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.

Enhance your technical knowledge of computer science while gaining practical experience by applying cutting-edge techniques to real-world challenges.

This programme offers an exciting opportunity to deepen your expertise and explore cutting-edge topics like:

artificial intelligence
machine learning
Internet of Things
cyber security

You'll benefit from the flexibility to tailor your studies to your interests and career goals. With a wide selection of modules to choose from and a range of options for your final project, this course helps you choose your own path in the fast-evolving world of computer science.

You’ll gain a well-rounded research training in computer and information systems, providing 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 and edge
Internet of Things
machine learning

This Advanced Computer Science Master's is designed for honours graduates in computer science. You can also be a graduate from a discipline with a significant computing component such as:

artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning
AI safety
engineering
systems engineering
mathematics
DevOps
data science and visualisation

We also value relevant industrial computing experience and transferable skills.

We are a hub of digital innovation. You'll benefit from our:

leadership of the National Edge AI Hub, next-generation innovations via edge computing
recognition as an Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security, supported by the National Cyber Security Centre and the EPSRC
direct link with the UK's National Innovation Centre for Data
partnership with The Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s national institute for data science and AI

How to apply

Quality and ranking

Global Top 140 University - QS World University Rankings 2026
Top 145 for Engineering and Technology - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
Top 25 in the UK and Top 200 in the world for sustainable development – Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025
42% of our research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
Global Top 145 University - Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026
Joint 64th in the world and 22nd in the UK for sustainability – QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026
Top 170 for Computing Science and Information Systems - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
Top 5 city for affordability in the UK – QS Best Student Cities 2026
World Top 50 and UK Top 5 student city – QS Best Student Cities 2026
89th in the world - TIME Magazine: World’s Top Universities 2026

Professional accreditation and recognition

British Computer Society (BCS)

The course is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS). The BCS is the chartered institute for IT. Studying a BCS-accredited degree provides the foundation for professional membership of the BCS on graduation and is the first step to becoming a chartered IT professional.

All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body

Recognition of professional qualifications outside of the UK

If you’re studying an accredited degree and thinking about working in Europe after you graduate, the best place to find current information is the UK Government’s guidance on recognition of UK professional qualifications in EU member states. This official resource explains whether your profession is regulated in another country, what steps you need to take, and which organisation you should contact.

What I love most about the MSc in Advanced Computer Science is how customisable it is; with so many optional modules, I’ve been able to tailor my studies to my interests in areas like AI and cybersecurity. Studying at Newcastle has not only allowed me to grow academically, but to also build practical skills that will benefit my future career.

Next: Course details

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
safe and dependable systems
security and trust
cyber-physical systems
cloud computing and edge
Internet of Things
data science
AI and 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.

Advanced Computer Science MSc modules

Compulsory Modules	Credits
Research Methods and Group Project in Advanced Computer Science	20
Project and Dissertation for MSc in Advanced Computer Science	90

Optional Modules	Credits
Engineering for AI	10
Distributed Algorithms	10
Enterprise Software and Services	10
Cloud Computing	10
Machine Learning with Project	10
Internet of Things	10
Research Methods and Group Project in Cloud Computing	20
Information Security and Cryptography	10
Secure Software Development	10
Research Methods and Group Project in Security and Resilience	20
Systems Security	20
Risk and Trust Management	10
Advanced Programming in Java	10
Human-Artificial Intelligence (AI) Interaction & Futures	10
Data Visualization	10
Deep Learning	10
Generative AI for Businesses	10
Model-Based Systems Engineering	10

How you'll learn

Delivery and teaching methods

You’ll be taught using a range of methods, including:

lectures and seminars
practical, hands-on work in labs
team and individual projects

You’ll be encouraged to deepen your understanding through guided, independent reading and study.

Assessment methods

Depending on your modules, you'll be assessed through a combination of:

Case study
Computer assessment
Design or creative project
Dissertation
Essay
Professional skills assessments
Oral examination
Practical lab report
Problem-solving exercises
Report

Additional assessment information

You'll complete an individual project aligned with one of our research groups. You can also propose your own project based on the modules you have studied. This 90-credit project gives you an opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills in depth.

