Are you looking to pursue or advance a career in IT? Our employability-focused MSc is designed for graduates from diverse, non-computing backgrounds looking to transition into the field of computing. From data management and cloud technologies to user experience design and web development, you'll gain the theoretical foundations, practical, hands-on experience and in-demand problem-solving, analytical, and research skills that are in high demand across various sectors.

Course summary

At Keele, we are proud of our legacy as one of the first UK institutions to teach computer science. With over 50 years of expertise, we have a strong tradition of supporting students from diverse academic backgrounds in transitioning to computing-related careers.

You will study the essential topics required to transition into a computing related career, focussing on practical and technical aspects of the discipline which match the needs of industry.

Specifically designed for students from non-computing backgrounds, initial modules will introduce you to the essential mathematical, programming and computing concepts required for effective study. This foundational knowledge will support and enhance your understanding of the core concepts covered later in the course, while also covering the basics of software engineering. Additionally, you'll learn to use industry tools like GitHub to effectively manage your projects.

Building on this foundation, you will explore core modules in web development, and data management. Throughout the programme you will gain hands-on experience in solving real-world problems, while tailoring your learning to your interests.

Beyond this, the course emphasises professionalism, teamwork, and research skills, ensuring you graduate equipped for a dynamic career in an innovative field. To ensure you gain valuable industry-relevant experience, your final assessment offers the option of completing an industrial placement project or addressing an industry-focused challenge as part of your MSc project.

Your career

The IT sector continues to actively seek graduates, particularly those with advanced skills in emerging and in-demand areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and software development. As technology evolves and integrates further into all aspects of business and daily life, companies require professionals who can innovate, manage, and secure digital systems. The Schools focus on developing research, consultancy, professional and practical skills prepares you for a broad range of development and management roles.

Essential skills youll develop, which are highly valued by employers, include critical thinking, problem solving, project management, teamwork and reflection. Students who have joined us from a range of science and non-science disciplines have successfully transitioned into careers in areas such as data science, web development, networking, systems analysis and development, and software engineering. Many have also chosen to further their research skills, progressing to study Computer Science PhDs, and you could easily move into a teaching career within secondary, further or higher education.