Course summary
Computer Science is a broad and ever-expanding discipline, providing ample scope for students seeking to carry out original scientific research. Study Computer Science by Research at Royal Holloway, University of London and you’ll select from one of six research disciplines in order to take your first steps towards a scientific research-based career. You’ll study in a department renowned for the quality of its research publications, with the Royal Holloway Department of Computer Science ranked 11th in the UK (Research Excellence Framework 2014). You’ll specialise in one of six research areas as you work towards your own unique individual project, studying under the guidance of an expert in your chosen field. Strong graduates with a Computer Science background and students with professional experience will gain advanced, research-specific skills and academic knowledge to take forward into further study or their graduate careers. You’ll become a part of a lively research culture and a highly supportive staff network. The Royal Holloway Department of Computer Science benefits from close proximity to the M4 corridor – also known as ‘England’s Silicon Valley’ – providing students with excellent networking, placement and collaboration opportunities. Follow your passion for Computer Science and graduate with a bright future in research.
- Study in a highly-regarded department, ranked 11th in the UK for the quality of its research publications (Research Excellence Framework 2014).
- Select from six research disciplines, each led by expert academics.
- Benefit from strong industry ties, with close proximity to ‘England’s Silicon Valley’.
- Graduate with a Masters degree by research offering excellent graduate employability prospects.
- Tailor your learning with a wide range of engaging optional modules.
Modules
Core modules Year 1 Research Project Research Techniques One of the following strands: Machine Learning Constraints Discrete Optimisation Programming Languages and Compilers Bioinformatics (Biological Sequence Analysis) Non-Assessed Students must take up to two half-unit taught courses as required by the Programme Director in consultation with the Supervisor. These will provide the necessary background for the research project for those students without the necessary previous experience.
Assessment method
Assessment will be based primarily on the chosen research project, the centrepiece of the course, which counts for 75% of the total mark for the MSc. It will consist of a sizeable, structured piece of individual research. The project itself will normally be in a research area associated with the strand that the student has followed during the first term. The other 25% of the total mark is based on coursework and a presentation.
How to apply
International applicants
With almost a third of our students joining us from outside the UK, Royal Holloway is a diverse community with a strong international spirit. Ranked highly in the UK and the world for international outlook in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, Royal Holloway’s position recognises our global research impact and partnerships as well as student and staff diversity. Our alumni are found in 160 countries, working in industry, the arts, public sector and other areas, Royal Holloway is truly international both in ethos and impact. Within the 9,850 students enrolled at Royal Holloway, over 130 nationalities are represented, making our campus truly cosmopolitan. In addition, of the 104 societies and associations which enrich the post-study social life of our students, a quarter have an international flavour. We know a diverse community makes for a more creative and harder-working environment which benefits all our students, wherever they are from. Students from overseas can apply for all of our undergraduate degrees. We offer a range of additional support specifically for international students, including through our Centre for the Development of Academic Skills. For example, ‘Academic English’ for international students is provided for non-native speakers of English. The courses are designed to help you meet the challenges of academic work, including writing essays, following lectures, taking part in academic discussion and giving presentations. We also offer additional degree preparation courses for international students. See our website for full details. We have a number of scholarships that are dedicated to international students to help with tuition fees for undergraduate degrees. You can find a list of our current scholarship opportunities on our website.
Entry requirements
UK 2:1 (Honours) degree or equivalent in a related subject. Relevant professional qualifications and relevant experience in an associated area will also be considered. Specific requirements for the application may vary, depending on the school or department you are applying to, however most will require a brief research proposal that should be submitted along with the online application form. English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all other subscores.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| EU | £26300 | Year 1 |
| International | £26300 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
Royal Holloway, University of London
Egham
TW20 0EX