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Computer Science – Pre-Master’s

An introduction to relevant theories and practices for progression to chosen Master's degree

Introduction

The principal aim of the programme is to enable graduate students to linguistically and academically negotiate the transition to university and be prepared for the demands of a postgraduate degree programme in either cybersecurity or data science. The programme syllabus is designed around the acquisition of core academic knowledge, skills and literacy development that underpins successful higher education outcomes.

Successful completion of the Pre-Master’s programme at the required level will lead to progression to the MSc Cyber Security or MSc Data Science at Lancaster University Leipzig.

Duration

1 academic year

Intakes

  • January
  • October

Fees 2025/2026

  • International: €17,250
  • EU/UK: €11,000

Location

Language of Instruction

English

Page Section

Programme Overview

The Pre-Master’s Computer Science programme offers students an optimal preparation for their success at the taught postgraduate course of their choice. Students learn through a combination of formal, interactive lectures in relevant content areas, interactive seminars, practical workshop sessions, IT-enabled self-study opportunities and peer support activities. Practical application of theoretical knowledge allows students to develop further skills and understanding of relevant topics and concepts. In addition, formative learning opportunities are incorporated into each of the modules.

Programme structure: Information contained on the website with respect to modules is correct at the time of publication, and the University will make every reasonable effort to offer modules as advertised. In some cases, changes may be necessary and may result in some combinations being unavailable, for example as a result of student feedback, timetabling, staff changes or new research. Not all optional modules are available every year.

Modules

Interactive Learning Skills Communication

Students will develop a wealth of academic and communication skills necessary for successful study at postgraduate level; a range of transferable communication skills (written and oral) to prepare students for professional life; and many independent learning tactics and strategies. Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their personal, academic, and professional development, and they are supported in the process.

Critical and Creative Thinking

The Critical and Creative Thinking module has been designed to assist students in developing a host of critical and analytical thinking skills necessary for successful study at postgraduate level. This will be achieved by learners gaining an understanding of key concepts used in critical thinking, such as interpreting the arguments of others and creatively developing effective arguments of their own, whether in spoken or written form.

Programming Clinic

The module is delivered using a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach. Students will work on client problems and develop an in-depth understanding of what is needed to understand an issue, find solutions and report back to clients.

Computing Systems

This module provides students with theoretical knowledge on Computing Systems. Students will benefit further from getting to know relevant software and technologies to aide their understanding which in turn best prepares them for progression to the Master’s programmes.

Mathematics and Statistics in Computing

In this induction module in mathematics and statistics, students will be introduced to appropriate background to quantitative techniques and skills required for following other modules in the MSc programmes. The module also serves as a refresher module to those who already have sufficient knowledge in these subjects. On completion of this module, all students should have adequate skills to pursue the MSc Programmes.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching is delivered via a combination of small group lectures and group-based tutorial coursework (oral and written presentation), and assessment is via individual coursework (oral and written presentation) and examinations. You will be encouraged throughout to undertake independent study to support your learning and to broaden your personal knowledge.

All teaching is conducted in English.

Progression to a Master’s

Successful completion of the Pre-Master’s programme at the required level will lead to progression to the following degrees:

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