Top 10 Universities for Masters in Computer Science in UK



Master in Computer Science UK offers students a comprehensive education in the theoretical and practical aspects of computing. From artificial intelligence to software engineering, there is a wide range of specializations available for students to choose from.

A unique feature of the UK education system is that universities offer a range of postgraduate courses, allowing students to tailor their degrees to suit their career aspirations. With a strong focus on research and employability, students can easily access some most coveted postgraduate Computer Science courses the country. The UK has some of the best universities for pursuing a master’s.  



Why study Master of Computer Science in UK?


Since the United Kingdom has a long legacy of advancement in computer science, students are assured to find some of the most exceptional instruction and career prospects available. The tech industry has become a major source of employment in the UK’s largest cities, and its growth is rapidly accelerating due to the current pandemic-driven trend toward digital solutions. More than one-fifth of all workers in the country are now employed in this sector.

In the United Kingdom, Computer Science and IT ranks second in terms of overall job opportunities with a typical salary of £57,500. The tech industry is thriving and The Complete University Guide shows that computer science ranks in the top 10 highest-paying degrees in the UK for 2021 with a starting salary of around £27,000.

Computer science graduates can benefit from the UK’s world-leading research reputation, as well as its well-developed infrastructure for IT. With ample career opportunities, placements at the university level and a competitive salary, studying computer science, as well as other related fields like data science in the UK ,are great choices.

What are the career opportunities after studying MS in Computer science in UK?


Studying Master in Computer Science UK offers students an array of career possibilities. It is no surprise that graduates from these courses are highly sought after in the tech industry.

As digital technology is becoming increasingly embedded in everyday life, there are numerous job roles that require a Master’s level knowledge of computer science. Examples include Information Security Analyst, Network Administrator, Data Scientist, and Software Developer. Students may also decide to pursue a research degree and become experts in their field.

Recently, advertised roles in the computer science sector saw an impressive 36% increase since the global pandemic With the UK tech sector estimated at £180 billion and the global digital economy valued at around $11.5 trillion, Computer Science courses in UK degree from a British university can be exceptionally valuable for job seekers looking to stand out among their peers.

What are the scholarship options for universities in UK for masters in computer science?


Many universities offer scholarships and bursaries to overseas students to help make studying Master in Computer Science UK more affordable. This can include full or partial tuition fee waivers, stipends, or grants towards the cost of living expenses and travel costs.

Scholarships for Computer Science master programmes in the UK are typically awarded based on academic excellence and other factors such as financial need, so it is important to contact the university of your choice to find out what options are available. Some commonly available scholarships for international students looking to pursue Computer Science master programmes in the UK are:

  • Commonwealth Scholarships
  • British Chevening Scholarships
  • GREAT Scholarships
  • University-specific awards are also available which offer tuition fee waivers and living expenses to international students applying for Master in Computer Science UK courses every academic year.

If you are looking for public universities in the UK, then there are many options for that as well.

What are the best computer science masters in UK for international students?


UK Universities not only provide technical, numeracy, and theoretical knowledge to help students find a job but also equip them with essential problem-solving and analytical skills employers are seeking. This comprehensive range of qualifications sets students up for long-term success in the workplace.

Students learn the fundamentals of computer science, algorithm design and implementation, web development, data analytics, cloud computing, information systems, machine learning, software engineering, and more. The best Master in Computer Science UK programmes available for international students include:-


Oxford University


Source: Oxford University

Oxford is a sovereign and autonomous entity, comprised of the University itself, its subdivisions and departments, as well as all affiliated colleges.

Oxford University is split up into four distinct academic divisions. Each division houses numerous departments, faculties, and schools that work collaboratively with the university’s museums, libraries, and collections to offer an outstanding learning experience.

Why is it good to study here?

Oxford University has maintained its rank as the number one university in the world for an impressive six consecutive years, spanning from 2017-2022 according to The Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings.

With a student body of over 25,000 from all over the world, Oxford students benefit from an international community of scholars and a rich cultural experience.
The MSc in Advanced Computer Science at Oxford provides specialized instruction and exploration of advanced concepts to graduates with a background in computer science or other math-related fields. One of the top computer science schools UK, it is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and world-leading research excellence.

