MSc Advanced Computer Science with Research

Why choose Herts?

Industry accreditations: Accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS) and the Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the Engineering Council, enabling you to prepare for registration as a chartered engineer.
Employment prospects: Our graduates work as software engineers, developers and project managers for organisations including IBM and Microsoft.
Research pathway available.

This course is up for review
To ensure this course continues to be cutting-edge and enables you to be ready for the modern workplace, it is due to be reviewed by March 2025.

Our website will typically be updated within a month of the review confirming any enhancements, including:
- module titles (and whether they are core or optional)
- expected contact hours
- assessment methods
- staff teaching on the course

For admission to this MSc, the normal requirement is a good honours degree (or equivalent) in computer science or a cognate discipline. The choice of award title students may be accepted on to will be determined by the award applied for and the prior learning of the student as demonstrated by the transcript for existing qualifications held by the applicant.

Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate sufficient competence in English to benefit from the programme. This is normally demonstrated by recognised awards equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0. Candidates who do not satisfy these requirements will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The programme is subject to the University's Principles, Policies and Regulations for the Admission of Students to Undergraduate and Taught Postgraduate Programmes (in UPR SA03), along with associated procedures. These will take account of University policy and guidelines for assessing accredited prior certificated learning (APCL) and accredited prior experiential learning (APEL).


Institution code	H36
School of study	School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science
Course length	Full Time, 2 Years
Location	University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Employability

What job can I get?

Our masters programme is designed to give computer science graduates the specialist, up-to-date skills and knowledge sought after by employers, whether in business, industry, government or research.

The MSc Advanced Computer Science course with Research will equip students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in at least two specialist topics of computer science to advanced depth.

Successful graduates may pursue a career in areas such as programming, artificial intelligence and robotics, computer networks, cyber security, data science, or software engineering, pending on the knowledge and skill set gained through the optional modules the graduates choose and complete.

Work placement

This MSc is available with an optional one year industry placement. The 'with placement' programmes give you additional industrial experience by applying the skills you have learned throughout your studies.
A placement offers you the opportunity to work for up to one year in a professional and stimulating environment and may be paid or unpaid depending on the employer organisation. During the placement, you will be able to gain further insight into industrial practice as well as skills that you can take forward into your individual project.
We will provide excellent academic and personal support during both your academic and placement periods together with comprehensive career guidance from our very experienced dedicated Careers and Placements Service.
Although the responsibility for finding a placement is with you, our Careers and Placements Service maintains a wide variety of employers who offer placement opportunities and organise special training sessions to help you secure a placement, from job application to the interview. Optional one-to-one consultations are also available.
In order to qualify for the placement period you must pass all the first 60 credits of your study on your first attempt.

Professional Accreditations

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT for the purposes of partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional.

About the course

One of a range of degrees from the taught master's programme at the Department of Computer Science.

This award is targeted at those who have a good honours degree in computer science or a very closely related discipline, and who wish to extend and deepen their knowledge in two or more different sub-discipline areas. It will enhance your career prospects or prepare you for a programme of research that requires knowledge of one or more of these sub-discipline areas. Those studying for this award will have a wide range of taught modules from which to choose, and will be expected to complete a major project that extends and applies what they have learnt in one or more of the taught modules they have taken.

Graduates obtaining this award will be equipped to pursue research to PhD level or to enter specialist employment in technically advanced and unpredictable working environments requiring sound judgment and the exercise of personal responsibility and initiative.

The programme offers three award routes that you can choose to study:

MSc Advanced Computer Science
MSc Advanced Computer Science with Placement Year
MSc Advanced Computer Science with Research

Why choose this course?

