MSc in Computer Science

Frequently-asked questions

This page includes answers to questions applicants often ask about the MSc in Computer Science.

It is subdivided into these sections:

How is this programme different from other MSc programmes?

The MSc in Computer Science is a conversion course: it provides graduates who have studied for a subject other than computing with skills in computing. Our course aims to provide a good coverage of the core areas of Computer Science, including both the theoretical foundations and practical software development skills. You also have the opportunity to study a wide range of options (40 credits).

Our programme includes a substantial amount (40 credits) programming in Java, an object-oriented programming language closely associated with the Internet.

 

What are the first degree requirements?

Our minimum entry requirement is a Lower Second class degree or an international equivalent. Students who have not studied in English must pass a recognized English test. Many applications for the MSc in Computer Science are rejected because the applicant doesn't satisfy the following requirements:

  • You must have a first degree before starting the programme.
    You cannot join this programme unless you will have a degree by the time you start the programme. We do not accept certificates and diplomas that are not of degree level.
    You can apply before you have passed your first degree. If we offer you a place, it will be a conditional offer until your degree result is known.
  • Your degree must not be in Computer Science
    The largest group of students in this programme have a science or engineering background (eg with first degrees in Mathematics, Physics, Electrical or Electronic Engineering) but there are also students with backgrounds in the Humanities, Medicine, etc. This programme is also suitable for graduates in Information Technology and Management or Business Information Systems. There are some options in this programme where a mathematical ability is helpful, but there are other combinations of options that do not require mathematics.
 

What English language qualifications do I need?

The most often asked questions are:

Do I need an English language qualification?
If you have studied for a degree at an English speaking university in the past 3 years (eg in the United Kingdom, Canada, etc), you do not need a separate English language qualification. Otherwise, you need a qualification.
I have studied English in my degree. Do I have to have a separate English qualification?
You will need to provide a separate English language certificate. Details are given below.
What English qualifications do we accept?
We accept a number of qualifications. Our minimum requirements are:
TestScore
TOEFL (see below) 87 in internet-based test
550 in paper-based test
IELTS (see below) 6.0
GCE O Level English Language Grade C
GCSE English Language Grade C
IGCSE English (First Language) Grade C
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English Grade B
Warwick University English Language Test BBB
Some other tests may be accepted as fulfilling the University's entrance requirements.
What TOEFL score do we require?
If you take the internet-based test, we require a minimum of 87 with no less than 22 in Reading, 21 in Listening, 23 in Speaking, 21 in Writing.

If you take the paper-based test, we require a minimum of 550 with no less than 55 in each section. Most of our students have a score of at least 580.
What IELTS score do we require?
We require a minimum of 6.0. You must not have a score below 5.5 in any section of the IELTS test.
Can I take an English test after I have started the programme?
No. We do not allow students to start the programme without an English language qualification. You need to be able to communicate effectively in English from the first day of the programme.
 

How much does it cost to study?

There are three main costs in studying:

  • Tuition fees. In 2012/13, these are £4,950 per year for UK/European Union students; £16,200 per year for International Students.
  • Living expenses. You need about £8,000 per year for living expenses (accommodation, food, clothing etc.). If you bring members of your family with you, then you will need more money.
  • Travel costs - eg flight to and from the UK.

No health insurance is needed as medical services are free to students studying in the United Kingdom.

 

Are there scholarships?

We provide a separate list of scholarships

 

When does the programme start?

The starting dates for the programme are:

  • 2012/13: 24th September 2012;
  • 2013/14: 30th September 2013.

It is not possible to join the programme in January or at any other time after the start date.

 

Is it possible to study part-time or externally?

This programme is only available as a full-time programme with full-time attendance at the University of Birmingham.

It is not possible to study this programme by distance learning or external study.

 

Is it possible to transfer from other programmes?

No. It is not possible to transfer from other MSc programmes in the UK or elsewhere because the structure of this programme is very different from other programmes.

It is not possible to transfer credits from other programmes to count toward this programme.

 

What do students do after this programme?

There are three main career paths for graduates from this programme:

  • to become a research student in the University of Birmingham
  • to become a research student elsewhere in the UK or abroad
  • to work in software engineering in the UK or abroad

The number of students in each of these three categories has been about equal.