Meet MSc Computer Science graduate Natália Bednárová
- Written byStéphanie Malm
- Published date 13 November 2025
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Natália Bednárová, graduated from MSc Computer Science at UAL Creative Computing Institute (CCI). We caught up with her and spoke about what made her decide to study a Master's in computer science being from a creative background, the technical skills she developed and more.
Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your background?
My name is Natália Bednárová, I'm a creative technologist and developer, and recently graduated in MSc Computer Science at UAL Creative Computing Institute. My background is in the arts with a undergraduate degree in in Animation and Graphic Design. My work focuses on the intersection of real-time graphics, computer vision, and interactive design, where I enjoy developing aesthetically driven experiences.
What made you choose to study MSc Computer Science at UAL’s Creative Computing Institute?
Coming from a creative background, I was specifically looking for a Master's program that offered rigorous technical depth but didn't sacrifice creative application. The Creative Computing Institute at UAL was the perfect fit for this. Its approach is a refreshing contrast to more traditional computer science courses, as it emphasises practical, industry-focused projects that prepare students for careers in the creative technology sector and beyond.
How did studying help you develop your creative practice further?
The course was instrumental in developing my practice by balancing deeply technical units with creative, project-based work. This hands-on learning was significantly enhanced by the access to an incredible range of physical computing resources. It allowed me to experiment with everything from VR development, 3D printing, and laser cutting to embroidery and knitting machines, directly expanding the tools and mediums available for my creative expression.
What was your favourite project you've worked on while studying?
My favourite project was my thesis, "The Persistence of Presence: Capturing the Echoes of Human Motion," which resulted in an artifact I call "StarDust". The project involved creating a full pipeline to capture and visualise immersive 3D memories using just a single mobile device. It fuses environmental scans, video, and depth data into an interactive, ethereal "walking memory". I particularly enjoyed creating the non-photorealistic aesthetic that artistically explores themes of digital presence and memory. The final result visualises a person's movement as a ghostly particle trail within a stylised reconstruction of the room.
How has the course helped you to grow personally and professionally so far?
Professionally, the course’s focus on practical, industry-relevant projects has directly prepared me for my goal of pursuing a career in the creative technology sector. I've developed concrete skills in building immersive Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality applications, and data processing pipelines with Python. Personally, the small cohort size created a uniquely collaborative and adaptable learning environment. The curriculum often felt tailored to our needs and the lecturers were very responsive to feedback, which fostered a supportive atmosphere for my personal growth.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about studying MSc Computer Science at UAL?
My advice would be to embrace the unique blend of technical rigour and creative freedom the course offers. It is an ideal environment if you are coming from a creative background and want to build strong technical skills without losing sight of artistic application I would strongly encourage new students to take full advantage of the hands-on learning opportunities, as well as the support from the amazing multi-disciplinary technicians and physical computing resources available.