Ranking
6th
Complete University Guide 2025
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Course overview
Change direction and become a computer scientist in just one year with our Computer Science Masters degree. Prepare for an exciting new career, with the skills, experiences and industry links that will put you in high demand.
The Computer Science Masters degree course is for students who have a first degree in a subject other than computing. Established in 1969, it is now one of the longest-running conversion programmes to computing in the UK.
One of the best things about the course, in my opinion, is the amount of support available, whether it be from talking to lecturers, attending tutorials, or speaking to TA’s during labs. In addition, there are many opportunities to speak with employers and receive help with graduate applications, as well as the large careers network that is available.
The autumn term introduces the key technologies that underpin computer systems. You'll also explore the tools for understanding users and designing systems to meet their needs. The first part of the Software Workshop introduces you to programming and software development.
Course highlights
You might be changing career or your area of study. Whatever your goals, our programme lets non-computing graduates make the shift very quickly.
This course teaches you the principles of computer science, giving you the practical software development skills you need in the tech world. As technology advances fast, our computing graduates will be in higher demand than ever. Join us and say hello to an exciting new future.
- Network with staff working in industry, worldwide
- Benefit from our partnership with The Alan Turing Institute - the UK's national institute for data science and AI
- Study a programme regularly updated to industry standards
- Computer Science Society
Join our Computer Science Society to meet like-minded people and network towards your future career
Course delivery
You'll learn core Computer Science principles, gain system-building skills, and complete a software project integrating your knowledge.
- Learn through of a series of engaging lectures which demonstrate how experts will approach problems in your field, helping you think critically and apply concepts
- Receive immediate feedback from instructors during workshops, enabling timely corrections and improving your application of concepts
- Engage in projects that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enhancing your understanding and retention of concepts
- Experience active learning and engagement in the lab which develops skills such as collaboration, teamwork, critical thinking, and independent problem-solving when conducting experiments
Module information
This course consists of 180 credits. As well as your 20 credit compulsory modules, you'll also undertake a 60 credit project.
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
Year: 1
2025/26 Session
All students will have the opportunity to take a placement test at the start of the programme. Students who pass the test will automatically follow Stream 2. Students who fail the test, or choose not to take the test, will automatically follow Stream 1.
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Code | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | 06 36404 | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Building Useable Software | 06 34208 | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Computer Systems | 06 34221 | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Data Structures, Algorithms, and Databases | 06 34140 | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Software Workshop 1 | 06 34153 | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Software Workshop 2 | 06 34157 | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Project - Conversion MSc | 06 06997 | 60 | Semester 2 |
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours Degree
in any subject other than computing. We recommend A’ level or at least GCSE grade A in Mathematics.
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
- TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
- LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill
English Presessional Programmes
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
Fees and scholarships
- £13,040
Full-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
Postgraduate Masters Loan
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
Scholarships
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
Birmingham Masters Scholarships
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.
- 29 August 2025
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Career opportunities
You can expect to thrive in diverse environments including academia, research, industry, and government. Career areas include Software Engineering, Software Applications in education or medicine, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, Theoretical Computer Science, and Operating Systems and Networks.
A dynamic, fast-moving sector that offers exciting careers and excellent rewards
Our graduates find themselves in a variety of environments within academia, research, industry, government and private organisations
You could join a firm like Accenture and PwC, or one of the global IT giants such as Microsoft and Google
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham is a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.