This MSc offers the opportunity for students to study advanced research topics in computer science, normally across multiple specialisms, and comprehensive research methods, and to undertake an extended master's project on a cutting-edge research topic.
This MSc offers the opportunity for students to study advanced research topics in computer science, normally across multiple specialisms, and comprehensive research methods, and to undertake an extended master's project on a cutting-edge research topic.
One of a range of advanced courses within our postgraduate master's programme in computer science, this particular course provides you with a specialism combining theoretical knowledge and practical skills in advanced computer science.
This MSc develops students on the skills in using and critically evaluating a range of methods and tools currently employed in at least two specialist topics of computer science to advanced depth.
Taught by a highly-regarded and long-established computer science department with strong links to business.
Computer science saw 90% of its research ranked as world-leading (Research Excellence Framework, 2021).

What will I study?

Classes consist of lectures, small group seminars, and practical work in our well-equipped laboratories. We use modern, industry-standard software wherever possible. There are specialist facilities for networking and multimedia and a project laboratory especially for masters students. In addition to scheduled classes, you will be expected a significant amount of time in self-study, taking advantage of the extensive and up-to-date facilities. These include the Learning Resource Centres, open 24/7, with 1,500 computer workstations and wifi access, StudyNet our versatile online study environment usable on and off campus, and open access to our labs.

Where will I study?

Learn in our new School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science building (SPECS), where you’ll experience a range of experiential learning zones.

The computer science labs are home to telecommunications, robotics and UX empathy labs, with a variety of research spaces that range from dark rooms to clean rooms, and sample prep labs to calibration and assembly labs.

You will also benefit from our Academic Support Hub, which is aimed at helping you build your employability and academic skills. Plus, have access to industry mentors who will provide you with pastoral support, vocational guidance, and career progression opportunities.

Spectra also provides space to collaborate, with plenty of workshops, social and meeting spaces available. Even better, the building has been designed with the University’s net zero carbon target in mind, and forms part of our plan to replace or upgrade older sites that are energy inefficient.

