Welcome to MSc Cloud Computing

Our MSc Cloud Computing programme aims to provide students with an extensive learning experience that equips them with the cutting-edge skillsets required within the fast-growing cloud computing industry. Students will have the opportunity to gain in-demand skills for professional roles such as Cloud Developers, Solution Architects, DevOps, and Data specialists.

The programme provides a considered balance of computer science principles, along with a strong focus on the conceptual knowledge and industry practices for cloud computing. Students can gain a rigorous conceptual understanding of state-of-the art, scalable cloud systems across multiple cloud service providers.

A distinct feature of the programme is the integration of cloud vendor certification that is aligned with programme and module outcomes. This approach gives students the opportunity to demonstrate industry-transferable competencies in core areas whilst enhancing their employability attributes.

The School of Computer Science has also built a strong partnership with Microsoft through a student-focused Shared Goals Agreement that provides opportunities for students to develop digital skills for cloud computing and access to industry cloud certifications. These initiatives are designed to enhance the student learning experience, ensuring students are equipped with the skills required to launch and develop their cloud careers in a digital-first economy.

How You Study

Emphasis is placed on the broad concepts of cloud computing for understanding cloud-based compute, storage, and networking, whilst providing the opportunity to develop practical skills around cloud architecture design and deployment, as well as cloud development.

Cloud development is an important topic threaded throughout the programme and is delivered through topics such infrastructure-as-code and serverless computing. The programme modules assume a familiarity with programming concepts and supporting mathematical frameworks where appropriate.

Each module consists typically of 12 weeks of study, which includes a supporting lecture programme, a series of supported workshop sessions, and time for the completion of assignment exercises and/or examinations.

The final research project module is separate and carried out over the last three months of the programme.

Postgraduate level study involves a significant proportion of independent study, exploring the material covered in lectures and workshops. As a general guide, for every hour spent in class, students are expected to spend at least two to three hours in independent study.

How You Are Assessed

The programme is assessed through a variety of means, including in-class tests, coursework, presentations, posters, and examinations. The majority of assessments are coursework based, reflecting the practical and applied nature of computer science and cloud computing.

The final stage research project enables students to further specialise in cloud computing 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.

Career Opportunities

There is a global skills shortage of graduates with Cloud Computing skillsets. Upon completion of the programme, graduates are well positioned to fill cloud-focused roles such as a Cloud Developer, Data Engineer, DevOps Engineer, and Cloud Consultant.