Developments in artificial intelligence, computer vision, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cyber security have all become a normal part of society's interaction with computing devices. This Master's programme is designed to equip students with the advanced knowledge and skills needed to develop the innovative solutions required by today's rapidly advancing computing industry.
Through laboratory workshops, lectures, debates, and independent research, this MSc Computer Science provides the opportunity for students to enhance their existing knowledge of computer programming and mathematical frameworks.
Working alongside academic staff, students have the chance to develop a critical understanding and gain practical experience in innovative areas such as computer vision and surveillance, robotics, mobile computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cyber security in order to develop advanced solutions to current and future challenges.
A focus on advanced knowledge and skills to develop the innovative solutions
Develop a critical understanding and gain practical experience in innovative
Informed by the research of academic teams at Lincoln
Complete an independent research project in a specialist area
The teaching and learning strategy adopted within the MSc Computer Science derives from a methodology designed to develop knowledge and understanding in the domain of computing. In particular, students can experience a blend of different approaches. The programme aims to enable the acquisition of skills through practical workshops in the laboratory, and develop academic knowledge through debate, lectures, discussion, and personal research.
Modules assume a familiarity with object-oriented programming concepts and the supporting mathematical framework, while presenting advanced concepts relating specifically to the computing domain. Each module consists typically of 12 weeks of study, which includes a supporting lecture programme, a series of supported laboratory sessions, and time for the completion of assignment exercises and/or examinations. The research project module is an independent study and is supported by a specialised supervisor, and is carried out over the last three months of the programme.
Weekly contact hours on this programme may vary depending on the individual module options chosen and the stage of study. The programme is supported by online access to lecture material and related information.
Postgraduate level study involves a significant proportion of independent study, exploring the material covered in lectures and seminars. As a general guide, for every hour spent in class, students are expected to spend at least two to three hours in independent study.
This module aims to cover the theoretical fundamentals and practical applications of decision-making, problem-solving and learning abilities in software agents.
Search is introduced as a unifying framework for Artificial Intelligence (AI), followed by key topics including blind and informed search algorithms, planning and reasoning, both with certain and uncertain (e.g. probabilistic) knowledge. Practical exercises in AI programming will complement and apply the theoretical knowledge acquired to real-world problems.
This module aims to cover the theoretical fundamentals and practical application of machine learning algorithms, including supervised, unsupervised, reinforcement and evolutionary learning. Practical programming exercises complement and apply the theoretical knowledge acquired to real-world problems such as data mining.
This module aims to explore current methodologies in the field of computer vision, covering a range of aspects in capturing, processing, analysing and interpreting rich visual content.
The aim is to offer students with a deep understanding and to allow an exposure to the latest developments in computer vision, equipping them with knowledge in practical depth. The module will also provide the opportunity for training in programming skills (e.g. Matlab), tools and methods that are necessary for the implementation of computer vision systems.
The module will also cover applications of computer vision in various fields, such as in object recognition/tracking, medical image analysis, multimedia indexing and retrieval and intelligent surveillance systems, allowing the students the opportunity to establish a full awareness to the technology advance in this rapidly evolving field.
This module introduces cutting-edge topics in computer science research areas, including both theory and practical applications. The module follows a research seminar format, involving input from colleagues across the University. Additionally, guest lectures from industry representatives and leading international researchers may be offered. Students can further benefit from opportunities to discuss potential research topics that they can explore to build and enhance their research and critical thinking skills.
This module provides insights into the management of company and personal data with an emphasis on security. Impact on organisations and individuals resulting from attacks is explored. The application of security elements including but not limited to, passwords, certificates, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems are considered. The scope for security is explored, taking into account the implementation of theoretical models and considering identity access management.
This module aims to explore advanced topics using a contemporary object-oriented programming language. The objective is to prepare students for professional-level programming in scientific and commercial computing, and to support programming tasks in other modules of this award.
