Professional Master of Computer Science
PMCS
Duration
1 year full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 (February)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Duration
1 year full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 (February)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Overview
The Professional Master of Computer Science (PMCS) offers practical learning in the rapidly advancing area of computer technologies in need of skilled graduates.
This one-year master’s degree focuses on applied learning to independently design, implement, and maintain open-ended computing projects using the latest programming theories and software.
UC’s programme will prepare you for professional industry practice, or high-level research in computing theory.
- The PMCS degree includes a significant amount of hands-on work, including an advanced project in computing that will provide highly relevant workplace experience.
- Flexible learning opportunities will allow you to take courses in subject areas outside of computer science to broaden your career options – for example in health technologies, business systems, statistical analysis, etc.
- UC is acknowledged as a leader in Computer Science education in Aotearoa New Zealand. It is the home of the award-winning Computer Science Unplugged project, and the internationally recognised Intelligent Computer Tutoring group. Several members of staff have awards for their work as computer science educators.
- UC is highly engaged with the local industry, being located in Waitaha Canterbury – the 'Silicon Plains' of Aotearoa, where there are dozens of large, hi-tech companies employing UC graduates. Further afield, our graduates are in demand overseas and many come up with an idea for a product while studying, going on to become business owners and employers themselves.
To enrol in the Professional Master of Computer Science, you will need to have completed a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification) with a background in a computer sciences subject (eg, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering), with either a B Grade Point Average in your 300-level courses or experience working in the field.
If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Professional Master of Computer Science or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You can apply online at myUC. Find out more about how to apply for graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
The Professional Master of Computer Science is made up of 180 total points, with 120 points made up from a list of elective courses, and a 60-point project.
The project course takes place during the second-half of the year and includes designing, building, and testing of an advanced computer science application.
The degree can be completed in 1 year full-time, or within 3 years part-time.
Compulsory project course
Elective courses
Choose up to 120 points from the following options (excluding project or research thesis courses):
- DATA430 Medical Data Informatics
- Computer Science 400-level courses
- Software Engineering 400-level courses
You may choose to include a maximum of 30 points in your total 120 from the following (excluding project or research thesis courses):
- MAOR404 Kaupapa Māori Research
- Business Information Systems courses
- Computer Engineering 400-level courses
- Mathematics 400 and 600-level courses
- Statistics 400 and 600-level courses
- other courses approved by the Head of Department
You may choose to go onto the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science after completing this degree and contribute new research to the field.
Computing and ICT has consistently been listed on the long-term skills shortage list, which means there are a number of career opportunities for graduates with recognised experience in practical computing applications.
Almost all areas of industry require IT expertise, from website design to database administration, software development to embedded systems, leading to a wide range of possibilities and freedom to pursue your interests.
UC’s professional master’s programme demonstrates that you have work-ready project skills from concept to launch, and are ready to be a part of digital innovation.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student and graduate profiles.
- Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers, or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit Te Pōkai Tara | Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what you can do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
See Tuition Fee Structure for more information
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2023 | 180 | Fee estimate. Actual fee will be determined by course selection. | $13,362 |
| 2022 | 180 | Fee estimate. Actual fee will be determined by course selection. | $13,005 |
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) | Fees (NZD) Excl GST |
| 2022 | 180 | Special (Set) Programme Fee | $60,000 | $52,174 |
| 2023 | 180 | Special (Set) Programme Fee | $61,500 | $53,478 |
Contact us
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Professional Master of Computer Science.
For study planning help, contact the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering.
Te Kaupeka Pūtaiao | Faculty of Science
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
Phone +64 3 369 4141
Email science@canterbury.ac.nz