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Computer Science and Software Engineering (Dubai) MEng
- CampusDubaiDelivery formatIn person
- Start dateSeptemberDuration4 years (1-3 in Dubai, year 4 in Birmingham)
- AwardMaster of Engineering
- Entry requirementsA*AA - AAB including A Level Mathematics grade A
- Fees (UK/Ireland)September 2026: AED 156,718 per year (full-time)
Course overview
Become a leader in the global IT industry. Our four-year MEng Computer Science and Software Engineering will open up opportunities across a huge range of software roles.
With our Computer Science and Software Engineering course, you’ll learn technical skills for building large software systems vital to our world. Develop your management and teamwork skills too and you’ll be ready for an exciting career.
Accredited by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
This programme is also accredited by the British Computer Society (for 5 years, valid until August 2028).
Course Structure
Our MEng is a full-time, four-year course featuring lectures, labs, and tutorials. Academic support is available throughout your degree. The course structure includes hands-on learning and comprehensive academic guidance. You will spend the first three years in Dubai and the final year in Birmingham.
Year 1
Year 1
In the first year, you'll cover the fundamentals of computer science through modules like Artificial Intelligence 1, Computer Systems and Professional Practice, Data Structures and Algorithms, Mathematical and Logical Foundations of Computer Science, Object Oriented Programming, and Theories of Computation.
You’ll also learn Java programming, a key language in business and industry. This foundation will prepare you for advanced topics in subsequent years.
Year 2
Year 2
Year Two focuses on enabling technologies, systems-level programming, networks, cybersecurity, operating systems, and machine learning mathematics.
Your programming skills will expand with C and functional programming, and you’ll work on a large team project applying software engineering skills to a real-life problem.
Year 3
Year 3
In Year three, you’ll focus on advanced topics like networking, computer vision, human-computer interaction, machine learning, mobile computing, neural computation, and system security.
This specialised training will equip you with the skills and experience needed to excel in your career.
Year 4
Year 4
In the final year, you’ll study at our Edgbaston campus and complete an in-depth project that integrates your computer science and software engineering skills.
You’ll also choose modules and a project to specialise in fields like computer security, human-computer interaction, theoretical computer science, robotics, or natural computation.
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
From programming and AI to security and machine learning, you’ll develop key knowledge and be able to specialise in advanced areas. You could become a software engineer working on systems used for things like satellite communications, healthcare and the internet.
As ‘smart’ tech rapidly evolves, you will have a huge range of opportunities in projects across many industries. Begin your studies at our new, technology enhanced ‘smart’ campus then enjoy a global experience at our Birmingham campus for your final year.
You’ll immerse yourself in a research project and with our links to industry, build a network for your future as a software engineer.
- Graduate with the same University of Birmingham degree as UK based students
- Accredited degree (UAE Ministry of Education and British Computer Society)
- Research-led teaching so you learn about the latest developments
Birmingham is ranked 76th in the QS World University Rankings 2026, maintaining our position in the top 100 universities globally and placing us 11th amongst UK universities.
Spend your fourth year studying at our UK campus
Exceptional supportive learning environment
Course delivery
Teaching is led by industry experts, combining lectures, practical labs, and group projects. Students choose from diverse modules, gaining theoretical knowledge and practical skills tailored to their career goals.
- Learn about cutting-edge developments in your chosen areas of interest, with lectures delivered by world-leaders in their fields
- Receive tailored guidance and feedback in tutorials, enabling you to tackle specific challenges and enhance comprehension of the material
- Develop a spectrum of skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, time management, and communication through project work
- Experience active learning and engagement in the lab which develop skills such as collaboration, teamwork, critical thinking, and independent problem-solving
Each module is assessed on its own, with some using continuous assessment and others being entirely coursework-based. You’ll face various assessment methods like exams, written assignments, presentations, computer tests, exercises, and project reports.
Feedback is crucial for your learning and success. We provide it through written comments on your work, class feedback sessions, and discussions with your tutor.
You will spend your final year studying at our picturesque campus in Birmingham, UK.
Module information
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.
This programme is a four year full time taught MEng degree (480 credits) consisting of 420 credits of taught modules and a 60 credit project.
Year 1
Year 1
2026/27
Core modules:
Year 2
Year 2
2027/28
Core modules:
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Artificial Intelligence 2 | 20 |
| Databases and Web Programming | 20 |
| Functional Programming | 20 |
| Operating Systems and Systems Programming | 20 |
| Security and Networks | 20 |
| Software Engineering | 20 |
Year 3
Year 3
2028/29
Select 120 credits from the following:
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Advanced Networking | 20 |
| Computer Vision and Imaging | 20 |
| Human-Computer Interaction | 20 |
| Machine Learning | 20 |
| Mobile & Ubiquitous Computing | 20 |
| Natural Language Processing | 20 |
| Neural Computation | 20 |
| Security of Real-World Systems | 20 |
Year 4
Year 4
2029/30
Core module
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Project - Masters 60 | 60 |
Optional modules
Select 60 credits of options. Examples of options are below.
Teaching staff
Dr Ahmad Ibrahim
Programme Director
Academic profile of Dr Ahmad Ibrahim, Associate Professor in Computer Science
Dr Mian M. Hamayun
Head of Subject Group - Computer Science (Dubai)
Academic profile of Dr Mian M Hamayun, Associate Professor in Computer Science
Dr Anis Zarrad
Associate Professor in Computer Science
The academic profile of Dr Anis Zarrad, University of Birmingham Dubai
Dr Sauleh Eetemadi
Assistant Professor
Profile for Dr Sauleh Eetemadi, Computer Science, University of Birmingham Dubai
Dr Safdar Abbas Khan
Assistant Professor
Profile for Dr Safdar Abbas Khan, Computer Science, University of Birmingham Dubai
Dr Ahmad Kamel
Assistant Professor
Profile for Dr Ahmad Kamel, Computer Science, University of Birmingham Dubai
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.
- A Level
A*AA - AAB including A Level Mathematics grade A. If you are taking any reformed A levels, which include Biology, Chemistry and Physics taught from 2015, you must pass the practical element. General Studies or Critical Thinking not accepted.
- IB
7,6,6 - 6,6,5 at Higher Level to include 6 in Mathematics with a minimum of 32 points overall.
Number of A levels required: 3
English language requirements
In order to undertake a programme of study here at the University, you will need to demonstrate that you have a good level of written and spoken English. You can demonstrate your level of English with IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or alternative qualifications.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation.
- AED 156,718
Full-time (September 2026) 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
To apply for an undergraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
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
Completing our MEng in Computer Science and Software Engineering equips you with the skills for diverse career paths. You’ll develop a disciplined problem-solving approach, creative solution design, and critical evaluation abilities.
Graduates are highly sought after in academia, industry, research, and commercial organisations, thanks to their technical and transferable skills, and the prestige of a degree from a leading university.
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.
Our graduates have gone on to work at top companies such as Microsoft, Google, Apple, Goldman Sachs, Sony, IBM, Siemens, Honda, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley, and The Bank of England.
In dynamic cities like Dubai, rapid digitisation and AI-driven automation are creating numerous opportunities.
The skills that I am gaining; the course does not just teach knowledge, it trains us in certain skills which can be applied outside of the course, for example many students develop software that has been published, gained them an internship or enhanced their CVs
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.
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.