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From AI machine learning boot camp to silent film processing, there is a range of extracurricular activities for Engineering students to get involved in.
The course has been designed using guidelines from leading accreditation bodies such as Chartered Engineer (CEng) and Chartered IT Professional (CITP).
You will gain a wealth of experience in using industry-standard equipment, computer programming and simulation facilities. These include high performance PCs running KALI Linux and an isolated network for network scanning and penetration testing. You can also use Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, Python and SAS. Visit our School of Computer Science and Digital Technologies webpage to explore the full list of facilities.
Overview
Fast track your future in tech
If you're keen to break into the ever-evolving tech industry but don't have the relevant skills and experience, our MSc Computer Science conversion programme is an ideal place to start. Through this new programme you can benefit from our expertise in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence while learning the fundamentals of computer science theory and application.
We will provide you with a solid grounding in foundational concepts and progressively build up your knowledge to an advanced level. Core modules will immerse you in essential areas such as programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering, while elective modules open doors to specialised fields such as AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and more. With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning through lab sessions and real-world projects, this programme ensures you’ll graduate with the experience and confidence to thrive in the tech industry.
Explore LSBU’s MSc Computer Science conversion course
Course Content - Compulsory modules
This module offers a comprehensive introduction to programming, focusing on Python for students with varying backgrounds. Beginning with fundamental programming concepts, the course progresses to explore data visualisation techniques and key libraries. Emphasis is placed on hands-on learning, enabling students to develop practical skills in data exploration and analysis. By the end of the course, students gain proficiency in programming, data visualisation, and problem-solving, preparing them to apply these skills across diverse fields and disciplines. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
This module will cover the fundamental concepts and techniques from linear algebra, differential calculus and probability. The acquired tools will help the student to understand how AI is built and enable them to tailor standard methods to specific problems they will be facing and to interpret the results obtained through data analysis.
This module provides an introductory exploration into the foundational concepts of computer science, computer architecture, and operating systems. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the historical developments of computing, principles of computer hardware and software, and the fundamental components and functions of operating systems. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
This is an integrated module presenting 10 credits of Software Engineering (SE) and 10 credits of data structure and algorithms material. For Software Engineering, the emphasis is on the knowledge needed to be able to model, design, implement and evaluate larger software systems effectively. The module starts with development lifecycle models, such as agile development, and then continues to cover requirements specification, requirements analysis, object-oriented concepts, the Unified Modelling Language (UML), and object-oriented design. Software engineering is an inherently practical subject, and applying the concepts being taught is a vital component of developing expertise in this area. Consequently, students undertake a substantial group project, working through a number of stages of the development of a larger software application. Students will be expected to largely organise themselves and their work, learning key transferable skills in team management and organisation. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
A career as a DevOps Engineer will suit you if you are highly skilled in the automation of operational tasks of container management. DevOps Engineers simply manage applications. This includes integrated functionalities for deploying applications as containers, updating them seamlessly, adjusting their scale according to the requirements, and monitoring their performance. There is a big market share for this job role across sectors like banking, hospitality, insurance, e-commerce, finance, education and healthcare. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
The module provides students with the ability to discuss, evaluate and use a variety of research methods and techniques for their chosen subject area of Computer Science and Informatics and to develop a professional and ethical approach to carrying out research-based projects. It also equips students with entrepreneurial and innovation skills increasingly sought by industry and employers. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
The module requires students to undertake an independent piece of research/development work, investigating in depth a subject, in which they have a particular interest and of their own selection. The dissertation assesses students’ ability to integrate information from various sources, to conduct an in-depth investigation, where necessary, specify, appropriately develop bespoke software/technology-based solutions, to critically analyse results and information obtained and to propose improvements/further work. Each student will submit a dissertation of between 12,000 and 15,000 words. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
The pervasive nature of visual tasks in everyday life, and the amount of imaging information accrued by either complex medical devices or mobile, wearable, and similar photographic devices, calls for more sophisticated tools able to relieve the burden of image processing and screening from human users. Additionally, many tasks can benefit from image-guided augmented reality scenarios (e.g. surgery) or can be automated through visual guidance (robotics). This module covers the theoretical and practical aspects of image processing and analysis, image understanding and computer vision. After introducing the basic principles and concepts of image formation and image representation, it will present the fundamentals of image processing. It then dives into the modern approaches to processing of images and videos: object detection, object recognition, scene understanding using machine learning and machine intelligence. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
