This unique programme provides training from world-leading experts in the interconnected fields of computer graphics, geometry processing, virtual reality, machine vision and imaging technology.
About this programme
Used in everything from games and movies to autonomous driving, computer graphics, vision and imaging is a stimulating and relevant niche of computer science.
Gaining crucial skills in this field – taught by world-leading experts in both research and industry practice – is an incredible way to become career-ready for the world of computer graphics, special effects and many other areas.
On this programme, you will learn from leading experts with an outstanding reputation in the field, most notably in computer graphics, geometry processing, computer vision and virtual environments.
The syllabus provides a core grounding in machine vision, image processing, computer graphics and machine learning for visual computing. Optional modules also allow you to gain specialist skills, such as robot vision and navigation, virtual environments, or computational modelling for biomedical imaging.
Why study this programme?
This programme offers you the following benefits and opportunities.
- Recognition from a top-ranked university: UCL is consistently ranked among the best universities globally (ranked 9th in the QS World University Rankings 2025), providing you with a prestigious qualification that is highly regarded by employers worldwide.
- High-quality education from leading experts: Learn from world-renowned academics who are at the forefront of computer science innovation. UCL Computer Science is recognised for its research excellence, ranked first in England and second in the UK for research power in Computer Science and Informatics in the UK's most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).
- Real-world experience through project work: Apply your knowledge and skills in practical settings with a substantial research or engineering project. Many of these projects are conducted in collaboration with industry partners, giving you valuable hands-on experience and industry insights.
- Strong employability with high employment rates and starting salaries: Our graduates are highly sought after in the job market, thanks to UCL's strong reputation and the practical, industry-focused skills gained during the programme. You'll be well-prepared to enter a variety of high-demand roles in computer graphics, vision or imaging.
- State-of-the-art facilities: Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, both for learning and for project work. This includes 3D scanners and prototypes, virtual reality tools, and robotics.
- Cutting-edge research: Our research activities include geometric acquisition and 3D fabrication, real-time photo-realistic rendering, mixed and augmented reality, facial recognition, content-based image-database search, video-texture modelling, depth perception in stereo vision, colour imaging for industrial inspection, mapping brain function and connectivity and tracking for SLAM (simultaneous localisation and mapping).
- Unique blend of subjects: This programme brings together a unique blend of subjects, creating comprehensive practitioners in visual fields. Many lecturers on the programme team also have industry experience in the field, giving you a greater grasp of the practical application of the skills you learn.
Modules
Compulsory modules
- Machine Vision
- Image Processing
- Computer Graphics
- Machine Learning for Visual Computing
- MSc Computer Graphics, Vision and Imaging Project
Optional modules may include:
- Virtual Environments
- Inverse Problems in Imaging
- Computational Modelling for Biomedical Imaging
- Acquisition and Processing of 3D Geometry
- Perception and Interfaces
- Auditory Computing
Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment, and module content and availability are subject to change.
Who is the programme for?
Entry requirements
This programme is for you if:
- you have a minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor's degree (or international qualification of an equivalent standard) in a relevant subject such as computer science, mathematics, electrical engineering, or physical sciences;
- you have suitable mathematics and computer programming skills.
- you want to develop the skills necessary for a career in computer graphics, 3D acquisition and fabrication, medical imaging, robotics, special effects in games and film, computer vision, image and video databases and many related applications.
Employability
The programme prepares you to enter a visual computing-related industry, as well as positions in any other sector requiring a solid engineering background.
Graduates will acquire the skills to deliver scalable solutions to complex problems involving the generation as well as the machine understanding of visual data. Particular sectors include interactive applications like (3D) computer games, (VR) simulation for healthcare or education and image understanding in automation, automotive industries and 3D recognition.
Career destinations
Alumni have been employed at global companies such as Disney, Sony, and Siemens, whilst others have pursued further study or a career in academia.
Register below to receive further information about this programme