Heriot-Watt University

MSc Imaging, Vision and High Performance Computing

Heriot-Watt UniversityEdinburgh, United Kingdom

Course overview

The MSc in Imaging, Vision and High Performance Computing at Heriot-Watt University, delivered in partnership with the University of Edinburgh, is a one-year full-time programme based in Edinburgh. This master's degree focuses on advanced techniques in image processing, computer vision, and parallel computing.

Students would be able to build effective algorithms for examining large images and videos, utilising modern high-performance computing systems. This course is perfect for anyone keen on artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning, and scientific computing.

Teaching is through lectures, tutorials, and hands-on labs. Assessment includes programming assignments, written examinations, and a final research project that combines imaging, vision, and computing skills.

Key highlights

  • Combines signal and image processing with high performance computing
  • Joint expertise from Heriot-Watt and the University of Edinburgh
  • Draws on globally respected high performance computing capabilities

Entry requirements

  • Degree: 2:1 — Year 1: First or strong upper second-class honours degree (or its overseas equivalent) with strong competence across signal and image processing and programming (C, C++, Fortan, Java, or Python).

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

Careers this course leads to

  • Image processing engineer
  • Computer vision engineer
  • High performance computing specialist
  • Signal processing engineer
  • Research software engineer

Career opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Imaging, Vision and High Performance Computing course from Heriot-Watt University are prepared for roles such as:

  • Computer Vision Engineer
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • HPC Software Developer
  • Image Processing Specialist
  • Data Scientist (with Imaging focus)
  • AI Research Scientist

Cost of study

International students interested in the MSc Imaging, Vision and High Performance Computing at Heriot-Watt University should expect to pay £37,300 for full-time study in the 2025/26 academic session.

Admission

Candidates interested in this course should contact an AHZ counsellor for assistance with their application.

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