The module covers theoretical and practical aspects of Natural Language Processing to design, develop and implement Collaborative and Cognitive Communication Systems for robotics while linking AI and NLP to human psychology patterns and applying it to Chabot’s, digital assistants and context-aware personalised interfaces. The lecture sessions will deliver state-of-the-art theories, models and algorithms covering neural Language models, speech tagging, Vector Semantics and Embedding, information extraction and sentiment analysis. The lab sessions will deliver hands-on practical sessions using Chabot frameworks, Python NLP libraries and toolkits for NLP. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
To develop an in-depth, critically evaluative knowledge of concepts of security in networks and systems and the acquisition of knowledge about the processes, techniques, and security technologies to achieve an end-to-end security system. The course will analyse the security requirements and the vulnerabilities that threaten the smooth functioning of a computer system/network and will inform about ways of prevention, protection, recognition, and treatment of malicious attacks using appropriate technologies and security tools. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
The module introduces you to the basic theory, concepts, and techniques of machine learning using Python. It will cover the main topics and essential theory in the area. The module also focuses on developing practical skills in designing and developing machine learning systems using suitable software and algorithms to solve real-world problems. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
The module introduces neural networks and deep learning, one of the key topics in modern applied AI. The module will provide the student with an in-depth understanding of all the components of neural networks, from the different computational building blocks to the functions to be optimised and finally to the different optimisation strategies. The module will present how neural networks can be trained and validated to learn from data to solve specific tasks, and how they evolved into deep neural networks, convolutional neural networks and graph networks, presenting their major architecture concepts. The module will introduce some core concepts of the legal aspects of data protection and decision fairness in the application of deep learning technologies. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
Data Management and Data Quality are increasingly at the heart of every commercial and research enterprise, as the value of data increases along with the need for adaptive security. This module will give you a critical and evaluative knowledge of the theory, practice and research of software engineering techniques for Data Management amid today’s complex and changing business/commercial/research environments. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
Explore the fundamentals of network engineering in this comprehensive module. Learn the principles of designing, implementing, and managing computer networks, including LANs, WANs, and wireless networks. Dive into topics such as network protocols, routing, switching, security, and troubleshooting. Gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and technologies used in modern networking environments. The emergency of cloud computing has challenged the way networking is viewed. We will look at how to plan and implement networks in the cloud. The module will provide both theoretical knowledge and practical exposure to the students and equip for the world of work. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
The placement gives you the opportunity to spend a year in the workplace, honing your transferable skills and proving your academic learning in the development of real-world systems. The assessment of the placement is designed to support and accredit the experience by formalising personal development outcomes and by contextualising prior learning. Regular on-line contact with tutors, peer contact and placement support will be maintained throughout the year. Assessment method: 100% coursework.
Teaching and Assessment
How will I learn?
- Academic expertise: The majority of our teaching body have a standing with a professional body such as The Chartered Institute of IT (BCS), and either a research background or industry experience in their teaching area. The teaching of some modules may also be supported by postgraduate students.
- Teaching methods: There will be a combination of lectures, tutorials and computer laboratory activities. Modules support the development of study, communication, self-management and teamwork skills (in certain modules cross discipline).
- Independent study: You will be required to undertake self-study and prepare solutions/discussions relating to various topics.
- Assessment methods: You will be assessed through coursework.
- Subject-related resources: Our labs are equipped with high-performance PCs running KALI Linux for hands-on activities like network scanning and penetration testing. Students benefit from access to over 200 PCs and Macs, and various ICT tools, including Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, Python, and SAS.
- Learning support: Personal tutoring, academic skills support sessions, peer-led support sessions, practical skills workshops, online learning materials, opportunities for work placements and projects with employers, tailored field trips and much more.
Careers
Employability Service
We are University of the Year for Graduate Employment for the second year in a row - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2018, 2019.
At LSBU, we want to set you up for a successful career. During your studies – and for two years after you graduate – you’ll have access to our Employability Service, which includes:
- An online board where you can see a wide range of placements: part-time, full-time or voluntary. You can also drop in to see our Job Shop advisers, who are always available to help you take the next step in your search.
