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Graduate Certificates in Computer Science
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These bite-sized credentials allow you to upskill in an exciting new area of computer science and get equipped for emerging tech careers. Taught by experts from Goldsmiths, you'll master in-demand technical skills in one of eight specialist areas, ranging from data science to virtual reality.
Key features
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Learn from leading experts
Our Computer Science degrees are developed and taught by staff at the world-renowned Department of Computing at Goldsmiths. You'll work closely with leading academics and industry experts whose knowledge is drawn from real-life experience across a wide range of industries.
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Choose from eight specialisms
Take a deep dive into an emerging area of computer science. From data science to web development and virtual reality, you'll gain the technical skills and knowledge you need to advance your career in your chosen field.
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An interactive online learning experience
Our Computer Science degrees are delivered on Coursera, the world’s largest online learning platform. If you register as a web-supported learner, your tutor will provide support through Coursera, where you’ll also have access to interactive learning activities and forums to connect with your peers.
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Study online anywhere in the world
Gain a University of London degree from anywhere in the world: choose between fully online learning or enrolling at one of our Recognised Teaching Centres in your home country for additional face-to-face tuition support. Either way, our specialist tutors are always on hand to help.
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Fit your studies around your life
Our flexible degrees let you choose the pace and duration of your studies, with tuition paid on a per-module basis. The certificate can be completed in as little as six months or in up to five years, so you can choose to study only one or two modules per year.
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General entry requirements
Course overview
You complete four 15-credit modules to complete the Graduate Certificate.
For each module, a full-time student would be expected to study 10-12 hours a week. At this pace of study, the Graduate Certificate could be completed within a minimum period of six months. You have up to five years to complete, so could choose to study only one or two modules a year.
View modules:
- Graduate Certificate in Data Science
- Graduate Certificate in Games Development
- Graduate Certificate in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
- Graduate Certificate in Mobile Development
- Graduate Certificate in Physical Computing and the Internet of Things
- Graduate Certificate in User Experience
- Graduate Certificate in Virtual Reality
- Graduate Certificate in Web Development
The Programme Specification and Programme Regulations contain information and rules regarding what modules you can choose and the order in which they must be studied.
New data is being produced at an exceptionally fast rate across the world. It’s the role of data scientists to make sense of this information and create accurate predictions, treatments and services tailored to individuals.
Data science is a significant subfield in computer science which has seen rapid growth in recent years as companies and institutions have begun to gather data at scale across many sectors. Data science has many application areas ranging from medicine to climate science and business analytics.
By studying this Graduate Certificate you will be able to:
- demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the main areas of computer science and also demonstrate the ability to apply this to the evaluation of computing applications.
- apply a critical understanding of essential concepts, principles and practices of computer science in the context of well-defined scenarios, using structured arguments based on subject knowledge to justify the selection and use of tools and techniques.
- analyse, design and develop a system, with appropriate documentation.
To gain a Graduate Certificate (Data Science), you must complete:
- three core modules
- one compulsory module
Core modules
Compulsory module
Gaming is a world entertainment phenomenon. The global games market is currently valued at $137.9 billion, by 2021 it’s expected to be worth $180 billion (Source, Newzoo). This degree is specifically designed for those who want to be at the forefront of the thriving gaming world, creating software tailored to games development.
Video games are a critical application area for computer science, and the games industry forms a significant part of the creative economy. It is a complicated subject, drawing on other areas such as computer graphics, interaction design and artificial intelligence.
By studying this Graduate Certificate you will be able to:
- demonstrate a sound understanding of the main areas of games development and also demonstrate the ability to exercise critical judgement to the evaluation of games development applications.
- apply a critical understanding of essential concepts, principles and practices of games development, and critically evaluate the results.
- equip yourself with the skills to develop virtual reality systems.
To gain a Graduate Certificate (Games Development), you must complete:
- three core modules (totalling 45 credits)
- one compulsory module (totalling 15 credits)
Core modules
Compulsory module
Machine learning and artificial intelligence are starting to play far bigger roles in our daily lives. They are used in digital assistants that respond to our voices, self-driving cars and adaptive education systems.
Machine learning provides a means for computer systems to extract useful information out of data. These techniques are widely used in the technology industry for a variety of applications, for example, recommending music and other products to people, identifying faces in photos and predicting trends in financial markets.
By studying this Graduate Certificate you will be able to:
- demonstrate a sound understanding of the main areas within machine learning and artificial intelligence, with an ability to exercise critical judgement to the evaluation of machine learning and artificial intelligence applications.
