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Advanced Computer Science MSc

Our Advanced Computer Science Master's provides you with training in a range of emerging computer science topics that will underpin your future career in computing.

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Start date(s):

  • September 2025
Is PG right for me? Join our webinar. Wednesday 23 October, 14:00-15:00 BST

Overview

This Advanced Computer Science Master's is suitable if you're an honours graduate in computer science. You can also be a graduate from a discipline with a significant computing component such as:

  • engineering
  • systems engineering
  • mathematics

We also value relevant industrial computing experience and transferable skills.

We provide flexible study options so you can tailor your module choices to match your interests and skills. You can select from a wide range of taught modules in the first half of the course and then select your own focus for the final project.

Comprehensive computer science research training will help to develop your skills in computer and information systems. This provides a basis for PhD study. You'll also develop your technical and professional skills to underpin personal development and future career success.

The MSc Advanced Computer Science is demanding and rewarding. It has close links to ongoing research in the School of Computing. We have leading international research groups and three research centres focusing on a wide range of computer science fields, including:

  • security and resilience
  • dependable systems
  • cybercrime
  • cloud computing
  • Internet of Things
  • machine learning

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Important information

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Qualifications explained

Find out about the different qualification options for this course.

What you'll learn

Topics are taught at an advanced level. The topics link closely with the research strengths of the School. This means we'll introduce you to the latest developments. You'll focus on both the theory and application of the associated techniques.

The topics covered include:

  • advanced programming
  • distributed algorithms
  • safety and dependable systems
  • security and trust
  • cyber-physical systems
  • cloud computing
  • Internet of Things
  • data science
  • machine learning
  • human factors engineering

A team project is also incorporated into the course to provide an opportunity to develop teamwork skills.

Modules

You will study modules on this course. A module is a unit of a course with its own approved aims and outcomes and assessment methods.

How you'll learn

Your future

What are the job opportunities after completing an MSc in Computer Science?

Our Advanced Computer Science Master's will provide you with the skills to pursue a career as a software architect or project manager. You'll also be able to undertake basic research or establish your own consulting or software development company.

Graduates from this course have undertaken various roles including:

  • Big Data Engineer at Microsoft
  • Bioinformatics Developer at Anthony Nolan
  • Computer Programmer at Agriculture Bank of China
  • Geo Technical Technician at IBM
  • Blockchain Engineer at Purple Mountain Laboratories

Further study

This course provides a route into PhD level study, offering a well-rounded knowledge in both theoretical and applied aspects of Computer Science. As a graduate, you'll be prepared to pursue advanced research opportunities and contribute to the academic community through doctoral programmes.

Our Careers Service

Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.

Visit our Careers Service website

Quality and ranking

All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body

Facilities

You'll have access to the latest tools in:

  • security analysis
  • cloud development
  • machine learning
  • system development

Urban Sciences Building

The School of Computing is based in the £58 million Urban Sciences Building (USB), a flagship development located on the £350 million Newcastle Helix regeneration site in the heart of Newcastle. It brings together:

  • academia
  • the public sector
  • communities
  • business and industry

Postgraduate student facilities

As a Master's student, you'll have access to specialist teaching spaces and facilities in the USB. These are only available to postgraduate students.

Wellbeing and inclusivity are at the heart of our School. The USB has several wellbeing spaces for students, including:

  • The Retreat: A sensory space with relaxing stimuli to distract from busy student life.
  • Wellbeing room: Designed for relaxation and quiet time. Here you can take a moment to breathe and unwind. It can also be used by students with special medical requirements.
  • Prayer room: For all faiths and none, this space can be used for prayer or quiet reflection.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees for 2025 entry (per year)

What you're paying for

Tuition fees include the costs of:

  • matriculation
  • registration
  • tuition (or supervision)
  • library access
  • examination
  • re-examination
  • graduation

Find out more about:

Search for funding

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Entry requirements

The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.

Qualifications from outside the UK

English Language requirements

Admissions policy

This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.

University Admissions Policy and related policies and procedures

Credit transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can allow you to convert existing relevant university-level knowledge, skills and experience into credits towards a qualification. Find out more about the RPL policy which may apply to this course

How to apply


Using the application portal

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If you’re ready, you can select Apply Online and you’ll be taken directly to the application portal.

Alternatively you can find out more about applying on our applications and offers pages.


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Get in touch

Questions about this course?

If you have specific questions about this course you can contact:

Admissions Secretary
Telephone: +44 (0) 191 208 2736
Email: computing.admissions@ncl.ac.uk
School of Computing
ncl.ac.uk/computing

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