Heriot-Watt University Dubai United Arab Emirates

MSc Software Engineering

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MSc Software Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Dubai is designed for ambitious professionals aiming to master advanced techniques in software development and engineering. In a field driven by innovation, you will explore rigorous methodologies, industrial programming, and cutting-edge areas like data mining and machine learning. This postgraduate programme equips you with the in-depth knowledge and practical skills necessary to engineer high-quality software solutions to professional standards, preparing you to tackle complex challenges in the global technology landscape.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over one year, engaging with a comprehensive curriculum that includes mandatory courses in rigorous methods, industrial programming, and advanced software engineering. Your learning will culminate in a significant Masters project and dissertation, allowing you to apply your acquired expertise to a substantial research or development task. Graduates of this MSc Software Engineering degree will be well-prepared for advanced roles in software development, system architecture, and technical leadership within the IT industry.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc in Software Engineering program equips students with advanced knowledge and skills in the field. The curriculum covers rigorous methods, industrial programming, and advanced software engineering principles, alongside essential research methodologies and project planning. Students will undertake a significant Masters project and dissertation, culminating their studies with practical application and in-depth research. The program also offers a range of optional modules, allowing for specialization in areas such as biologically inspired computation, network security, data mining, 3D graphics, systems programming, human-computer interaction, DevOps, big data, and game development.

1 Mandatory September

Rigorous methods for software engineering Compulsory
Industrial programming Compulsory

2 Optional September

Biologically inspired computation
Computer network security
Data mining and machine learning
3D graphics and animation
Systems programming

3 Mandatory January

Advanced software engineering Compulsory
Research methods and project planning Compulsory

4 Optional January

Advanced human computer interaction
Advanced network security
Applied development and operations (devops)
Big data management
Computer games programming

5 Mandatory May

Masters project and dissertation Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,266.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 29,266.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

90%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Artificial Intelligence & Machine LearningBroadband & Internet ServicesCustomer Experience & SupportCybersecurityDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringFintech & Mobile MoneyHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringIT Support & Systems AdministrationProduct Management & UXSatellite Communications

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon Web Services

Arup

Microsoft

Why Study MSc Software Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Dubai

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Very Fast Application response time

Heriot-Watt University Dubai typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Heriot-Watt University Dubai in United Arab Emirates

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MSc Software Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 15 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks in the UAE, pending university approval. A separate work permit is necessary.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need to meet English language requirements: TOEFL (overall score 90), IELTS (overall score 6.0), or PTE (overall score 58). Specific scores are required for listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Software Engineers, Mobile Application Developers, Game Developers, or Systems Analysts.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on creating and maintaining software applications using best practices from computer science and project management. Students can specialize in areas like mobile application development or advanced interactive systems.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSc Software Engineering program has intakes in January and September. January entrants will study part-time for 30 months, including a dissertation.
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