This master's degree provides students with in-demand digital skills and a formal qualification in computer science, which can help them switch to or progress a career in IT. This degree looks at issues that are important in our society, including intellectual property, digital surveillance, data privacy and ethical issues in computing. The degree also covers the technical aspects of computer science, including system architecture, data management, cloud computing and software engineering. You’ll have the opportunity to undertake a substantive project to address a challenge within your own or a client organisation, allowing you to demonstrate problem-solving skills as well as technical expertise, which will provide a portfolio of work to present to current and potential employers. The Department of Computer Science at Birkbeck is one of the first computing departments established in the UK and a world-class centre of expertise in algorithms, data analytics, data management, experimental data science, knowledge representation, and programme verification. You can study the degree without having any prior knowledge in computer science. If you do not meet the entry requirements to join the MSc or PGDip, you can progress to these awards if you successfully complete the PGCert, which has more flexible entry requirements. The master's degree is valued by leading companies in the technology sector. You will gain in-demand technical skills plus knowledge of how to manage complex issues systematically and creatively in the workplace.