- apply a critical understanding of essential concepts, principles and practices of machine learning and artificial intelligence, and critically evaluate the results.
- produce work involving problem identification, the analysis, the design or the development of a system.
To gain a Graduate Certificate (Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence), you must complete:
- three core modules (totalling 45 credits)
- one compulsory module (totalling 15 credits)
Core modules
Compulsory module
With the global mobile app market booming and expected to be worth $139 billion by 2021, it is no surprise that it is common for established organisations to have a web presence which includes complex interacting systems.
Mobile development is a critical application area for computer science. Many of the largest technology companies maintain large scale web applications, providing services such as social media, search, advertising and video and audio streaming. Mobile application development has become a major part of the software industry over the last decade, with established as well as new companies developing thousands of mobile games and utilities.
By studying this Graduate Certificate you will be able to:
- demonstrate a sound understanding of the main areas of mobile application development and also demonstrate the ability to exercise critical judgement to the evaluation of mobile applications.
- apply a critical understanding of essential concepts, principles and practices of mobile development, and critically evaluate the results.
- show problem solving and critical evaluation skills, draw upon supporting evidence.
To gain a Graduate Certificate (Mobile Development), you must complete:
- three core modules (totalling 45 credits)
- one compulsory modules (totalling 15 credits)
Core modules
Compulsory module
Physical computing involves the creation of hardware devices that can sense and act in the real world. Physical computing techniques underpin a wide range of contemporary technology trends such as the Internet of Things, the quantified self and smart homes. There are many applications of physical computing, for example in creative arts, museums, ubiquitous and embedded computing, scientific sensing, robotics, engineering control systems and robotics.
By studying this Graduate Certificate you will:
- demonstrate a sound understanding of the main areas of physical computing and internet of things.
- produce work involving problem identification and the analysis, design or the development of a system, with appropriate documentation, recognising the important relationships between these.
- show problem solving and critical evaluation skills, draw upon supporting evidence.
To gain a Graduate Certificate (Physical Computing and the Internet of Things), you must complete:
- three core modules (totalling 45 credits)
- one compulsory module (totalling 15 credits)
Core modules
Compulsory module
You will be provided with the technical and theoretical know-how you need to implement effective user experiences in software. Our daily lives involve complex tasks, requiring interaction with a plethora of computer systems. User experience design is a critical part of the development of these systems.
By studying this Graduate Certificate you will be able to:
- demonstrate a sound understanding of the main areas of user experience design and development and also demonstrate the ability to exercise critical judgement to the evaluation of user experience development applications.
- apply a critical understanding of essential concepts, principles and practices of user experience design, and critically evaluate the results.
- show problem solving and critical evaluation skills, draw upon supporting evidence.
To gain a Graduate Certificate (User Experience), you must complete:
- three core modules (totalling 45 credits)
- one compulsory modules (totalling 15 credits)
Core modules
Compulsory module
Virtual reality (VR) is the creation of immersive, simulated environments using computer systems. Advancements in technology has now put virtual reality in the hands of the consumer. This has created a demand for people who can develop this software and experiences in this medium.
VR involves the creation of immersive, simulated environments using computer systems. Recent technology advances have made it possible to create high fidelity, high immersion virtual realities which people can access with consumer hardware. Virtual reality has many application areas, including entertainment, education and military.
By studying this Graduate Certificate you will be able to:
- demonstrate a sound understanding of the main areas of virtual reality and development and also demonstrate the ability to exercise critical judgement to the evaluation of virtual reality applications.
- apply a critical understanding of essential concepts, principles and practices of virtual reality, and critically evaluate the results.
To gain a Graduate Certificate (Virtual Reality) you must complete:
- three core modules (totalling 45 credits)
- one compulsory modules (totalling 15 credits)
Core modules
Compulsory module
Web development is a critical application area for computer science. Many of the largest technology companies maintain large scale web applications, providing services such as social media, search, advertising and video and audio streaming.
By studying this Graduate Certificate you will be able to:
- demonstrate a sound understanding of the main areas of web development and also demonstrate the ability to exercise critical judgement to the evaluation of web development applications.
- apply a critical understanding of essential concepts, principles and practices of web development, and critically evaluate the results.
- show problem solving and critical evaluation skills, draw upon supporting evidence.
To gain a Graduate Certificate (Web Development), you must complete:
- three core modules (totalling 45 credits)
- one compulsory module (totalling 15 credits)
Core modules
Compulsory module
You can study this online programme from anywhere in the world. The flexible approach to learning enables you to fit your studies around your commitments whilst providing the academic rigour and structure of an on-campus programme.
