Online MSc Computer Science: Career Advancement | Walbrook

Get your Master’s in Computer Science, the Walbrook Way

Study 100% online, from anywhere
- Graduate in just 14 months.
- Start within weeks with monthly start dates.
- Competitive tuition – £7,680 total.
12th in UK for employment and further study
- 89% of Walbrook graduates in skilled roles*
- Curriculum driven by emerging technologies.
- Career support and events, 24/7 job portal.
For professionals balancing work, home and life
- Study flexibly within a weekly structure.
- Flex between full and part-time.
- Built for digital from day one.

MSc Computer Science online degree

Step into high-demand roles in a sector powering a $1.2 trillion UK tech industry that’s growing faster than its European rivals (Tech Nation Report 2025). With the digital skills gap costing the UK economy £63 billion a year, our Computer Science MSc gives you the expertise and credibility to lead in software, AI and cyber security.

Why this master's degree?

Step straight into high-demand roles driving UK tech growth.
Designed for driven professionals ready to break into tech and rise into high-impact leadership roles.
Developed in London, the UK’s largest and most dynamic tech hub.

Meet Prof. Alastair Irons, Academic Lead for Computer Science

Your online MSc Computer Science at a glance

Location:

‣ 100% Online, distance learning

Start dates:

‣ Start any month

Duration:

‣ Full-time: 14 months

‣ Part-time: 24 months

Tuition fees and funding:

‣ Total programme cost is £7,680

‣ Secure your place by paying for your first one or two modules, depending on whether you choose full-time or part-time study.

Entry requirements:

‣ 2:2 honours degree and above (or equivalent) in a subject other than computing.

‣ Alternatively, you can apply with a non-honours degree and 2 years’ professional experience in one or more computing-related roles.

Tuition fees for your online Master of Computer Science degree

The prices shown below are for our online MSc Computer Science degrees only. They are inclusive of your first module(s) payment and don't include any reductions.

Total programme cost
Full-time: 14 months | Part-time: 24 months

£7,680
in total
You'll study 10x 15-credit modules and 1x 30-credit Research Project module in total (approx. 17-30 hrs/week).
Apply now
Cost per module
Full-time: 14 months | Part-time: 24 months

£640
per 15-credit module
You'll study 10x 15-credit modules. Your final 30-credit Research Project module will be charged at £1,280.
Apply now

Total tuition fees: £7,680.  You can pay for your MSc Computer Science degree per module, or in full before you start your studies.

If you choose to pay in full, you’ll receive a 15% reduction on your total tuition fees.

If you choose to pay per module, your payment schedule will depend on whether you choose full or part-time study:

If you apply as a full-time student, you’ll need to pay for two modules upfront to confirm your place, then continue to pay in two-module instalments as you progress.
If you apply as a part-time student, you’ll pay for one module upfront, then continue to pay per module before each one begins.

If you’re a UK student, you may be eligible for a government master's loan from Student Finance England for our online master's degrees. The Student Loans Company (SLC) will pay the loan directly to you after you start your studies. So, it’s your responsibility to make your module payments to us directly. Find out more about funding your Walbrook master's with a UK master's loan >
Want to see exactly when payments are due? Open the payment schedule for our next two start dates below.

April 2026 start date
- Full-time payment schedule – April 2026
- Part-time payment schedule – April 2026
May 2026 start date
- Full-time payment schedule – May 2026
- Part-time payment schedule – May 2026
Alumni receive a 10% tuition fee discount. If you’re eligible, our enrolment team can provide your personalised payment schedule.

Entry requirements for your online MSc Computer Science degree

Every application is different. If you’re not sure whether you meet the MSc Computer Science entry requirements, or you have any questions, contact us for advice.

To apply, you’ll need to meet the following entry requirements:
- A UK honours degree at 2:2 or above (or equivalent international qualification) in a subject other than computing.
If you hold a non-honours degree and 2 years’ professional experience in one or more computing-related roles, you’re still encouraged to apply. We’ll review your academic and professional background on a case-by-case basis. Applicants without a first degree but with more than two years’ relevant professional experience in computing-related roles may be considered.
Thinking of transferring institutions or have you studied before? You can apply to transfer up to 60 credits towards your master's degree. Please note that credits can’t be awarded for the research module of this programme.

