Explore the world of computational game theory, where computer science and economics collide, and receive a grounding in algorithmic techniques and optimisation methods and models on this MSc. You’ll develop a toolkit of analytical skills and have opportunities to specialise in areas such as microeconomics, e-commerce and data mining.
Introduction
This MSc immerses you in theoretical computer science, with a particular focus on computational game theory, where computer science and economics intersect. This is an area of rapid growth where skilled professionals are in high demand.
You’ll receive a comprehensive introduction to computational game theory and focus on algorithmic aspects of game theory in depth. Exploring the computational aspects of the design of mechanisms and auctions, you’ll also examine optimisation methods and their application to various optimisation models.
Optional modules include opportunities to work with large datasets, specialise in the design and analysis of algorithms, discover the essentials of microeconomic theory, or investigate e-commerce technologies.
We’ll prepare you for an independent research project, where you’ll plan and conduct research and analyse your findings, by equipping you with all the skills you’ll need to conduct research in computer science.
Based in the Department of Computer Science, you’ll learn from leading academic experts and find a culture of research excellence with close links to industry. We’ll augment and enrich your knowledge with specialist analytical tools and develop your ability to identify and execute creative solutions to practical problems.
Who is this course for?
This programme is aimed principally at graduates who either plan to become high-profile professionals working in the IT industry or those who plan to continue to a research degree in this cutting-edge research area. This programme may also be appropriate for those professionals who are already in IT-related employment and wish to broaden and deepen their knowledge.
What you'll learn
An understanding of the notion of a game, its solutions, concepts and applications
Algorithmic aspects of game theory
How computational game theory, computer science and economics intersect
Contemporary application of algorithmic paradigms
How to model continuous and discrete optimisation problems
Key research methods in computer science
How to design and analyse advanced discrete algorithms
Essentials of microeconomic theory
An understanding of all aspects of software safety and dependability
Research issues in data mining
Privacy, security, encryption and other technologies behind e-commerce
Accreditation
Please note that this course is pending accreditation by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Semester one
Compulsory modules
Introduction to Computational Game Theory (COMP323)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module is an introduction to the area of algorithmic game theory, which is a novel area in the intersection of economics and computer science. It provides tools for dealing with and analysing problems related to applications motivated by the Internet. Examples involve various Internet auctions and e-commerce systems, like, Google’s sponsored search, Ebay auctions, recommendation systems, etc.
Optimisation (COMP557)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module is an in-depth tour over optimisation methods applied for various optimisation models. These methods are extensively used in both academic and industrial practices.
Research Methods in Computer Science (COMP516)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
In this module the students will learn and practise all the necessary skills needed to conduct independent research in computer science, including literature search, project management, presentation techniques, peer reviewing, writing skills and critical review of texts. They will also learn about the professional, legal, social and ethical framework of the IT industry. The module covers, e.g., planning and scheduling projects and drawing Gantt charts. Students shall also conduct a research project (including research, paper, literature review, or MSc project proposal, …) and use tools like EndNote and Zotero bibliography manager within MS Word and Latex.
Optional modules
Efficient Algorithms (COMP526)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
Masters module on practical algorithms and data structures for large datasets.
Knowledge Representation (COMP521)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The module introduces formalisms to reason about knowledge and information. One such formalism is epistemic logic, where one can explicitly represent of what an agent (robot, human, system) knows about the world or about others, as in "I have sent a message, how do I know that it has been received, and that the receiver knows I know this?"
Microeconomic Analysis (ECON915)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module aims to provide an understanding of the essentials of microeconomic theory. This includes understanding what is meant by rational choice and how it can be used to predict what choices agents will make in different contexts. Students will also understand how markets work and what causes markets to fail.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Semester two
Compulsory modules
Algorithmic Game Theory (COMP559)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module focuses on algorithmic aspects of game theory. A main focus of this module is on the computational aspects in the design of mechanisms and auctions. as part of the module, the students learn about Googles sponsored serarch auctions, which is one of the most successful targeted advertising systems today.
Optional modules
Advanced Algorithmic Techniques (COMP523)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module aims to teach basic algorithmic methods for design and analysis of algorithms.
Advances in Theoretical Computer Science (COMP555)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module equips students to work at the cutting edge of research in a selected topic in theoretical computer science. Students work with primary research literature to summarize and contextualize results in an area of their choice. They will further practice to present and explain research-level results in theoretical computer science to computer scientists outside of the specific subfield.
Computational Intelligence (COMP575)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
Biologically inspired optimisation and introduction to neural networks for artificial intelligence.
Data Mining and Visualisation (COMP527)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The module covers a range of topics and techniques for analyzing data. Students will learn about different types of data mining problems, including classification, clustering, association pattern mining, and social network analysis, as well as algorithms to solve them.
Students will program selected data mining algorithms from scratch using Python. This hands-on approach will allow them to gain a deeper understanding of how the algorithms work and how they can be applied to real-world datasets. They will experiment with different datasets to see how the algorithms perform and learn how to interpret the results.
