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Professional Master of Computer Science

Why Study / Key Benefits

The Professional Master of Computer Science (PMCS) is an applied postgraduate degree designed around advanced computer science knowledge and practical project work.
It focuses on independently designing, implementing and maintaining open-ended computing projects using contemporary programming theories and software.
A major feature is the 60-point Computer Science Professional Project, which gives students substantial hands-on experience designing, developing and testing a software-based solution to a complex problem.
The programme is intended to prepare graduates for professional industry practice as well as higher-level research in computing.
Students can broaden their knowledge beyond core computer science through approved electives in areas such as artificial intelligence, business intelligence, data analytics, software engineering and other subjects.
UC highlights its strong connection with the Canterbury technology sector and local high-tech companies.

Programme Structure and Subjects/Topics

The 180-point qualification consists of compulsory study plus approved electives.

Compulsory courses:

COSC469 Research Methods in Computer Science and Software Engineering — 15 points.
COSC680 Computer Science Professional Project — 60 points.

COSC680 is the capstone professional project. Students work on an open-ended project involving:

Approved elective areas include:

Computer Science 400-level courses.
Software Engineering 400-level courses.
Artificial Intelligence in Business.
Data Analytics and Business Intelligence.
Selected DATA courses.
With Head of Department approval, up to 30 points may be substituted from another subject area.

Examples specifically listed by UC include:

Disciplines/Specialisations

The PMCS does not have formal majors, minors or endorsements.

Students can nevertheless build a study focus through their elective choices, including areas such as:

Programme Highlights

180-point professional master's degree.
1-year full-time option.
February intake.
Strong practical and applied focus.
60-point professional computing project.
Research-methods training.
Opportunity to combine computer science with data analytics, AI, business intelligence and software engineering.
Work-ready project experience from concept through development and testing.
Potential progression to PhD-level study in Computer Science.
UC highlights strong links with Canterbury's technology and high-tech industries.

Career Outcomes

The programme is designed for professional computing and ICT careers.

Potential career areas include:

Latest Updates/Special Requirements

The current 2026 PMCS regulations came into force on 1 January 2026.
COSC469 Research Methods in Computer Science and Software Engineering is now formally included as a compulsory 15-point course.
Students first enrolled before 1 January 2026 have a transition provision allowing them to substitute an elective for COSC469; this provision expires on 31 December 2028.
The qualification has no majors, minors or endorsements.
Students may not fail more than 30 points in the qualification.
The degree can be awarded with Merit or Distinction.
Students who do not complete the PMCS may, subject to approval, be able to transfer eligible credit to a Postgraduate Certificate in Science, Postgraduate Diploma in Science, or Master of Science with Part I completed.

International Student Visa Requirements

For an international student coming to New Zealand to study the PMCS, the relevant visa is generally the Fee Paying Student Visa.

Current Immigration New Zealand requirements include:

An offer of place from an approved New Zealand education provider.
Evidence that tuition fees can be paid, or evidence of an applicable scholarship.
Sufficient funds for living costs or an acceptable sponsor.
Acceptable medical and travel insurance.
Good health and character.
Genuine intention to study in New Zealand.
Evidence that the student can leave New Zealand at the end of the authorised stay.