Are you affected by US-imposed restrictions?
Our suite of graduate certificates use creative interactive approaches delivered through Coursera, the world’s largest online learning platform, to provide immersive learning experiences.
United States export control regulations prevent Coursera from offering services and content to users in certain countries or regions. More information about which countries or regions are affected can be found on Coursera's website.
Coursera must enforce this restriction in order to remain in compliance with US law and, for that reason, we advise that all learners check this information before applying to the programme.
Study materials
We provide you with all of the resources and study materials you need to complete the programme successfully, including the essential reading for each module. You can access these through a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) on a range of devices. This learning platform is provided by Coursera, the world’s leading MOOC providers.
Our online learning resources typically include multimedia content, activities and exercises (e.g. multiple choice quizzes, reflective exercises and self-assessment questions), as well as facilities for you to interact with your tutor and fellow students. You’ll also receive access to an onboarding course that will help you get the most from your studies.
Online support
When you register, we will give you access to your Student Portal. You can then access your University of London email account and other key resources:
- The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) - Here, you can access electronic copies of all printed study materials, resources including audio-visual, and forums to discuss course material and work collaboratively with others.
- The Online Library. As a student at the University of London, you will have access to a range of resources, databases, and journals via the Online Library. You will be able to contact a team of professional and qualified librarians for any help you require.
- Access to academic support and feedback from London-based support teams. Tutors introduce the modules, respond to queries, monitor discussions and provide guidance on assessments.
Senate House Library
If you’re based in the United Kingdom, or are visiting London, make sure to visit Senate House Library. Students studying with the University of London can join the library free of charge. Membership includes a 10-book borrowing allowance, access to all reading rooms and study areas, and on-site access to Senate House Library digital resources.
Tutor support
All students receive tutor support and feedback while studying this programme. Tutors introduce the modules, respond to queries, monitor discussions and provide guidance on assessments.
Web-supported learning: if you register for a module as a web-supported learner, you join an online tutor group.
Teaching centre-supported learning: if you enrol for a module with a local teaching centre, you receive face-to-face tuition. We work with several teaching centres in a number of countries and will recruit more to support the programme.
Student Support
We are committed to delivering an exceptional student experience for all of our students, regardless of which of our programmes you are studying and whether you are studying independently or with a Recognised Teaching Centre.
You will have access to support through:
- The Student Advice Centre – provides support for application and Student Portal queries.
- TalkCampus – a peer support service that offers a safe and confidential way to talk about whatever is on your mind at any time of day or night.
Time commitment
Study at your own pace, either part-time or full-time. Once you begin a module it is generally expected that you will complete it in the six-month session. Each module is expected to take from 10 to 12 hours of work/effort per week.
Assessment
Each module includes a mix of assessments. During your study period you will undertake formative assessments, which help you to measure your progress but do not count towards your grade, and summative assessments Summative assessments do count towards the final grade. These include a mid-session coursework submission and an unseen written examination (or final project) at the end of the session.
Written examinations are held twice a year. You can defer sitting an exam once (subject to a fee) but you cannot defer the submission of coursework.
Academic direction is provided by the Department of Computing at Goldsmiths, one of the UK’s top creative universities. Goldsmiths' unique hands-on project-based style works for a diverse range of interests - from computer and data science to art and music to social science and journalism.
Its multi-disciplinary staff are actively involved in a wide range of innovative applications of computer science. Research and teaching includes computer science but also extends to more surprising topics, including computational art, virtual reality, computer music, digital sociology and education technology.
Key dates
| Applications open | |
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| Applications close | |
| Registration deadline | |
| Programme starts | October 2024 |
| Examinations | March 2025 |
| Applications open | |
|---|---|
| Applications close | |
| Registration deadline | |
| Programme starts | April 2024 |
| Examinations | September 2024 |
Admissions
What qualifications do you need?
To be eligible for this Graduate Certificate programme you must have one of the following:
- an *acceptable bachelor’s degree;
- an *acceptable master’s degree (or any other appropriately accredited Level 7 award) provided this is at least one year full time in duration;
Plus:
- GCSE Mathematics (Grade A – B) or equivalent.
Students currently enrolled on either the Graduate Diploma or the Graduate Certificate are eligible to also study a BSc award. This is subject to a new application, that can only be submitted once the student has completed all Graduate award studies and the final results have been provided.
*Please contact us if you would like further advice on whether your degree is considered acceptable.
