Software Systems MSc

2 years including placement year, starting in September 2021

Develop specialist skills to design and develop complex software. You’ll gain the ideal foundation for a career in software engineering.

You’ll learn about the challenges of engineering a complex piece of software, and discover how issues can be successfully managed by a software team. You will design and realise systems to meet a specification, giving you the confidence to manage your own software development projects. You’ll gain the knowledge to engineer complex software systems, and experience working in a true to life software team.

You'll have access to our bespoke computer laboratory and our strong links to industry ensure you'll get experience of the latest developments in software and technology. You will focus on combining practical application with theoretical knowledge, preparing you for a career in computer science or a related area.

You’ll finish your studies with the skills looked for in a variety of sectors. The majority of our master’s graduates move directly into computer science careers in software development, research or technology.

Find out more about studying at Bath:

2021/22 Academic Year

Due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19, information about courses starting in September 2021 may be subject to change. We continue to improve your teaching and learning experience so you gain skills and understanding which are valuable to you and sought after by employers.

Before you apply for a course, please check the website for the most recently published course detail. If you apply to the University of Bath, you will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.

During the 2020/21 Academic Year, our courses are being delivered through a blended learning approach. The Bath Blend has been designed to be flexible in the face of possible changes in law or official government guidance, including measures on social distancing which may occur through the course of the next academic year and other changes to the operating environment for Universities which may be caused by the pandemic.

Information for students on our plans for the 2020-21 academic year.

Course structure

This course lasts 2 years. It starts in September 2021 and ends in 2023. Welcome week starts on 27 September 2021.

Occasionally we make changes to our programmes in response to, for example, feedback from students, developments in research and the field of studies, and the requirements of accrediting bodies. You will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.

Compulsory course units

These compulsory units are currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new units.

Semester 1

Software engineering
Plus optional units

Semester 2

Summer (Year 1)

Placement

Semester 3

Placement

Semester 4

Placement

Summer (Year 2)

Dissertation

Optional course units

These are examples of optional units currently being studied by our students.

Placement

Going on placement gives you the opportunity to apply your skills and knowledge during a year working in industry. You’ll be employed full-time in a role to match your future career ambitions, broadening your experience and transferable skills.

We have links with some of the industry’s leading companies.

Placement opportunities can't be guaranteed but you will receive tailored support from our specialist team to help you secure a placement.

Find out more about going on placement

Learning and assessment

Learning

Assessment

Recognition of professional qualifications

As well as being recognised as a higher academic qualification, a number of our degrees are also accredited by professional bodies in the United Kingdom. An accredited degree may entitle you to work in a specific profession within the UK, and abroad (where there are reciprocating arrangements with professional bodies in other countries).

The requirements to practice a profession vary from country to country. If you wish to practice your profession outside the United Kingdom, you are advised to confirm that the UK professional qualification you seek is valid in the country in which you are intending to work.

The United Kingdom currently subscribes to The Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications (MRPQ) Directive. The MRPQ Directive provides a reciprocal framework of rules which enables European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals to have their professional qualifications recognised in a state other than the one in which the qualification was obtained. In the event of a no deal Brexit, from 1 January 2021, the MRPQ Directive will no longer apply to the UK. However, it is anticipated that there will be a new system for recognising professional qualifications between the UK, EEA, and Switzerland.

Entry requirements

Origin of qualifications

Select the country where your qualification comes from.

British qualifications

You should have a first or strong second-class bachelor’s honours degree or international equivalent.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

If your first language is not English but within the last 2 years you completed your degree in the UK you may be exempt from our English language requirements.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Thai qualifications

A bachelor's degree with a final overall GPA of at least 3.00.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Nigerian qualifications

A bachelor’s degree with a final overall result of at least a 2:1.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

If within the last 2 years, you completed your degree in a country where English is the official first language, you may be exempt from our English language requirements.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Pakistani qualifications

A four-year bachelor’s degree from a high ranked (HEC) university with a final overall result of at least a First Class (Divison 1).