You'll be supervised by an experienced staff member. Depending on the project, you'll have the opportunity to work with industry partners.

Support

Our experienced and helpful staff can offer support with all parts of your course, from admission to graduation and career development.

Wellbeing advisor support

The School of Computing has a dedicated Wellbeing Advisor who understands the needs of our students.

They can be a confidential listening ear and provide guidance on a range of wellbeing issues.

Student support

Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to support from:

academic staff
personal tutors and research supervisors
our University Student Services Team
student representatives
peers

You'll also be assigned an academic member of staff, who will be your personal tutor throughout your time with us. They can help with academic and personal issues.

Your teaching and learning is also supported by Canvas. Canvas is a Virtual Learning Environment. You'll use Canvas to submit your assignments and access your:

module handbooks
course materials
groups
course announcements and notifications
written feedback

Our staff

Our academic staff have international reputations for their contributions to the field and some have extensive experience as practitioners in industry.

Search our academic staff in the School of Computing

Philip Robinson Library (Student Texts Collection)

Your development

Practical skills

You'll develop advanced practical skills tailored to your chosen areas within computer science. You'll learn to design, model, and implement complex computer-based systems, applying engineering principles to tackle a wide range of technical challenges.

You’ll graduate with the confidence to manage a research project from conception to completion. You'll bring together everything you’ve learned in a practical, real-world context.

Professional skills

You'll gain transferable skills that are valuable across a wide range of careers, including:

communication
teamwork
creative and critical thinking
time and resource management
using digital tools adaptability

Course information: Disclaimers, policies and changes

Previous: Overview Next: Entry requirements

Entry requirements

The entrance requirements below apply to 2026 entry.

Academic entry requirements

A 2:2 honours degree, or international equivalent, in Computing science (though students who have a 2:2 with significant professional experience will be considered). We accept subjects with a significant computing component, such as:

• engineering

• systems engineering

• mathematics

Examples of acceptable degrees:

•Computer Science and Technology

• Computer Science and Engineering

• Software Engineering

Qualifications from outside the UK

Select your country

English Language requirements

Select your qualification IELTSPearsonsDuolingo English TestTOEFLOtherPre-Sessional Entry - 6 weeksPre-Sessional Entry - 10 weeks

Previous: Course details Next: Careers

Your future

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

Our Advanced Computer Science Master's will provide you with the skills to pursue a career in a range of different roles. 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.

Postgraduate research degrees in computer science

Industry links

This programme is shaped by our Industrial Advisory Board (IAB), which includes leaders from:

Google
Meta
Airbus
Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL)
JP Morgan
Lloyds Bank
PwC
IBM

The IAB and our links with industry ensure our course content stays relevant to current trends and technologies. The IAB also creates valuable opportunities for students, such as guest lectures, industry-led projects, internships, and potential job pathways.

Our Careers Service

Our expert Careers Service is here to help you take the next steps in your professional life. We will support you while you’re studying with us and for up to three years after you graduate.\ \ You will have access to expert one-to-one advice and guidance through our campus careers centre and online, along with digital resources, workshops, networking opportunities, and careers and recruitment events.\ \ We’ve been awarded 5 QS Stars for Student Employability (2025). Many of our degrees are shaped by strong links with national and international businesses. We are committed to helping you access real-world experience opportunities and develop key skills through paid work placements and internships.

Visit our Careers Service website

We do have a really good track record with Newcastle, we have a long-standing link. I think the quality of graduate that comes out of Newcastle is always really good, they always come to us a little bit more polished.

Previous: Entry requirements Next: Facilities

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

Explore the Urban Sciences Building

Learn more about the Newcastle Helix

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.

