Advanced Computer Science MSc

The Advanced Computer Science MSc is a wide-ranging program that explores advanced topics in computer science, equipping students with the understanding and practical skills to succeed in a variety of careers. Building on existing knowledge of computer science, students will develop theoretical and practical skills required to design and implement larger, more complex systems using state-of-the-art technologies.

Course Overview

Computing has become integral to our society, playing a critical part in almost every business worldwide. That's why qualified specialists in this field are highly sought after by many different industries. The program is taught by academics who are experts in their fields and have long-established links with industry, ensuring students learn the most up-to-date practices and techniques needed to pursue an exciting career in industry.

Why Study at Leeds

• Our globally-renowned research conducted right here in our School feeds directly into the course, shaping your learning with the latest thinking in computer science.
• Benefit from studying at a university that's partnered with the Alan Turing Institute, the UK's national institute for data science and artificial intelligence.
• Tailor the degree to suit your specific interests with a selection of optional modules to choose from including data science, algorithms, machine learning, deep learning, and advanced software engineering.
• Build industry experience by conducting your own individual project which focuses on a real-world topic of your choice, giving you the chance to develop professional skills in research and critical thinking.
• Access a wide range of industry-standard specialist facilities including a state-of-the-art cloud computing lab, a large High Performance Computing (HPC) resource, and a robotics lab with a range of equipment available for specialist MSc projects.

Guaranteed Work Experience

While studying at Leeds, students will have the opportunity to complete an eight-week virtual work experience, working on a project aligned with their academic discipline and partnered with a relevant company. This practical experience is highly valued by employers and helps students develop the skills needed to be career-ready.

Course Details and Modules

In the first half of the year, students will study core modules which will lay the foundations of the program by giving them an understanding of the key topics of algorithms and systems programming. From there, they will have the chance to tailor their studies to suit their own preferences by choosing from a wide range of optional modules on diverse topics.

Compulsory Modules

• MSc Project – 60 credits: Students will undertake a research project during the summer months. The professional project is one of the most satisfying elements of this course, allowing students to apply what they've learned to a piece of research focusing on a real-world problem.

Optional Modules

Please note: The modules listed below are indicative of typical options.

• Data Science – 15 credits: Understand methods of analysis that allow people to gain insights from complex data.
• Cloud Computing Systems – 15 credits: Develop a practical understanding of methods, techniques, and architectures needed to build big data systems.
• Blockchain Technologies – 15 credits: Gain comprehensive knowledge on fundamentals and practical aspects of distributed ledgers and their applications in society.
• Bio-inspired Computing – 15 credits: Learn to interpret the behavior of algorithms based on the cooperative behavior of distributed agents with no, or little, central control.
• Knowledge Representation and Reasoning – 15 credits: Analyze descriptions of complex real-world scenarios in terms of formal representation languages and get to grips with automated reasoning and ontology as well as their applications.
• Machine Learning – 15 credits: Cover topics including neural networks, decision trees, support vector machines, Bayesian learning, instance-based learning, linear regression, clustering, reinforcement learning, deep learning, and methods for evaluating performance.
• Deep Learning – 15 credits: Equip yourself with a state-of-the-art understanding of Deep Learning and highly practical skills and expertise in the construction of AI systems.
• Algorithms – 15 credits: Introduces the design and analysis of efficient algorithms and data structures.
• Programming for Data Science – 15 credits: Designed to give those with little or no programming experience a firm foundation in programming for data analysis and AI systems.
• Data Mining and Text Analytics – 15 credits: Understand and use algorithms and resources for implementing and evaluating text mining and analytics systems.
• Advanced Software Engineering – 15 credits: Build on prior knowledge of software engineering principles, expanding it to include a more thorough understanding of what constitutes good design.
• Scientific Computation – 15 credits: Support your understanding of the range of problems that can be formulated as nonlinear equation systems.
• Graph Theory: Structure and Algorithms – 15 credits: Focus on how structural information can be used to solve relevant optimization problems efficiently, with an emphasis on mathematical precision.

Learning and Teaching

Our groundbreaking research feeds directly into teaching, and students will have regular contact with staff who are at the forefront of their disciplines, through lectures, seminars, tutorials, small group work, and project meetings. Independent study is also important to the program, as students develop their problem-solving and research skills as well as their subject knowledge.

Specialist Facilities

At Leeds, we provide an exciting environment in which to gain a range of skills and experience cutting-edge technology. Students will benefit from UK-leading facilities to support their learning, including:

• A state-of-the-art computing cluster, equipped with Azure services and a visualization lab.
• Individual machines, equipped with Microsoft- or Linux-software, capable of performing rendering.
• Robotics labs.
• Dedicated Linux laboratories with a combined capacity of an average of 150 machines.
• Excellent facilities and teaching spaces in the Sir William Henry Bragg building.

Assessment

Students will be assessed using a range of techniques which may include case studies, technical reports, group work, presentations, in-class tests, assignments, and exams. Optional modules may also use alternative assessment methods.

Entry Requirements

• A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in computer science.
• We require all applicants to have studied a breadth of relevant modules including significant programming, systems development, data structures, and algorithms.
• Applicants with any of the following will be considered on a case-by-case basis:
  • A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in other computing-based degrees.
  • A bachelor degree with a 2:2 (hons) in computer science, with at least three years of relevant experience.
  • Professional qualifications and relevant experience.

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications.

English Language Requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component.

Fees

• UK: £14,250 (Total)
• International: £34,250 (Total)

Scholarships and Financial Support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Scholarships are also available to help fund your Masters.

Career Opportunities

This course will give students the practical skills to enter many areas of applied computing, working as application developers, system designers, and evaluators. Links between the taught modules and our research provide our students with added strengths in artificial intelligence, intelligent systems, distributed systems, and the analysis of complex data. As a result, students will be well-prepared for a range of careers, as well as further research at PhD level.

Careers Support

At Leeds, we help students prepare for their future from day one. We have a wide range of careers resources — including our award-winning Employability Team who are in contact with many employers around the country and advertise placements and jobs. They are also on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring students are prepared to take their next steps after graduation and get them where they want to be.

Related Courses

• Advanced Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) MSc
• Advanced Computer Science (Cloud Computing) MSc
• Advanced Computer Science (Data Analytics) MSc
• Data Science and Analytics MSc
• High-Performance Graphics and Games Engineering MSc

University of Leeds

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Overview:

The University of Leeds is a public research university located in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England. It is a large and prestigious institution with a strong reputation for academic excellence and a vibrant campus life.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Leeds offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties, including:

• Arts, Humanities and Cultures
• Biological Sciences
• Business School
• Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Environment
• Medicine and Health
• Social Sciences