Computer Science MSc
This master’s degree gives you practical skills in software engineering, AI, data analytics, cybersecurity and cloud technologies, preparing you to create innovative computing solutions in a fast‑moving tech sector.
Key information
For:
starting September 2026
Typical offer:
A second-class honours degree or equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications.
Showing content for section Overview
Overview
The MSc Computer Science at the University of Portsmouth, London, develops the technical, analytical and professional skills needed to understand, design and evaluate modern digital systems.
The course is suitable for graduates from computing and related disciplines, as well as applicants from non-computing backgrounds who can demonstrate appropriate analytical ability, professional experience or prior technical learning. You’ll study areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing and human-AI interaction, examining how these technologies can be applied to contemporary organisational and societal challenges.
Through practical tasks, applied projects and technical case studies, you’ll gain experience in analysing data, applying AI and machine learning techniques, evaluating cybersecurity risks, understanding cloud-based systems and considering how people interact with intelligent technologies.
You’ll also consider the ethical, legal and human implications of emerging technologies, including issues of security, accountability, privacy, trust and responsible innovation.
Studying at our London campus places you close to one of the UK’s largest technology and digital business communities, with access to events, employers and professional networks across the capital.
You’ll complete a substantial independent project, giving you the opportunity to investigate a contemporary computing challenge in depth while developing research, technical and professional skills relevant to careers in AI, data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing, human-AI interaction and digital transformation.
You’ll go beyond programming and technical theory to examine how computing systems affect organisations, users and society. By the end of the course, you’ll be better prepared to create digital solutions that are secure, responsible and fit for purpose.
Course highlights
- Develop advanced skills in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing and human-AI interaction.
- Apply AI and data science techniques to contemporary organisational and societal challenges.
- Explore how cybersecurity principles are applied within cloud computing environments.
- Examine ethical, responsible and human-centred approaches to the design and use of intelligent technologies.
- Build practical experience through applied projects, technical case studies and authentic computing scenarios.
- Complete an independent project focused on a contemporary computing or digital challenge.
Eligibility
This course accepts UK, EU, and International students.
Your new home at UoP London
Located just a minute’s walk from Walthamstow’s tube and bus stations, our campus provides easy access to the entire city, placing you at the centre of London’s dynamic business scene.
Come along to an Open Day
Open Days at the London campus vary to those held in Portsmouth.
Contact information
London Campus Enquiries: london@port.ac.uk
Entry requirements
MSc Computer Science entry requirements
- A second-class honours degree in any subject, or a masters degree in any subject. Exceptionally, equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications will be considered.
Please get in touch if you're not sure if your undergraduate subject is relevant to this degree.
Equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications will also be considered, such as previous study, employment, voluntary work and training courses, including courses and qualifications you didn't complete. Learn more about our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
If you're applying as an international student with a non-UK degree, you’ll need to show you meet the UK entry requirements listed above.
To find out if your non-UK degree or other qualification is accepted, please visit our page for your country and view the UK equivalent of your qualification.
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 5.5.
You do not need an IELTS or equivalent certification if:
- you have a UK degree
- you have a degree from a majority English speaking country (not taught by Distance Learning)
- you are a national of a majority English speaking country
Degrees taught solely in English from non-majority English speaking countries will be considered on a case by case basis. Find out more about our English language requirements.
If you do not meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
We look at more than just your grades
While we consider your grades when making an offer, we also carefully look at your circumstances and other factors to assess your potential. These include whether you live and work in the region and your personal and family circumstances which we assess using established data.
Contact information
London Campus Enquiries: london@port.ac.uk
Careers and opportunities
Technology, data and AI skills are in demand across many sectors. This MSc prepares you for roles involving the analysis, design, evaluation and management of digital systems, with particular emphasis on artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing and human-centred technology.
Graduates of this course could go on to roles such as:
- Data Scientist
- Machine Learning Specialist
- AI Analyst or AI Consultant
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Cloud Engineer or Cloud Consultant
- Cloud Security Analyst
- Technology Consultant
- Digital Transformation Analyst
- Human-AI Interaction or UX Researcher
- Software Developer, where students have developed appropriate programming experience
You could work across sectors including:
- Technology and software services
- Finance and fintech
- Cybersecurity and cloud services
- Healthcare and digital health
- Retail and e-commerce
- Government and public services
- AI, data analytics and digital transformation
With experience, you could progress into senior roles such as:
- Lead Data Scientist
- AI Solutions Architect
- Cloud Solutions Architect
- Cybersecurity Manager
- Digital Transformation Lead
- Technical Product Manager
- Chief Technology Officer
Modules
12 months full-time
You’ll examine how AI-enabled systems are designed, developed and evaluated within real organisational settings. The module introduces key principles of Human–AI Interaction, including user-centred design, collaboration between humans and AI, trust, explainability and ethical decision-making.
