MSc Computer Science
MSc Computer Science
Heriot-Watt University
1st in Scotland for Artificial Intelligence
Ranked 1st in Scotland and 6th in the UK for Artificial Intelligence in the Daily Mail University Guide 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 14000 industry courses and learning experiences from leading universities and organisations worldwide
Develop the computer science and artificial intelligence skills driving innovation with this transformative MSc from a leading UK university
Position yourself at the forefront of technological innovation with a master's degree from Heriot-Watt University, a world leader in computer science research and robotics.
Designed to develop the next generation of computing and AI professionals, you'll choose the MSc Computer Science or MSc Computer Science with a Specialism in Artificial Intelligence, gaining a rigorous foundation in computing, machine learning, programming, AI and data-driven problem solving alongside the practical skills demanded by industry.
As organisations across every sector invest in digital transformation and AI-enabled technologies, demand continues to grow for professionals who can combine strong computational thinking with advanced technical expertise. Combining practical experience underpinned by strong academic foundations learning from renowned faculty, you will develop the critical thinking, analytical capability and professional judgement needed to evaluate emerging technologies, adapt to evolving tools and trends, and stay ahead of future digital innovation.
You'll be fully prepared to reshape your career using and understanding the world's most exciting new technologies, even if you don't have a background in computer science. Heriot-Watt's performance-based admissions pathway lets you demonstrate your professional experience and readiness by successfully passing your first course. With a unique blend of academic specialist learning modules and professional certificates delivered by tech giants such as Google, IBM and Meta, you will be equipped with the in-demand skills employers value most.
With more than two centuries of educational innovation and as Scotland's first university to offer a Computer Science degree, Heriot-Watt brings a legacy of expertise to your learning experience. Whether you choose the MSc Computer Science or the MSc Computer Science with a Specialism in Artificial Intelligence, you'll gain the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to accelerate your existing technology career or transition into a brand new one.
What sets this programme apart?
Gain industry-ready computing and AI skills
Learn from experts shaping technology
Build the computing skills employers value
Apply AI to real-world challenges
Customise your degree with Coursera learning
Graduate with industry-recognized credentials
Applications for the January 2027 cohort are open!
- Application priority deadline: November 30, 2026
- Classes start: January 18, 2027
Upcoming events
Stay tuned!
Additional resources
- Questions? Please do not hesitate to get in touch via hwoadmissions@hw.ac.uk
- Watch the recording of the latest Admissions webinar
- Watch the recording of the MSc Computer Science webinar overview
- View the Programme Guide
January 2027 cohort priority deadline: November 30
Start your application or request more information.
1st in Scotland for Artificial Intelligence
Ranked 1st in Scotland and 6th in the UK for Artificial Intelligence in the Daily Mail University Guide 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 14000 industry courses and learning experiences from leading universities and organisations worldwide
1st in Scotland for Artificial Intelligence
Ranked 1st in Scotland and 6th in the UK for Artificial Intelligence in the Daily Mail University Guide 2026
20-96 months
8 courses total and a final project, 16-18 hours per week
Develop the computer science and artificial intelligence skills driving innovation with this transformative MSc from a leading UK university
Position yourself at the forefront of technological innovation with a master's degree from Heriot-Watt University, a world leader in computer science research and robotics.
Designed to develop the next generation of computing and AI professionals, you'll choose the MSc Computer Science or MSc Computer Science with a Specialism in Artificial Intelligence, gaining a rigorous foundation in computing, machine learning, programming, AI and data-driven problem solving alongside the practical skills demanded by industry.
As organisations across every sector invest in digital transformation and AI-enabled technologies, demand continues to grow for professionals who can combine strong computational thinking with advanced technical expertise. Combining practical experience underpinned by strong academic foundations learning from renowned faculty, you will develop the critical thinking, analytical capability and professional judgement needed to evaluate emerging technologies, adapt to evolving tools and trends, and stay ahead of future digital innovation.
You'll be fully prepared to reshape your career using and understanding the world's most exciting new technologies, even if you don't have a background in computer science. Heriot-Watt's performance-based admissions pathway lets you demonstrate your professional experience and readiness by successfully passing your first course. With a unique blend of academic specialist learning modules and professional certificates delivered by tech giants such as Google, IBM and Meta, you will be equipped with the in-demand skills employers value most.
With more than two centuries of educational innovation and as Scotland's first university to offer a Computer Science degree, Heriot-Watt brings a legacy of expertise to your learning experience. Whether you choose the MSc Computer Science or the MSc Computer Science with a Specialism in Artificial Intelligence, you'll gain the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to accelerate your existing technology career or transition into a brand new one.
What sets this programme apart?
Gain industry-ready computing and AI skills
Learn from experts shaping technology
Build the computing skills employers value
Apply AI to real-world challenges
Customise your degree with Coursera learning
Graduate with industry-recognized credentials
Applications for the January 2027 cohort are open!
- Application priority deadline: November 30, 2026
- Classes start: January 18, 2027
Upcoming events
Stay tuned!
Additional resources
- Questions? Please do not hesitate to get in touch via hwoadmissions@hw.ac.uk
- Watch the recording of the latest Admissions webinar
- Watch the recording of the MSc Computer Science webinar overview
- View the Programme Guide
Build toward a degree at your own pace
Not ready to commit to a full degree? Start with a course. When you complete eligible courses, you may be able to have your learning recognised for credit if you are admitted and enrol in the MSc Computer Science. Gain in-demand skills while building towards a degree.
Choose from 20+ eligible Professional Certificates and Specialisations from leading technology organisations, including Google, DeepLearning.AI, Microsoft and more, and build towards your degree at your own pace.
Whether you're looking to develop skills in agentic AI, software development, data science or machine learning, you can begin learning immediately while making progress towards a future MSc qualification.
Explore the full range of eligible pathways available through the programme in the Curriculum.
*Successful application and enrollment are required. Eligibility requirements apply. Each institution determines the number of credits recognized by completing this content that may count towards degree requirements, considering any existing credits you may have. Click on a specific course for more information.
Keep your career goals affordable with flexible pay-as-you-go tuition
£9,261 total tuition
Fee includes final online assessments, all study materials and an additional professional certificate from a leading tech company.Pay-as-you-go tuition
You only need to pay for one course at a time, helping spread the cost of the programme.Industry certificates at no extra cost
As an added benefit, you'll gain access to more than 14,000 courses and learning experiences from leading universities and organisations worldwide, helping you build additional skills alongside your degree studies.
Let your performance pave your way
Heriot-Watt University offers a performance-based pathway for all learners for the MSc Computer Science. Admission doesn’t depend on your educational or professional background. The performance-based admissions pathway lets you showcase your ability to learn, rather than your credentials.
Successfully complete one course in Programming and Programme Design and you’ll be transferred to the MSc at the next available opportunity, taking the credits you’ve already earned with you.
*Eligibility requirements apply. Each institution determines the successful course completion required to qualify for performance-based admission. Review the admissions process for this degree program for more information. Click on a specific course for details.
January 2027 priority deadline: November 30
Don’t miss your chance to join the cohort!
Build toward a degree
When you complete these programs, you may have learning recognized for credit toward this degree, if you are admitted and enroll.¹
Multiple educators
Launch your career as an Android app developer
Google
Get on the fast track to a career in cybersecurity
Launch your career as a front-end developer
¹Successful application and enrollment are required. Eligibility requirements apply. Each institution determines the number of credits recognized by completing this content that may count towards degree requirements, considering any existing credits you may have. Click on a specific course for more information.
January 2027 priority deadline: November 30
Don’t miss your chance to join the cohort!