Why study this course?
This course is for those with and without experience in computing. You will develop a critical understanding of the issues associated with using computing systems and their impact on business processes and project management.
- Enjoy the flexibility to pursue your own interests in computer science.
- Acquire programming skills in a modern software development environment.
- Extend your specialist knowledge and critical thinking with a project involving a wide-ranging investigation and a substantial software development, leading to your dissertation.
- Access modern computing laboratories 24 hours a day. These labs are student spaces which support the close-knit community within the School where students at different stages of study and disciplinary interests can meet. There are also areas where groups can work together on projects.
Teaching
A mix of lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical classes.
Class sizes
Typically from 20 to 110 students.
Dissertation
A three-month project leading to a 15,000-word dissertation.
Assessment
Practical coursework exercises and exams.
Modules
The St Andrews degree structure is designed to be flexible. You study compulsory modules delivering core learning together with optional modules you choose from the list available that year.
You will choose six of the optional modules. Up to two of these may be taken from the 'Additional optional' list.
If you choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MSc, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) instead, finishing the course at the end of the second semester of study.
For more details, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the module catalogue. The modules are examples from previous academic years and may be subject to change before you start your course.
What it will lead to
Careers
Our graduates work in a variety of organisations in the public and private sectors, in roles ranging from AI programmers, consultants, and full stack AI developers, to:
- data analysts
- research scientists
- integration engineers
- cloud consultants
- game developers
- machine learning engineers and consultants
We are committed to supporting your career aspirations, whatever stage your career is at. We offer:
- Access to our extensive global alumni community for advice and mentoring
- One-to-one guidance covering everything from career choice to application support and interview coaching
- Employer connections, global vacancies, and practical experiences
- Academic and professional skills development
Elevate your career
Alumni of Computer Science MSc programmes have gone on to work in a variety of global, commercial, financial and research institutions, including:
- Booking.com
- BT
- Capgemini
- IBM
Further your education
The EngD programme in Computer Science is a four-year Engineering Doctorate involving an industrial partner. If you have already completed an MSc you may be able to proceed directly to the individual research component of the EngD.
Go your own way
Our Entrepreneurship Centre offers training and start-up support, gives you access to experienced and expert mentors and an investor network, and one-to-one advice to help you realise your commercial potential.
Why St Andrews?
The School of Computer Science is highly rated for its theoretical and practical research in areas such as:
- AI
- symbolic computation
- networking
- distributed systems
- human computer interaction
- systems engineering
Get to know us
Join our optional 'Transition to CS@St Andrews' online hub to get early information about learning, teaching, assessment and student support. You can chat with staff and current students during live monthly Question and Answer sessions over the summer before the start of your course.
Events
The School of Computer Science organises a regular programme of colloquia, talks and seminars by external and internal speakers from both industry and academia. The talks are aimed at bringing the diversity, excitement and impact of computer science from around the globe to staff and students within the School.
The St Andrews Computing Society (STACS) and Women in Computer Science at St Andrews (WICS) regularly organise hackathons and other events open to local and external participants, including Masters students. These are very popular events, often supported by industrial sponsors.
Alumni
When you graduate you become a member of the University's worldwide alumni community. Benefit from access to alumni clubs, the Saint Connect networking and mentoring platform, and careers support.
Ask a student
If you are interested in learning what it's like to be a student at St Andrews you can speak to one of our student ambassadors. They'll let you know about their top tips, best study spots, favourite traditions and more.
Entry requirements
- A good 2.1 Honours undergraduate degree.
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
Application requirements
- CV which includes your personal details with a history of your education and employment to date.
- Personal statement (optional).
- Two original signed academic references.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates. Please only provide certified copies, with official English translations if applicable. Do not send original documents as they cannot be returned.
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.
Fees and funding
- UK: £12,030
- Rest of the world: £29,990
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 14 March 2025
