Program Overview

Our Computer Science with an Industrial Year MSci degree programme prepares you at every stage for your future career in industry or research. The course enables you to delve into specialist areas of your interest and gain valuable industrial experience to ensure you stand out in future applications.

At the University of Birmingham we recognise that today’s computer scientists are in high demand and have a range of expertise. We also know that at this point in time it is essential that the course you choose meets your future career aspirations. That’s why our Computer Science with an Industrial Year MSci degree offers a balance of more specialised computer science with practical software engineering and the opportunity to tailor your degree to suit your interests and goals.
Our Computer Science with an Industrial Year MSci degree programme is structured to provide you with a solid grounding in fundamental computer science to ensure you are equipped to meet the challenges of your individual and group projects – which will help prepare you for a successful career in industry or research.

The transition to University level learning can be difficult which is why in your first  and second year you will study the key components of computer science to ensure you have a solid understanding of the subject.

We are committed to ensuring you develop key skills needed to boost your future prospects. That’s why in your second year you will develop your team work skills by working on a large project to produce software. You will also learn new styles of programming in Java, a language widely used in business and industry, and the C programming language.

In your third year you will be able to choose from a range of optional modules allowing you to specialise in areas of computer science that interest you and that will help prepare you for your future career.

Your fourth year will be spent in industry which will allow you to develop your skills and gain vital experience which will enhance your time with us and maximise your future prospects. You will return to Birmingham for your final year, where you will be able to choose from a wide range of Masters-level modules to suit your interests.  You will also spend a proportion of your time on a project which will allow you to demonstrate your computing skills.

In your fifth year you will be able to choose modules from a range of Masters programmes which allow you to specialise further in your chosen area of interest. You will also undertake a much more in-depth project which will develop your ability to work independently on an advanced problem-solving task.