Online MSc Computer Science with Data Analytics at University of York

I was told by university staff that the programming languages taught are Javascript and Python. Why are they recommending books on Java?

I have applied to the course and was admitted. It's true that the course is running for the first time although York is not a no-name university. Being part of the Russel Group is a good stamp of quality. The CS department seems to be well regarded and has a well-qualified teaching staff. I have researched almost every conversion MSc in CS around the world and couldn't find anything cheaper from a similarly ranked university (I'm Canadian). I know there's going to be downs as a first time running course, but I'm not looking to be handheld, I just want a programme that I'll use as a base to break-in computer science, be aware that in such a programme, you'll have to be independent and learn things on your own to succeed. The good thing is you have tons of resources available online to supplement your learning. What I really also like about the programme as opposed to others is that it's not a watered down version of an MSc CS, you study the real thing like Architecture, Algorithms & Data Structures, Advanced Programming, Machine Learning etc. York is actually delivering the course in partnership with a US company which has a long history of delivering online programmes for other institutions in the US. The online learning platform is Canvas LMS which is one of the best, not your *****y typical Blackboard or Moodle, to me, this makes a difference. The Bath programme looks very good as well but I don't think it's worth 5K more and Bath is not as well regarded as York. Some other online programmes I have looked at are Northumbria, Huddersfield, Liverpool, Staffordshire, and Aberdeen. I have done a ton of research before pulling the trigger on York, if you have any question let me know otherwise I hope to see you in the online induction

** I was looking at Research Excellence Framework results and York is on par with Manchester and Edinburgh for the quality of its research in CS.

https://results.ref.ac.uk/(S(fyjw2atnemz4rhyk1e1zytds))/Results/ByUoa/11

Hi guys,

I think this online programme at York has started and you guys should have already registered for the first module, so could you please give me some of your thoughts on the online learning platform, the induction, the course contents and materials, ...? Up to now, how do you feel about it?

Thanks!

Is anyone else taking this course even though their background/previous qualifications are totally different? My background is pure biology but I have completely fallen out of love with it, hence starting this course. I'm worried employers won't look at it favourably, especially when compared to someone who has an extensive background in CS.

Has anyone else heard about the £650 upfront payment? Talking to York on the phone, a lady said I would have to pay for the first module until SFE has received confirmation from the Uni that I am enrolled on the course, after which I will get the £650 back. I asked her to send me some information about that specifically but she just sent me the generic funding page on the York Online website. Idk, I'm probably being silly but it seems a bit odd. I need to know its legit before I go asking my dad to lend me £650 lmao.

Have faith in yourself. Plenty of successful software developers have no background in CS. With an MSc in CS and hard work, you'll certainly be in a strong position to get a good job. There's simply not enough people with CS backgrounds to fulfill all CS jobs out there. People are doing *****y 3-month bootcamps and still manage to succeed. Take the plunge and be ready to work very hard.

In order to get enrolled on the course you have to pay for the first module which is £650. Once enrolled you get access to the materials, can apply for student card etc. I'm not sure about SFE stuff but it makes sense that finance agencies only pay out once enrolment confirmed. Bit chicken and egg but there you go.

I've enrolled on it as well. Canvas seems good and theres links to a lot of resources for pre course stuff to get you acquainted with Algorithms, Java and fundamentals(how does a computer work, how does the internet work). The resources are a combination of freely available web links and pdfs for books only accessible by authenticating through uni student credentials. Canvas has a pretty nifty Reading List feature with pdfs/ links for recommended reading preloaded.

Won't know more until the course starts but i'm happy with the orientation stuff.

In order to get enrolled on the course you have to pay for the first module which is £650. Once enrolled you get access to the materials, can apply for student card etc. I'm not sure about SFE stuff but it makes sense that finance agencies only pay out once enrolment confirmed. Bit chicken and egg but there you go.

I've enrolled on it as well. Canvas seems good and theres links to a lot of resources for pre course stuff to get you acquainted with Algorithms, Java and fundamentals(how does a computer work, how does the internet work). The resources are a combination of freely available web links and pdfs for books only accessible by authenticating through uni student credentials. Canvas has a pretty nifty Reading List feature with pdfs/ links for recommended reading preloaded.

Won't know more until the course starts but i'm happy with the orientation stuff.

I have enrolled in the 1st module and completed the orientation. Algorithms and Data Structures module will start by teaching about programming (Java) from scratch as the program does not require any prior knowledge about programming and then will move towards algorithms and data structures. This course is like a foundation for the rest of the program. The next module is advanced programming, which will probably focus on programming in depth. You can have a look at the program's website to know the modules that would be offered in the program.

The University has provided resources to better prepare for the programming before it begins, which includes resources about language, Maths and programming skills.

They are using Canvas for online course delivery and It seems OK.

Thanks for your contribution. Please come back and share any feedback once enrolled in Algorithms and Data Structure.

Hey elideli, have you enrolled in that first module to start at the end of April? I think you would also be able to see how it's like at that time right?