MSc Computer Science

Heriot-Watt University

Leading UK university

Ranked 25th in the UK (University League Tables 2026)

20-96 months

8 courses total and a final project, 16-18 hours per week

£8,995 total cost

No application fee. Pay as you learn. All materials and assessments included

Performance-based admission

Successfully complete the first course to qualify - no bachelor’s required

100% online

Videos, live sessions, hands-on projects, connection with instructors and peers

Tuition & financing

What does the tuition fee cover?

This programme is available on pay-as-you-learn tuition model, where each taught course is £1,285. The total cost of this programme is £8,995*.

The tuition fees include any study materials required and assessments. You can pay per course, to help you spread the cost of the programme over your studies. You’ll also earn a globally-recognised professional certification from a leading tech company such as IBM and Google at no additional cost.

A unique benefit of this programme is that MSc students receive complimentary access to an industry-recognised Specialisation. Additionally, the Final Project is provided at no extra cost upon successful completion of all taught courses.

*The tuition fees listed are for courses starting in 2025. The indicative full programme fee listed does not take any annual fee increases into account, which normally occur annually.

8 courses and a final project, 180 credits for the full degree

Complete the programme in under 2 years to 8 years.

Faculty videos and online forums

Receive academic support online from the same leading academics teaching on campus.

Pay-as-you-go tuition

As the programme progresses, you’ll only need to pay for the course you’re currently studying.

£1,285 PBA module cost

In the PBA route, pay only for the first course.

Applications for the January 2026 cohort are open!

Application deadline: December 1, 2026
Enrolment deadline: January 9, 2026
Classes start: January 12, 2026

Upcoming events

Stay tuned!

Additional resources

Questions? Please do not hesitate to get in touch via hwoadmissions@hw.ac.uk
Watch the recording of the latest Admissions webinar

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