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The UK has some of the best universities in the world and is renowned for its excellence in research within Computer Science, making it an ideal destination for international students.
In this article we look at ten of the best universities for the study of Computer Science, including their programmes, their fees and their current rankings for the subject area.
Table of Contents
Why Study Computer Science at Universities in the UK?
10. Queen Mary University of London
Why Study Computer Science at Universities in the UK?
In today's ever-evolving technological age, Computer Science has proven to be a highly sought-after field. The United Kingdom has a long history of innovation in Computer Science, with the introduction of the first modern computer at the University of Manchester, and the world's first computer science degree program at the University of Cambridge in 1962.
There are currently over 2,000 Computer Science courses at close to 200 universities. Wherever you decide to study, you’ll find a wide range of versatile courses spanning every aspect of the discipline, from information systems to software engineering, artificial intelligence and health informatics.
Gaining a Computer Science degree from a British university is a great way to make sure you stand out from the crowd in the buoyant yet competitive global jobs market.
1.University of Oxford
The University of Oxford holds the top spot in the Times Higher Education world subject rankings, making it the number one university for Computer Science globally.
With a rich history and a reputation for excellence, the University of Oxford's Computer Science department, formerly known as the Oxford University Computing Laboratory, is a hub of world-class research and teaching. Embracing both tradition and innovation, this institution offers a truly exceptional educational experience.
Image source:University of Oxford
The Department of Computer Science prides itself in offering a diverse range of courses. Students can pursue undergraduate degrees in Computer Science or a joint degree in Maths and Computer Science. At the graduate level, master's degrees are available in Computer Science and Mathematics and Foundations of Computer Science. For those seeking professional development, part-time postgraduate qualifications in Software Engineering are also offered.
Location
Oxford, Oxfordshire (Central UK)
Tuition and fees
Tuition and fees for the University of Oxford for 2024-25 are:
- UK: £9,250
- Overseas: £48,620
2.University of Cambridge
Ranked 3rd in the Times and Sunday Times UK Good University Guide and 7th in the Times Higher Education world rankings for Computer Science, the University of Cambridge is truly at the forefront of education in this sector.
Image source: University of Cambridge
As the first university in the UK to offer a Computer Science degree, Cambridge has been a pioneer in the field from the beginning. Today, it continues to lead the way in shaping the future of Computer Science education.
One of the key advantages of studying Computer Science at Cambridge is its close proximity to Silicon Fen, or the 'Cambridge Cluster'; the name given to the region around Cambridge which is home to a large number of high tech businesses focused on software, electronics, and biotechnology.
These companies often collaborate with the University of Cambridge, enhancing the quality of teaching and providing students with valuable employment opportunities
Image source: Photo by Julius Dūdėnas on Unsplash
Location
Cambridge, Cambridgeshire (Central England)
Tuition and fees
Tuition and fees for the University of Cambridge for 2024-25 are:
- UK: £9,250
- International: £39,162
3.Imperial College London
Another of the prestigious Russell Group universities (along with Oxford and Cambridge), Imperial College London is renowned for its outstanding teaching and innovative research in the field of Computer Science. It is currently ranked 2nd for Computer Science in the UK by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide, and recognised as the 8th best globally in the Times Higher Education world university rankings.
Image source: Imperial College London
At Imperial, prospective students have a choice of 10 specialised Computer Science courses, available up to Masters level. These courses encompass a wide range of subjects, including computing with management and finance, software engineering, security and reliability, artificial intelligence and machine learning, and visual computing and robotics. Imperial offers access to three state-of-the-art supercomputers dedicated to computing and data science.
Situated in the heart of London, Imperial's location provides students with unparalleled opportunities and connections to the city's thriving tech industry. With 60 companies from the esteemed Fast-Track Tech Track 100 list within reach, students benefit from easy access to potential internships and future career prospects.
Location
London, England
Tuition and fees
Annual tuition and fees for Imperial College London for 2024-25 are:
- UK: £9,250
- Overseas: £40,940
4. University of Edinburgh
Ranked 11th in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide for Computer Science and 26th in the Times Higher Education world rankings, the School of Informatics at the University of Edinburgh is a leading institution for computer science education. It is the largest informatics research centre in Europe.