These credits must be relevant, current, and aligned with the subject matter of your chosen MSc Computer Science pathway.
- Review our recognition of prior learning process.
- Speak to our Enrolment Team.
- Submit a recognition of prior learning form alongside your application.
Overseas qualifications may be accepted and will be subject to evidence of equivalency normally verified through ECCTIS (UK ENIC).
If English isn't your first language, you’ll be asked to provide proof of your English language proficiency in one of the following forms. Alternatively, you may be accepted if you have previously studied in English at an appropriate level and attended a recognised institution.

IELTS
- Evidence of a score of IELTS Level 6.0 or above with no element below 5.5.
TOEFL iBT®
- Evidence of a score of 79 overall (with 18 in reading, 17 in listening, 20 in speaking and 21 in writing).
Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE)
- Evidence of a score of ISE II with distinction in each skill.
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency or Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English
- Evidence of a score of 170 overall, with 160 in each component.

I would say just go for it. I am currently in full time employment, so being able to study at my own time and being able to be in control of my own studying was really important, and Walbrook provided that as part of their online degrees.

Aleksandra Anastasova
Walbrook online degree student

The course content is engaging and easy to follow, and the lecturers are really responsive, which makes a huge difference when you’re studying online. I like that there’s pacing built in to keep you on track, but also the flexibility to fit around work, life and kids. I’ve really learnt a lot that I can already put into practice in my role at work.

Hayley Coates
Walbrook online degree student

MSc Computer Science programme details

This Computer Science MSc develops your technical knowledge and practical expertise across core areas of computing, preparing you to enter specialist and leadership roles in emerging and established technology sectors.

You’ll study key concepts including software engineering, modern database systems, artificial intelligence, computer networks, cloud computing, and cyber security, while developing your ability to manage projects, evaluate risk, and design software systems for real world problems. You’ll also build strong research skills through modules in research methods and research development, culminating in an independent research project shaped by your own interests and career goals.

On this online Computer Science MSc programme, you’ll study a series of carefully designed modules. With flexible monthly starts, you’ll join the next available module and study alongside a cohort of computer science master's students learning the same subject at the same time.
- Software Engineering
  Design, build, and evaluate software systems that solve real-world problems. Learn how to apply software development life cycles, testing methods, and agile practices, and explore how effective engineering decisions underpin quality, security, and maintainability.
- Modern Database Systems
  Gain the technical knowledge to design, implement, and manage modern databases using industry standard Tools such as MariaDB and MongoDB. You’ll work with relational and non-relational models, optimise queries, and understand how data storage choices impact performance, scalability, and security.
- Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  Understand the core ideas behind AI and machine learning – and how they’re strategically applied to common business problems. You’ll experiment with tools to solve realistic problems, interpret results, and weigh up the commercial and ethical impact of using AI.
- Information Systems Development
  Analyse business needs and create software systems that meet them, using HTML, CSS and JavaScript programming languages. This module blends computer science theory with practical design, giving you the skills to develop secure, user-centred systems in complex organisational environments.
- Computer Networks
  Understand how computer systems communicate. Explore network design, protocols, and performance management, then apply your skills in practical settings to configure and troubleshoot networks for efficiency and resilience.
- Cloud Computing
  Learn to design and deploy solutions using cloud platforms. You’ll explore virtualisation, containerisation, cloud security, and cost optimisation, preparing you to work with cloud-native architectures across industries.
- Project Management and the Computing Professional
  Develop the leadership skills to manage technology projects successfully. Cover risk management, resource planning, and stakeholder communication, and learn to guide teams to deliver high-quality results on time and within budget.
- Fundamentals of Cyber Security Practice
  Gain practical experience in identifying vulnerabilities and defending systems. From encryption and access control to incident response, you’ll learn how to protect computer systems and data against evolving cyber threats.
- Large Language Models and Prompt Engineering
  Step into one of computing’s fastest-moving fields. Understand how large language models work, apply prompt engineering techniques, and explore their potential across data science, automation, and problem-solving tasks.
- Research Development
  Build the research skills you need for your final project. You’ll refine your research methods, review relevant literature, and prepare a robust proposal for a topic that reflects your career goals or research interests.
- Research Project
  Conduct your own research in an area that inspires you – from operating systems and data structures to machine learning, cyber security, or computer architecture. This final research project is where you bring together your technical expertise, analysis, and innovation to address a real world problem.

