Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) Online
Equip yourself with vital computing skills to enhance your career. Our Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) Online programme transforms non-computing graduates into influential software developers.
Study a flexible, affordable degree built for online learners. Aston University empowers you to enhance your employability and tackle real-world problems with a curriculum enriched by strong links to industry.
Programme Overview
Empowering non-computing graduates with essential computing knowledge, this Computer Science (MSc) programme will shape you into a proficient software developer. We focus on practical applications for graduates with diverse academic backgrounds to harness their initial subject knowledge in creating relevant computer applications.
We are committed to producing workplace-ready professionals by emphasising disciplined software development methodologies.
College of Engineering and Physical Sciences: The College of Engineering and Physical Sciences (EPS) at Aston University is a hub of teaching and research excellence, engaging in collaborative and impactful research throughout our institutes and schools.
Top 25 UK University: Aston University is ranked 25th in the UK in the Guardian University Guide, 2024.
Runner Up for Graduate Employment: Aston University is the University of the Year Runner Up for Graduate Employment in The Times and Sunday Times University Guide 2024. Aston University is ranked at 18 for graduate prospects and at 22 for continuation rate.
Outstanding earnings after graduation: The 2022 Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) data shows that employed Aston University graduates have the 16th largest median salary overall five years after graduation at £33,400.
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What You Will Learn
- Systematic understanding of the software development process: Develop a systematic understanding of the software development process, and the associated theoretical underpinning skills needed to support sound analysis, design and delivery of technology solutions in practice.
- An understanding of IT: Through professional project work, you will gain professional experience and a wide perspective on IT.
- Software and information systems engineering capabilities: Our Computer Science (MSc) programme equips you with practical software and information systems engineering capabilities based on well-founded principles.
- Become an industry-ready professional: Gain the ability to communicate in an IT context as an industry-accredited professional. Graduate with a professional level of transferable skills.
- Respond to challenging computing problems: Effectively respond to computing challenges of the business world, and embark on a successful career in computing and IT with the potential to reach leadership roles.
Why Study Online With Aston University?
Studying online through Aston University offers various advantages, making it an appealing choice for prospective students globally.
Flexibility and convenience – fit your studies into your work-life balance.
Built for online – interactive, engaging, and purpose-designed curriculum available 24/7.
Affordable – spread the cost, pay monthly or in instalments, and earn as you learn.
Supported – dedicated student support and online tutors.
Expert tutors – staff with industry experience and experts in their fields.
Empowering creativity – complimentary full access to Adobe Creative Cloud tools for developing dynamic multimedia content and presentations through video, graphics and audio.
Transparent pricing – apply for free, with no hidden costs.
Ready for work and life – rigorous academic standards and curriculum focusing on the skills sought by employers (for now and the future).
University of the Year
Aston University was awarded University of the Year 2020 by the Guardian
Computer Science is challenging, but Aston offers so much support
Career Prospects
Aston graduates from this versatile and globally in-demand degree have achieved diverse career successes, securing roles like software developer, information security specialist, and web application developer at renowned organisations such as RedHat and NatWest.
Many graduates have opted to further their academic journey, pursuing PhD opportunities to delve deeper into research and advanced studies. The programme's versatile curriculum and practical approach will prepare you for various professional paths.
Recent graduates have gone onto roles including:
Skilled Software Engineers: Object-oriented software design and implementation, tackling challenges in varied computing environments.
Technical Analyst: Specialists in technology assessment, these professionals analyse systems and processes to boost business efficiency and technological innovation.
IT Compliance Consultant: Experts in regulatory frameworks ensure that organisations' IT practices adhere strictly to legal standards and industry best practices for data security and compliance.
Software Developer: Creative and solution-oriented, these developers design, test, and implement software solutions, tailoring applications to meet the evolving needs of businesses and consumers.
New Media Programmer: Pioneers in digital innovation, they integrate multimedia and interactive elements, programming content that captivates in the digital age.
Systems Analyst: Strategists in system design, they dissect business requirements to develop technical solutions that streamline and enhance organisational operations.
