Computer science is an interdisciplinary field that combines the theory, design, development, and application of computer software and hardware. Universities in the UK offer some of the best computer science programmes in the world, attracting students from all over the globe. The country also has a strong tradition in computer science, with many pioneers in the field coming from the UK, such as Alan Turing and Tim Berners-Lee.
The curriculum for computer science courses in the UK is rigorous and diverse. Students are taught a range of subjects, including programming, algorithms, software engineering, computer architecture, databases, and machine learning. Graduates of computer science courses in the UK have excellent career prospects. According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency, over 90% of computer science graduates in the UK are in employment or further study six months after graduation, with an average starting salary of £26,000-£28,000.
With a strong history in computer science, world-renowned universities, and excellent career prospects, the UK is a top destination for computer science students worldwide.
The typical duration for computer science degrees in the UK is three years, although some may offer placement schemes that extend the course to four years. Postgraduate degrees in computer science in the UK usually require one year of full-time study without placement.
The tuition fees for studying computer science in the UK can range from £12,500 to £44,000 per academic year, with factors such as location, ranking, and global reputation influencing the cost. Below are the top five computer science programmes in the UK and their corresponding international fees.
| University | Course | International Fees |
|---|---|---|
|
University of Cambridge |
£37,293 |
|
|
University of Oxford |
£44,240 |
|
|
University of St Andrews |
£28,190 |
|
|
Imperial College London |
£37,900 |
|
|
University of Edinburgh |
£32,200 |
A bachelor's degree in computer science aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the field's principles, theories, and practical applications. The programme typically takes 3-4 years to complete, depending on the institution and the country of study
The curriculum for a bachelor of computer science in the UK typically covers a broad range of computer science and programming topics, providing students with a strong foundation in theoretical concepts and practical skills. The curriculum is designed to equip graduates with the knowledge and expertise they need to succeed in various careers in the tech industry, as well as in research and academia.
Here is an overview of some of the key topics that are typically covered in a BSc CS curriculum in the UK:
In addition to these core topics, students may also have the opportunity to specialise in specific areas of computer science, such as web development, mobile app development, data science, or cybersecurity.
Graduates with a Bachelor of Computer Science (BSc CS) degree from a UK university are highly sought after by employers in various industries. Here are some of the most common career paths that BSc CS graduates pursue:
A Master's in Computer Science is a postgraduate academic degree program that focuses on the advanced study of computer science and its applications. This degree is designed to build on the foundations laid in undergraduate studies.
The curriculum for a Master's in Computer Science typically involves a combination of theoretical and practical coursework. It covers a broad range of topics, including advanced programming techniques, programming languages and frameworks such as C++, Java, Python, and JavaScript, and software development methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, and DevOps.
Master's in Computer Science prepares students for various high-paying career opportunities in the tech industry. Some may choose to work in academia or research institutions, while others may pursue entrepreneurial ventures. Common job roles include:
PhD in Computer Science is a research-focused doctoral degree program that emphasises advanced study of computer science theories and practices. This degree program is designed for students who have already earned a bachelor's and/or master's degree in computer science or a related field and want to pursue a career in research, academia or industry.
Computer science graduates in the UK have access to various career options across numerous industries, such as software development, data science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and beyond. Of those who have secured employment 15 months following graduation, 62% work in IT-related roles, while the remaining 38% are employed in various other fields.
Among the top ten jobs held by these graduates are information technology technicians (7%) and web and multimedia design professionals (1%).
According to the 2025 Guardian University Guide Computer Science subject rankings, the following five universities have the highest percentage of graduates who find graduate-level jobs or are in further study at a professional or higher education level within 15 months of graduation.
Please note that entry requirements for computer science degrees vary at each UK university, but generally, students will need the following:
To learn more about the best computer science colleges in the UK, find details on the top ten ranking Computer Science and Information Systems universities in the Guardian University Guide 2025 below:
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No, taking Computer Studies or Information Technology at A-level is not mandatory to pursue a computer science degree in the UK. However, having a strong foundation in mathematics and a keen interest in computer science is highly recommended. Additionally, some universities may have specific entry requirements or preferences, so it is advisable to check with the institutions you are interested in attending to see if they have any specific requirements or recommendations for A-level subjects.
Most universities in the UK offer computer science degree programs that start in September or October each year. Some universities may also offer January or February start dates for certain programs, but these are less common. Typically, applications are accepted from the previous autumn, and the deadline is around January 15th of the year that you plan to start the program.
In the UK, a Master's in Computer Science degree usually takes one year of full-time study. Some universities may offer a part-time option, typically two years, which would take longer to complete. However, the duration of the program can vary depending on the institution, the specific program, and the mode of study (full-time, part-time, or online). It's important to check the program details for the specific university you're interested in attending to determine the exact length of time required to complete the degree.
Yes, studying computer science in the UK without a programming background is possible. Many universities in the UK offer introductory courses that assume no prior programming experience, allowing students to learn the basics of programming and gradually build their skills.
In the UK, how students interact on a computer science course can vary depending on the university and program. However, some common interaction methods include lectures, tutorials, practical lab sessions, group projects and online forums.
The requirements to study computer science in the UK can vary depending on the level of study and the specific university or college you're applying to. However, most institutions will ask for academic qualifications, English language proficiency, a personal statement and letters of recommendation. Some universities may require you to attend an interview as part of the application process.
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