Your module schedule depends on the month you start, and whether you study full or part-time. You'll study each module once, completing all taught modules before moving on to your final two modules: Research Development and Research Project.

Full-time students: start a new 8-week module every month.
Part-time students: start a new 8-week module every other month.

Module start date	Module name	Assessment details
6 April 2026	Cloud Computing	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Assignment 1 – 30% 3. Assignment 2 – 60%
4 May 2026	Information Systems Development	1. Individual written assignment – 20% 2. Design diagrams and narrative – 20% 3. Technical report with implementation evidence – 60%
1 June 2026	Software Engineering	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Systems proposal report – 30% 3. System design report – 60%
6 July 2026	Computer Networks	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Technical report 1 – 30% 3. Technical report 2 – 50%
3 August 2026	Fundamentals of Cyber Security Practice	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Technical report 1 – 30% 3. Technical report 2 – 50%
7 September 2026	Large Language Models and Prompt Engineering	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Critical review report – 30% 3. Technical report – 60%
5 October 2026	Project Management and the Computing Professional	1. Group presentation – 20% 2. Group report – 30% 3. Individual systems proposal – 50%
2 November 2026	Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence	1. Individual report – 30% 2. Individual assignment – 20%% 3. Individual report – 50%
7 December 2026	Modern Database Systems	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Presentation – 20% 3. Technical implementation and Query report – 70%
4 January 2027	Cloud Computing	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Assignment 1 – 30% 3. Assignment 2 – 60%
1 February 2027	Information Systems Development	1. Individual written assignment – 20% 2. Design diagrams and narrative – 20% 3. Technical report with implementation evidence – 60%
1 March 2027	Software Engineering	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Systems proposal report – 30% 3. System design report – 60%
5 April 2027	Computer Networks	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Technical report 1 – 30% 3. Technical report 2 – 50%
3 May 2027	Fundamentals of Cyber Security Practice	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Technical report 1 – 30% 3. Technical report 2 – 50%
7 June 2027	Large Language Models and Prompt Engineering	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Critical review report – 30% 3. Technical report – 60%
5 July 2027	Project Management and the Computing Professional	1. Group presentation – 20% 2. Group report – 30% 3. Individual systems proposal – 50%
2 August 2027	Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence	1. Individual report – 30% 2. Individual assignment – 20%% 3. Individual report – 50%
6 September 2027	Modern Database Systems	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Presentation – 20% 3. Technical implementation and Query report – 70%
4 October 2027	Cloud Computing	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Assignment 1 – 30% 3. Assignment 2 – 60%
1 November 2027	Information Systems Development	1. Individual written assignment – 20% 2. Design diagrams and narrative – 20% 3. Technical report with implementation evidence – 60%
6 December 2027	Software Engineering	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Systems proposal report – 30% 3. System design report – 60%
3 January 2028	Computer Networks	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Technical report 1 – 30% 3. Technical report 2 – 50%
7 February 2028	Fundamentals of Cyber Security Practice	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Technical report 1 – 30% 3. Technical report 2 – 50%
6 March 2028	Large Language Models and Prompt Engineering	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Critical review report – 30% 3. Technical report – 60%

You can register for your final research modules once you have studied at least seven of the nine taught modules:

Module name

Assessment details

Research Development

1. Literature review – 20%

2. Project plan and enhanced literature review – 80%

Research Project

1. Thesis – 80%

2. Portfolio – 20%

Across your MSc, you’ll complete a mix of assessments designed to stretch your thinking, strengthen your communication skills, and bring your learning to life. Each module (except your final research modules) includes three assignments – helping you build confidence, test ideas and apply theory in more than one way.