Assessment type
The programme will be assessed through a combination of written and oral examinations, class tests, individual and group coursework, projects, presentations and practical assessments.
Programme Structure
Providing a diverse range of computing skills, the Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) Online programme develops expert working professionals who will succeed in the real world. This online programme is aligned with all contemporary industry standards as supported by the leading accreditation framework.
Modules
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30 credits
An introduction to object-oriented programming and an object-oriented approach to problem-solving. Grounded in a broad range of fundamental programming principles, you will be able to design and develop your own applications and be prepared for more specialised subsequent modules.
Algorithms and Data
30 credits
Examine a range of commonly used contemporary data structures that serve to model complex real-world computing systems and the algorithms that interrogate and manipulate such structures. Additionally, develop your comprehension of database design and development concepts and challenges, equipping yourself with the practical skills to apply this knowledge in delivering the database infrastructure for information systems.
Software Engineering
30 credits
Software development is examined from a systematic, disciplined standpoint. Through requirements analysis, systems analysis, design, implementation, testing, development, and maintenance, you will explore the lifecycle of a software project, alongside Unified Modelling Language (UML) tools. You will also focus on contemporary agile testing tools and methodologies that examine the quality-focused aspects of software engineering.
Software Project Management
30 credits
Gain experience in producing a substantial, complete software system and develop your project management and teamwork skills. A sound understanding of software project management will enable you to understand the interrelation between various phases of the development lifecycle, as well as the broader commercial context in which software development takes place.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate an appreciation of the commercial, economic, legal, social, ethical, professional and information security contexts in which software development occurs, acting appropriately within those contexts when specifying, designing or constructing computer-based systems.
- Conduct self-directed investigation into published work, critiquing its worth and applying findings to the development of computer-based systems.
- Integrate and apply concepts, techniques, principles, theory, and models to specify, design, construct and critically evaluate computer-based systems and possible trade-offs.
- Plan, manage, conduct, and report on a programme of work that covers multiple software lifecycle stages.
- Select, apply, organise, adapt and deploy a range of software tools and techniques effectively and safely to meet stakeholder requirements.
- Demonstrate self-direction, originality, professionalism, and autonomy in tackling and solving computing problems.
- Deploy skills and demonstrate qualities that make an effective contribution to a software development team.
- Communicate effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences, demonstrating sound decision-making skills within the constraints of technical uncertainty.
Modules
Aston Global Advantage and Research Methods
30 credits
Access a transformational opportunity to work within inclusive teams to investigate, develop, and propose a novel, digital, data-driven, entrepreneurial AI-enabled, software-based solution to a real-world business challenge and prepare you for your major project.
Major Project
30 credits
You will have the opportunity to undertake a major individual project. They can be undertaken in various settings, fields and disciplines subject to meeting the intended learning outcomes, and must be consistent with the discipline studied. Through this module, you will have the opportunity to showcase your knowledge and skills from past experiences. You will produce a substantial piece of individual work that forms the capstone project of the MSc.
At Aston University, we have an unwavering commitment to academic excellence
Entry Requirements
- 2:2 (lower second-class honours) degree or international equivalent in a non-computing subject
- GCSE Mathematics Grade B or equivalent
Additional requirements
- If you are a current student or recent graduate (within the last 2 - 3 years), we will ask for an academic reference.
- If you are currently employed and not a recent graduate, we will ask for a professional reference.
- An official academic transcript of your university grades to date.
- A completed application form.
Alternative entry requirements
We take a holistic approach to evaluate applications. The information contained on this website details the typical entry requirements for this programme for the most commonly offered qualifications. Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire prior to application whether their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor. The Admissions team will consider both prior accredited and experiential learning.
Please contact the Admissions team prior to making your application: enquiries@astononline.ac.uk
International students
Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. You can check qualifications in your country here, including equivalent qualifications from Africa, Americas, Australia, North East Asia, Europe, Middle East & North Africa, South Asia, South East Asia, and Western and Central Asia.
Have a question about our international entry requirements for online programmes? Email us at: enquiries@astononline.ac.uk
English language requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of either an English language qualification or ability to study at this level in English.
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