Fees & Scholarship options

The fee for UK students is £ 14,410 and for overseas students, it is £32,760. The University plans to provide 1,000 full or partial graduate scholarships across the collegiate University for 2023-24. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria and apply before December or January’s due date, students automatically are placed in consideration for most Oxford scholarships – which are awarded according to your academic accomplishments and potential.

Eligibility and Duration

Applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve a first-class undergraduate degree with honours in computer science or mathematics to be eligible for this one-year course from Oxford University. The MSc in Advanced Computer Science requires proficiency in English at the University’s higher level and students can submit IELTS scores or English-language test scores such as TOEFL, PTE, and others.

Courses offered & admission process

Students are required to pay an application fee of £75 which is waived for certain students on a need basis. To apply, students have to fill out an application form and submit the following:

  • Referees: Three overall, academic preferred
  • Official transcript(s)
  • CV/résumé
  • Statement of purpose/personal statement: maximum of 1,000 words

University of Cambridge


Source: Cambridge University

The University of Cambridge is constantly praised as one of the best universities not just in England, but all across the world. The university is committed to helping the world progress and bettering lives through the pursuit of top-notch educational studies, learning experiences, and research initiatives.

Why good to study here?

With an impressive ranking of No. 2 in the QS World University Rankings 2023, Cambridge University is one of the highest-rated institutions globally. It has students from over 140+ countries and a student body of over 20,000.
The MPhil in Advanced Computer Science offers a distinctive pathway for those wishing to pursue a PhD program in computer science, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge. Students are presented with an extensive selection of five sophisticated modules in computer science, which range from network engineering and systems measurements to natural language processing and even category theory thus, allowing students to customize their own learning experience

Fees & Scholarship options

The fee for home students is £29,460 and for overseas students, it is £52,959. Students pursuing Master of Computer Science UK can apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarships and would be required to submit:

  • Gates Cambridge Reference
  • Research Proposal (applicable to only Ph.D. candidates)

Eligibility and Duration

The MPhil in Advanced Computer Science is a full-time, 9-month course. The entry requirements for students hailing from India include a Professional Bachelor’s Degree (four years or more) in professional subjects obtained at an esteemed, high-ranking institution with an overall score of 75% or CGPA of 8.0+ to be considered eligible. The detailed academic requirements can be found here.

Courses offered & admission process

Students have to register on the application portal and submit the following:

  • Two academic references
  • Transcript
  • CV/resume
  • Evidence of competence in English
  • Select modules from the syllabus and a research theme
  • A research project proposal of no more than 400 words.

Imperial College London


Source: Imperial College London

Imperial College London is a prestigious institution ranked in the world’s top ten universities. It is renowned for its excellence in science, engineering, business, and medicine. The university offers a wide range of study options, with over 300-degree programs and specialist professional qualifications. Imperial College London also has an impressive research record, producing world-leading research across a range of disciplines.

Why is it good to study here?

Students at Imperial College London have the opportunity to benefit from the college’s excellent faculty, world-class facilities, and highly supportive environment. The MSc Computing course provides an in-depth exploration of computer science, equipping you with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a successful career in the computing industry. Imperial College London is widely considered to be one of the best UK universities for computer science.

Fees & Scholarship options

The fee for home students is £21,000 and for overseas students, it is £39,400. Some of the scholarship options available for the Master of Computer Science UK course include:

  • British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM
  • Chevening-Bseisu Scholarship
  • Commonwealth Shared Scholarship

The detailed list of scholarships available for the computer science department can be found here.

Eligibility and Duration

The MSc Computing is a full-time one year course. To apply, students require a first-class degree in any subject outside of computing or computer science. Furthermore, all applicants must demonstrate an acceptable level of English fluency to be eligible for admission into the College.

Courses offered & admission process

Students can apply online through Imperial Gateway. To apply for this course, you must submit a convincing personal statement. It should demonstrate your enthusiasm and aptitude for the program while showing that it is an ideal match for your skills and knowledge.


