Your Guide to the Master's in Computer Science

When you’re interested in technology and computers, pursuing a master’s in computer science can lead to a variety of job options, such as data analyst, games developer, or software engineer. Given the prevalence of apps, games, and programs in society, job growth around these products remains high. CompTIA estimated that tech companies in the UK employed 2.1 million professionals up until 2023, and it expects this number to increase [1]. 

Earning a master's in computer science is an opportunity to deepen your knowledge of the field—or pivot into it. If you're already in the computer science field, you might pursue this degree to advance in the profession or become a more competitive job candidate. If you're pivoting into computer science from another area, you could use your master's degree to get yourself up to speed and build confidence in your new industry. 

Explore what a master's in computer science is all about and the types of jobs you can pursue once you've earned your degree. 

What is a master's degree in computer science?

When you're interested in studying computer science at the master's level, you can typically expect to graduate with an MSc in computer science. Depending on the programme, a degree takes around one to two years to earn when you're able to attend full-time, though some universities offer part-time or online programmes that can give you more flexibility. In that case, it may take longer to complete your degree, depending on your time commitment.

Computer science master's coursework

You can learn advanced concepts in computer science topics, such as programming, information systems, applied machine learning, and software design. While your exact coursework will vary by the programme you choose, you can expect to study key concepts, including:

• Advanced security

• Geometric deep learning

• Computational biology

• Computational learning theory

• Probabilistic model checking

• Graph representation learning

• Quantum software

• App engineering

• Database fundamentals

• Computer architecture and operating systems

Specialisms

You will also likely have the opportunity to specialise in an area of your choice, and your coursework will focus on this area. Possible concentrations include:

• Cybersecurity

• Machine learning

• Data science

• Forensics

• Wireless and mobile technologies

• Software development

• Artificial intelligence

Entry requirements for a computer science master's

Computer science master's programmes tend to require that you've already graduated with your upper second-class bachelor's degree—some will accept candidates with no degree if they have substantial professional experience. They may also stipulate demonstration requirements, such as A level mathematical skills and strong analytical abilities. That said, requirements can vary depending on the university. For example, if you’re pursuing admittance into the master’s program at Oxford University, you’ll need a first-class undergraduate degree with honours, and it must be in either computer science or mathematics.

Whilst you don't always have to earn your bachelor’s degree in the same or similar subject, a computer science master's programme may expect you to have the ability to think in a computational fashion because programming is an important component of the curriculum.

Do I need a master's in computer science to work as a computer scientist?

If you’re pursuing an entry-level position as a computer scientist, you may not need a master's degree. Usually, a bachelor's in computer science or a related field is expected. However, if you're interested in more senior or leadership positions, those jobs may require a master's degree. Additionally, a master’s degree can make you more competitive in the job market, increase your expertise in the field, and increase your pay.

What can I do with a master's in computer science?

You may be able to pursue more high-paying jobs in the field of computer science with a master's in the subject. The degree is relatively flexible in that you can apply it to several areas, including the following:

• Game designer: £32,273 average annual salary

• UX designer: £47,887 average annual salary

• Network architect: £67,567 average annual salary

• Computer systems analyst: £35,478 average annual salary

• Cybersecurity manager: £62,689 average annual salary

• Database administrator: £34,548 average annual salary

• Web developer: £33,533 average annual salary

• Software developer: £40,964 average annual salary

*All average annual salary data is sourced from Glassdoor UK as of May 2025 and does not include additional pay, such as commission and benefits.

Many companies have positions that would suit someone with an MSc in computer science. With the prevalence of big data and software, every industry has plenty of jobs that deal with topics you study while earning your computer science master's degree. 

Learn more about computer science with Coursera

A master's in computer science is designed to provide you with advanced skills in areas like software development and machine learning, enhancing career opportunities in a wide variety of fields. 

You can begin your computer science career by enrolling in an online course to discover more about the topics within this field. Explore Computer Science: Algorithms, Theory, and Machines, offered by Princeton University, to potentially further your understanding of common computer-science subjects. You might also consider looking into Learn to Program: The Fundamentals, offered by the University of Toronto, to start your programming journey. Both options are available on Coursera.