Explore Courses

Best Universities for Computer Science Masters in UK

Updated on 09 November, 2023

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

Cutting-edge research facilities, excellent pedagogy, and ample job opportunities make Computer Science Masters one of the sought-after courses in the United Kingdom (UK). Choosing the top universities in the UK for computer science masters is not a difficult task. The country offers more than 2,500 Master’s and Bachelor’s programs in computer science while being a popular global study hub for international students in the field. It also offers excellent prospects at some of the leading global companies and MNCs. This blog will discuss top universities in the UK for MS in computer science.

Counselling">Interested to Study In UK? Apply for Free Counselling

Recommended Read: Study Abroad for MASTERS Degree

Top Universities in the UK for Computer Science Masters- Eligibility 

The eligibility criteria to study at the top universities in the UK for MS in computer science have been cited below: 

Recommended Read: MS in Computer Science in UK

Top UK Universities for Masters in Computer Science

The leading universities based on the 2022 THE-World University Rankings for Computer Science: 

University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is one of the world’s most reputed and historic institutions. While no precise foundation date exists, teaching began here in 1096. The University of Oxford is located at Wellington Square in Oxford and is a public research university. There are 39 colleges with financial autonomy and self-governing structures. The ranking of the University of Oxford is number 1 worldwide in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2022 by subject.

University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge was founded in 1209 and is a public research university in the United Kingdom (UK). The University of Cambridge is known as the fourth-oldest university that survives in the world today and is also the second-oldest university in the entire English-speaking world. The university has more than 20,000 students from varied disciplines and above 11,000 staff members and 31 colleges, 150 departments, schools, faculties, and institutions. The University of Cambridge ranking is 4 in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2022 by subject.

Imperial College London

The Imperial College London in the UK has campuses at eight locations, including the popular site at Charing Cross. The Imperial College London was founded in 1823 as the Charing Cross Hospital Medical School. The founding of the university was made possible by establishing various institutions over the years, including the Royal College of Science, the Royal College of Chemistry, and the St Mary’s Hospital Medical School. The Imperial Institute was established in 1887, and it eventually became a university. The university was once under the University of London but ultimately became its independent and autonomous teaching and research institution. The Imperial College London’s ranking is 11 in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2022 by subject.

University College London (UCL)

The University College London (UCL) is a public research university with a campus at Bloomsbury in London’s Knowledge Quarter. The University College London has partner organizations such as the Alan Turing Institute, Google, Wellcome Trust, and the British Museum in the zone. The university was founded in 1826 and has more than 20,000 graduate students from 150+ global nations, pursuing 650+ graduate degree courses. The university has been ranked 22 in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2022 by subject.

The University of Edinburgh

Founded in 1583, The University of Edinburgh opened its doors in the quaint, hilly city of Edinburgh, Scotland. Over the years, The University of Edinburgh in the UK has nurtured some of the most renowned personalities who shaped the past and continue to change the present. The university has three colleges that overlook 21 schools. All three colleges offer a great range of opportunities for cross-disciplinary research. The University of Edinburgh ranking is 25 in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2022 by subject.

The University of Manchester

The University of Manchester is a world-famous public research university in Manchester, United Kingdom. Established in 2004, the University of Manchester offers excellent academic opportunities and scope for research on both regional and international levels. Times Higher Education ranks the University of Manchester 25 in World University Rankings 2022 by subject. 

University of Southampton

The University of Southampton is a public research university located in the UK. Founded in 1862, the university is a founding member of the Russell Group. The University of Southampton started as Hartley Institution, and almost after 100 years, the university was granted a royal charter by Queen Elizabeth II in 1952. Today the university has five campuses in Southampton, one in Winchester, and another in Malaysia. The innovative research at the university is making a global impact. Times Higher Education has ranked the University of Southampton at #91 in World University Rankings 2022 by subject.