English language requirements
You need to demonstrate a good level of English to be admitted to our programmes. We accept a range of evidence, including proficiency test scores. If you don’t have evidence but believe you can meet the standard, we may consider your case.
Do I meet the language requirements?
Computer requirements
As this is a technical programme, you will need access to suitable IT facilities. For this programme, you will also need a media player (such as VLC) to play video files. All students must have regular access to a computer (or mobile device*) with an internet connection to use the University of London website and the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). These are where the programme’s study resources are located.
More about computer requirements.
You may also require additional capabilities and software for specific modules, such as:
- Video and audio recording
- Programmer’s text editor such as Atom; integrated development environment software (IDE)
- Additional software: Xamarin and Games development; 3D Graphics and Animation, and Virtual Reality all use Unity3D
- Access to hardware: Android or iOS device; VR Head mounted display and a microcontroller like Arduino
See the programme specification for details.
Fees, funding and payment
The fee for our Graduate Certificates in Computer Science depend on two factors:
- Whether you choose web-supported or institution-supported learning
- Whether you live in the UK, or a developing (Band A) or developed (Band B) nation. See the list of Band A and B countries [PDF]
Important: the table below does not include fees payable to a third party, such as tuition costs payable to a Recognised Teaching Centre or fees charged by your local examination centre, or local VAT, Goods and Services Tax (GST) or sales tax.
The fees below relate to new students registering for the 2022-2023 session. On average, fees are subject to a five per cent year-on-year increase.
Students who registered earlier can view their fees on the Course Fees page.
| Graduate Certificate fees (indicative totals*) | 2022-2023 |
| Band A countries (web-supported learner) | £2015 |
| Band A countries (teaching centre-supported learner) | £1395 |
| Band B countries (web-supported learner) | £2955 |
| Band B countries (teaching centre-supported learner) | £1799 |
| UK (web supported learner) | £2691 |
| UK (teaching centre-supported learner) | £1647 |
| Pay per module | 2022-2023 |
| Band A countries | |
| 15-credit module (web-supported learner) | £467 |
| 15-credit module (teaching centre-supported learner) | £312 |
| Module continuation fee (per continued module) | £234 |
| Band B countries | |
| 15-credit module (web-supported learner) | £702 |
| 15-credit module (teaching centre-supported learner) | £413 |
| Module continuation fee (per continued module) | £234 |
| UK | |
| 15-credit module (web supported learner) | £636 |
| 15-credit module (teaching centre-supported learner) | £375 |
| Module continuation fee (per continued module) | £234 |
Disclaimer: Currency conversion tool.
*The indicative total is a guide to what you would pay if completing four 15-credit modules in six months.
See the Programme Regulations for more details.
Additional Costs
You will also need to budget for:
- Exam centre fees, which are paid directly to the venues where you sit your exams
- Tuition costs if you study at a Recognised Teaching Centre (if applicable).
Sales Tax
Please note: all student fees shown are net of any local VAT, Goods and Services Tax (GST) or any other sales tax payable by the student in their country of residence. Where the University is required to add VAT, GST or any other sales tax at the local statutory rate, this will be added to the fees shown during the payment process. For students resident in the UK, our fees are exempt from VAT.
Without the cost of moving to London, studying for your University of London course anywhere in the world represents excellent value for money. However, there may be additional sources of support depending on where you live.
You can pay your fees in a number of ways, including an online payment facility via the Student Portal and Western Union Quick Pay.
Career opportunities
Upon graduation, you will have a strong background in programming and good skills in at least one programming language, so you will be a suitable candidate for most of the jobs in the computing industries that do not require a strong specialisation and/or significant work experience.
Jobs such as software developer, programmer, web developer, system analyst, database application developer, junior games developer, junior data scientist, etc. in areas including the technology sector, media industries, the health sector, transport, the financial sector, e-government, etc., are all open to you. Your skills will be equally suited to small start-up companies and large organisations.
As an alternative route, you could consider continuing your professional development with postgraduate studies in any specialised field of computing.
In some countries, qualifications earned by distance and flexible learning may not be recognised by certain authorities or regulators for the purposes of public sector employment or further study. We advise you to explore the local recognition status before you register, even if you plan to receive support from a local teaching centre.
You’ll have access to a wide range of careers and employability support through the University of London Careers Service, including live webinars and online drop-in sessions.
More on the University of London Careers Service
Tailored support for careers in the refugee and humanitarian fields is available through regular programme events, webinars and careers resources.
Apply now
Thank you for your interest in studying with us. Applications are currently closed for this course. Check the key dates section when applications open or register your interest.
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