UAE · Master's
Heriot-Watt University Dubai
MSc Computer Science
Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Course Overview
Heriot-Watt's MSc Computer Science in Dubai is a 12-month conversion-friendly Master's that suits both CS graduates wanting to deepen specialism and Sri Lankan engineers from adjacent fields (electronic, mathematical, physics backgrounds) moving into software. Core modules cover Advanced Software Engineering, Data Mining and Machine Learning, and Conceptions of Programming Languages.
Specialism streams include Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Software Engineering — students choose 3 electives plus a 4-month individual project. The Dubai campus has strong industry links with regional tech hubs (Dubai Internet City, in5, and Hub71 in Abu Dhabi), and the program is recognised by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.
Entry Requirements
Academic
- check_circle Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, or a related quantitative discipline (2:2 or higher).
- check_circle Applicants from non-CS backgrounds with strong programming evidence (Python, Java, C++) are considered case-by-case.
- check_circle Statement of purpose outlining technical interests and project ideas.
- check_circle Two academic or professional references.
English Proficiency
- check_circle IELTS Academic: 6.0 Overall (min 5.5 in each section — STEM standard).
- check_circle TOEFL iBT: 79 Overall accepted.
- check_circle PTE Academic: 54 Overall accepted.
- check_circle Waived if your degree was taught entirely in English.
Estimated Cost of Study
| Expense Category | Amount (AED) | Approx. LKR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (Year 1) | AED 105,000 | Rs. 9,135,000 |
| Living Expenses (12 months, shared accommodation) | AED 54,000 | Rs. 4,698,000 |
| Student Visa, Medical & Emirates ID | AED 6,000 | Rs. 522,000 |
| Total Year 1 Investment | AED 165,000 | Rs. 14,355,000 |
*LKR conversion based on current bank rates. Subject to change.
Career Outcomes & PR
Dubai's tech sector is in active hiring mode — Heriot-Watt MSc CS graduates have moved into developer and data roles at Careem, Property Finder, Talabat, and Emirates Group IT, plus consulting roles at IBM and Accenture Middle East. UAE graduates qualify for the 2-year Green Visa post-graduation; CS professionals earning AED 30,000+ monthly become eligible for the 10-year Golden Visa.
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