You’ll learn how intelligent interfaces are created and tested to improve user experience and support effective interaction. Through practical activities, you’ll prototype and evaluate AI-driven solutions while considering the social and ethical impact of emerging technologies.
By combining theory with hands-on application, you’ll build the confidence to design AI systems that are useful, responsible and centred around human needs.
You’ll explore the full data lifecycle, from data collection and governance through to analysis, visualisation and deployment. The module develops your practical skills in statistical analysis, data wrangling and programming using industry-standard tools such as Python and R.
You’ll work with real-world datasets to apply descriptive, diagnostic, predictive and prescriptive analytics techniques. Alongside this, you’ll gain experience with machine learning, big data technologies and cloud-based platforms used in modern data science environments. You’ll also learn how to frame business and organisational problems effectively, communicate insights to stakeholders and evaluate data-driven solutions with confidence.
You’ll explore the relationship between security architecture, threat mitigation and cloud service delivery models, building a clear understanding of how secure cloud solutions are designed and implemented. You’ll critically assess contemporary cybersecurity frameworks and cloud infrastructure approaches to support informed, strategic decision making.
You’ll develop practical skills in securing cloud‑native applications, protecting data and managing identity and access across different cloud models. The module also strengthens your understanding of incident detection and response in public, private and hybrid cloud environments.
By linking theory with practical approaches, you’ll build the confidence to design resilient, secure cloud solutions that support organisational performance in an increasingly digital and cloud‑driven future.
You’ll explore core AI and ML concepts, algorithms and methodologies, and build practical skills in training, validating and evaluating models. You’ll examine how machine learning can support organisational decision making and add strategic value across different business contexts.
You’ll also develop a critical understanding of the ethical, legal and professional considerations involved in deploying AI responsibly. Through practical activities and focused analysis, you’ll assess when and how AI and ML solutions are appropriate, effective and aligned with organisational needs.
By the end of the module, you’ll be confident in applying AI and machine learning technologies to real business challenges in a way that is informed, responsible and future focused.
Across 45 hours of workshops, you’ll explore each stage of the project process. This includes defining your focus, understanding stakeholders, planning your approach, designing research, analysing data, and addressing ethical and sustainability considerations. You’ll also learn how to communicate your outcomes with clarity and impact.
With an additional 5 hours of one-to-one academic supervision, you’ll apply appropriate research and technology to produce meaningful results, recommendations, or creative work.
You’ll reflect on your progress throughout, helping you connect your learning to your professional development. By the end, you’ll show your ability to think critically, work independently, and make evidence-based decisions in real-world contexts. This module will give you essential transferrable skills and will enhance your employability.
Changes to course content
We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.
Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. Where significant module changes occur, we'll let you know as soon as possible.
How you'll spend your time
This Master's degree will take 12 months full-time. Your timetable typically allows you to work alongside your studies.
A regular week on this course reflects the University of Portsmouth London’s Active Blended Learning approach, which focuses on what you do as a learner rather than passive listening.
You can expect:
-
To attend 10-12 hours of scheduled teaching activities during term time. This will be across two consecutive days, so you can work alongside your studies.
-
To spend roughly 21 hours per week studying independently (including research, reading, coursework and project work, either individually or a group).
-
To focus on your research project in the last 3 months of the course.
How I will learn at UoP London
Our teaching is designed to be personal, practical and flexible, helping you gain the knowledge, confidence and skills employers are looking for.
You’ll study in a supportive learning environment where your lecturers know you, classes are interactive, and your timetable is designed to fit around your life.
Active learning
-
Learn in supportive groups where your lecturers know you and you’re encouraged to contribute, ask questions and receive personalised feedback.
-
Students support one another throughout the course: Those who have completed modules share insights with new students, and as you progress, you’ll take on this role yourself- building confidence and communication skills.
Consistent timetable from day one
-
Usually, your timetable stays the same each term.
-
You will have two consecutive on-campus days, making it easier to plan work, study and personal commitments.
Blended learning
-
Learning is on-campus, delivered face-to-face in small, interactive groups.
-
Modules are grouped into related subject areas rather than taught in isolation. This helps you see how ideas connect across your discipline, build knowledge progressively, and apply learning more confidently to complex, real-world problems.
Interdisciplinary learning
-
You’ll combine face-to-face learning with online activities and often work with students from other disciplines.
-
This reflects how professional teams operate and helps you develop industry-relevant skills valued by employers.
One module at a time
- Focus on one block of teaching at a time, allowing deeper learning, clearer feedback and reduced assessment overlap.
