Theoretical Computer Science with a Year in Industry MSc at University of Liverpool

This programme was previously named MSc in Advanced Computer Science with Internet Economics with a Year in Industry.

To meet the increasing demand for MSc students to have industry experience, we have introduced this two-year MSc programme. Designed for graduates of the highest calibre the MSc will develop advanced knowledge and skills and give you the opportunity to put your knowledge into practice through valuable work experience during a one year industrial placement.

The MSc Theoretical Computer Science aims to provide you with an in depth understanding of the area of Theoretical Computer Science. A particular focus of the programme is on Computational Game Theory, an area of on the intersection of computer science and economics which has seen a recent rapid growth and in which there is expected to be a significant skills shortage.

The programme also provides a solid foundation for you if you are aiming at a research degree in Theoretical Computer Science. It will provide a strong background and exposition to research topics in the area.

The two-year MSc programme shares the same taught modules with its one-year equivalent. However, unlike the one-year MSc which includes an MSc project over the summer, the two-year programme includes an industrial project and placement in year two (either in  the UK or overseas). The placement is typically 30 weeks from September to June.

This opportunity to work in industry will help you strengthen your career options by:

• Undertaking the project work in an industrial setting
• Applying theory learnt in the classroom to real-world practice
• Developing communications and interpersonal skills Building networks and knowledge which will be invaluable throughout your career.

During the placement year you will spend time working in a relevant company suitable for the MSc. This is an excellent opportunity to gain practical engineering experience which will boost your CV, build networks and develop confidence in a working environment. Many placement students continue their relationship with the placement provider by undertaking relevant projects and may ultimately return to work for the company when they graduate.

The University of Liverpool has a dedicated team to help students find a suitable placement. Preparation for the placement is provided by the University’s Careers and Employability Service (CES) who assist students in finding a placement, help students produce a professional CV and prepare students for placement interviews.

The University has very good links with industry and several companies work with us to offer our MSc students competitive placements. Although industry placements are not guaranteed, the University offers you opportunities and support throughout the process to ensure that the chance to find a placement is high.

If you are unable to secure a suitable placement by the end of April during year one, you will be transferred onto the one-year MSc to undertake the MSc project over the summer and graduate after one year.