MSc in Computer Science

Frequently-asked questions

This page includes answers to questions applicants often ask about the MSc in Computer Science.

It is subdivided into these sections:

How is this programme different from other MSc programmes?

The MSc in Computer Science is a conversion course: it provides graduates who have studied for a subject other than computing with skills in computing. Our course aims to provide a good coverage of the core areas of Computer Science, including both the theoretical foundations and practical software development skills. You also have the opportunity to study a wide range of options (40 credits).

Our programme includes a substantial amount (40 credits) programming in Java, an object-oriented programming language closely associated with the Internet.

 

What are the first degree requirements?

Our minimum entry requirement is a Lower Second class degree or an international equivalent. Students who have not studied in English must pass a recognized English test. Many applications for the MSc in Computer Science are rejected because the applicant doesn't satisfy the following requirements:

  • You must have a first degree before starting the programme.
    You cannot join this programme unless you will have a degree by the time you start the programme. We do not accept certificates and diplomas that are not of degree level.
    You can apply before you have passed your first degree. If we offer you a place, it will be a conditional offer until your degree result is known.
  • Your degree must not be in Computer Science
    The largest group of students in this programme have a science or engineering background (eg with first degrees in Mathematics, Physics, Electrical or Electronic Engineering) but there are also students with backgrounds in the Humanities, Medicine, etc. This programme is also suitable for graduates in Information Technology and Management or Business Information Systems. There are some options in this programme where a mathematical ability is helpful, but there are other combinations of options that do not require mathematics.
 

English language requirements

If you have recently studied for a degree at an English speaking university (eg in the United Kingdom, USA, etc), you do not need a separate English language qualification. Otherwise, you need to provide an English qualification.

We accept a number of qualifications and our minimum requirements are:

  • TOEFL (Internet-based Test) 
    A minimum of 82 with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 in Listening, 21 in Speaking, 19 in Writing
  • IELTS 
    A minimum of 6.0 with no score below 5.5 in any section of the IELTS test
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE)
    PTE Academic 51 in all four skills
  • GCE O Level English Language 
    Grade C
  • GCSE English Language 
    Grade C
  • IGCSE English (First Language) 
    Grade C
  • IGCSE English (Second Language)
    Grade C
  • UCLES Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English 
    Grade C
  • UCLES University Certificate in Advanced English 
    Grade A
 

How much does it cost to study?

There are three main costs in studying:

  • Tuition fees. In 2013/14, these are £5,130 per year for UK/European Union students; £16,770 per year for International Students.
  • Living expenses. You need about £8,000 per year for living expenses (accommodation, food, clothing etc.). If you bring members of your family with you, then you will need more money.
  • Travel costs - eg flight to and from the UK.

No health insurance is needed as medical services are free to students studying in the United Kingdom.

 

Are there scholarships?

We provide a separate list of scholarships

 

When does the programme start?

The starting dates for the programme are:

  • 2013/14: 30th September 2013.
  • 2014/15: 29th September 2013.

It is not possible to join the programme in January or at any other time after the start date.

 

Is it possible to study part-time or externally?

This programme is only available as a full-time programme with full-time attendance at the University of Birmingham.

It is not possible to study this programme by distance learning or external study.

 

Is it possible to transfer from other programmes?

No. It is not possible to transfer from other MSc programmes in the UK or elsewhere because the structure of this programme is very different from other programmes.

It is not possible to transfer credits from other programmes to count toward this programme.

 

What do students do after this programme?

There are three main career paths for graduates from this programme:

  • to become a research student in the University of Birmingham
  • to become a research student elsewhere in the UK or abroad
  • to work in software engineering in the UK or abroad

The number of students in each of these three categories has been about equal.