Advance your computing career with this flexible postgraduate diploma. Choose a broad route or specialise in software engineering, building advanced knowledge, skills and techniques. You’ll explore software systems, data management, cyber security, and innovation management, and develop a professional mindset to apply computing in real-world contexts. Designed for computing practitioners or graduates wanting to shift into IT leadership, this qualification prepares you for senior roles or further study. Transferable skills in analysis, strategy and project execution help you draw on your experience and drive your career forward.
Code
E81
Course type
Postgraduate Diploma
Level
Postgraduate
Credits
120
Length
Part-time – 2 years
Start dates
May 2027
November 2027
Study method
Distance learning
Choose a study route that fits your professional needs and interests
Draw on your background and experience
Develop transferable skills applicable to employment and continuing professional development
Top up to the MSc in Computing in just one more year
This postgraduate diploma is the same as the first two-thirds of our MSc in Computing (F66).
Code
E81
Course type
Postgraduate Diploma
Level
Postgraduate
Credits
120
Length
Part-time – 2 years
Start dates
May 2027
November 2027
Study method
Distance learning
Modules (120 credits)
You’ll choose one of two routes:
Broad route
Software Engineering route
Broad route
To gain this qualification, you need 120 credits. You'll choose two 30-credit core computing modules and two 30-credit option modules.
Modules
Credits
Next start
You'll choose two from:
Information security (M811)
Explore the professional and technical skills to understand, document, manage and implement strategic and operational aspects of information security.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Digital forensics (M812)
Cover the history of forensics, criminal and criminal digital law, digital investigation techniques for desktop and mobile devices and forensic readiness.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Software development (M813)
Gain the fundamental knowledge, understanding, and analysis and synthesis skills needed to develop software artefacts for a real-world organisational context.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Software engineering (M814)
Explore advanced concepts and techniques used through the software lifecycle to effectively produce and manage large, complex, and long-lived software systems.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Project management (M815)
This APM-accredited module is for aspiring and practising project managers who wish to develop their knowledge and skills in managing technological projects.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Data management (M816)
Discover data management principles, practices and technologies to develop policies, procedures and systems that control and protect organisational data assets.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
You'll choose another two modules from above and/or from the following:
Systems security (M817)
Learn how to apply a threat modelling approach to help design and implement secure system architectures, one of the essential technical areas of cybersecurity.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Network security (T828)
This module includes Cisco CCNA Security and Cyber Security Operations, which explore information systems security management and secure Internetworked systems.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849)
Draw on theoretical perspectives from strategic and innovation management to produce a multi-layered, practical approach to technological innovation management.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Technology and innovation management (TB801)
Examine innovation from a management perspective, and develop an understanding of how to contribute to the process and management of technological innovation.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Making strategy with systems thinking in practice (TB871)
Build your capability for making strategy within your own chosen area of (professional) practice using ideas and tools from five traditions of systems thinking.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Managing change with systems thinking in practice (TB872)
This module is about effecting systemic and systematic change in uncertain and complex situations, change that can transform situations for the better.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Subject to regulations, if you’ve passed the discontinued module U810, you may count this module.
Software Engineering route
To gain this qualification, you need 120 credits. You'll study two compulsory 30-credit modules and choose two 30-credit option modules.
Modules
Credits
Next start
You'll study both of the following:
Software development (M813)
Gain the fundamental knowledge, understanding, and analysis and synthesis skills needed to develop software artefacts for a real-world organisational context.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Software engineering (M814)
Explore advanced concepts and techniques used through the software lifecycle to effectively produce and manage large, complex, and long-lived software systems.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
You'll choose two from:
Information security (M811)
Explore the professional and technical skills to understand, document, manage and implement strategic and operational aspects of information security.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Digital forensics (M812)
Cover the history of forensics, criminal and criminal digital law, digital investigation techniques for desktop and mobile devices and forensic readiness.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Project management (M815)
This APM-accredited module is for aspiring and practising project managers who wish to develop their knowledge and skills in managing technological projects.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Data management (M816)
Discover data management principles, practices and technologies to develop policies, procedures and systems that control and protect organisational data assets.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Systems security (M817)
Learn how to apply a threat modelling approach to help design and implement secure system architectures, one of the essential technical areas of cybersecurity.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Network security (T828)
This module includes Cisco CCNA Security and Cyber Security Operations, which explore information systems security management and secure Internetworked systems.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849)
Draw on theoretical perspectives from strategic and innovation management to produce a multi-layered, practical approach to technological innovation management.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Technology and innovation management (TB801)
Examine innovation from a management perspective, and develop an understanding of how to contribute to the process and management of technological innovation.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Making strategy with systems thinking in practice (TB871)
Build your capability for making strategy within your own chosen area of (professional) practice using ideas and tools from five traditions of systems thinking.
