Overview

The MSc Computing at Heriot-Watt University offers a robust two-year pathway for individuals looking to pivot into the technology sector regardless of their initial degree subject. This programme bridges the gap between various academic backgrounds and the advanced technical expertise required for modern computer science roles. Students develop a strong foundation in software engineering before progressing to specialised masters-level study.

Why Computing at Heriot-Watt University?

Heriot-Watt University has over fifty years of experience in computer science education and research. Students benefit from access to world-leading facilities, including the National Robotarium, which is a centre for innovation in robotics and artificial intelligence. The university also provides state-of-the-art laboratories at the GRID, featuring dedicated studios for game design and virtual reality. Learning is led by expert faculty, many of whom are active data scientists and researchers, ensuring the curriculum reflects current industry standards and emerging technological threats.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: GBP 26296 per year
National fee: GBP 12584 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to build expertise over two years. Modules may include:

Software Engineering Foundations
Databases and Information Systems
Interaction Design
Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Agents
Data Communications and Networking
Operating Systems & Concurrency
Computer Network Security
Industrial Programming
Biologically Inspired Computation
Computer Graphics
Systems Programming
Intelligent Robotics
Project Management
Digital Forensics

Careers with Computing

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles within the global technology landscape. Potential career paths include becoming a Software Developer, Data Scientist, or Cybersecurity Analyst. The programme also equips students for specialised positions such as Cloud Solutions Architect, AI Engineer, and DevOps Engineer. With strong industry links and a focus on employability, the curriculum ensures that graduates possess the programming and data skills sought by modern employers across various sectors, from digital project management to advanced research and development.

Programme Structure

Year 1:

Mandatory September

Software Engineering Foundations

Optional September

Databases and Information Systems
Introduction to Interaction Design
Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Agents
Data Communications and Networking

Mandatory January

Advanced Software Engineering
Advanced Human Computer Interaction
Operating Systems & Concurrency

e-Commerce Technology

Year 2:

Mandatory September

Computer Network Security
Industrial Programming

Optional September

Biologically Inspired Computation
Computer Graphics
Systems Programming
Intelligent Robotics
Mandatory January
Project Management
Research Methods and Project Planning

Optional January

Advanced Network Security
Big Data Management
Digital Forensics
Games Programming

Mandatory May

Masters Project and Dissertation

Audience

This degree is open to graduates coming from any discipline. They will start by learning the art of software engineering, study some key computing topics and develop relevant research and technical English skills that prepare them for advanced study of computer science in the following year.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-01 00:00:00

Apply anytime.

More details

International students should apply at least 6 weeks before start date

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

79

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

63

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6

Prepare for Your English Test

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Computer Sciences View 486 other Masters in Computer Sciences in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

79

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

63

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree or non-UK equivalent in a subject area which includes some numeracy.
Programming skills would be preferable but not essential, either through your degree or a short course.

We welcome applications from international students and accept qualifications from around the world. Please refer to the entry requirements for your country for more details.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

26296 GBP / year

≈ 26296 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

12584 GBP / year

≈ 12584 GBP / year

Additional Details

For the second year (full-time), the tuition fee is:

£10,528 for UK Nationals and £19,816 for International Applicants.

Living costs

Edinburgh

United Kingdom

725 - 1167 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Postgraduate scholarships and bursaries

We aim to encourage well-qualified, ambitious students to study with us and we offer a wide variety of scholarships and bursaries to achieve this. Over £6 million worth of opportunities are available in fee and stipend scholarships, and more than 400 students benefit from this support.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Computing.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Year 1:

Year 2:

Audience

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Edinburgh

Funding

Postgraduate scholarships and bursaries

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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