Level 7

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Measures and Models for Software Engineering	30 Credits	Optional
In this module advanced issues of software engineering theory and practice are examined. The range of software engineering products and processes making up a software project are measured and modelled. Typical software engineering products explored in the module may include: user requirements, design documents, code etc. Typical software engineering processes explored in the module may include: testing, debugging etc. The aim of the module is to use the modelling and measuring of such products and processes to allow quantified decision"making during software development. The module offers students the opportunity to explore both the state"of"the"art and the"state"of"the"practice in software engineering. The module will examine the most up to date research findings about software engineering as well as investigate the current practices of many software engineering companies.
Programming for Software Engineers	30 Credits	Optional
Software engineering places great emphasis upon the use, and re-use, of components that are tightly specified and thoroughly tested. This approach is supported by the provision of software frameworks within which programs can be developed. A software framework typically provides an Application Programming Interface (API) implemented as a set of libraries, and supported by a set of tools that may be used during development. But where do APIs, ABIs and software libraries come from? How do we decide what components are required? How are they designed and implemented? Who builds them? How do they go about it? How are they tested? How can we be sure that they work? What effect does the design and implementation of APIs and software libraries have upon the performance of systems that employ them? This module attempts to address these and other issues associated with the design, construction and use of software frameworks.
Software Engineering Practice and Experience	30 Credits	Optional
This module gives students the opportunity to extend their understanding and experience of software engineering practice. It offers students exposure to the development and evolution of software. The module is very practical and is based around a substantial piece of software. The aim of the module is to enable students to develop software engineering knowledge and skills that are transferable to software companies. The module covers each element of the software engineering process. It explores the use of overarching development approaches such as eXtreme Programming and Component Based Software Engineering. Leading edge practices are introduced such as using program slicing to find code faults. Specialised software development approaches are investigated such as those required for application areas such as safety critical systems. Process models popular with industry, such as one of the SEI models, are also used and evaluated during this module.
Distributed Systems Security	30 Credits	Optional
A range of topics will be covered in this module. The detailed content will vary according to current research directions. Case studies will be used throughout. Issues will be considered in relation to each topic as appropriate. These pervasive issues are: models, design, standards, protocols, and performance.
Artificial Life with Robotics	30 Credits	Optional
In this module, students delve into the intricacies of Artificial Life systems, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the underlying concepts and the ability to implement these systems in real-world scenarios. Through hands-on experience and in-depth exploration of advanced techniques in modelling the properties of living systems, students will develop a deep appreciation for the intersection of computer science and robotics in the field of Artificial Life. Emphasizing practical application, this module equips students with the skills necessary to push the boundaries of technology in the field of Artificial Life systems.
Neural Networks and Machine Learning	30 Credits	Optional
A study of a selection of research topics centered around neural network theory and design, machine learning including supervised and unsupervised learning and some interesting applications, for example, data mining, biocomputation, evolutionary algorithms, neural networks as models of brain function in health, disease and development, and data visualization. Actual topics taught may vary from year to year.
Theory and Practice of Artificial Intelligence	30 Credits	Optional
The overall aim of this module is to provide an in"depth study of a range of ideas, theories and techniques used in the construction of artificial intelligence systems. The module will be oriented towards the creation of Al systems for tasks in the areas of intelligent modelling, problem"solving, learning, decision"making, reasoning, robot control and others. There is a large practical element to the module with the students gaining experience in developing artificial intelligence models.
Advanced Computer Science Masters Project	60 Credits	Compulsory
The project is an opportunity for students to demonstrate what they know about current research and practices in computer science and apply their skills to a range of computer science topics in order to conduct a practical investigation of a particular computer science problem. The project is a self-directed piece of work, conducted with minimum supervision that demonstrates the student's ability to plan and manage a substantial piece of work, and steer their own efforts. Students are expected to be thorough in their work, and, particularly, identify and tackle any difficult or challenging aspects of the problems they are trying to solve. It is not just the quantity, or even the quality of work that is considered when grading the project, but the level of difficulty and the scope of the problem being addressed.
Preparation for Placement	0 Credits	Compulsory
The module will explain the benefits of the Supervised Work Placement and encourage students to apply. It will support students in their application by informing them about the types of employer and job role available, helping them select the most appropriate for their strengths and weaknesses, and how employers conduct the recruitment process. The module will assist students to make an application, throughout the entire process, via a series of lectures, seminars, individual guidance and online communication. This includes writing of CVs and letters of application, development of interview technique and other forms of assessment. For those who are successful in securing a placement there will be further help in preparing for employment.
Foundations of Data Science	30 Credits	Optional
This module focuses on a range of topics related to basic mathematical concepts and skills, including linear algebra, calculus, statistics, probability, Bayesian inference, set theory, and information theory. The content may vary from year to year, but the aim is to apply the mathematical foundations as computational techniques.
Wireless Mobile and Multimedia Networking	30 Credits	Optional
How can we cope with users and computers that move from place to place, and yet wish to remain in contact with the network? How can a network mix application with very different quality of service requirements? This module looks at a range of wireless communications technologies, and addresses some of the problems of wireless mobile ad"hoc and wireless networks and addresses the problems that must be solved if we are to integrate the gamut of diverse network applications onto a single network infrastructure. This module exposes students to some of the most important developments in computer networking. A more detailed description of the module content is provided in the module delivery information for students.
Computational Algorithms and Paradigms	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module explores the extent to which different computational paradigms may be applied to problems in order to create appropriate solutions. To this end, this module will evaluate a range of different algorithmic paradigms such as divide and conquer, greedy algorithms, recursion, backtracking, dynamic programming, network flows and algorithmic techniques for coping with NP-hard problems. A more detailed description of the module content is provided in the module delivery information for students.
Team Research and Development Project	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module explores a range of generic and domain-specific investigative methods and helps students to enhance their proficiency in the skills that are expected of those working at postgraduate level. Furthermore, this module involves working actively as part of a team of fellow students on a complex computing problem. Typically, the project can be a research project to answer a research question, a thorough empirical investigation of a specific topic, or a development idea from student themselves or a virtual or real client. Each team would be expected to manage the project, to report regularly on the progress of the project, and to collectively deliver a set of appropriate outputs from the project. The output(s) of the team project will typically be a computing product or system and its presentation together with appropriate documentation.
Advanced Research Topics in Computer Science	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to develop research and enquiry capabilities and is therefore structured around guided activities in terms of seminars, tutorials and research oriented coursework's. The module will build on introductory research experience from core modules and provide a structured approach to develop area specific expertise by undertaking a research activity in a chosen area of specialisation and in a group setting that mirrors contemporary research methods. A concrete outcome is a technical report that synthesizes problem definitions from relevant literature and identifies a research problem in a chosen topic.
Research Methods	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module explores a range of generic and domain"specific research methods in computer science to enable students to understand such methods and apply them in their work, particularly in an advanced MSc project or a research project. The module helps students to enhance their proficiency in the skills that are expected of those working at postgraduate level. Whilst some material will be presented in lectures, tutorials and labs, the module will be largely literature" and activity"based. It will place strong emphasis on self"management and will encourage students to reflect upon, and learn from, their own work. As the module progresses students will be expected to select an increasingly large proportion of the reading matter for themselves, so that they can tailor their learning to their individual needs in which they evaluate and choose an appropriate set of research methods for the investigation of a problem in a given sub"domain of computer science, and identify the principal advantages and limitations of those methods.
Responsible Technology	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module is concerned with legal, social, ethical and professional issues that may affect the work of practitioners in the computing and technology sectors. Its main focus is on the ethical considerations inherent in the development of responsible technologies. Topics covered are likely to vary from year to year to reflect contemporary research and issues.

