Ranking
68th
QS World Rankings 2027
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Computer Science (Dubai) MSc / PGDip
- CampusDubaiDelivery formatIn person
- Start dateJanuary (part-time); September (full-time or part-time)Duration1 year (full-time); 2 years (part-time)
- AwardMaster of Science / Postgraduate Diploma
- Entry requirements2:2 Honours degree in any subject other than computing
- Fees (UK/Ireland)September 2026/January 2027: AED 174,509 per year (full-time) / AED 87,255 per year (part-time)
Course overview
If you want to change direction and become a computer scientist in just a year, choose our Computer Science Masters degree. Prepare for an exciting new career, with the skills, experiences and industry links that will put you in high demand.
Everything you learn here will apply to the real world and open the door to an exciting new career. Using the latest technology, you’ll develop your software development skills and knowledge of the key computing principles.
The MSc Computer Science programme is accredited by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
Course Structure
The MSc is a 12-month full-time advanced course, comprising lectures, tutorials, labs, presentations and project work. The course can also be taken on a part-time basis over two years. The PGDip is awarded after 120 credits.
Semester 1
Semester 1
In this semester you'll begin with core programming concepts, including Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), before progressing to AI and Machine Learning, covering combinatorial optimisation and neural networks.
The programme also explores computer systems, data representation, and networking, while refining software development skills with advanced techniques such as templates, Bootstrap, and SQLAlchemy.
Semester 2
Semester 2
You'll cover data structures, algorithms, and database design. You'll explore software engineering principles, including the software life cycle, agile methodology, and project management.
You'll emerge with strong programming, AI, and system management skills, prepared for industry challenges.
Research project
Research project
You will focus on your project during this session.
Talk to our students
Hear more about studying at Birmingham. Chat to one of our friendly students to get their thoughts on our courses, state-of-the-art campus, and life in Dubai.
Course highlights
Birmingham is ranked 68th in the QS World University Rankings 2027, maintaining our position in the top 100 universities globally and placing us in the top 10 amongst UK universities.
You might be changing career or your area of study. Whatever your goals, our programme lets non-computing graduates make the shift very quickly.
This course teaches you the principles of computer science, giving you the practical software development skills you need in the tech world. It's different from IT courses, it's a technical degree, and you'll spend significant time learning programming.
As technology advances fast, our computing graduates will be in higher demand than ever. Based at our new, technology-enhanced 'smart' campus, you'll also have a global experience. You'll work alongside students in the UK and learn from academics from Birmingham as well as on the Dubai campus.
- Graduate with the same University of Birmingham degree as our UK-based students
- Research-led teaching means you learn about the latest developments
- Join our global community of computer science students
Course delivery
Teaching combines lectures, labs, and projects guided by research-focused academics. During the conversion MSc project students demonstrate their competence as computing professionals and apply their learned skills effectively.
- Learn through of a series of engaging lectures which demonstrate how experts will approach problems in your field, helping you think critically and apply concepts
- Participate actively in discussions, problem-solving activities, and hands-on exercises during tutorials to deepen your engagement with the subject matter
- Engage in projects that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enhancing your understanding and retention of concepts
- Experience active learning and engagement in the lab which develop skills such as collaboration, teamwork, critical thinking, and independent problem-solving when conducting experiments
Assessment
Your work will be assessed via a range of exams, coursework, presentations and a dissertation.
Lecture
Tutorial
Projects
Laboratory
Module information
The modules described here are the ones that we currently offer and will give you a good idea of the range of subjects that we teach.
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
2026/27
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | 20 |
| Building Useable Software | 20 |
| Computer Systems | 20 |
| Data Structures, Algorithms, and Databases | 20 |
| Project - Conversion MSc | 60 |
| Software Workshop 1 | 20 |
| Software Workshop 2 | 20 |
Entry requirements
To secure your place at the University of Birmingham Dubai, you must meet both our general entry requirements and the specific criteria for your chosen course. Your application will be carefully reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will determine if you will receive an offer.
- 2:2 Honours degree
in any subject other than computing.
English language requirements
To study at the University, you must be able to demonstrate a good level of written and spoken English. Many applicants do this by submitting a recent IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE result, or by completing a Presessional English course.
The level of English language proficiency required varies depending on your level of study and subject area.
You can view the full English language requirements, including accepted tests and required scores, on our entry requirements page for the Dubai campus.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation.
- AED 174,509
Full-time (September 2026/January 2027) per year
- AED 87,255
Part-time (September 2026/January 2027) per year
Paying your tuition fees
We charge an annual tuition fee. The fees quoted are by full time or part time per year of study. For those studying courses over two or more years, the tuition fee will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Tuition fees can be paid in full or in three instalments per year of study.
Scholarships
Birmingham attracts the best and brightest students from across the globe. For students with the potential to thrive here, we have a number of scholarships available at our Dubai campus.
Application process
Please note: Applications for September 2026 entry to this programme are now closed. Information about September 2027 entry and application details will be available at a later date.
Choosing to study with the University of Birmingham Dubai is an exciting decision and you may have many questions on what to do next. Follow the steps below to help guide you through the process.
Career opportunities
Unlock a wide range of exciting careers by completing our MSc course. You'll achieve essential technical and transferable skills, allowing you to pursue a career in academia, industry, research or commercial organisations. You'll become highly demanded by employers worldwide.
Your Birmingham degree is evidence of your ability to succeed in a demanding academic environment. Employers target Birmingham students for their drive, diversity, communication and problem-solving skills, their team-working abilities and cultural awareness, and our graduate employment statistics have continued to climb at a rate well above national trends.
Benefit from the prestige of a degree from a leading World Class University, making you attractive to companies in the engineering, finance, consultancy and commerce sectors worldwide.
You could go on to work for global companies such as Google, Apple, Goldman Sachs, Microsoft, Sony or Honda.
Dubai is an exciting global city with a rapidly developing economy, actively embracing digitisation and artificial intelligence for various sectors. There is a vibrant start-up scene evident by the massive success of Careem and Amazon.ae formally souq.com, creating new jobs for computer science professionals.
Careers Network
In a competitive global market, you need to be ready for work before you graduate. At the University of Birmingham Dubai, our careers services will help you plan and achieve your ambitions. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network Dubai information, advice, and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Upcoming events
There are currently no upcoming events
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life at our Dubai campus.
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus, with its iconic buildings overlooking stunning parkland and friendly community, will quickly make you feel at home in the UAE's second city. Expect plenty of exciting activities to get involved in outside of your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to the University of Birmingham Dubai to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation partners allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming, and sociable surroundings.
Living in Dubai
Enrich your life with endless attractions, entertainment and lifestyle opportunities. In just over 50 years, Dubai has transformed itself from a tiny settlement to a glistening city and world-class destination. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus is where our diverse community comes together, providing a home for up to 3,000 students to learn, relax, and socialise.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our Dubai campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.