Image source: University of Edinburgh
Students are able to tailor their experience to your interests and be in control of their learning by choosing from a wide range of courses, from theoretical to strongly application-orientated.
There are currently 10 degrees in Computer Science (Informatics) available at the University of Edinburgh: Artificial Intelligence (BSc); Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science (BSc); Cognitive Science (BSc); Computer Science (BEng); Computer Science (BSc); Computer Science and Management Science (BSc); Computer Science and Mathematics (BSc); Computer Science and Physics (BSc); Software Engineering (BEng) and Informatics (5-year undergraduate Masters Programme) (MInf)
Location
Edinburgh, Scotland
Tuition and fees
Annual tuition and fees for University of Edinburgh for 2024-25 are:
- Scotland: £1,820
- Rest of UK: £9,250
- International: £34,800
5.University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is the birthplace of modern computing. With the world's first stored-program computer created here, the esteemed institution continues to excel in the field.
Currently ranked 10th in Times and Sunday Times UK Good University Guide for Computer Science and 82nd in the world according to the Times Higher Education world rankings, it offers a comprehensive and flexible course that allows students to explore a wide range of Computer Science topics.
Image source: University of Manchester
In addition to their impressive rankings, the University of Manchester has been named the most targeted university by the UK's top 100 graduate employers, positioning students for the best possible success in the job market.
One of the largest schools of computer science in the UK, courses are developed with input from the wider industry, ensuring the curriculum remains relevant and current. Students can choose between a three-year BSc course or our four-year BSc programme, which includes a year of industrial experience to deepen practical knowledge.
Image Source: Photo by Merve Selcuk Simsek on Unsplash
Location
Manchester, North West England
Tuition and fees
Annual tuition and fees for the University of Manchester for 2024-25 are:
- UK: £9,250
6. University of Southampton
The University of Southampton excels in Computer Science, ranking 18th in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025. At the forefront is the School of Electronics and Computer Science, recognised as an Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Education.
Image source: University of Southampton
Students at Southampton have the opportunity to gain valuable real-world experience through placements and internships offered by 150 industry-leading companies. This experience translates into impressive employability rates, with 94% of undergraduate students either employed or pursuing further study within 15 months of graduation, as reported in the Guardian University Guide 2022.
A wide range of bachelor’s degrees related to Computer Science are available for students to choose from at Southampton. These include BEng Artificial Intelligence, BEng Computer Engineering, BSc Computer Science, BSc Creative Computing, BSc Mathematics with Computer Science, and BEng Software Engineering.
Location
Southampton, Hampshire (South Coast of England)
Tuition and fees
Tuition and fees for University of Southampton for 2024-25 are:
- UK: £9,250
- International: £27,400.
7. St. Andrews University
Ranked 1st in Scotland and 2nd in the UK for Computer Science by the Guardian University Guide, St. Andrews - currently the UK's second best university according to the Times and Sunday Times - is a great choice for ambitious students.
Image source: St Andrews University
The School of Computer Science excels in both theoretical and practical Computer Science, as evidenced by its ranking as 2nd for research impact in Scotland according to the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF).
Students who choose St. Andrews benefit from access to cutting-edge facilities and renowned teaching staff. The university’s Computer Science courses specialise in fundamental principles, networks and distributed systems, human-computer interaction, software engineering, and artificial intelligence.
Location
St Andrews, Scotland
Tuition and fees
Tuition and fees for University of St Andrews for 2024-25 (though currently unconfirmed) are expected to be:
- Scotland: £1,820.
- Rest of UK: £9,250.
- International: £30,160.
8.University of Surrey
The University of Surrey’s BSc (Hons) course was recognised as the best in the UK for information technology and systems by the Complete University Guide 2024. In addition, it held the title of Cyber University of the Year, awarded at the National Cyber Awards 2023.
Image source: University of Surrey
Students can choose from programmes such as Computer Science BSc (Hons) / MEng, Computer and Internet Engineering BEng (Hons) / MEng, or Computing with Business Management BSc (Hons).
