Information Technology (Software Systems)

Entry requirements

A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree or non-UK equivalent in science, technology, engineering or maths which includes some numeracy. Programming skills would be preferable but not essential, either through your degree or a short course.

We welcome applications from international students and accept qualifications from around the world. Please refer to the entry requirements for your country for more details.

English language requirements

If your first language is not English, we'll need to see evidence of your English language ability.

The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.

If you do not have IELTS 6.0, we offer a range of English language courses to help you meet the English language requirement for this programme prior to commencing your studies.

Please see our detailed English language requirements.

Months of entry

September

Course content

This programme imparts the understanding and skills to develop advanced software systems to professional standards.

The programme has a flexible structure to suit graduates with a wide spectrum of degrees from those in IT to those with rather less academic computing content. The MSc covers core skills in Information Technology (IT) at MSc level while allowing students to study specialist advanced courses in topics such as animation, databases, e-commerce, games programming, intelligent robotics and network applications. Computer Science at Heriot-Watt is ranked 6th in Scotland by The Complete University league tables (2021).

Graduates can expect to find employment with software houses, IT companies, research and development divisions of companies, financial services organisations, defence contractors or government IT agencies, and as researchers or research students within universities.

Enhancements for Your Success

At Heriot-Watt University, our MSc in IT Software Systems programme equips you with the latest knowledge and practical skills essential for a successful career in the dynamic field of IT Software Systems in the UK. Here's what sets our programme apart:

• Rankings: We take great pride in our ranking as the 6th best choice for Computer Science in Scotland, as recognised by The Complete University Guide in 2022.
• Employability: To ensure your professional success, we have actively forged partnerships with industry leaders, giving us valuable insights into what today's employers are seeking in IT Software Systems professionals.
• Essential Tools: In the highly competitive landscape of IT Software Systems, mastering essential software tools is vital. Our programme places a strong emphasis on acquiring critical skills, including proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, SQL, and data visualisation.
• Synergistic Approach: Our revamped course structure encourages the seamless integration of various disciplines, including business management, software engineering, and data analysis. This holistic approach empowers you to address complex IT challenges with confidence.

The National Robotarium

Located on Heriot-Watt University’s Edinburgh campus, in partnership with The University of Edinburgh, the National Robotarium creates innovative solutions to global challenges, working directly with industry to test and develop robotic, AI and automated technologies and rapidly move pioneering research from lab to market.

The National Robotarium fosters the teaching and development of the next generation of roboticists, producing highly skilled graduates who are trained to conduct world-leading research with a market focus, and developing programmes to equip the current and future workforce with robotics, data and programming skills.

Your student experience

Our expertise

• Heriot-Watt University boasts a distinguished history of over five decades dedicated to the research and teaching of Computer Science.
• World-Leading Faculty: Heriot-Watt University is known for its strong academic reputation, and this extends to its IT Business programmes. In fact, many of our academics are qualified data scientists, with many years of experience working in this field.
• Facilities: To facilitate hands-on learning in IT Software Systems, we have established state-of-the-art labs, located in the Robotarium and at the GRID. These labs include the Games & Design studio and the university's first VR labs. These resources are integral in providing students with practical, real-world experience when working with authentic datasets and AI models in the context of IT Software Systems.
• Leading Research in IT Software Systems: The university actively engages in computing research, contributing to the development of new techniques, tools, and strategies for addressing emerging challenges in IT Software Systems. This ongoing research directly informs our IT Software Systems curriculum, ensuring it remains up to date and aligned with industry needs.

Employability

Potential career paths

Information for international students

If your first language is not English, we'll need to see evidence of your English language ability.

The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.

If you do not have IELTS 6.0, we offer a range of English language courses to help you meet the English language requirement for this programme prior to commencing your studies.

Please see our detailed English language requirements.

Fees and funding

Scholarships and bursaries