Here’s a snapshot of the main types of assessments you’ll complete across your core modules.
- Technical report: produce a detailed, well-structured analysis of a technical problem, solution, or system, often with screenshots, code snippets, or configuration evidence.
- Design or implementation project: plan, build, and document a working prototype, model, or system using industry-standard tools and practices.
- Case study analysis: evaluate a real or simulated scenario, identify challenges, and propose solutions grounded in computing principles and current best practice.
- Discussion board contribution: engage in structured, tutor-led online debates, demonstrating critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.
- Portfolio: compile artefacts such as code, diagrams, system models, and explanatory notes to showcase your technical and professional skills.
- Ethics or strategy briefing paper: advise an organisation, client, or committee on a complex technology issue, balancing technical, ethical, and commercial perspectives.
- Presentation or video demonstration: explain your project or technical findings in a recorded or live presentation, sometimes paired with a live or narrated system demo.
- Research thesis: complete an in-depth research project that tackles a significant computing challenge, presenting your findings, methodology, and technical recommendations in a formal dissertation.

Explore our other online MSc Computer Science programmes

Alongside our core MSc Computer Science, we offer specialist pathways – helping you develop the expertise needed for the roles you aspire to.

- MSc Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence
  Master intelligent systems, natural language processing, and generative AI to create innovative solutions.
- MSc Computer Science with Data Science
  Harness data analytics, visualisation, and predictive modelling to inform smarter decisions.
- MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security
  Build expertise in securing networks, systems, and applications against evolving digital threats.

How you'll study

Studying online with Walbrook is designed to be flexible and engaging, giving you access to everything you need to succeed:

Full-time students should set aside around 30 hours per week.
- You'll start a new 8-week module each month, so while you’re beginning your learning in one module, you’ll be preparing for assessment in the other.
Part-time students should set aside around 17 hours per week.
- You'll start a new 8-week module every other month, making it easier to fit your studies around work, family and everyday life.
Your self-study will include:
- Engaging programme content delivered via our online study platform.
- Case studies and applied tasks that link theory to real business scenarios.
- Preparation for assessments including reports, proposals and project work.
Our support is built around you and your success. From enrolment to graduation, you’ll have access to digital academic tools that help you study in a way that works for you, and people who are here to help.

You'll benefit from:
- Digital learning materials including key readings, videos, and research resources.
- Access to a digital library to support your independent research.
- Support to help you stay on track and direct you to the right teams when needed.

Apply today – start your MSc Computer Science degree within weeks

Applying to study an online master's at Walbrook is simple, and you can do it directly.

1. Check programme entry requirements
Review our entry requirements to make sure you meet them.
2. Complete your application online
Apply through our secure online application portal and upload your documents as you go.
3. Accept your unconditional offer
By paying for your first module (part-time) or first two modules (full-time).

Contact us about our online degrees

Any questions about our online degrees or studying at Walbrook? Our Enrolment Advisors are here to help.

Our office is open Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 5.30pm UK time (excluding UK public holidays).

contact-image-enrolment-team

Career opportunities: MSc Computer Science

The UK tech sector is worth $1.2 trillion (Tech Nation Report 2025) – growing faster than its European rivals. Yet 1 in 3 UK founders say finding top talent is their biggest barrier to growth. With the government estimating that the digital skills gap costs the UK economy £63 billion a year (Digital skills and careers, 2024), demand for skilled computing professionals is high.

An MSc Computer Science puts you in prime position to meet that demand. You’ll graduate with the technical knowledge, research power, and problem-solving skills to excel in high-demand technology roles worldwide. Whatever your direction, this programme gives you the expertise to drive change, shape systems, and create impact.

Software developer
Average UK salary: £44,388

Software developer: job description

Turn ideas into functioning, reliable, and secure software systems. As a software developer, you’ll apply programming skills, development frameworks, and testing methods to create applications that meet user needs and business goals. Your practical experience from modules like Software Engineering, Modern Database Systems, and Cloud Computing will prepare you to work across industries, building solutions grounded in computer science principles.