- Our Careers Gym offering group workshops on CVs, interview techniques and finding work experience, as well as regular presentations from employers across a range of sectors.
Our Student Enterprise team can also help you start your own business and develop valuable entrepreneurial skills.
When you graduate from this course, with its strong emphasis on Python programming, you are primed for great employability and career prospects. Python's unmatched versatility and its dominance across industries like web development, data analysis, machine learning, and automation will make your knowledge and skills valuable.
Employers are eager to hire graduates who can quickly tackle new challenges and harness the power of Python's extensive libraries and frameworks. With the demand for computer science professionals skyrocketing across industries, our graduates are poised for success in a wide range of exciting roles—from software developers to data scientists. Whether you're eyeing dynamic tech startups or established industry leaders, the opportunities are endless, offering diverse career paths that promise innovation, impact, and growth.
Your career development is our top priority. We provide dedicated career talks, job postings on Moodle, and access to employability resources like the Job Shop and Career Gym, ensuring students are well-prepared for the evolving job market. The Career Management Talks each semester provide students with information of the Informatics labour market and systematic support on skill development such as CV writing skills and job interviews.
Placements
You have the option of taking an industrial placement in the UK as part of your study programme. This is a great opportunity to understand the way that the industry functions and to gain an appreciation of the commercial environment. You’ll spend time in the workplace, honing your skills and enacting what you've learnt in real-world systems. Regular online contact with tutors, peer-contact and placement support will be maintained throughout the year.
All modules have been mapped according to Engineering Council guidelines.
Examples of commercial organisations that we have consulted with to enhance the development of our programmes include:
1. Amazon Web Services (IS software development and IT infrastructure). We have consulted with AWS on Data Engineering and Cloud/Security Technologies and on various aspects of IS software development and IT infrastructure. All proposed postgraduate courses can benefit directly from the support of a state-of-the-art virtualised environment. Our team have spent a considerable amount of time discussing our new course plans with experts from the AWS team in order to ensure our proposed curriculum aligns with expected industry standards and best practice.
2. Taylor and Francis Group (IT Publishing Industry). We have collaborated in web development and security projects, including various aspects of software development and IT infrastructure. They have supplied guest speakers providing advice in software project management for IT based projects. We have consulted with them on ways to enhance course content and delivery.
LSBU CareerSmart is your ultimate gateway to career success. Our innovative programme is designed to ensure you graduate with more than just a degree, providing the support you need to stand out in a competitive job market. We've got all the tools you need, including:
- AI Powered Career Sets - Get instant personalised feedback on your CV and cover letter by submitting it via our AI powered career tool.
- Gamification Interviews - Get ready to pass those interviews with unlimited training access to our gamification interviews and psychometric tests!
- Personalised Career Development Dashboard - Keep up with your skills progression with free access to practical assessments, LinkedIn learning, mentoring, and industry-standard facilities.
We understand that you’re in the driver’s seat of your career, which is why we’re committed to matching your passion and energy every step of the way.
Entry Level Requirements
- 2:2 UK honours first degree or international equivalent in any subject, a GCSE Grade 4 in Mathematics or equivalent, a GCSE Grade 4 in English or equivalent, OR:
- We recognise that many people have a wealth of valuable skills and knowledge they've developed at work or through training. If candidates have the potential to succeed in postgraduate or post-experience studies, we'll consider their application on its individual merit. Applications may be considered where candidates demonstrate a combination of educational qualifications and work experience.
- We welcome qualifications from around the world. English language qualifications for international students: IELTS score of 6.5.
- After admission, perspective students can apply for the accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL), following the approved School of Engineering procedure.
