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MSc Computer Science

Heriot-Watt University logo

MSc Computer Science

Heriot-Watt University

Leading UK university

Ranked 25th in the UK (University League Tables 2026)

20-96 months

8 courses total and a final project, 16-18 hours per week

£9,261 total cost

No application fee. Pay as you learn. All materials and assessments included

Performance-based admission

Successfully complete the first course to qualify - no bachelor’s required

Coursera Career Academy

Unlimited access to 500+ industry courses from global titans Google, IBM and Microsoft

Admissions

With no formal computing background required, this industry-aligned master’s is specifically designed for either practising or aspiring ICT professionals who are ready to build a comprehensive set of computer science skills.

Whether you’ve acquired your existing computer science skills through formal study, self-directed learning or professional experience, this programme will put you on the path to becoming a qualified computer scientist.

Through project work and technical assignments, you’ll deepen your understanding, hone your practical abilities in emerging technologies like AI and machine learning, and demonstrate your proficiency by earning a prestigious master’s degree. 

You can secure your place in the Computer Science MSc either through the traditional application-based route, or by taking the performance-based admissions pathway to prove your competence and suitability for the programme.

Applications for the September 2026 cohort are open!

  • Application Priority deadline: August 10, 2026
  • Application deadline: August 17, 2026
  • Classes start: September 14, 2026

Upcoming events

Stay tuned!

Additional resources

Applications for the September 2026 cohort are open!

  • Application Priority deadline: August 10, 2026
  • Application deadline: August 17, 2026
  • Classes start: September 14, 2026

Upcoming events

Stay tuned!

Additional resources

September 2026 deadline: August 10

Don’t miss your chance to join the cohort!