MSci (Hons) Computer Science with Professional Placement Year

Overview

Do you want to develop the skills needed to be a leading IT professional? Our MSci (Hons) course will develop your skills in producing computer systems solutions. You will gain a sound mathematical and scientific understanding alongside developing the professional attitude needed in industry.

While studying your Computer Science degree with us, you’ll also have access to dedicated industry-standard facilities in a fully equipped lab running the latest software. Plus, we’re home to a Cisco Systems, a Microsoft Academy Centre and Amazon Web Services Academy (AWS), so you can rest assured, knowing your university course will prepare you for a successful career in the industry.

What's covered in the course?

Studying computing with us puts you at the heart of an exciting, innovative community. You will study the fundamental concepts of computer science in your first year, including computer programming, data structures and algorithms, information systems, computer networks and computer architecture.

Part of your first-year assessment will involve taking part in our annual Innovation Fest, where students get together to solve society’s problems with creative technology. Previous projects have included medical assistance drones, accessible gaming controllers, and smart housing solutions. The event brings together students, academics and industry guests, so it’s a great way to have fun, build experience and network, and win prizes!

In your second year, you will consolidate your learning by studying advanced subjects that emphasise software engineering skills. You will also be introduced to topics such as operating systems, cyber security, discrete mathematics, and web application development.

In your final year, you will broaden your understanding of computer science by studying specialised subjects like artificial intelligence, cloud computing and wearable computing. In addition, you will complete an individual project in order to demonstrate your technical skills and general employability in preparation for career progression. The individual project simulates typical graduate workplace tasks that require in-depth knowledge and skills in a specific area of computer science. This will include consideration of wider issues and the ability to manage activities and resources, and to generate, implement and report on solutions to meet task objectives.

During your course, you’ll have the opportunity to take a sandwich placement year between your second and third year. This is something we recommend highly, as it will give you an invaluable opportunity to hone your expertise, try out a potential career path and get relevant workplace experience that is valued by many employers. It will also boost your CV.

Throughout your studies, you’ll be supported by our expert teaching staff, all of whom have a wide range of research and industrial experience in areas such as computer security and software engineering, which they use to enhance the curriculum.

This Computer Science course has been carefully designed to provide you with a comprehensive academic background that combines the professional skills that will set you apart from your peers.

Enhancing your employability skills

Our graduates typically design and implement software across such rewarding areas as web development, interface design, security issues and mobile computing.

We know that employers are looking for graduates who have a good balance between in-depth academic knowledge and technical and practical expertise, which is why our course is geared towards employability.

What you learn on our course will help you to stand out when you look for your first professional role and because you’ll know how to use sophisticated,