MSc Computer Science (conversion)

University of Bristol

This MSc conversion programme is for students from a variety of academic backgrounds who have little or no previous academic computing experience. We would, however, strongly encourage prospective students to try a basic online course in programming (in any language) before applying so that they can confirm they have both the appetite and aptitude for this discipline. The aims of the programme are to build: an understanding of the basis of computer science and its importance in software development; an understanding of the underlying principles of computer systems and their applications; an introduction to industrial-style methods of analysis, design, implementation, testing and documentation in software development. The programme is split into two teaching blocks and a summer project that involves researching, planning and implementing a major piece of work with a significant scientific, technical or software development component. The main programming languages taught on the course are C and Java. There is a strong emphasis on individual and group projects for putting into practice what you learn about software engineering, web technologies, databases, computer architecture and research skills. By the conclusion of the first teaching block, you will have a solid foundation in imperative programming and computer architecture. You will also have begun to acquire complementary technical skills through the software tools unit. By the end of the second teaching block, you will be able to apply industrial-style tools and techniques for software development and web applications in a teamworking context.