MComp Computing Science
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Master of Computing
- UCAS Course Code
- G407
- Typical Offer
- AAB (specific subjects required)
- Contextual Offer
- BBB (specific subjects required)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Learn to programme the future and gain a solid foundation in a range of computing fields, including managing and storing data for banks and businesses; creating and designing action-packed games; improving web usability and user experience, or developing next- generation apps, AI, robotics, cloud computing, big data and lots, lots more. This flexible course is ideal if you’re a digital native who already lives and breathes computing. You might like solving real-world problems, or coding your next-generation apps and websites, designing your own games, or building your own hardware.
You’ll acquire a strong grounding in the theory of computing science, as well as gaining experience and skills in software engineering and problem solving. You’ll become a competent programmer in a range of modern general-purpose languages such as Java, Python, JavaScript, C and C++. You’ll explore the underlying principles of the subject and learn to adopt a logical, systematic approach to developing solutions to real-world problems.
All our computer science courses follow an identical structure in the first two years. This means that you can easily transfer between them if you decide you want to incorporate a year abroad, a year in industry or continue to Master’s level learning. In core modules, you’ll cultivate the essential skills of a computing professional. And in optional modules you’ll be able to sample some of the wide range of problems that arise in both research and industry. You’ll also gain transferable skills that will help your long-term development, such as working in teams, project management and presenting ideas.
You’ll benefit from our expertise in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, computer vision, graphics, computational biology, data science and speech processing, and software engineering and systems engineering. You’ll also learn from the latest research done at UEA. You’ll follow the BSc programme structure for the first three years, gaining a solid foundation in programming, problem solving, and relevant mathematics and computing theory. Our common course structure means that it’s possible to transfer between our BSc Computing Science, BSc Computing Science with a Year in Industry, and MComp in Computing Science with Study Abroad courses. If, for any reason, you decide not to continue to year four, or wish to take a year in industry instead, you can transfer to the relevant BSc course at any point in your first three years
IT industries are growing fast and provide various job opportunities each year. You can work as a software and computer games developer, data scientist, website designer or specialist in user experience (UX). You’ll also have huge career possibilities in cybersecurity, network and systems engineering.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
Students can opt in Study Aboard pathway during the first 12 months of their study. Students can also switch to the three-year BSc Computing Science course if they wish to do so,
Accreditations
This course has been accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS) for full CITP. Accreditation means that a candidate has fully fulfilled the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP).
Study and Modules
Structure
You’ll get to grip with the fundamentals of computing science with an emphasis on programming. You’ll have the opportunity to learn programming concepts using high-level programming languages in different domains. And you’ll study mathematical modules and learn how they’ll be relevant to your future career. You;ll learn how to model and manipulate data using industry standard data manipulation language. We also emphasis practical problem-based learning.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
You’ll learn through a mixture of lectures, seminars and lab classes – where the lab and seminar classes reinforce and expand on the lecture materials.
We teach a variety of programming or scripting languages including Java, Python, SQL, HTML, CSS and JavaScript. You’ll be working with the software development tools and practices used in the industry right now, getting up to speed with the system development and database principles, gaining computing mathematics fundamental knowledge, practicing employability skills and building your programming experience this year. Teaching methods include team-based learning and hands-on practices.
Alongside your formal learning, you’ll study independently to gain a deeper appreciation of specialist topics.
Assessment
Your first year will have a mixture of individual and group assessments. These may include written work, presentations or demonstrations, and in-class tests (closed and/or time-limited assessment). They combine theoretical understanding with practical application and are designed to test the range of skills and competencies required for the learning outcomes of each module. Additionally, there’s a synoptic project, covering material from all modules.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll learn how computers and operating systems work, the concepts of data structure and algorithm, software engineering, and advanced programming concepts. You’ll also work in a team to engineer large-scale solutions to problems; this will give you the opportunity to develop more employability skills. Alongside this, you’ll start to shape your own curriculum by choosing topics from a wide range of optional modules from networks, embedded systems to data science fundamentals.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Depending on your interests and career aspirations, you’ll have a range of optional modules to choose from, all of which represent the School’s current research and strengths. You'll gain core knowledge and hands-on experiences of your chosen subjects.
Assessment
Like your first year, you’ll have a mixture of individual and group assessments. The balance of assessment types varies according to the options chosen. Additionally, there’s a synoptic project, covering material from all modules.
