How to choose the right online MSc Computer Science course for you

If you are considering going back to higher education to pursue a postgraduate degree in computer science, online learning may be a good option for you.

There are now many providers offering online courses which enable learners to build on the skills and knowledge developed during their bachelor’s degree, so how do you choose the one that’s right for you?

Here, we’ll give you some guidance on how to pick the right online master’s degree in computer science for you.

How do I decide what MSc Computer Science course is right for me?

The right computer science master’s course for you will largely depend on which career path you hope to pursue after you graduate.

There are many areas of computer science which are experiencing a boom at the moment, and professionals with specialist knowledge are highly sought-after. These fields include artificial intelligence, cyber security, data science, software engineering, and software development amongst others.

Many courses will offer a thorough grounding in core information technology subjects, such as data analytics, information systems, and computer systems, and will end in a research project of your choosing. Being able to show you understand the methodologies behind key computer science areas whilst giving an example of a hands-on project you’ve undertaken individually will help you to stand out to employers.

If your goal is in leadership, you’ll also want a course that encourages problem-solving and decision-making skills, and which develops your understanding of project management so that you can successfully manage a team.

How do I decide where to do my computer science master’s degree?

There are many providers and higher education institutions with online offerings, and many people make their decision on where to study based on national and international rankings tables. 

You may also want to consider your individual circumstances and find a distance learning programme which will work around your schedule. If you intend on continuing to work full-time while you study, you’ll likely want a degree which you can study part-time.

When building on knowledge obtained in your undergraduate degree, you’ll want to ensure you meet the entry requirements for your master’s programme. Tuition fees may also be a consideration, so take the time to understand what you can afford and if you’ll need a loan to cover the cost of your degree.

Understand where you’ll access your course materials. Virtual learning environments can vary, and you’ll want something easy to navigate. There are also courses which will connect you with peers through online forums, giving you the opportunity to build a network while you study.

International students looking to study at a university in the United Kingdom will need to ensure they meet the required English language competencies, and will likely need to prove this with an IELTS test.

Which MSc Computer Science degrees are in high demand?

Big data analytics and machine learning are becoming cornerstones of most modern workplaces, so any programmes which include modules on these topics will be in-demand.

Many learners want to pick up skills and knowledge in algorithms, programming languages such as Python, cloud computing and web development. Do some research into your chosen field of computer science to understand which operating systems you’ll need a deep understanding of, as courses may vary in which ones they focus on.

Is it better to study an MSc Computer Science on campus or online?

Online programmes taught by universities will usually have the same cutting-edge course content as their on campus programmes. Coursework assignments between the two often won’t vary much either.

Studying online makes it easier for you to build on your work experience alongside your degree, as you’re able to work full-time whilst studying part-time. Many online programmes also have multiple start dates so you’re not tied to the traditional academic year and can instead start within weeks.

Case study: A day in the life of an online master’s student

See how our online master’s student navigates their degree around their current commitments in this case study.