MSc Computer Science

This programme is designed to provide a comprehensive and practical foundation in computer science, equipping you with the robust programming and problem-solving skills needed to launch a successful tech career. You'll have access to our excellent facilities in the Regent Court building, home to the School of Computer Science, which houses modern computing laboratories, dedicated project spaces, and high-performance computing resources. Your learning is powered by industry-standard development tools and features hands-on projects that simulate real-world software development challenges, giving you the practical experience that employers in the tech sector value.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical, industry-relevant experience:

• Industry-Standard Development Tools: You'll gain proficiency in essential professional tools and languages including Java and Python for programming, Git for version control, SQL for databases, and modern software development environments.

• Sheffield Software Projects: A key feature of your degree is the series of practical programming projects where you'll work individually and in teams to design, implement, and test software applications, developing crucial development and collaboration skills.

• Object-Oriented Programming Laboratory: You will work in our dedicated computing labs, equipped with modern development environments and tools for learning core programming concepts and software design principles.

• Algorithms and Data Structures Practicals: You'll implement and test fundamental algorithms and data structures in our computing laboratories, understanding their practical performance and applications.

• Database and Web Laboratory: You'll use our specialised computing facilities to develop database-driven applications and learn web development technologies.

• Software Engineering Group Project: You'll collaborate on a significant software development project, following industry-standard agile methodologies and version control practices.

• High-Performance Computing Access: You'll have opportunities to use our computing resources for more computationally intensive projects and data processing tasks.

• Industry-Inspired Challenges: Many projects incorporate real-world problem scenarios from the tech industry, providing valuable insight into current development practices and employer expectations.

Graduates with an MSc in Computer Science from Sheffield regularly progress into roles like software engineer, systems architect, data scientist, or tech consultant—backed by strong outcomes and reputable teaching. Computer science alumni at Sheffield achieve median earnings of £35,000 just 15 months after graduating, growing to £44,500 by three years and £52,000 by five years, with employment rates consistently at 100% link link.

Progression & Future Opportunities:
Here’s how Sheffield equips you for long-term success:

• University Services to Boost Employability

  • Sheffield’s Careers & Employability Service offers full suite support—from career fairs, CV and interview workshops, mock tests, to employer events and graduate scheme guidance via Career Connect and drop-in hubs across campus. You’ll also benefit from specialized computing careers support and mentorship opportunities link link.

• Employment Stats & Salary Figures

  • As noted, computer science graduates boast strong earnings and employment standing: median salaries of £35k, £44.5k, and £52k at 15 months, 3 and 5 years respectively, with 100% of UK-resident alumni employed link link.

• University–Industry Partnerships

  • Your learning is informed by real-world context via team software projects (reflecting industry workflows), plus exposure to guest employers—including leading tech and professional firms—plus potential access to placements where available.

• Long-Term Accreditation Value

  • The MSc programme is fully accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS). It partially meets the requirements for both Chartered IT Professional (CITP) and Chartered Engineer (CEng) status, giving you a professional credibility boost.

• Graduation Outcomes

  • Graduates leave with robust theoretical foundations, practical project experience, strong technical portfolios, and valuable professional recognition—ready to excel in roles across software development, data analytics, systems engineering, or to step into competitive PhD pathways.

Further Academic Progression:
Post-MSc, many graduates progress to PhD research in areas like AI, cybersecurity, or software systems—often staying at Sheffield, given its research-led strengths. For others, this programme serves as a powerful springboard into leadership roles in industry or further professional qualification.