Reviewed on Nov 9, 2024(Enrolled 2022)
What Students Say
Likes
- Aston University’s collaborations with various industries are very strong and allow students to get job and internship opportunities.
- Students are also able to enjoy receiving professional feedback on their submission, as well as learning in the field from skilled practitioners making the academic experience more rich and practical.
- Students have sufficiently stocked libraries, among other learning facilities.
Dislikes
- Accommodations near the university or on campus might be costly and could pose a problem for foreign students. This may in turn push students either to cover a longer distance or incur a higher cost of living.
- Upon registering for the MSc Computer Science program, you noticed that elective modules such as AI, Machine Learning, Web Development, and System Design were quite few.
Course Curriculum
4
- The MSc Computer Science curriculum at Aston was moderately challenging and offered a balanced mix of theoretical and practical components.
- Classes typically lasted 3 hours, with 1-2 sessions scheduled per day, usually in the morning or early afternoon. A highlight of my experience was the Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) course.
Admission Experience
- I received admission offers from Aston University, Newcastle University, and Birmingham City University (BCU), although the BCU offer arrived after a considerable wait. Ultimately, I decided to enroll at Aston University. Although Newcastle is a highly regarded, top-tier institution with an excellent reputation, Aston’s program, along with other factors like affordability, better aligned with my academic and financial priorities, leading me to make this choice.
- The affordability of Aston University compared to New Castle University, which was £9000 more, was a key factor in my decision to attend.
- For the application process, I was required to submit two letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a copy of my IELTS score (with a minimum score of 6), and my bachelor’s degree certificates. I received my admission letter within two weeks and found the process smooth and straightforward, with no significant challenges.
- I applied to Aston University for the September 2022 intake, with the tuition fee being the primary factor that influenced my decision. Aston's program offered a more affordable option compared to other universities. The admission process was quick and smooth, taking about two weeks from the time I submitted my application to receiving my official acceptance letter.
Faculty
4
- The DSA faculty’s unique teaching approach made the subject engaging, with lab sessions centered on real-world applications. I particularly enjoyed the assessment project, which involved a COVID-19 kits distribution system, requiring various algorithms for real-life problem-solving. Following the initial submission, we were given an additional challenge with three days to refine the design and functionality based on a new scenario, which significantly enhanced my problem-solving skills.
- While faculty members were supportive academically, Aston’s career services were the primary resource for job search guidance and networking.
- In the MSc Computer Science program at Aston University, the average class size was around 37 students, with approximately 10 Indian students, adding to the course’s diverse environment. The faculty-to-student ratio of about 1:10 allowed for personalized attention and meaningful interactions, enhancing the quality of education.
Campus Life
4
- Aston University operates a single main campus in Birmingham, equipped with facilities like a library, sports arena, and medical services.
- Key events include Aston Fest, where I took part in the reformation of the Malayali Cultural Society. We performed a cultural dance at Aston Fest 2023, celebrating diversity.
- Aston also offers various sports and student clubs, enhancing campus life with diverse extracurricular opportunities.
Part Time Jobs
- Securing on-campus positions like Teaching Assistant (TA), Research Assistant (RA), or Departmental Assistant (DA) at Aston University is highly competitive, with only a limited number of students successfully obtaining these roles each semester. Despite applying, I missed out on a TA position at the last minute. These roles typically pay between £16 to £18 per hour, while other on-campus jobs, such as library or administrative support, offer hourly wages in the range of £11 to £13.
- Students are generally allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during term time. Due to high demand, securing on-campus jobs is extremely challenging, making it essential to apply early and tailor applications to stand out.
- In the UK, students working part-time typically earn between £11.42 to £13 per hour, depending on the job and location. Birmingham, being a large city, offers a range of opportunities, making it relatively easier for students to find part-time jobs, though competition can still be high, especially for on-campus roles.
- The usual process involves searching for jobs through university portals, websites like Indeed, or local job boards, with Aston’s career services providing additional support and resources. Most applications require a CV, and sometimes a cover letter, tailored to the job role, followed by an interview if shortlisted. International students need to show their student visa to confirm eligibility, usually limited to 20 hours per week during term time. This process enables students to gain valuable experience alongside their studies, with university resources available for CV building and application guidance.
Placement
3
- In the MSc Computer Science program at Aston University, securing employment within six months of graduation can be challenging. In my cohort, only one student secured a position within this timeframe.
- Graduates typically expect starting salaries around £30,000 per year. Job search strategies include utilizing online job portals like Indeed and LinkedIn, attending networking events, and leveraging university career.
Accommodation
Off Campus
3
- I secured my accommodation with the help of a friend who was studying at Birmingham City University (BCU), which made the process smooth and hassle-free. My monthly rent was £300, and the accommodation included essential amenities such as a washing machine, gas stove, microwave, oven, refrigerator, and mattress, ensuring a comfortable living experience.
- Based on my experience, I recommend that future students start their accommodation search early, especially if they prefer staying close to campus to minimize commuting time and costs. Many Indian students choose to live in Selly Oak, a popular area with a strong community and convenient amenities. My accommodation was located about 1.5 miles from Aston University, which allowed for an easy commute.
Exams
- For admission to Aston University's MSc program, I submitted my IELTS score (with a minimum requirement of 6.0), two letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, my bachelor’s degree certificates, and a CV.
- The admission process did not involve an interview; the decision was based solely on my academic qualifications and the submitted documents.
Fees
- The tuition fee for my MSc program at Aston University was set at £19,750, with a flexible option to pay in three installments, corresponding to each semester.
- My estimated monthly expenses, which cover essentials such as hostel accommodation, food, travel, internet, and mobile, amount to approximately £650, although this may vary depending on my spending patterns each month.
Scholarship
- I received a £1,000 scholarship at Aston University, which was typical for most of my peers, although one friend received a £2,000 award. I’m not fully aware of the specific distribution of scholarships, but to my knowledge, amounts can go up to £5,000.
- Some special scholarships, like the Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship, even offer up to £17,500, helping to cover a substantial portion of tuition fees.
