Online United Kingdom
DURATION
2 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Part time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Request application deadline
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2025
TUITION FEES
GBP 11,000
STUDY FORMAT
Distance Learning
Key Summary
Introduction
Empowering you with essential computing knowledge, this Computer Science (MSc) programme is designed to shape you into a proficient software developer.
With a focus on practical applications, it enables you to leverage your academic background to create relevant computer applications.
We are committed to producing workplace-ready professionals by emphasising disciplined software development methodologies.
As an Aston Online student, you’ll enjoy free access to a vast range of journals, articles, and reports through Aston’s e-library - featuring major publishers such as Elsevier, Springer Nature, Taylor & Francis, Cambridge University Press, and Wiley.
The programme aims to:
- Enable students to develop a systematic understanding of the software development process, and the associated theoretical underpinning and professional skills needed to support sound analysis, design, and delivery of technology solutions in practice.
- Equip students with practical software and information systems engineering capabilities based on well-founded principles.
- Develop industry-accredited professionals who can communicate in an IT context and are endowed with professional-level transferable skills.
- Prepare students to respond to the computing challenges of the business world, and for an effective career in Computing and IT with the potential to reach leadership roles.
Ideal Students
Is this programme right for you?
- You are a non-computing graduate looking to transition into a career in software development.
- You are interested in a flexible online learning experience that can fit around your work and personal commitments.
- You are looking for a programme that focuses on practical skills and prepares you for a successful career.
- You want to gain a strong foundation in computer science fundamentals and develop the skills to design, develop, and implement software systems.
- You want to earn a master's degree from a reputable university with a strong track record of graduate employability.
Admissions
Scholarships and Funding
Flexible payment plans and funding options
- Pay Monthly or in instalments
- UK Government Loans for Eligible Students
- 20% Alumni Scholarship Available
- 10% Global Merit Scholarships Available
Curriculum
Providing a diverse range of computing skills, the two-year, part-time Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) Online programme develops expert working professionals who will succeed in the real world. This online programme is aligned with all contemporary industry standards as supported by the leading accreditation framework. Each credit of study is equivalent to 10 learning hours. For example, 30 credits reflect 300 hours of learning.
Stage - taught
- Object-oriented programming (30 credits)
- Algorithms and data (30 credits)
- Software engineering (30 credits)
- Software project management (30 credits)
Stage - dissertation
- Aston global advantage and research methods (30 credits)
- Major project (30 credits)
Rankings
We are the University of the Year for Student Success 2025
The Daily Mail University Guide 2025
It’s been an exciting time at Aston University, with amazing new achievements that highlight our teaching excellence, outstanding student outcomes, and strong performance in global and UK rankings. Here are just a few highlights:
- Aston University has been named the University of the Year for Student Success 2025 in the new Daily Mail University Guide.
- We are ranked 21st in the UK (The Guardian University Guide 2025).
- Aston University is 2nd in the country for Social Mobility (Higher Education Policy Institute).
And that’s just the beginning.
Program Outcome
What you will learn
Systematic understanding of the software development process
Develop a systematic understanding of the software development process, and the associated theoretical underpinning skills needed to support sound analysis, design and delivery of technology solutions in practice.
An understanding of IT
Through professional project work, you will gain professional experience and a wide perspective on IT.
Software and information systems engineering capabilities
Our Computer Science (MSc) programme equips you with practical software and information systems engineering capabilities based on well-founded principles.
Become an industry-ready professional
Gain the ability to communicate in an IT context as an industry-accredited professional. Graduate with a professional level of transferable skills.
Respond to challenging computing problems
Effectively respond to computing challenges of the business world, and embark on a successful career in computing and IT with the potential to reach leadership roles.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
Aston graduates from this versatile and globally in-demand degree have achieved diverse career successes, securing roles like software developer, information security specialist, and web application developer at renowned organisations such as RedHat and NatWest.
Many graduates have opted to further their academic journey, pursuing PhD opportunities to delve deeper into research and advanced studies. The programme's versatile curriculum and practical approach will prepare you for various professional paths.
Recent graduates have gone on to roles including:
- Skilled software engineers: Object-oriented software design and implementation, tackling challenges in varied computing environments.
- Technical analyst: Specialists in technology assessment, these professionals analyse systems and processes to boost business efficiency and technological innovation.
- IT compliance consultant: Experts in regulatory frameworks ensure that organisations' IT practices adhere strictly to legal standards and industry best practices for data security and compliance.
- Software developer: Creative and solution-oriented, these developers design, test, and implement software solutions, tailoring applications to meet the evolving needs of businesses and consumers.
- New media programmer: Pioneers in digital innovation, they integrate multimedia and interactive elements, programming content that captivates in the digital age.
- Systems analyst: Strategists in system design, they dissect business requirements to develop technical solutions that streamline and enhance organisational operations.
Student Testimonials
Why study at Aston University Online
Why choose this programme
No coding experience? No problem
Start from scratch with no prior coding or A-level Maths required. We’ll take you from beginner to industry-ready, equipping you with the technical skills to thrive in the tech industry.
Industry-relevant curriculum
Learn from a curriculum designed with industry leaders, including Aston’s Industrial Advisory Board, ensuring real-world relevance.
Access to industry leaders
Get a free membership to Aston’s Computer Science Industry Club, connecting you with top recruiters and tech leaders to expand your career opportunities.
Innovative learning tools
Master coding with Mobius, an interactive feedback tool that provides real-time, instructor-written feedback to refine your programming skills and accelerate your learning.
Plan your future with expert guidance
Develop a personalised career plan, refine your job search strategies, and sharpen your interview techniques with the Aston Global Advantage module.
Top-ranked institution
Aston is #12 in the UK for Computer Science – Guardian University Guide, 2025, giving you global recognition and career credibility.
Flexibility
Study anytime, anywhere—with no compulsory live lectures or fixed schedules. Focus on one module and one assessment at a time, allowing for deep learning while balancing work and personal commitments.
Supportive community
Learn within a small cohort and receive personalised support at every stage of your journey. With a globally inclusive learning environment, you’ll never feel like you're studying alone.