Next start date: 01 May 2027
See full description
30
01 May 2027
Managing change with systems thinking in practice (TB872)
This module is about effecting systemic and systematic change in uncertain and complex situations, change that can transform situations for the better.
Next start date: 01 Nov 2027
See full description
30
01 Nov 2027
Subject to regulations, if you’ve passed the discontinued module U810, you may count this module.
What you'll learn and the skills you'll gain
By studying the Postgraduate Diploma in Computing, you’ll:
Develop advanced computing expertise – Gain wide-ranging knowledge of tools, techniques, systems and development practices, and understand how theory and practical constraints guide effective application.
Analyse complex computing problems – Work systematically and creatively with appropriate tools to address technical challenges.
Strengthen professional capability – Recognise innovation opportunities, evaluate developments in computing and apply ethical, legal and social considerations responsibly.
Enhance key postgraduate skills – Communicate with technical and non-technical audiences, make informed decisions and manage your own professional development.
You’ll study through tutor-supported online learning, practical activities and specialist digital resources.
Awarded qualification
You’ll be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Computing upon successful completion. You’ll be entitled to use the letters PG Dip Comp (Open) after your name.
If you complete the specialist software engineering route, your diploma title will show that in brackets:
Postgraduate Diploma in Computing (Software Engineering)
Your postgraduate diploma may be awarded with a distinction or a merit. The qualification regulations explain the criteria you’ll need to meet to earn one of these classifications.
International recognition
If you plan to work or study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether this qualification meets local requirements. Find out more about the international recognition of Open University qualifications.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
Postgraduate Diploma in Computing
We regularly review our curriculum to keep it up to date. This means the structure, availability, and content of the course or modules may change. We’ll update this page as soon as possible if there are any changes. If you have already registered for this qualification, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes where practicable. For more details, see our Academic Regulations or contact us.
You’ll study the Postgraduate Diploma in Computing part-time, completing 60 credits per year over a two-year period. Typically, this translates to 16–20 hours of study per week.
The recommended hours include time to work through that week’s online study planner, complete recommended reading, and attend tutorials.
Some students may choose to study more than 60 credits a year by taking two modules at the same time over a six-month period. This would usually mean around 30 hours of study per week. Postgraduate study is demanding, and each module requires sustained focus, careful reading, and a greater level of precision and depth than undergraduate study. This guidance is designed to help you make an informed decision about whether a faster study pace is right for you, taking into account your work and personal commitments, as well as your confidence with postgraduate-level study.
You must complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Computing within four years.
Supporting you every step of the way
At the OU, flexibility and support go hand in hand. You’ll be in control of when and where you study, with clear deadlines to guide your progress. Whether you’re balancing work, family or other commitments, our approach helps you fit learning into your life. Students consistently praise the support we provide, and from the very start, you’ll be part of a vibrant OU learning community.
As you progress through your qualification, you’ll have access to a dedicated online study space, expert tutor guidance, optional live tutorials, and a wide range of resources to help you succeed. The sections below outline what you can expect.
Manage your studies on the module website
Your module website will be a central hub for your learning, giving you easy access to:
a weekly study planner, along with course materials like readings, videos, recordings, and self-assessed activities
module discussion forums and collaborative activities to connect with other learners
a clear overview of assignments and due dates
tools to book tutorials, access online tutorial rooms, and contact your tutor.
Discover how the OU’s module websites, course materials, and support tools help you study online with confidence.
Dedicated tutor support
Each module has a dedicated tutor who will guide you through your studies. They’ll provide feedback, help you find resources, mark your assignments and support your learning journey.
Live online tutorials
For extra support, you can attend optional live tutorials with your tutor. These are usually conducted online, and most are recorded so you can review them later.
See how OU tutors and tutorials help you build confidence, connect with others, and get the support you need to succeed in your studies.
How your learning is assessed
Our assessments reinforce what you’ve learned and show your understanding. Assessment types vary by module and may include:
Computer-Marked Assignments – often multiple-choice questions completed online.
Tutor-Marked Assignments – tasks like essays, questions, experiments, or other activities. You’ll submit them by a set deadline and receive detailed feedback from your tutor.
End-of-Module Assessments – These are the final marked assignments for most modules. Modules with an end-of-module assessment usually don’t have an exam.
