MSc Computer Graphics Vision and Imaging

This advanced programme is designed for students who want to be at the absolute forefront of computational imaging, pushing the boundaries of how machines see and how we create digital worlds. You'll dive deep into the algorithms and mathematics that power everything from medical imaging and smartphone cameras to Hollywood visual effects and cutting-edge augmented reality.

Curriculum Structure

This intensive one-year master's programme is structured around core foundational knowledge and specialised optional modules, culminating in a significant research project. In your first term, you'll build a rigorous mathematical and computational foundation through compulsory modules like Image Processing and Machine Vision, establishing the core principles that underpin the entire field.

The second term allows you to tailor your learning to your specific interests through a range of advanced optional modules. You can choose to specialise in areas such as Virtual Environments or Computational Photography, diving deeper into the topics that excite you most and align with your career goals.

The programme culminates in the final term and summer, where you will apply everything you've learned to a substantial Research Project & Dissertation. This is your opportunity to work closely with UCL's world-leading researchers, contributing original knowledge to a specialised topic in computer graphics, vision, or imaging.

Focus areas: Computational Photography, Image Processing, Machine Vision, Virtual Environments, Deep Learning for Vision, Geometry

Learning outcomes: Develop and implement advanced computer graphics and vision algorithms; Apply deep learning techniques to visual data; Design and evaluate novel imaging systems; Conduct original research in a specialised area.

Professional alignment: As a highly specialised technical master's from a world-leading institution, this degree is recognised globally by top employers in technology, entertainment, and research. It is designed to train the future leaders in this field.

Reputation: UCL is consistently ranked among the world's top universities (8th in the QS World University Rankings 2024) and is a global powerhouse in computer science research. The department is recognised for its exceptional research output and impact.

Graduating with this MSc from UCL places you at the forefront of a technological revolution, equipping you with the deep technical expertise to drive innovation in fields from AI and entertainment to healthcare and autonomous systems. Your advanced skills in imaging, vision, and graphics will make you highly sought after by world-leading tech companies, cutting-edge research labs, and innovative startups. You'll be prepared to tackle some of the most exciting computational challenges of our time.

The high-impact career paths our graduates pursue include:

• Computer Vision Engineer: Developing algorithms for image and video recognition, segmentation, and analysis for companies like Google DeepMind, Meta, or NVIDIA.

• Graphics Software Engineer: Creating rendering engines, simulation tools, and visual effects software for the gaming (e.g., Sony Interactive Entertainment, Unity) and VFX industries.

• Machine Learning Research Scientist: Specialising in visual data within R&D departments of tech giants or ambitious AI startups.

• AR/VR Engineer: Building the next generation of immersive experiences and spatial computing applications for companies like Microsoft HoloLens or Apple.

Your journey to these top-tier roles is fully supported by UCL's dedicated Careers Service. They offer specialist one-to-one advice for tech students, CV and portfolio reviews tailored to the tech industry, and host exclusive events like the Tech Talent Fair, where you can connect directly with leading employers.

UCL's industry partnerships are a cornerstone of this programme's relevance. The department has strong links with companies at the pinnacle of technology, including Google DeepMind, Microsoft Research, and Sony, who often provide guest lectures, project sponsorships, and insights into the latest industry challenges.

The degree's value is reflected in UCL's outstanding reputation: it is ranked 8th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2024) and its Computer Science & Information Systems subject area is consistently ranked among the global top 20. While this specialised field doesn't have a standardised accreditation, a master's from UCL is a globally recognised mark of excellence that opens doors and is highly valued by employers worldwide, often leading to competitive salary premiums in the tech sector.

Further Academic Progression:

This MSc is also the perfect springboard for a research career. Many graduates choose to pursue a PhD at UCL or other world-leading institutions, diving deeper into a specialised area within computer vision or graphics. The research skills and connections you build during your master's project provide an excellent foundation for a successful application to doctoral programmes, allowing you to contribute to the absolute forefront of knowledge in this dynamic field.