Find out more about our wellbeing and computing facilities

Previous: Careers Next: Fees & funding

Fees, Funding and Scholarships

Tuition fees for 2026 entry (per year)

Qualification: MSc Full time
Home students Full time: 12 months	Tuition fees (per year) £14,500
International students Full time: 12 months	Tuition fees (per year) £31,700

Tuition fee increases

As a general principle, you should expect the tuition fee to increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, subject to government regulations on fee increases and in line with inflation.

EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals - tuition fee status

Depending on your residency history, if you’re a student from the EU, other EEA or a Swiss national, with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you’ll normally pay the ‘Home’ tuition fee rate and may be eligible for Student Finance England support.

EU students without settled or pre-settled status will normally be charged fees at the ‘International’ rate and will not be eligible for Student Finance England support. You may be eligible for a scholarship worth 25% off the international fee. Search our funding database.

If you are unsure of your fee status, check out the latest guidance here.

Scholarships

We support our EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships. See our searchable postgraduate funding page for more information.

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:

Deposit

If you are an international student or a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you need a visa to study in the UK, you may have to pay a deposit.

You can check this in the How to apply section.

Funding deadlines

If you're applying for funding, always check the funding application deadline. This deadline may be earlier than the application deadline for your course.

For some funding schemes, you need to have received an offer of a place on a course before you can apply for the funding.

Search for funding and scholarships

Find funding available for your course

Select your country

Previous: Facilities Next: How to apply

How to apply

Before you start

Start Dates

The course starts in September.

Closing Dates

There is no application closing date for this course.

We suggest international students apply at least two months before the course starts. This is so that you have enough time to make the necessary arrangements.

Deposit

All International students

If you are an international student or a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you need a visa to study in the UK, you must pay a deposit or submit an official letter of sponsorship. The deposit is payable after you receive an offer to study with us. This deposit is non-refundable and will be deducted from your tuition fees when you register. You may also be subject to academic and English language qualification verification, confirmation of funds and credibility interviews.

International students who received an offer before 18 March 2026

You are required to pay a £1,500 deposit or submit an official letter of sponsorship.

International students Bangladesh, Ghana, Myanmar, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan who received an offer after 18 March 2026

You are required to pay a deposit of £5,000 or submit an official letter of sponsorship by 01 August 2026.

All International students (excluding those from the markets above) who received an offer after 18 March 2026

You are required to pay a deposit of £1,500 or submit an official letter of sponsorship by 01 August 2026.

Programme codes

Qualification: MSc Full time
Full time: 12 months	Programme Code: 5178F

Using the application portal

The application portal has instructions to guide you through your application. It will tell you what documents you need and how to upload them.

You can choose to start your application, save your details and come back to complete it later.

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.

\ Apply Online

Previous: Fees & funding Next: Get in touch

Open days and events

Find out about how you can visit Newcastle in person and virtually

Overseas events

We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University.

Visit our events calendar for the latest events

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

General enquiries

For more general enquiries, you could also complete our online enquiry form.

Fill in our enquiry form

Application enquiries

If you've got a question about your application, send us an enquiry via the application portal you applied through.

If you haven't applied yet, you can send your questions via our enquiry form.

Fill in our enquiry form

Live chat

Our Ncl chatbot might be able to give you an answer straight away. If not, it’ll direct you to someone who can help.

You'll find our Ncl chatbot in the bottom right of this page.

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Advanced Computer Science MSc

Overview

Quality and ranking

Professional accreditation and recognition

What you'll learn

Modules

How you'll learn

Your development

Practical skills

Professional skills

Entry requirements

Academic entry requirements

Qualifications from outside the UK

English Language requirements

Your future

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

Further study

Industry links

Our Careers Service

Facilities

Urban Sciences Building

Postgraduate student facilities

Fees, Funding and Scholarships

Tuition fees for 2026 entry (per year)

Scholarships

What you're paying for

Search for funding and scholarships

How to apply

Before you start

Programme codes

Using the application portal

Open days and events

Overseas events

Get in touch

Questions about this course?

General enquiries

Application enquiries

Live chat

Chat to our students

Keep updated

Social media