Computer Science research degrees MSc by Thesis

The MSc Computer Science by Thesis at the University of Hull offers an intensive, research-focused postgraduate experience tailored for students keen to develop advanced expertise through independent study. This program is ideal for students wanting to pursue a significant research project under expert supervision, enabling them to contribute original knowledge to the field of computer science. The degree typically spans one year full-time, with the option to extend thesis writing time, providing flexibility to develop a comprehensive and high-quality research output.

Students engage with cutting-edge topics reflecting the School of Computer Science’s active research areas, including AI, informatics, gamification, robotics, computational science, and visualization. The program fosters the development of critical research skills such as problem formulation, data analysis, and communication of complex ideas. The thesis journey is supported by access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources alongside a vibrant postgraduate community.

Experiential learning includes:

• Conducting original research under the guidance of expert academic supervisors across diverse computing fields.

• Access to modern computing labs equipped with HPC resources, advanced visualization technology, and robotics facilities.

• Participation in the Postgraduate Training Scheme, which includes research methods, IT, communication skills, and professional development.

• Use of extensive digital resources including cloud computing platforms and software tools for data processing and simulation.

• Engagement with a supportive research community through seminars, workshops, and collaboration opportunities.

• Flexible course structure allowing up to 12 months for thesis writing post-research phase.

• Opportunities to contribute to ongoing research projects affiliated with the University’s leading research groups.

   

Graduates of Hull’s Computer Science Research Degrees (MSc by Thesis) often go on to roles such as Research Engineer / Scientist, Machine Learning / AI Developer, Data Analyst in R&D, or Academic / Teaching Fellow. Your work will show you can tackle complex real-world problems, adding weight to your CV, and many who complete this qualification also choose to continue in doctoral work or specialist technical roles in industry.

Here’s how the programme builds those opportunities and what you can expect:

• Which university services will help students to employ:

  • The Careers & Employability Service at Hull helps you build your professional profile, supports with CVs, interview skills, job networking, and connects you with employers. 

  • The Hull Employability Awards (open to postgraduates including research students) help you articulate what you’ve learned, reflect on your skills, and provide evidence of employability — these are great for job applications. 

  • As a research student, you’ll be part of the Postgraduate Training Scheme in Computer Science, which provides training in both generic and specialist research-skills (e.g. technical writing, presentation, communication, working with data) so you leave with more than just domain knowledge. 

• Employment stats and salary figures:

  • For Computer Science degrees at Hull (undergraduate), median salaries 15 months after graduation are about £27,500; many graduates in tech / CS roles report growth beyond that as they gain experience. 

  • While MSc by Thesis salaries are less often published separately, the skills you gain (deep research, independent work, specialized technical knowledge) help you enter more advanced, higher-paying roles compared to entry-level positions.

• University–industry partnerships (specific):

  • Hull Computer Science engages in research areas with clear industrial demand: AI & informatics, robotics, computational science, visualization etc., so your work can align with industries needing cutting-edge solutions. 

  • There have been research collaborations and connections with national/international academic partners and industry (e.g. through shared projects) across topics like big data, visualization, dependable systems. These contacts can help with your research, networking, and future employment. 

• Long-term accreditation value:

  • The degree being a research degree means you earn credibility for doing original work. If you later apply for roles in R&D, in academia, or in specialist tech roles, employers look for evidence of independent thinking, methodological rigor, ability to pursue extended research—that’s exactly what this programme delivers.  

  • Also, the University has strong research credentials in its Computer Science department (in areas such as robotics, AI, visualization etc.), which adds prestige to the qualification you’ll receive. 

• Graduation outcomes:

  • On finishing, you’ll submit a thesis of substantial depth (non-taught modules) that demonstrates your ability to conduct independent research. 

  • Graduates leave with a set of high-level transferable skills: complex problem-solving, technical writing, data handling, analytical thinking, and often publication / presentation experience. These are highly valued by employers and academic bodies.

  • Many use this degree to transition into PhD studies, or into specialist positions in tech companies, research labs, or organizations tackling advanced computing challenges (AI, robotics, visualization etc.).

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the MSc by Thesis in Computer Science at Hull, here are clear next steps you might take if you want to keep growing academically or in research:

• Apply for PhD / Doctoral Research positions, either at Hull or elsewhere. Your MSc thesis can serve as groundwork for proposals, especially if you’ve published or presented part of your research.

• Publish your research: submit your thesis work (or parts of it) to academic journals or conferences. That builds visibility, strengthens your academic CV, and opens doors in academia or research-oriented industry roles.

• Engage in post-doctoral or research assistant roles where you continue to deepen expertise in your specialist field (for example AI, robotics, simulation, etc.).

• Consider interdisciplinary research or collaboration: many global challenges are solved at the intersection of computing and domains like health, environment, energy, or smart cities. Your research degree gives you credibility to work in such interdisciplinary teams.

• Supplement your research with additional technical or professional certifications depending on your interest — e.g. in data science tools, computational modelling, or domain-specific technologies. This can help if later you wish to work in applied/industrial research environments.