
Cloud Computing MSc, PGDip
University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based
Course overview
Cloud computing offers scalable computing resources on demand, providing solutions and challenges for science and business. Amongst others, the opportunities include a low cost entry point for small companies, more economical use of computing resources and the capability of handling very large data sets. Challenges for practitioners include the design and use of suitable algorithms, the design and implementation of suitable architectures and understanding of risks and opportunities.
This MSc will provide a sound understanding of designing, analysing and engineering of systems for handling big data in a distributed environment based on dynamically scalable architectures. The PGDip includes the same modules as the MSc but without the final project. The regular degree takes 12 months if you start in September, or 16 months if you start in January.
The 'With Industry' degree takes 24 months if you start in September, or 28 months if you start in January. NB. If you start your course in January, you will take Semester 2 before Semester 1.
2:1 degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject with a substantial element of Computing. Relevant work experience may also be considered. IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence of your English language ability. If you do not yet meet our requirements, our English Language Teaching Unit (ELTU) offers a range of courses to help you to improve your English to the necessary standard. Find your country in this list to check equivalent qualifications, scholarships and additional requirements.
An additional fee will be charged if a placement is secured. If you are resident outside the UK and the Republic of Ireland, you will need to pay a deposit to secure your place. This will be subtracted from your total tuition fee.
Find out more about tuition fees, scholarships and funding. You will need to pay a deposit to secure your
Key highlights
- Focus on designing and engineering systems for big data handling
- Covers distributed environments built on dynamically scalable architectures
- Explores cloud algorithm design, architecture implementation and risk understanding
- Optional 'With Industry' route offers an extended placement year
- Final project included in the MSc; PGDip covers the same modules
Entry requirements
- Degree: 2:1 — to include relevant subject
Scholarships
Alumni Discount
You are entitled to a discount of 20% of the new course fee.
Up to 20% of feesChancellor's International Postgraduate Taught Scholarship
This scholarship, worth £3,000 per year, reflects the University’s commitment to attracting talented students from around the world.
Up to £3,000Chevening Scholarship
Chevening-Leicester Partner Scholarship
Distance Learning (DL) Sanctuary Awards
Distance Learning Merit Scholarship
The awards available are: MA: £800, PGDip: £500, PGCert: £300
International Postgraduate Taught Merit Scholarship
International Merit Scholarship worth a tuition fee discount of £5,000.
Leicester Postgraduate Partnership Scholarship
Enjoy a 20% fee discount on a selection of postgraduate taught courses at either University of Leicester or De Montfort University.
Up to 20% of fees
Careers this course leads to
- Cloud Engineer
- Cloud Solutions Architect
- Big Data Engineer
- DevOps Engineer
- Distributed Systems Developer
Cost of study
UK/Home: £11,200; £8,960; £11,200 | International: £24,250; £19,400; £24,250
Admission
Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Leicester, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.
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Book a free consultation and we'll map your fastest route to a September 2026 place.