Teaching and assessment
Our approach to teaching is designed to be dynamic, practical and closely aligned with real-world practice. You’ll learn through a range of engaging, hands-on experiences that develop both your knowledge and professional skills in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Teaching sessions
Teaching is delivered through engaging sessions such as:
-
Industry educators demonstrating true professional practice
-
Interactive seminars
-
Immersive simulations
-
Practical and/or computer-based workshops
-
Group work and collaborative projects
-
Practical classes
-
One-to-one and personalised tutorials
Learning is active, discussion-based and centred on real-world application.
Support and assessment
You’ll be supported by a dedicated teaching team, a personal tutor and student support staff throughout your studies. Small class sizes ensure support is personal, proactive and accessible.
Assessment is varied and designed to reflect real-world practice. We typically have no exams and instead opt for more authentic assessments, with the exception of courses that have external professional body requirements, such as accounting and finance.
Depending on your chosen course, methods may include:
-
Live client projects
-
Business simulations
-
Practical and in-class exercises
-
Written reports and essays
-
Oral assessment and presentations
-
Group and standalone projects
-
Portfolios
-
Review articles
Our teaching ethos
Our teaching is guided by a clear set of principles that shape how learning is designed and delivered:
Active
Learning focuses on what you do, encouraging participation, problem-solving and hands-on application.
Civic
Learning is connected to local and global communities, helping you understand the wider impact of your studies.
Inclusive
We are committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where all students can succeed.
Inspiring
Teaching is designed to spark curiosity, confidence and a genuine passion for learning.
Innovative
We use creative and forward-thinking approaches to keep learning engaging and relevant.
Digital by design
Digital tools are embedded into learning to support collaboration, flexibility and employability.
Supporting you
Academic skills
Throughout your time at UoP London, you'll get the following support online or face-to-face from our academic skills team to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed:
- Academic writing (such as reports and projects)
- Reflective writing
- Critical thinking skills
- Understanding and using assignment feedback
- Managing your time and workload
- Using AI tools to support your learning
- Professional conversations and presentations
You'll also have access to a personal tutor to support you in your studies.
You are expected to meet English language entry requirements for your course, as outlined on the relevant course page. However, if English isn't your first language, our academic skills team can support you in working across languages. You can also do our online free In-Sessional English (ISE) module to improve your written English language skills during your degree.
You can find entry requirements for English language proficiency by visiting the relevant course page:
Careers guidance
Our dedicated team hosts drop-in sessions every week, providing expert guidance for part-time job searches, CV and cover letter editing, and interview preparation. You can also avail of this service online.
Visit our careers and employment page
Wellbeing support
We offer a range of support to help students manage their mental health, wellbeing, and any disability-related needs. Our wellbeing team is here to help you navigate challenges and access the right services.
Course costs and funding
Tuition fees
UK, Channel Islands and Isle of Man students
- £10,400 (may be subject to annual increase)
EU and International students
- £19,200 (may be subject to annual increase)
If you're an EU student you may be eligible to receive our EU Scholarship.
Graduate of UoP? Save 20% on your Masters
If you are a graduate of the University of Portsmouth, you could be eligible for 20% off postgraduate courses.
Funding your studies
Explore available scholarships and bursaries.
You may be eligible for a Government Postgraduate Master's Loan, which you can use to help with course fees and living costs.
Find out more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
Our accommodation section shows your accommodation options and highlights how much it costs to live in Waltham Forest. You can also visit our fees and funding page for a breakdown of living costs in London.
You may have to read several recommended books or textbooks for each module. We endeavour to make all required books accessible online.
You can also borrow most of these online from the Library. If you buy these, they may cost up to £60 each.
We endeavour to be a paperless and sustainable university. As such, files and content is kept electronically on e-databases where possible. Most academics will print the paperwork if required. If you choose to print, photocopy, or bind your work, you may want to budget up to £30 a year for this.
Assignment submissions and dissertations are electronic.
If your course includes a major project, there could be cost for transport or accommodation related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.
Joining us as an international student
You'll feel at home in our international community in London.
Learn more about international student life and how we can help you with visas, applications, arrival and settling in.
Apply
Ready to apply?
Start this course in September 2026
Apply now (full-time)
Start this course in January 2027
Apply now (full-time)
Start this course in May 2027
Apply now (full-time)
I'm a current Portsmouth student, or a recent Portsmouth graduate
If you're currently in your final year of study at Portsmouth, or you graduated since July 2025, you're eligible to make a fast track application. You'll have:
- a shorter application form to complete
- access to the 20% Alumni fee discount
- a guaranteed conditional offer, for most Master's courses
After you apply
Once we receive your application, we may ask you for further information. We will then either make you an offer or suggest alternatives if your application is unsuccessful.
You'll usually get a decision within 10 working days, so you shouldn't have to wait too long. Some courses have an interview stage – we'll let you know if you need to prepare for one.
Learn more about how we assess your application.
Admissions terms and conditions
When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our Student Contract (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.