University of Birmingham

The University of Birmingham has campuses at Selly Oak and Edgbaston. The University of Birmingham is synonymous with cutting-edge research and teaching for more than a hundred years. It is a part of the Russell Group and has 10 Nobel Laureates amongst alumni and staff members. The University was founded in 1900 and was the first civic university in England. It has affiliations with Universitas 21, Universities UK, EUA, ACU, and Sutton 13 Russell Group. The campus has now expanded to cover 672 acres with a new campus in Dubai. The university admits more than 30,000 students globally every year. The University of Birmingham ranking is 92  in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2022 by subject.

Queen Mary University of London

The Queen Mary University of London is a public research university in the UK. The history of the university dates back to 1785 and beyond. The university was started with a vision to open doors of opportunity and improve lives locally, nationally, and internationally. Even after so many years of its establishment, the university remains true to the vision of its founders. Today, the university house students from across the globe. Research and teaching go hand-in-hand at the Queen Mary University of London. Queen Mary University of London ranking is at #99 in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2022 by subject.

University of Bristol

The University of Bristol is a public university situated in the UK. Founded in 1876, the university offers world-class education and cutting-edge research facility. Students at the university are provided the opportunity to learn in state-of-the-art facilities with experienced academics. The university offers more than 600 undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. The university is a member of the Russell Group of the UK. The University of Bristol is ranked between 101-125 in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2022 by subject. 

King’s College London

King’s College London is a public university located in London, UK. Founded in 1829, the university is renowned for delivering exceptional education and world-leading research. The university has a distinguished reputation in the humanities, law, sciences, and social sciences. King’s College London is ranked between 101-125 in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2022 by subject. 

The University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge are the two universities ranked among the 10 top computer science universities in the UK, as per QS World Rankings 2022. 

Here is the list of top universities in the UK based on QS subject rankings for 2021: 

Recommended Reads: Study in the UK for Indian students after 12th

Benefits of Studying Computer Science in the UK

There are several advantages of pursuing computer science in the United Kingdom (UK). A degree in the field will give you the core competence and knowledge needed to build a successful future career. You can hone your abilities with technologically advanced programs available at leading universities in the UK, which are among the best for computer science. As per the QS World University list for 2020, 102 universities are offering this course in the United Kingdom.

 

Recommended Read: Top Universities in UK for Masters

There are joint, single, and even multi-subject options available along with flexible, full-time, and part-time studying options. Some institutions also offer placement facilities, while many universities have integrated M.Sc degrees in computer science. Computer science in the UK comes with varied specializations, including AI (artificial intelligence), advanced computing, mathematical modeling, scientific computing, robotics and visual computing, electronics and computer science, cyber security, information communication, network and security, and a lot more. The UK is home to some of the world’s foremost information and technology companies, with robust hiring volumes every year. This automatically equates to more job opportunities for skilled graduates and superior research and development opportunities in the field. The UK also offers a conducive environment to gain invaluable industry experience and mentorship.

Check Eligibility to Study in UK

Related Reads:

Living Expenses in UKEducation System in UKScholarship in UK for Indian Students
Reasons to study in the United KingdomStudent Visa for the UK- Complete GuideMS in UK Cost
Student Life in UKMajor Requirements for Studying in the UKCost of Studying in UK
Job opportunities in India after MS from the UKAll about how to settle in UK!Best job opportunities after MS in the UK

Frequently Asked Questions

Which country is best for masters in computer science?

Many students opt to pursue master’s in computer science every year, and the countries these students choose to pursue the course include the US, UK, Canada, Singapore, and Australia. Many factors determine the best country to pursue a master’s in computer science, including the universities ranking. Two UK universities have been ranked among the top universities in the UK for masters in computer science.

What are the courses for masters in computer science?

Some of the courses that Masters in Computer Science include are Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science, Data Structures and Algorithms, Paradigms of Programming, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Software Engineering, and Database Management.

How to write a Statement of Purpose for masters in computer science?

To write an SOP for masters in computer science, a candidate must follow certain rules. The writing tone and style of drafting an SOP for this particular course should be followed as it is one of the sought-after courses. Universities get an array of applications for MS in CS, and the candidate must write an impressive and well-structured SOP. To write a Statement of Purpose for master’s in Computer Science, a student must include achievements, previous internships or any projects as well as future aspirations, short-term and long-term goals.

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.

See More