Average UK salary: £44,388
IT Project Manager
Average UK salary: £54,865

IT Project Manager: job description

Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of complex IT projects – from new software development to enterprise-wide infrastructure changes. You’ll manage timelines, budgets, and stakeholders while ensuring technical teams deliver to specification. By combining project management expertise with knowledge from Computer Networks, Fundamentals of Cyber Security Practice, and Information Systems Development, you’ll be equipped to translate key concepts in technology into clear project outcomes.

Average UK salary: £54,865
Cloud Architect
Average UK salary: £85,929

Cloud Architect: job description

Design, implement, and oversee scalable cloud solutions that support business growth and innovation. You’ll work with containerisation, virtualisation, and computer architecture to create secure, high-performing services. Drawing on your skills from Cloud Computing, Large Language Models and Prompt Engineering, and Information Systems Development, you’ll be able to integrate artificial intelligence tools and data science techniques into enterprise-ready architectures.

Average UK salary: £85,929

FAQs: Why study for an MSc Computer Science degree?

With an MSc Computer Science degree, you can work as a software developer, IT project manager, cloud architect, or in specialist roles in machine learning, data science, and cyber security. This postgraduate qualification gives you technical knowledge in areas like software engineering, data mining, and programming, opening pathways to high-demand tech careers or further postgraduate study.
An MSc Computer Science programme boosts your career prospects by giving you skills in software engineering, cloud computing, and machine learning that are in high demand worldwide. Graduates are prepared for technical, management, and research roles in the UK and internationally.
This Computer Science MSc programme is designed for future postgraduate students who want to transition into tech or professionals seeking to advance into roles in software engineering, data science, machine learning, or cyber security. The course builds from your existing knowledge, introducing key concepts in computing before progressing to advanced topics and practical applications.

We typically ask for a first undergraduate degree, 2:2 at honours level. However, we will consider students with a non-honours undergraduate degree. You can find further information about our entry requirements above.
You don’t need a specific computer science or software engineering undergraduate degree to apply for our postgraduate programmes in computer science. This course introduces you to key concepts in computing – such as programming, data structures, and mathematics – as well as providing specialised modules like artificial intelligence, cyber security, and cloud computing. Strong problem-solving skills and motivation are important.
To get the best learning experience, you’ll need a reliable computer, internet, and audio setup. We recommend a laptop or desktop with at least an Intel i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and 500GB storage (Windows is our primary environment, though you can use Mac or Linux). A stable internet connection (5Mbps download, 2Mbps upload), webcam, and microphone are essential, and we strongly suggest using headphones for online sessions.

For smoother study, extra resources like a second monitor, noise-cancelling headphones, 16GB+ RAM, SSD storage, and an external hard drive are recommended. Walbrook provides access to the required software, though some programmes may ask you to set up a VPN. Our technical support is Windows-based, but you’re welcome to work on Linux or macOS if you prefer.
You’ll complete a mix of written assignments, technical reports, and group projects designed to give you practical experience in solving real world problems. Modules like software engineering and cloud computing include project-based tasks, while research modules prepare you for successful completion of your final project. Further details can be found in the programme details section of this page.
Yes – this computer science online master’s is open to international students. If you’re from outside a majority English speaking country, you’ll need to meet our English language requirements with a recognised English language qualification such as IELTS, or an international equivalent. We provide support throughout your studies, 100% online, wherever you’re based.
Your MBA is delivered through an online study platform, where you’ll study either one or two modules at a time depending on your study mode. Full-time students take two modules in parallel (with a short gap between start dates), while part-time students complete one module at a time.

Here’s what you can expect:
- Weekly learning units to guide your progress
- Readings and case studies
- Videos and narrated presentations (mini-lectures)
- Online discussion forums
- Quizzes and tasks to check your understanding
You’ll have the freedom to plan your study time around work and life – but within a guided schedule that helps you stay focused, connected, and on track to succeed.

The Walbrook Way: Digital from day one. Designed for your career.

Graduate in 14 months full-time, or flex to part-time.
Ranked 12th for employment outcomes in the UK*
Total fees: £7,680 – pay in full or pay per module.

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