Multi-Agent Systems (COMP310)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
Multi-agent systems have emerged as one of the most important areas of research and development in information technology in the 1990s. A multi-agent system is one composed of multiple interacting software components known as agents, which are typically capable of co-operating to solve problems that are beyond the abilities of any individual member. Multi-agent systems are important primarily because they have been found to have very wide applicability, in areas as diverse as industrial process control and electronic commerce. This module will begin by introducing the student to the notion of an agent, and will lead them to an understanding of what an agent is, how they can be constructed, and how agents can be made to co-operate effectively with one another to solve problems.
Safety and Dependability (COMP524)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
Safety and Dependability will cover techniques for the validation of systems against formal specifications. In a first part, safety specifications (something bad never happens) using the Hoare calculus and safe abstraction are covered. A second part refers to termination (something good eventually happens), exploiting well foundedness. In a third part, Markov chains and decision processes are studied, extending the qualitative safety and termination problems from the first part to qualitative/probabilistic properties, and extending them to a simple probabilistic specification language, PCTL. As part of the module, the ability of formulating (probabilistic) models as Markov chains and decision processes are taught, as well as the use of of-the-shelf tools like PRISM or IscasMC for their analysis.
Cloud Computing for E-Commerce (COMP315)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module will provide an introduction to cloud computing. It will cover physical cloud infrastructure (data-centres, networks and servers), and the software stacks that run on it (containers, micro-services, orchestration and web frameworks).
During the course, students will assemble their own cloud-based application, which will be a webpage with a scalable micro-service-based backend.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Final project
Compulsory modules
MSc Project (COMP702)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: summer
Masters Level final project (individual project with dissertation)
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
Teaching on this programme comprises formal lectures, small group tutorials and practical sessions in computer laboratories. You will also take part in one or more group projects. At the end of the year, you’ll complete a major individual research project under expert supervision.
How you're assessed
Modules are assessed through a combination of examinations and coursework. The examinations take place at the end of each semester and typically take the form of an in-person written assignment, usually to be completed in a couple of hours. You’ll be assigned coursework across the length of each semester. This typically takes the form of class tests, programming assignments or small projects.
Your dissertation is assessed through a combination of written reports and a presentation of your achievements.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
The Department of Computer Science is housed in a grade II listed building which has been extensively refurbished for 21st century needs and challenges and provides state-of-the art equipment and high-speed communication links.
A tour of the Computer Science department and facilities
Dr Terry Payne talks you through what you can expect studying Computer Science at the University of Liverpool and shows you some of the facilities and equipment you will be using.
Virtual tour
Supporting your learning
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
Careers and employability support, including help with career planning, understanding the job market and strengthening your networking skills
A dedicated student services team can help you get assistance with your studies, help with health and wellbeing, and access to financial advice
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
An exciting place to study Computer Science
You will be taught by some of the best researchers in the field. In the most recent Research Excellence Framework, the research output of our department was ranked 5th in the UK. This research expertise shows through in our teaching
We teach in state-of-the-art PC and Mac laboratories running a variety of different operating systems, as well as iOS and Android tablets to encourage creativity and innovation within a stimulating environment in which to work and study
Our programmes are continually updated to reflect new technologies and trends.
A day in the life of Computer Science student Shania
Careers and employability
This MSc equips you with an in-depth understanding of theoretical computer science. There is particular focus on computational game theory, a subject at the intersection of computer science and economics, which has seen a rapid growth in recent years. There is a significant skills shortage in this area and high demand for skilled professionals.
Whether you’re a recent graduate seeking a career in the IT industry, plan to continue your studies and pursue a research degree, or you’re already an IT professional in related employment, this programme will enhance your knowledge and immerse you in current developments.
We’ll prepare you for senior technical and managerial positions in the profession, as well as providing a strong foundation for potential PhD research.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
Previous graduates have progressed into a variety of roles which include:
IT consultant
Enterprise risk consultant
Network optimisation engineer
Data analyst
Information analyst
Business analyst
IT implementation and support analyst
Customer service adviser
Software developer
Software engineer
Sales and marketing
Search engine optimisation (SEO) specialist.
Many of our graduates also choose to continue their studies and embark on PhD research.
87% of Computer Science students find their main activity after graduation meaningful.
Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£13,300
Part-time place, per year
£6,650
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£30,800
Part-time place, per year
£15,400
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
You will normally need a 2:1 honours degree, or above, or equivalent. This degree should be in a subject area closely related to computer science.
We are able to offer a level of flexibility for applicants. Those with a 2:2 honours degree will be considered on an individual basis.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, you could be eligible for a Pre-Master’s course. This is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. It’s a specialist preparation course for postgraduate study, and when you pass the Pre-Master’s at the required level with good attendance, you’re guaranteed entry to a University of Liverpool master’s degree.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5
TOEFL iBT
88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
120 overall, with no component below 95
Pearson PTE Academic
61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic
70 overall, with no skill below 60
PSI Skills for English
B2 Pass with Merit overall and no band below B2 Pass
INDIA Standard XII
National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC
C6 or above
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
