Theoretical Computer Science with a Year in Industry MSc

University of Liverpool

Explore the world of computational game theory, where computer science and economics collide, and receive a grounding in algorithmic techniques and optimisation methods and models on this MSc. You can specialise in areas including microeconomics, e-commerce and data mining prior to an extended industrial placement in a real-world environment.IntroductionThis MSc immerses you in theoretical computer science, with a particular focus on computational game theory, where computer science and economics intersect. This is an area of rapid growth where skilled professionals are in high demand.In year one, you’ll receive a comprehensive introduction to computational game theory, focus on algorithmic aspects of game theory in depth, and be guided in how to plan and conduct research in computer science. Exploring the computational aspects of the design of mechanisms and auctions, you’ll also examine optimisation methods and their application to various optimisation models.Optional modules include opportunities to work with large datasets, specialise in the design and analysis of algorithms, discover the essentials of microeconomic theory, or investigate e-commerce technologies.In year two, you’ll undertake an industrial project, that’s research or application oriented, in a real-world environment as part of an extended placement opportunity.This will enable you to demonstrate project management skills and complete a dissertation while also gaining experience in an industrial work environment. While on placement, you’ll develop a range of skills and knowledge and benefit from insights into the operations, products, working practices and management culture of the placement provider.What you'll learnAn understanding of the notion of a game, its solutions, concepts and applicationsAlgorithmic aspects of game theoryHow computational game theory, computer science and economics intersectContemporary application of algorithmic paradigmsHow to model continuous and discrete optimisation problemsKey research methods in computer scienceHow to design and analyse advanced discrete algorithmsEssentials of microeconomic theoryAn understanding of all aspects of software safety and dependabilityResearch issues in data miningPrivacy, security, encryption and other technologies behind e-commerce