Heriot-Watt University

MSc Computing 2 years

Heriot-Watt University

Course overview

This 2-year MSc Computing programme is designed for graduates from any academic background who want to transition into a computing career. The first year focuses on building foundational knowledge and essential skills, preparing students for advanced study, and helping students gain the expertise needed for a successful career in computing.

The MSc Computing programme allows students to progress to the second year to study advanced computer science topics or graduate with a Graduate Diploma in Computer Science after the first year. The programme is delivered full-time on campus in Edinburgh, admitting students in September or January, offering them hands-on learning in state-of-the-art laboratories, including the Robotarium and Virtual Reality labs.

Entry requirements

Applicants must submit a personal statement, academic or employer reference, and optionally, a CV to build a picture of their work experience.

Grade Requirements: 

  • Applicants need a second-class honours degree( 2.2). 
  • International qualifications are accepted for consideration.

English Proficiency: 

  • The minimum English language requirement is an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with no individual component score below 5.5.
  • TOEFL and PTE are also accepted. 
  • The university also provides English language courses for students who need to improve their scores to meet these requirements.

Scholarships

  • Alumni Discount Scheme

    A 20% discount is applicable to postgraduate taught courses across all of our global campuses.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Coaching Scholarships Programme

    Varies – up to a 100% Tuition fee Reduction (dependent on experience and number of coaching hours across the year).

  • Heriot-Watt Actuarial Scholarship For Academic Excellence

    The Heriot-Watt Actuarial Scholarship For Academic Excellence awards the successful recipient(s) with a 20% reduction on their tuition fees.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Remission of Fees (Families of Staff)

    Please contact the provider.

  • Staff Scholarships

    Please contact the provider

  • The Brodie Family Scholarship (PGT)

    The Brodie Family Scholarship provides financial support of £2,500 per year (or £2,000 per year for students enrolled in a five-year programme) to four undergraduate students.

  • The Island Scholarship Programme - Orkney Campus (UK) (International)

  • The New Dawn Energy Scholarship

    The New Dawn Energy Scholarship provides £1900 towards living costs to two students enrolling on our MSc in Petroleum Engineering in September 2026.

    Up to £1,900

Career opportunities

Graduates of the two-year MSc Computing programme are ready to become:

  • Software Developers
  • Data Scientists
  • Cybersecurity Analysts
  • Cloud Solutions Architects
  • AI Engineers
  • Digital Project Managers

Cost of study

The tuition fee for the two-year MSc Computing programme is Year 1 (Full-time) for International Students is £25,480 and Year 2 (Full-time) is £19,816 and finally Year 2 (Part-time) is £9,908 for the 2025/26 academic year.

Admission

Candidates can apply through the university's official application portal. If you have more questions, you can reach out to our trained Advisors.

Ready to start?

Book a free consultation and we'll map your fastest route to your place.

Apply Now
Download Free Guide