The degree will be delivered in collaboration with Coursera 

Dubai, Nov 28, 2024: Heriot Watt University has announced the launch of its first fully online master’s degree course in computer science. The degree is being delivered in collaboration with online learning platform, Coursera.  

Applications for the MSc in computer science are now being accepted with learning starting in May 2025. The degree curriculum is mapped to the requirements of employers, covering sought-after skills in programming, machine learning, data mining, data structures and artificial intelligence. As part of their studies, students will also complete an industry certificate, choosing from credentials offered by global tech giants such as Google, IBM and Meta.   

Professor Sara Lombardo, Executive Dean, School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences at Heriot-Watt University said, “With our curriculum, which pairs our renowned academic expertise in the field with industry credentials from leading employers, students will gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to take advantage of the growing number of opportunities in this field.”  

Dr Abrar Ullah, Programme Director for the online MSc in Computer Science and Associate Professor of Computer Science at Heriot-Watt University said: “Our goal is to empower professionals with the skills required to achieve their career aspirations.”  

The performance-based admissions criteria for the degree enables learners without a formal background in ICT to earn a degree and pursue career paths such as web developer, software developer, data scientist and IT manager, among others.