Study computer science in the UK

Connect to an inspiring career

The UK has a long history of innovation in computer science, and you’ll find some of the best possible teaching in the world right here, not to mention some of the brightest career paths.

Today, the prospects for computer science graduates are better than ever. The tech sector employs more than a fifth of workers in the UK’s biggest cities and digital tech is currently experiencing a boom created by the global pandemic. Career opportunities are opening up all the time, especially with software developers. Advertised roles went up 36 per cent over the summer of 2020 and with the UK tech sector worth around £180 billion – and the global digital economy worth $11.5 trillion – a computer science degree from the UK is a great way to make sure you stand out in the jobs market.

A history of computer innovation

The UK introduced the world to the first modern computer at the University of Manchester, and the world's first computer science degree program at the University of Cambridge back in 1962.

Now we have more than 2,000 computer science courses at close to 200 universities, including two of the best in the world – the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge (sixth). Wherever you decide to study, you’ll find a wide range of versatile, modular courses spanning every aspect of the discipline, from information systems to software engineering, artificial intelligence and health informatics.

What to expect

World-class teaching spaces

Our inspiring teaching staff know just how to support you throughout your studies, giving you the guidance and encouragement you need whilst making even the most complex ideas clear and relevant to the real world. And they’ll be doing it in state-of-the-art computer labs so you can hone your skills on the latest software and hardware.

Get the transferable skills you need

All UK courses are designed to give you the wide range of skills and qualities you need to thrive in the jobs market, from technical ability, numeracy and theoretical insights to problem solving and the vital analytic skills that employers look for. You’ll also be learning how to communicate and work in teams, growing your grasp of written and spoken English every day.

Work experience

One of the best things about studying in the UK is the network of industry contacts you’ll be able to tap into. A wide range of work experience is available – from a year in industry part-way through your course, to placements and internships – as well as regular guest speakers on campus. So you’ll get great insights into real world challenges and working environments well before you graduate.

Compete at the highest level

Computer science graduates are highly employable, with around 75 per cent of UK graduates going directly into employment. The most common roles are in IT, wholesale and retail, and manufacturing, but you can follow your interests and specialise in anything from game games design to forensic analysis.

Accelerate your career

Many UK institutions even offer an integrated masters so you can graduate even faster. Typically, integrated courses last four years, shaving a year off the usual time it takes to get an undergraduate and master’s qualification separately. Many integrated courses are also accredited by the Chartered Institute for IT, ensuring that you graduate meeting the full academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional, a big advantage in your future career.