Software Development (AI) MSc

The MSc Software Development (AI) at Queen’s University Belfast is an intensive one-year conversion programme designed for graduates from any academic background who want to transition into the tech sector. No prior experience in coding or software development is required. The course has been developed to reflect how software development is evolving in industry today, combining core programming, databases, web development and software engineering principles with modern development tools, workflows and AI-aware practices. Through practical, project-based learning, students gain experience building real-world applications, solving complex problems and working in ways that reflect modern software development environments. Students develop skills across areas such as software engineering, application development, databases, systems design and web technologies, while also gaining experience in communication, teamwork, project delivery, critical thinking and adapting to new technologies, skills increasingly sought by employers across the global technology sector. The programme is designed to take students from beginner level to industry-ready graduate within one year, with a strong emphasis on practical capability, portfolio development and employability. The curriculum has been designed and is continually reviewed in collaboration with industry to ensure that course content reflects current professional practice, emerging technologies and the evolving needs of employers within the software and technology sectors. WHO WILL BE TEACHING YOU: Teaching on the programme is delivered by academic staff from the School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EEECS) at Queen’s University Belfast, a school with an established reputation for research-led teaching and strong industry engagement. The programme team combines teaching experience with active research, industry practice and active collaboration, helping students understand not only the technical foundations of software development, but also how these skills are applied in real-world contexts. Several of the team have been awarded student-nominated teaching awards for their work. WHAT YOU'LL GET UP TO: This is a highly practical programme designed around active learning and real-world application. Throughout the course, students work on software development projects that simulate the kinds of challenges faced by modern development teams. You will learn how to analyse problems, perform problem decomposition and design robust and elegant software systems to solve the problems. This includes gaining skills in procedural and object-oriented programming, web development technology stacks, database design and development, AI-augment development approaches, and software project management. The programme also provides opportunities to work collaboratively as part of a development team, using modern tools, workflows and development practices commonly used across the software industry.

IELTS* score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is require

International students: £27,600

UK students: £7,700 (NI/ROI), £10,400 (GB)

UK/Home: £7,700 (NI/ROI), £10,400 (GB)

International: £27,600

Academic Year 2026/27

• Belfast, United Kingdom