Advanced Computer Science (Taught)

Take your computing skills to the next level and master the latest technologies that are innovating almost every industry.
Computing is integral to our society. That’s why qualified specialists in this field are highly sought after by many different industries.
Our Advanced Computer Science MSc is wide-ranging, exploring advanced topics in computer science, which will equip you with the understanding and practical skills to succeed in a variety of careers.
Building on your existing knowledge of computer science, you’ll really hone your skills and expertise in designing and implementing larger, more complex systems using state-of-the-art technologies.
You’ll even have the chance to work as an integral member of one of our research groups when you develop your main project.
From AI to cybersecurity, data science to software development, this MSc will open you up to a range of high-demand technical roles across multiple industries.
Student profile: Ben Swift
"There are so many great opportunities at university, especially at Leeds, that you’ll never get elsewhere. You will learn so many skills on the course, but make sure to delve into the other opportunities at university and across Leeds. Make the most of living in the best city in the UK!"
Ben Swift, Advanced Computer Science MSc

Why study at Leeds

• Globally-renowned research: This feeds directly into your course, shaping your learning with the latest thinking in everything from AI to biomedicine, algorithms to computational engineering – and beyond.

• Unique professional partnerships: Benefit from studying at a university that’s partnered with the Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s national institute for data science and AI.

• Tailor your degree: Choose from a wide range of optional modules to suit your specific interests, such as data science, algorithms, machine learning, deep learning and advanced software engineering.

• Build real-world industry experience: Conduct your own individual project, which focuses on an industry-led topic of your choice, giving you the chance to develop professional skills in research and critical thinking.

• Access industry-standard specialist facilities: You'll get to use our state-of-the-art cloud computing lab, a large High Performance Computing (HPC) resource and a robotics lab with a range of equipment available for specialist MSc projects. Take a virtual tour.

• Bring your skills to life outside the classroom: Our extra-curricular activities include a 24-hour hackathon backed by industry sponsors and CompSoc, a hands-on integrated design project, the UKIEPC national programming competition hosted on campus, building a rocket with the Leeds University Rocketry Association or attending the British Computing Society’s Women Lovelace Colloquium.

Rankings and awards
Top 100 in the world, QS World University Rankings 2026

Where this degree could take you
Here’s an insight into some of the job positions and organisations previous graduates from this course have secured:

• Software Development Engineer, Amazon

• Programmer, Alibaba

• Senior Software Engineer, Funding Circle

• BI Developer, INEOS

• Senior Client Engineer, Mediatonic

• Product Owner, ZigZag

• Research Software Engineer, University of Leeds

• Software Engineer, CDP Worldwide

Career support
Top 10 most targeted for 10+ years by the UK's leading employers, The Graduate Market 2026, High Fliers Research
At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one.
Our Careers Service has the global expertise and sector-spanning industry partnerships that, combined, go way beyond simply helping you get a job. They provide you with the resources you need to upskill and achieve the future you aspire towards – even in the face of lightning-paced change.

You’ll be assessed using a range of techniques including case studies, technical reports, presentations, in-class tests, assignments and exams. Optional modules may also use alternative assessment methods.