Choose your country
- Afghanistan
- Albania
- Algeria
- Angola
- Argentina
- Australia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Bahrain
- Bangladesh
- Barbados
- Belgium
- Botswana
- Brazil
- British Council Women in STEM Scholarships
- Bulgaria
- Cambodia
- Cameroon
- Canada
- Chile
- China
- Colombia
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Dominican Republic
- Egypt
- Estonia
- Ethiopia
- Finland
- France
- Gambia
- Georgia
- Germany
- Ghana
- Greece
- Hungary
- India
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Iraq
- Ireland
- Italy
- Jamaica
- Japan
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kenya
- Kuwait
- Latvia
- Lebanon
- Libya
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malaysia
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Mongolia
- Morocco
- Myanmar
- Nepal
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Nigeria
- Norway
- Oman
- Pakistan
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Romania
- Russian Federation
- Saudi Arabia
- Senegal
- Serbia
- Sierra Leone
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Somalia
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sri Lanka
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Thailand
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tunisia
- Turkiye
- Uganda
- Ukraine
- United Arab Emirates
- United States of America
- Uzbekistan
- Venezuela
- Vietnam
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Apply
Course delivery modes and application methods
| Mode | Duration | Start date | Application code | Application method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time | 1 year | September | 6036 | Direct to LSBU |
| Full-time | 1.5 years | January | 6037 | Direct to LSBU |
| Part-time | 2 years | September | 6038 | Direct to LSBU |
| Full-time with placement | 2 years | September | 6039 | Direct to LSBU |
| Full-time with placement | 2 years | January | 6040 | Direct to LSBU |
| Full-time | 1 year | May | 6175 | Direct to LSBU |
| Full-time with placement | 2 years | May | 6176 | Direct to LSBU |
Postgraduate students and research students should apply through our dedicated application system. Full details of how to do this are supplied on our How to apply section for postgraduate students and our How to apply section for research students.
See our admissions policy (PDF File 1,043 KB) and complaints policy (PDF File 516 KB).
How to apply
Read more about how to apply for undergraduate courses.
International students
International applicants can apply directly to LSBU and should consult our international how to apply guide for further information on the application process and key dates.
Accommodation
Read more about applying for accommodation at LSBU.
Prepare to start
Applicant events
After you’ve received your offer we’ll send you emails about events we run to help you prepare for your course. You’ll also be invited to our Applicant Taster Day so keep your eyes peeled!
Enrolment
Before you start your course, we’ll send you information on what you’ll need to do before you arrive and during your first few days on campus. You can read about the process on our enrolment pages.
Fees
United Kingdom
£14040
Tuition fees for home students
International
£20160
Tuition fees for international students
Tuition fees are subject to annual inflationary increases. Find out more about tuition fees for Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses.
full-time
Full-time Year 1 - All Available Courses
MSc Computer Science (Conversion) (with placement)(SEPT)(FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £14040 | International fee: £20160 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 6039 | Session code: 1FS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £14040 |
| International: £20160 |
MSc Computer Science (Conversion) (with placement)(JAN)(FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark JAN
| UK fee: £14040 | International fee: £20160 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 6040 | Session code: 1FS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £14040 |
| International: £20160 |
MSc Computer Science (Conversion)(JAN)(FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark JAN
| UK fee: £12780 | International fee: £18900 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 6037 | Session code: 1FS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
MSc Computer Science (Conversion)(SEPT)(FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £12780 | International fee: £18900 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 6036 | Session code: 1FS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
MSc Computer Science (Conversion)(MAY)(FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark MAY
| UK fee: £12780 | International fee: £18900 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 6175 | Session code: 1FS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
MSc Computer Science (Conversion) (with placement)(MAY)(FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark MAY
| UK fee: £12780 | International fee: £18900 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 6176 | Session code: 1FS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
part-time
Part-time Year 1 - All Available Courses
MSc Computer Science (Conversion) (PT) - Year 1 PT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £8520 | International fee: £12600 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 6038 | Session code: 1PS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
Part-time Year 2 - All Available Courses
MSc Computer Science (Conversion) (PT) - Year 2 PT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £4260 | International fee: £6300 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 6038 | Session code: 2PS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £12780 |
| International: £18900 |
For more information, including how and when to pay, see our fees and funding section for undergraduate students.
Please check your fee status and whether you are considered a Home, EU or International student for fee-paying purposes and for our regulatory returns, by checking at the the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) find your fee status page.
Visit our Policies and procedures page for details on fees policies.
Possible fee changes
The University reserves the right to increase its fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions.
The fees for international students are reviewed annually and the University reserves the right to increase the tuition fees to reflect increased costs of delivery and to maintain an a high-quality student experience. This increase would be no more than Consumer Prices Index (CPI) increases plus 5%.
Scholarships
We offer several types of fee reduction through our scholarships and bursaries. Find the full list and other useful information on our scholarships page.
