graduation, rising to about £36,000 by five years out. 

• University–industry partnerships (specific):
    You’ll benefit from Swansea’s Computational Foundry, which includes advanced labs like Vision & Biometric, Cyber-Security/Networking, Maker Lab, and User Lab; many modules (e.g. AI, network security, big data) are shaped by current industry challenges. 

• Long-term accreditation value:
    The department is highly rated in REF 2021, with 100% world-leading and internationally excellent research impact. Your qualification from Swansea carries weight thanks to this research strength. 

• Graduation outcomes:
    You’ll graduate with a strong technical portfolio—including a substantial 60-credit research project—and versatile module learning across themes like AI, operating systems, cryptography, and network security. Many alumni have landed titles like Software Developer/Engineer (Motorola Solutions, NS Technology), Change Coordinator, Workflow Developer, Business Application Analyst, among others. 

Further Academic Progression:
After this MSc, many students pursue a PhD in Swansea or elsewhere in specialisms you’ve engaged with (e.g. AI, security, networks). If you prefer a direct industry path, you can also enhance your professional profile with specialist certifications, or postgraduate research in labs tied to Swansea’s Computational Foundry. Either path keeps your options wide—whether you lean academic or applied.