Their commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities is evident in recent investments, including a recent £6.5m investment in new and upgraded facilities in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences. As a result, Computer Science areas, including an impressive 200-seater Computer Science Laboratory, have benefited significantly.
The university is dedicated to ensuring graduates excel in the job market, and in 2022 it was named 'University of the Year for Graduate Employment' in the Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide. Recent graduates have secured roles at renowned companies such as Visa, Ericsson, Amazon, Barclays, CGI, Expedia, IBM, Microsoft, Siemens, Accenture, HSBC, Morgan Stanley, and Roke, taking on positions like Cyber Security Engineer and Software Engineer.
Image source: Photo by Sandeep Chitreddy on Unsplash
Location
Guildford, Surrey (South East England)
Tuition and fees
Tuition and fees for the University of Surrey for 2024 are:
- UK: £9,250
- Overseas: £26,000
9.University College London (UCL)
In the Research Excellence Framework (REF2021), UCL once again solidified its position as a frontrunner in Computer Science and Informatics research in the UK. Ranked first in England for research power, UCL's Department of Computer Science is at the forefront of innovation and advancement. The wider university was also named 'University of the Year 'by the Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024.
Image source: University College London
UCL's undergraduate degree programs are crafted and delivered by world-class researchers, ensuring that students receive the most up-to-date and cutting-edge knowledge. As part of the highly acclaimed, faculty-wide integrated engineering framework, the Computer Science BSc program allows students to expand their knowledge and broaden their horizons through interactions with other disciplines.
Graduates are highly sought after due to the department's exceptional international reputation and strong ties with industry. Furthermore, its prime location in the UK’s capital, with its multitude of thriving tech companies, provides unparalleled opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Image source: Photo by Surya Prasad on Unsplash
Location
London, England
Tuition and fees
Annual tuition and fees for UCL for 2024-25 are:
- UK: £9,250
- International: £35,000
10. Queen Mary University of London
Queen Mary University of London is a member of the prestigious Russell Group of universities, and one of the largest colleges of the federal University of London. Its main campus in Mile End is the biggest self-contained university campus anywhere in the city.
Image source: Queen Mary University of London
With an impressive 99 percent of QMUL's research being classified as 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent' (REF 2021), the university’s programmes are at the forefront of innovation.
Through the highly regarded School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science, students can choose from a diverse range of undergraduate degrees, including Computer Science BSc (Hons), Computer Science with Industrial Experience BSc (Hons), Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence BSc (Hons), and Computer Science and Mathematics BSc (Hons).
Location
London, England
Tuition and fees
Annual tuition fees for 2024-25 at Queen Mary University of London are:
- UK: £9,250
- Overseas: £28,350
Other top universities for Computer Science in the UK
There are many outstanding UK universities for Computer Science; the ten featured above being just a small selection. Other outstanding institutes which are popular among Computer Science students (and which Kings alumni have progressed to) include:
- University of Bristol
- Durham University
- University of Nottingham
- University of Birmingham
- University of York
- University of Glasgow
- University of Leeds
- University of Liverpool
- Newcastle University
- King’s College London
- University of Warwick
- University of Sheffield
Find out more about Kings alumni success
How Kings Can Help You Study Computer Science at a Top UK University
At Kings, we offer a host of qualifications and programmes to prepare students for progression to study a Computer Science course at university.
From traditional A-levels to the Degree pathway programmes, designed specifically for international students, we can cater for all needs and requirements. Irrespective of the course followed, all students at Kings benefit from:
- Expert teaching from subject specialists
- Specialist facilities and excellent resources
- Personalised support and learning
Find out more about our programmes here
Next steps
We hope that this article has helped you understand more about the best universities for Computer Science and related subjects in the UK. You can find more detailed information about studying Computer Science and potential career paths in the Subjects/Career Guides section of the Kings website.
You can also find detailed profiles of the top UK universities.
If you would like receive more detailed information about the Kings and our programmes, please get in touch with us at enquiries@kingseducation.com.
