Why study this course?
This programme is designed for students without a computing background who want to move into a tech‑oriented career or gain new digital skills relevant to their current role. You’ll learn the essentials of computer science while developing the adaptability, critical judgement and responsible computing mindset needed to thrive in a fast‑moving technological world.
You’ll gain practical skills through hands‑on lab, group work and software development projects and build confidence as you learn to solve real problems using modern tools.
On this conversion MSc in Computer Science, you will:
- build a solid grounding in core computer science, from algorithms and systems to software engineering
- explore specialist topics, such as AI, HCI and software engineering, choosing modules that match your interests
- develop strong programming skills in modern software development environments
- learn responsible computing, gaining the judgement needed to design and evaluate technologies ethically and effectively
- grow your adaptability, preparing you to keep pace with new tools, methods and emerging technologies
- complete a major research and development project, involving in‑depth investigation and substantial software implementation
- enjoy 24/7 access to modern computing labs, part of a collaborative, close‑knit School community
You may switch to a conversion MSc in Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning, or to the MSc in Computing and Information Technology, after your first semester, provided you complete appropriate modules.
Teaching
Lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical classes.
Class sizes
Typically range from 20 to 110 students.
Dissertation project
A three-month project on a computer science topic leading to a 15,000-word dissertation.
Assessment
Practical coursework exercises and exams.
Modules
The St Andrews degree structure is designed to be flexible. You study compulsory modules delivering core learning together with optional modules you choose from the list available that year.
The taught portion of the MSc programme includes eight modules, three compulsory and five optional.
If you choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MSc, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a postgraduate diploma (PGDip) instead, finishing the course at the end of the second semester of study.
Course information may change. Module information and course content, teaching and assessment may change each year and after you have accepted your offer to study at the University of St Andrews. We display the most up-to-date information possible, but this could be from a previous academic year. For the latest module information, see the module catalogue.
-
- Fundamentals of Computation: This module introduces foundational Computer Science topics to students without prior background in the subject.
- Programming Principles and Practice: This module introduces computational thinking and problem solving skills to students who have no or little previous programming experience.
-
- Computer Security: This module reviews key theoretical and practical aspects of Information Security Management.
- Databases: Introduces data models, modeling techniques, relational design and a range of issues in database implementation.
- Knowledge Discovery and Datamining: This module covers many of the methods found under the banner of Datamining, building from a theoretical perspective but ultimately teaching practical application.
- Video Games: Builds on general-purpose programming abilities acquired earlier to develop games programming skills through lectures and laboratories, culminating in the creation of actual games.
-
During the second semester, students work with staff to define and agree a topic for the extended project. They will work on it during the final three months of the course, finishing with a 15,000-word dissertation.
Dissertation projects may be group-based or completed individually, though students are assessed individually in either case.
The dissertation typically comprises:
- a review of related work
- the extension of existing or the development of new ideas
- software implementation and testing
- analysis and evaluation
Each project is supervised by one or two members of staff, typically through regular meetings and reviews of software and dissertation drafts.
What it will lead to
Careers
Digital skills are in high demand across nearly every sector. With strong foundations, practical experience and the ability to reason responsibly about emerging technologies, you’ll be prepared for a wide range of exciting, meaningful and well‑paid roles including:
- software developer or engineer
- AI and machine learning roles
- data analysis
- UX and HCI roles
- cloud and systems development
- technical consultancy
- digital transformation roles across industry and public sectors
Your ability to adapt, problem‑solve and apply sound judgement ensures you’ll be ready for today’s tech jobs and for the roles that will emerge as computing continues to evolve.
Elevate your career
Alumni of computer science MSc programmes have gone on to work in a variety of global, commercial, financial and research institutions, including Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Bloomberg, Adobe, Salesforce, Cisco, Huawei, Civil Service and RegGenome.
Further your education
The EngD programme in Computer Science is a four-year Engineering Doctorate involving an industrial partner. If you have already completed an MSc you may be able to proceed directly to the individual research component of the EngD.
Go your own way
Our Entrepreneurship Centre offers training and start-up support, gives you access to experienced and expert mentors and an investor network, and one-to-one advice to help you realise your commercial potential.
Why St Andrews?
The School of Computer Science is highly rated for its theoretical and practical research in areas such as:
- artificial intelligence
- health informatics
- human computer interaction
- programming languages
- responsible and sustainable computing
- systems
Get to know us
Offer holders will be invited to join our optional 'Transition to CS@St Andrews' online hub to get early information about learning, teaching, assessment and student support. You can chat with staff and current students during live monthly Question and Answer sessions over the summer before the start of your course.
Events
The School of Computer Science organises a regular programme of colloquia, talks and seminars by external and internal speakers from both industry and academia. The talks are aimed at bringing the diversity, excitement and impact of computer science from around the globe to staff and students within the School.
The St Andrews Computing Society (STACS) and Women in Computer Science at St Andrews (WICS) regularly organise hackathons and other events open to local and external participants, including Masters students. These are very popular events, often supported by industrial sponsors.
Alumni
When you graduate you become a member of the University's worldwide alumni community. Benefit from access to alumni clubs, the Saint Connect networking and mentoring platform, and careers support.
Ask a student
If you are interested in learning what it's like to be a student at St Andrews you can speak to one of our student ambassadors. They'll let you know about their top tips, best study spots, favourite traditions and more.
Entry requirements
The qualifications listed are indicative of standard requirements for entry. Some academic Schools may require applicants to achieve higher grades than the standard to be competitive. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University takes a holistic view of every application.
If your qualification does not appear in the list, it may not meet the typical requirements for entry to this programme. You may need a higher-level qualification to be competitive, for example, a Masters degree.
English language requirements
Some applicants may need to provide an English language test score to evidence their English language ability. Find out who needs to provide evidence of English language ability. Details of acceptable tests and scores are provided below.
Test scores are only normally accepted if obtained within two years of the programme start date.
Application requirements
Fees and funding
- UK: Tuition fees have yet to be set.
- Rest of the world: Tuition fees have yet to be set.
Application fee
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Contact us
- Postgraduate online information events
- The School can help with course content, teaching and other topics: ask the School
- Ask University Admissions about how to apply, fees, scholarships and other topics
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 12 August 2026