Further course information

Course fact sheets
MSc Advanced Computer Science - Extended	Download

Programme specifications
MSc Advanced Computer Science - Extended	Download

Additional information
Sandwich placement or study abroad year	n/a
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes

Student experience

At the University of Hertfordshire, we want to make sure your time studying with us is as stress-free and rewarding as possible. We offer a range of support services including; student wellbeing, academic support, accommodation and childcare to ensure that you make the most of your time at Herts and can focus on studying and having fun.

Find out about how we support our students

You can also read our student blogs to find out about life at Herts.

Funding and fees
Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Fees 2024
UK Students
Full time
- £13545 for 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 inclusive
EU Students
Full time
- £18950 for 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 inclusive
International Students
Full time
- £18950 for 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 inclusive
Fees 2025
UK Students
Full time
- £14400 for 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 inclusive
EU Students
Full time
- £19800 for 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 inclusive
International Students
Full time
- £19800 for 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 inclusive
*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University's Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed "When tuition fees change"), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

View detailed information about tuition fees

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet
How to apply

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Apply through our international/EU application portal

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

2024
Start Date End Date Year Location Link
22/01/2025 31/01/2026 1 UH Hatfield Campus Apply online (Full Time)
2025
Start Date End Date Year Location Link
25/09/2025 31/05/2026 1 UH Hatfield Campus Apply online (Full Time)
22/01/2026 31/01/2027 1 UH Hatfield Campus Apply online (Full Time)
2026
Start Date End Date Year Location Link
25/09/2026 31/05/2027 1 UH Hatfield Campus Apply online (Full Time)
22/01/2027 31/01/2028 1 UH Hatfield Campus Apply online (Full Time)

Start Date	End Date	Year	Location	Link
25/09/2025	31/05/2026	1	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time)
22/01/2026	31/01/2027	1	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time)

Start Date	End Date	Year	Location	Link
25/09/2026	31/05/2027	1	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time)
22/01/2027	31/01/2028	1	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time)

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MSc Advanced Computer Science with Research

Why choose Herts?

What job can I get?

Work placement

Professional Accreditations

About the course

Why choose this course?

What will I study?

Where will I study?

Further course information

Student experience

Other financial support

Fees 2024

UK Students

Full time

EU Students

Full time

International Students

Full time

Fees 2025

UK Students

Full time

EU Students

Full time

International Students

Full time

Living costs / accommodation

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

2024

2025

2026