Structure
Your third year will give you the opportunity to focus on specific areas of computer science through a piece of independent research. You’ll work independently on a project about a computing topic, supervised by a member of staff within the school. You’ll write a report on your work, develop software and present it; this will give you the opportunity to develop academic writing and communication skills. You’ll have the choice to tailor your degree by choosing topics from a wide range of optional modules, all of which represent the school’s current research and strengths.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional D Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your third year, you’ll have the opportunity to focus on specific areas of computer science through a piece of independent research. You’ll work on an individual project, which will involve developing high quality solutions (including working software) for real problems – a skill that is highly valued by employers. You’ll also explore a topic or work on a problem in depth, under the supervision of a member of the faculty.
Assessment
In your third year, again, there’ll be a combination of individual and group assessments. Similarly to your second year, the balance of assessment types varies according to the options chosen. Additionally, there is an individual project assessed through a combination of written work and demonstration or presentation.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll undertake a large project with either a research group or industrial partner, supervised by a member of the faculty in the school. Most of our lecturers are also active researchers who conduct world-leading work and incorporate it into their teaching. Additionally, you'll study advanced programming concepts and techniques and various advanced computing subjects of your choice, to both deepen and broaden your knowledge in modern-day state of the art computing science.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 40)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your final year, you’ll learn and gain knowledge of advanced programming techniques and various advanced computing subjects of your choice, to both deepen and broaden your knowledge and skills in modern-day state of the art computing science.
Furthermore, you’ll work in a group or partner project on a problem that is either taken from an active research group within the University or from a real problem rooted in industry or in commerce. You'll also learn and gain transferable skills which are useful and helpful in any role you may wish to pursue for your career.
Assessment
In your final year, you’ll undertake a group project. This project is either industry oriented or with a particular research focus. The assessment is based on a demonstration of a proposed solution and a written report. Like in your third year, depending on your chosen subjects, you’ll have a mixture of individual or group presentations, and may also have written exams.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language at minimum grade 4 or grade C and Mathematics at minimum grade 5 or grade B.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics
Contextual offer: BBB including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDD in IT, Engineering or Science based subject OR DDD plus A-Level grade B in Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics
Contextual offer: DDM in IT, Engineering or Science based subject
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Extended Diploma: DDD in IT, Engineering or Science based subject OR DDD plus A-Level grade B in Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics
Diploma: DD in IT, Engineering or Science based subject plus B at A-level OR DD plus A-Level grade B in Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
Contextual Offer: DD in IT, Engineering or Science based subject plus C at A-level OR DD plus A-Level grade C in Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
Extended Certificate: D in IT, Engineering or Science based subject plus AB at A-Level OR D plus AB at A-Level including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
Contextual Offer: D in IT, Engineering or Science based subject plus BB at A-Level OR D plus BB at A-Level including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Mathematics, Computing, Physics, Electronics or Economics
T levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. We accept: Design, surveying and planning for construction, Digital production, design and development, Digital Business Services,Digital Support Services, Science, Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control, Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - BSc Computing Science with a Foundation Year
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including HL5 in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches), Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics or Economics
Irish Leaving Certificate
4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics
Scottish Highers
AAAAA including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics
Scottish Advanced Highers
BBC including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language at minimum grade 4 or grade C and Mathematics at minimum grade 5 or grade B.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
A levels
AAB including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics
Contextual offer: BBB including Mathematics, Computing Science, Digital Technology, Chemistry, Physics, Electronics or Economics
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including HL5 in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches), Computing Science, Chemistry, Physics or Economics
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
By the time you graduate, you’ll be perfectly well-placed for a range of roles related to computer science – particularly in the technology, finance and creative sectors, which require technical or digital expertise along with adaptability and openness.
Your Master’s qualification will give you an insight into the nature of research, and a distinct advantage over candidates with a BSc, for positions requiring a higher degree of technical competence. In fact, our Master’s course is ideal preparation for a career in either academic or industrial research.
Our programme also embeds employability and transferable skills in the learning, which include team working, researching, project management, communication, and ideas presentation. Our students will learn how to take their own responsibility and exhibit the expected professionalism in their respective field.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Software engineer
- Full stack web or game developer
- System Analyst or engineer
- Data scientist
- Academic/industrial researcher
- Artificial intelligence programmer
- Machine Learning specialist
- Information technology consultant
Discover more on our Careers webpages.