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Saudi Arabian qualifications

A four-year bachelor’s degree with a final overall result of at least 75% (GPA of at least 3.5 out of 5.0 or 3.0 out of 4.0).

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

American qualifications

A bachelor’s degree with a final overall score of at least 2.8 out of 4.0 (B).

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Other qualifications

We welcome applications from graduates from all countries so if you can’t see your country in the list, please contact our admissions team for advice about your specific entry requirements.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Hong Kongese qualifications

A bachelor’s degree with a final overall score of at least 3.0 out of 4.0 (B or 2:1).

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Egyptian qualifications

A bachelor’s degree awarded by a university with an overall score of at least 75% (very good).

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Malaysian qualifications

A bachelor degree with an overall final result of at least a 2:1.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Mexican qualifications

A Título de Licenciado or Título (Profesional) de (subject area) with a final overall result of least 8 out of 10.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Turkish qualifications

A Lisans Diplomasi with a final overall GPA of at least 2.8-3.0 depending on the institution you have attended.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

French qualifications

A licence, diplôme d'ingénieur or a maîtrise with a final overall score of at least 11.5 out of 20.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Greek qualifications

A university bachelor's degree (Ptychio) or diploma with a final overall score of at least 6.5 - 7.5 out of 10 depending upon the institution attended.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Italian qualifications

A laurea with a final overall score of at least 100 out of 110.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Chinese qualifications

A four-year bachelor’s degree with a final overall score of at least 75% depending on the institution attended.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Ghanaian qualifications

A bachelor's degree with a final overall result of at least B (Good, GPA 3.5 or 60%).

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

If within the last 2 years, you completed your degree in a country where English is the official first language, you may be exempt from our English language requirements.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Indian qualifications

A bachelor’s degree with a final overall result of at least a First Class.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

If you have graduated within the last 5 years from an Indian university where the medium of instruction is English and have achieved the required level of English in your Indian 12th Standard examinations, we may be able to assess your English. More information can be found here.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Spanish qualifications

A titulo de licenciado or titulo de ingeniero with a final overall score of at least 5.0 (aprobado).

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Kenyan qualifications

A bachelor's honours degree with a final overall result of at least a 2:1.

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

If within the last 2 years, you completed your degree in a country where English is the official first language, you may be exempt from our English language requirements.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Tanzanian qualifications

A bachelor's degree with a final overall result of at least an upper second (very good or GPA 3.5).

To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer science with mathematics, mathematical sciences or informatics.

We will also consider mathematics, engineering and physical sciences providing there is a computing and programming element.

We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Fees and funding

Fees and funding information for Software Systems MSc including placement year

Fees

Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on whether you are a Home, Island or Overseas student.

Learn how we decide fee status

Tuition fees

See the most recent fees for postgraduate courses.

Placement fees

You will normally pay a reduced tuition fee while on a placement period or studying abroad. Find out more about placement fees and study abroad fees.

How to pay

Tuition fee loans

If you are studying a postgraduate course, you may be able to take out a loan for your tuition fees and living costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

You could be considered for a bursary or scholarship to help you study at Bath. You do not have to pay it back.

Read more about bursaries and scholarships

Other payment options

You can pay your tuition fees by Direct Debit, debit card, credit card, cheque, bank transfer or cash. You may also be eligible for a student loan to help you pay your fees.

Budgeting

You will need to budget at least £100 for the cost of photocopying, printing and binding. You will also need to budget for the cost of textbooks.

Some courses involve visits away from campus and you may be required to pay some or all of the costs of travel, accommodation and food and drink.

If you’re on a placement, you’re responsible for your own travel, accommodation and living costs. You should also consider the financial implications if you go on an unpaid or overseas placement.

Application information

Course title

Software Systems
Final award

MSc
Mode of study

Full-time
Course code

TSCM-AWM35
Department

Department of Computer Science
Location

University of Bath
Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY
Home application deadline

31 August 2021
Overseas application deadline

30 June 2021
Application eligibility

Home and Overseas students are eligible to apply
Regulator

The Office for Students (OfS)

Course enquiries

Admissions

Apply for 2021 entry

Apply now