Exams – Some modules have exams you will sit remotely. However, we regularly review the assessments in our modules, so we may update the examination methods used in this qualification to include in-person exams or online invigilated exams.
If you have a disability or additional need
The Open University provides advice and guidance to help students who have disabilities, long-term health conditions, specific learning difficulties or mental health difficulties.
We can offer information about accessibility and ways to help you engage with your studies.
Some study materials and activities may present particular accessibility challenges, depending on your needs.
Support options vary, and in some cases, you may be eligible to apply for the UK Government’s Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) for additional help.
Contact us as early as possible for advice about what support may be available.
For more information, visit our Disability support page.
Discover how the OU’s Disability Support Team helps students with advice, adjustments and resources.
Other support and resources
Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to a wide range of support services and be part of a vibrant learning community. Our subject-specific Student Support Teams can help with general queries and any updates to your OU account. You’ll also benefit from:
access to the OU’s extensive online library, filled with study resources
the ability to use other university libraries across the UK and Ireland
the online Help Centre, offering study tips and support
free access to Microsoft Office 365 software
IT support through our Computing Helpdesk
the chance to connect with the OU community.
Discover the support network and learning tools you'll have access to throughout your studies.
Entry requirements for this course
There are no entry requirements for this qualification.
Although this qualification has no entry requirements, we recommend you have:
a UK honours degree (or equivalent) in a computing discipline or relevant industry experience
minimum IELTS (International English Language Testing System) scores of
Reading: 5.5
Writing: 5.5
Speaking: 5.5
Listening: 5.5
Overall: 6.0.
Our free course, Succeeding in postgraduate study, helps you develop the skills and confidence to manage the requirements and demands of postgraduate study.
Have you studied before?
If you’ve studied at university level before, you may be able to transfer the academic credit you've been awarded towards an OU qualification. This could save you time and money by reducing the modules you need to study.
You should apply to transfer credit before registering, at least four weeks before the registration closing date. We will need to know what you studied, where, and when, and you will need to provide evidence of your previous study.
For more details and to download an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.
The fees and the funding information shown below relate to the 2026/27 academic year.
Modules starting in the 2027/28 academic year are open for pre-booking, which means you can reserve your place ahead of the fees being confirmed.
We’ll publish updated 2027/28 fees and funding information in March 2027.
Tuition fee in England
You’ll pay for your qualification one module at a time, rather than the full cost upfront. The fee for each module is listed in its description.
Total fee for qualification at current prices
£7,460*
What's included?
Your module materials, tuition, assessment and exams are all included in our module fees.
There are some additional costs that aren’t included.
You’ll need your own computer and internet access.
Further information is available in the module descriptions.
*The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. For further information about the University's fee policy, visit our Fee Rules.
What are my funding options?
Learn more about spreading the costs with monthly instalments and our other funding options below.
Open University Budget Account
Lets you spread the cost of your studies with monthly instalments.
No upfront payment needed – OUSBA pays your fees to the OU on your behalf.
Pay in full before your module starts and pay no interest.
Or repay in instalments at a low fixed interest rate.
You can apply jointly with a third party if needed.
Card payments
Pay for each module with a debit or credit card in one quick, simple payment.
Employer sponsorship
More than 1 in 10 OU students are sponsored by their employer.
Bank transfers and mixed payments
We’ll show you how you can pay by bank transfer or combine payment methods.
Additional support
You may be eligible for:
help with funding a postgraduate qualification if you're an OU honours graduate looking to build on your first degree
help with study-related costs like set books and internet access
a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) to cover study support costs if you have a disability. It’s not means-tested, and there’s no age limit
support from our Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship Fund for a full Open University qualification if your disability is a result of being injured in, or due to, military service.
Career relevance
The modules in the postgraduate computing programme are for professional computer specialists, engineers, technical managers and scientists who need to update their skills and knowledge in specific areas, and gain recognised qualifications to develop their careers.
The modules have been developed to combine theoretical and practical aspects of computing, to enable you to become an effective professional in the computing industry. Also, they encourage you, through the provision of appropriate educational activities, to develop study and transferable skills applicable to your employment and your continuing professional development.
Exploring your options
Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you'll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice, including: online forums, a website, interview simulation and vacancy service, as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.
How to apply
Select the module you will study first, read the full description, and follow the instructions to register.
Need more information?
Ask a question
Request your prospectus
Our prospectuses help you choose your course, understand what it's like to be an OU student and register for study.
Request a prospectus
How to apply
Select the module you will study first, read the full description, and follow the instructions to register.
