Advanced Computer Science, MSc

100% world-leading and internationally excellent ratings for research impact

Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021

Students using the hololens

Course Overview

The MSc in Advanced Computer Science gives you the depth of skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field, whether through further study, research or a rewarding career in computer science.

Our £32.5m Computational Foundry lies at the heart of this course. Sophisticated teaching and research equipment include a Vision and Biometric Lab, a Maker Lab, a Theory Lab, a Cyber Security/Networking Lab, a User Lab and a Visualisation Suite.

Ideal if you are a Computer Science graduate or if you have relevant experience from a different first degree, this MSc provides a fresh level of detail with specialist modules.

You will choose modules from a diverse range of computer science subjects. These include artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies and operation systems, big data, and network security.

Broad learning in year one is followed by a substantial project module in year two, putting you in a strong position when it comes to seeking employment.

Did you know?

The Department of Computer Science at Swansea University is widely acknowledged as a leading UK department with rankings that reflect teaching and research excellence. 

  • Top 150 in the World Computer Science and Engineering (Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2024), Top 201-250 in the world (THE World University Rankings 2025)
  • 201-250 in the World for Computer Science and Information Systems (QS World University Rankings 2025)
  • 100% world-leading and internationally excellent ratings for research impact - Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021
  • 90% of our research is world-leading and internationally excellent - Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021

You will be taught by inspiring computer science experts such as Professor Matt Jones, widely recognised as a leader in the empowerment of rural digital communities in the UK and across the developing world.

Your Advanced Computer Science Experience

You have the freedom to shape your own first part of study with a series of 15-credit modules, while a 60-credit project module will define the second part.

Over the course of this degree you will be taught by staff from internationally renowned research groups. Their knowledge of constant developments in computer science helps to keep your learning fresh and relevant to the wider industry.

Our commitment to keeping up with the technological curve is also reflected in the hardware you will be working with every day.

Our laboratories are continually upgraded to ensure equipment is never more than three years old, and rarely more than two. Currently in use are three fully networked laboratories. One runs Windows, another runs Linux, and a third project laboratory contains specialised equipment.

These laboratories support software including the programming languages Java, C# and the .net framework, C, C++, Haskell and Prolog. Integrated programme development environments include Visual Studio and Netbeans - the widely-used Microsoft Office package, web access tools and many special purpose software tools.

Advanced Computer Science Employment Opportunities

Completing this MSc will considerably enhance your computer science career prospects. Our graduates often progress to rewarding employment in the field of computer science with a well respected employer. Below are a number of recent destinations.

  • Software engineer, Motorola Solutions
  • Change coordinator, CGI Group
  • Software developer/engineer, NS Technology
  • Workflow developer, Irwin Mitchell
  • IT developer, Crimson Consultants
  • Programmer, Evil Twin Artworks
  • Web developer & web support, VSI Thinking
  • Software developer, Wireless Innovations
  • Associate business application analyst, CDC Software
  • Software developer, OpenBet Technologies
  • Technical support consultant, Alterian
  • Programming, Rock It
  • Software developer, BMJ Group

Modules

The first part of this MSc has a single compulsory module on computer science research methods, and a further five 20-credit modules. For each of these five modules, you’ll have a limited selection of options to choose from.

The second part of the programme is where you get to do some independent learning. You’ll be working on a 60-credit research project.