Students can explore a range of programming topics through a series of lectures and practical workshops, and will work on producing an individual programming assignment.
This module is designed to cover the fundamental skills and background knowledge that students need to undertake research related to the title of the award being studied, including: surveying literature; selecting and justifying a research topic; planning of research; selection of appropriate research methods; evaluation of research; presentation and reporting of research; and legal, social, ethical and professional considerations.
This module presents students with the opportunity to carry out a significant inquiry-driven research project, focusing on a topical area of interest that is aligned with their programme of study. This is primarily realised through the development of a dissertation and substantive research and/or software implementation output.
The research project is an individual piece of work, which enables students to apply and integrate elements of study from a range of modules, centred on a specific research question. The student will undertake work that is relevant to the ongoing research in either one of the established research centres within the School of Computer Science or through the development of a project concept in consultation with their allocated academic supervisor.
This module aims to provide students with an understanding of advanced concepts of software engineering principles and practices. The course focus on developing the skills necessary to design and deploy sophisticated modern software systems in a range of application areas. You will develop your practical software engineering skills and learn new theories of software development.
† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.
We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, and contact hours.
The programme is assessed through a variety of means, including in-class tests, coursework, presentation, posters, and examinations. The majority of assessments are coursework based, reflecting the practical and applied nature of computer science.
The final stage research project enables students to further specialise and complete a piece of work of significant complexity. Communication and presentation skills will be assessed by an informal oral presentation (viva voce) with poster presentations in various modules.
Our students are primarily based in the University’s Isaac Newton Building. Technical resources include computer laboratories with high-performance workstations equipped with full software development platforms. There is a range of equipment for loan, including Raspberry Pi devices, robots, and virtual reality equipment such as HTC Vive and Oculus Quest.
Our postgraduate teaching is underpinned by world-leading research. Academic strengths lie in computational neuroscience, machine learning, data analytics, robotics, medical imaging, AI in healthcare, and many aspects of human–computer interaction and games computing. From optimising the treatment of cancer patients to spearheading the development of next-generation robots for agri-food production, computer scientists at Lincoln are working at the forefront of new technologies.
Postgraduate Application Support
Applying for a postgraduate programme at Lincoln is easy. Find out more about the application process and what you'll need to complete on our How to Apply page. Here, you'll also be able to find out more about the entry requirements we accept and how to contact us for dedicated support during the process.
Students should hold a first or second class honours degree in one of the following subjects: Computer Science, Computing, Computing and Information Systems, Software Engineering, Games Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or Cyber Security.
Knowledge of object-oriented programming concepts and a good mathematical framework are required.
If you have studied outside of the UK, or are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages for information on equivalent qualifications.
https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/
Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page.
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-session English and Academic Study Skills courses. These specialist courses are designed to help students meet the English language requirements for their intended programme of study.
You will need to have funding in place for your studies before you arrive at the University. Our fees vary depending on the course, mode of study, and whether you are a UK or international student. You can view the breakdown of fees for this programme below.
The University offers a range of merit-based, subject-specific, and country-focused scholarships for UK and international students. To help support students from outside of the UK, we offer a number of international scholarships which range from £1,000 up to the value of 50 per cent of tuition fees. For full details and information about eligibility, visit our scholarships and bursaries pages.
Postgraduate Funding Options
Find out more about the optional available to support your postgraduate study, from Master's Loans to scholarship opportunities. You can also find out more about how to pay your fees and access support from our helpful advisors.
This Master’s programme is designed to equip students with the advanced knowledge and skills needed to develop the innovative solutions required by today’s rapidly advancing computing industry. Students can develop the knowledge and specialist skills necessary to progress to roles in the computing and technology industries. Some may choose to continue to research at doctoral level.
For more information about this course, please contact the Programme Leader.
Dr Wenting Duan
wduan@lincoln.ac.uk
To get a real feel for what it is like to study at the University of Lincoln, we hold a number of dedicated postgraduate events and activities throughout the year for you to take part in.
