Shreyas Deshpande, MSc Advanced Computer Science, 2026, India, Student
“My goal is to use my background in AI and Data Science to help in a practical issue many people are facing: household energy efficiency. The course is helping me build the technical skills and critical analysis needed for this.”
“I was looking for a master’s degree that would build on my bachelor’s in Computer Science.”
Oxford Brookes’ strong reputation and the support from the India Office immediately made it a standout choice. The MSc Advanced Computer Science curriculum aligns with my goals in artificial intelligence, machine learning and data science. I’ve been really impressed by the advanced facilities we have on campus, but what I value even more is the atmosphere here. The staff are incredibly friendly and are always happy to help, and their guidance on my projects has been so helpful for my growth. Furthermore, the University’s location near high-tech firms and science parks makes it the perfect bridge to my professional career.
“I’ve grown to love the culture of curiosity that the staff encourage. “
In my modules like Machine Learning or during my group software project, the lecturers don't just want me to memorise a solution; they constantly encourage me to question everything I learn. At first, it was a bit of a shock compared to the teaching I was used to in India, but it’s really helped me develop my critical analysis skills. This approach has hugely boosted my confidence because I’m not just following instructions anymore. Now, when I work on a project, I’m convinced of what every piece of code means. More importantly, I’m able to explain the reasoning behind my technical choices, which has made me feel much more prepared for my future career.
“My academic advisor has been incredibly supportive.”
I couldn't ask for a better mentor. Moving to a new country to start a master’s is a big step, but having him as my primary point of contact has made everything feel much more manageable. What I appreciate the most is how proactive he is; he conducts regular meetings throughout the semester to check in. He provides really valuable advice on how I can better myself and develop the industry-readiness I’ll need once I graduate. Having someone so prompt and genuinely invested in my professional growth has been one of the highlights of my time here.
“The University is tucked right into a hub of high-tech firms and science parks.”
It makes the transition into the industry feel so much more within reach, especially since I'm aiming for a career in AI and Data Science after I finish the course. The direct connection to the 'real world' really comes through in the feedback I get from my mentors. For instance, the professor who taught me Secure Networking in my first semester is now my dissertation supervisor, and it has been amazing. His insights into my work on financial market analysis are so valuable; he really helps me look at my project through a professional lens and suggests ways to make my research more impactful. Between the advanced facilities on campus and the extra lectures from the Centre for Academic Development (CAD), I feel like I'm gaining very practical experience.
“The International Student Advice Team (ISAT) was such a lifesaver.”
The International Student Advice Team (ISAT) made my transition when moving overseas feel smooth. They helped with everything from the absolute basics, like getting to the university and sorting out a SIM card, to connecting us with tutors during induction week and even giving us a tour of the city. It gave me so much peace of mind during those first few weeks, just knowing there was always someone I could turn to while I was finding my feet. Once I felt a bit more settled, I decided to become the Course Representative for the MSc Advanced Computer Science programme, which turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made. It really helped me break the ice and gave me that initial momentum to connect with both my classmates and my tutors right from the start. I’ve also joined the Cybersecurity Society, which has been a great way to meet people who are just as passionate about the field as I am.
“My goal is to use my background in AI and Data Science to help in managing a practical issue many people are facing: household energy efficiency.”
I’ve always been interested in how data can be used to solve everyday problems, and I’d like to develop a straightforward, predictive tool that helps families understand their energy usage patterns to help lower their bills. The course is helping me build the technical skills and critical analysis needed for this. It means that when I build something, I’m ensuring the system is reliable and that I understand exactly how it works for the people using it.