Computer science personal statement

Author
Aaron McKenna, Student professional development consultant
Posted
May, 2024

If you studied an unrelated undergraduate degree but have mathematical and analytical ability then you could consider an MSc in computer science

When writing a personal statement for a postgraduate course that differs from your undergraduate degree, you should:

  • Make a strong case for why you are pursuing study in a different subject area, outlining how your previous academic experience has prepared you to switch disciplines.
  • Consider the transferable and related skills which link your previous and future study.
  • Highlight prior learning and experiences relevant to the course you are looking to study. This could include employment, volunteering, extra-curricular activities, completing online courses, attending events and conferences.
  • Mention any further activities you will do before starting the course to fill any gaps in your knowledge.
  • Show you have an in-depth understanding of the subject area, including the knowledge and experience you hope to gain and how this fits in with your career aspirations.
  • Demonstrate that you have researched the programme and institution thoroughly. Highlight specific modules, practical elements, university facilities and unique aspects of the programme which attract you. Explain how the course aligns with your academic and career objectives.

This example should be used for guidance only. Copying any of this text could significantly harm your chances of securing a place on a course.

Computer science personal statement example

Despite obtaining my undergraduate degree in social science, I have developed a passion for technology and a strong interest in the world of computer science through my academic endeavours, extra-curricular activities, and part-time job.

My journey into the realm of technology began during my undergraduate studies, where I quickly discovered the analytical and problem-solving skills inherent in computer science were the very skills I was drawn to in the field of social science.

During the first and second year of my degree, I studied optional introductory modules in 'Computing Science' and 'Data Science', which sparked my passion for technology.

Thereafter, I sought opportunities to integrate computing techniques and mathematical approaches into my projects, demonstrating my commitment to acquiring the foundational knowledge needed for a successful transition to computer science.

As such, my dissertation explored 'Data-Driven Approaches to Social Policy Evaluation', investigating how algorithms can be used to analyse large datasets and measure the impact of social policies on various outcomes, including poverty rates.

Aside from my studies, I have used my extra-curricular activities to enjoy the practical applications of computer science. As a member of an ethical hacking society, I participated in hackathons, coding competitions, and collaborative projects.

The experience was transformative, allowing me the opportunity to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios and nurturing my problem-solving skills. Joining the society complemented my part-time role during university as an IT assistant, where I witnessed first-hand the necessity for IT systems and networks to work effectively to achieve business needs.

These experiences across education and employment have motivated me to study an MSc in computer science, where I can delve deeper into a number of areas including programming languages, systems development, network security and algorithms.

The prospect of completing an independent project as part of the programme energises me to further enhance my practical abilities and contribute to overcoming complex challenges in the ever-evolving landscape of technology.

I am choosing to study the MSc Computer Science at X University due to the university's long-established international expertise in delivering computer science programmes, which is demonstrated in its recognition for research activities, particularly in the area of cyber security.

Due to this reputation, I believe X University to be the standout institution for me to advance my academic studies, as the department's ability to produce highly skilled and in-demand cyber security graduates matches my ambition in becoming a cyber security analyst.

Furthermore, I'm aware graduates of the programme at X University have transitioned to careers as applications developers, another career path I am keen to explore. The programme's engagement with leading organisations in the industry and the state-of-the-art learning facilities available to students has cemented my commitment to studying here.

Achieving an undergraduate degree in social science to now pursuing an MSc in computer science demonstrates my adaptability, resilience and commitment to personal and professional growth.

To prepare for this switch in discipline, I have engaged in self-directed learning by undertaking online courses in programming, data analytics and web development. This will ensure that I am well-equipped to tackle the exciting challenges that studying an MSc in computer science entails.

I am confident that studying at X University will provide me with an unrivalled experience, enabling me to progress to a fulfilling career in the field of computer science.

Find out more

How would you rate this page?

On a scale where 1 is dislike and 5 is like

success feedback

Thank you for rating the page