MSc Computational Engineering

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Swansea University

Program Overview

This MSc in Computer Science is perfect if you’re looking to switch into computing, even if your first degree wasn’t in the field. You’ll gain the practical and theoretical skills needed to build software, develop web and mobile systems, and tackle cybersecurity challenges, setting you up for a variety of tech roles or even further study.

Curriculum structure:
Year 1 (Full-time, 1 year):
You’ll start with hands-on coding in Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming and get to grips with the inner workings of computers in Computer Systems Concepts & Security. Modules like Database Systems & Web Apps and Software Engineering Principles & Software Testing will show you how to create, test, and deploy real-world software. Everything you learn comes together in a major Project, where you’ll plan and execute a substantial piece of work, giving you a showcase for employers.

Focus areas:
“Programming and software engineering; systems, networks and security; web and database development; independent project work.”

Learning outcomes:
“Build the skills to design and implement software solutions, understand computing systems and cybersecurity fundamentals, and complete a significant project demonstrating your knowledge and problem-solving abilities.”

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The Department of Computer Science at Swansea is highly regarded and equips students with the skills that employers in the tech industry are looking for.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Swansea’s Computer Science subject is ranked in the top 150 globally in the 2024 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, and the university is placed 29th in the UK by The Guardian University Guide 2025.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MSc Computer Science at Swansea University is designed to be hands-on from the start. You won’t just sit in lectures — you’ll work in cutting-edge facilities at the £32.5 million Computational Foundry on Bay Campus, where labs are equipped with the latest hardware and software. From the Vision & Biometrics Lab to the Maker Lab, Cyber‑Security and Networking Lab, and Visualisation Suite, you’ll get to experiment with real-world computing tools and environments. Throughout the course, you’ll gradually move from foundational modules into a major project, giving you the chance to tackle a real problem and create something meaningful.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience:

Specialist labs: Work in purpose-built spaces like the Vision & Biometrics Lab, Maker Lab, Cyber-Security Lab, and Visualisation Suite.
Hands-on software and hardware: Use Windows and Linux lab environments designed to reflect modern computing and networking setups.
Major project/dissertation: Apply your learning to a real-world problem, designing, building, or investigating a software solution.
Practical coursework: Modules cover software engineering principles, big data, web app development, and network security, giving you real exposure to industry-standard tools and workflows.
Research-led teaching: Learn from staff who are actively working on the latest developments in computer science, so your projects use up-to-date technologies.
Digital and collaborative tools: Use Swansea’s online platforms and academic support systems to collaborate with peers and manage your work effectively.

Progression & Future Opportunities

If you choose the MSc in Computer Science at Swansea, you’ll be ready to step straight into exciting tech roles. Graduates often work as Software Developers, Systems Engineers, Data Analysts, or IT Consultants. The course doesn’t just give you coding skills — it equips you to solve real-world problems, work in teams, and grow into specialist or leadership roles.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

Support from the university: Swansea’s Careers & Employability team is there to guide you through every step — from CV tips and interview prep to finding internships and graduate roles.
Job prospects & salaries: While exact starting salaries vary, computing graduates are in high demand and often find well-paid roles quickly. Recent graduates have gone into roles such as Software Engineer, Web Developer, and Change Coordinator.
Industry exposure: You’ll get hands-on experience in the £32.5 m Computational Foundry, including labs for Cyber Security, Vision & Biometrics, and Networking — the same tools and environment used in industry.
Accreditation & reputation: The department is top-rated for research, meaning your degree carries serious weight with employers worldwide.
Graduation outcomes: After finishing, you can work in software companies, tech consultancies, start-ups, or large corporations — covering areas like development, web applications, databases, security, or networks.

Further Academic Progression:
After your MSc, you could continue with a research degree such as an MRes or PhD in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or Data Science. Alternatively, you could gain specialist certifications (like cloud computing or cybersecurity) or pursue leadership pathways to aim for roles like IT Manager, Technical Lead, or Solution Architect.