University College London


Source: University College London

University College London or UCL, established in 1826, is the leading multidisciplinary university in the city with a student and staff population of over 50,000 individuals from 150 countries around the world. It is a vibrant and diverse collective where students are encouraged to question, challenge and think unconventionally.

Why is it good to study here?

By studying the MSc in Computer Science at UCL, you will gain a solid foundation of both computer science theory and practical software engineering abilities. You also have the opportunity to learn how to collaborate with industrial or research clients. By complementing their existing degree with computer science knowledge, students can take advantage of a variety of interdisciplinary industrial opportunities or pursue doctoral research. Often called one of the top computer science schools UK, the University offers a comprehensive range of modules that are taught by internationally renowned academics.

Fees & Scholarship options

The fee for home students is £18,000 and for overseas students, it is £35,000. Some of the scholarships offered for students pursuing UK computer science degrees include:

  • UCL Engineering Dean’s Prize
  • China Scholarships Council
  • DeepMind Scholarship
  • Postgraduate Computer Science Excellence Scholarship
  • Snowdon Masters Scholarships
  • Brown Family Bursary

Eligibility and Duration

You must possess an upper-second-class UK Bachelor’s degree (or any equivalent international qualification) as the minimum requirement. Applicants should provide evidence of their mathematical skills (at least equivalent to the A-level Mathematics standard) and analytical abilities in order to be considered for admission. MSc in Computer Science is a full-time, one-year course.

Courses offered & admission process

Students can apply for this course online through the university’s website. Besides the required academic credentials, your personal statement is a chance to demonstrate that your motivations for applying are in alignment with what this program offers.


University of Edinburgh


Source: University of Edinburgh

Established in 1582, the celebrated University of Edinburgh is a world-renowned public research institution located in beautiful Scotland’s capital city. With a steady stay in the world’s top 50 universities, and placed 15th on QS World University Ranking in 2023, this university has proven to be one of the top UK universities with computer science programs.

Why is it good to study here?

Edinburgh’s standing in computer science is renowned worldwide and covers a plethora of topics such as technology architecture to theoretical computing. One of the best UK universities for computer science, students receive a specialist education in the design, evaluation, setup, and use of computer systems – from one processor to extensive networks like the Internet. Students can also choose to study algorithms, programming languages, cryptography, and quantum informatics. These topics provide the opportunity to use your problem-solving skills while exploring fascinating concepts.

Fees & Scholarship options

The fee for home students is £17,100 and for overseas students, it is £38,500. GREAT Scholarships 2023 is available for international students looking to pursue this course.

Eligibility and Duration

To apply, for this one-year full-time course, students need a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in informatics, artificial intelligence, cognitive science, computer science, electrical engineering, mathematics, physics, or another quantitative discipline.

Courses offered & admission process

Students have the opportunity to apply online, along with the compulsory submission of one reference. The detailed application process can be found here.


King's College London


Source: King’s College London

King’s College London is a world-renowned university devoted to providing excellent education and pioneering research. They are on a mission to create meaningful and lasting change in the world, all while reaching our ultimate goal of making it a better place for everyone. King’s is home to a diverse population of 27,600 students from 150 countries spanning the globe, 10,500 of which are graduate-level scholars.

Why is it good to study here?

With its 6th place ranking among UK institutions for Computer Science according to the 2022 QS World Rankings, Kings College is a leader in this field. Considered to be one of the famous UK universities with computer science programs, Kings offers the opportunity for students to pursue a wide range of modules. By enrolling in their Advanced Computing MSc Program, students can gain comprehensive knowledge and practical training that will give them an edge in the computing industry. This course equips participants with expert-level skills needed to stay ahead of current technology trends – putting you one step closer to achieving your career goals.

Fees & Scholarship options

The UK computer science degree fee for home students is £11,760  and for overseas students, it is £31,080. King’s College proudly awards a full-tuition Presidential Scholarship to the select few who make up the highest 5% of applicants.

Eligibility and Duration

Successful completion of a Bachelor’s degree (Honours/Special) with an overall score of 67% or 8.3 out of 10 is required for applying to the Advanced Computing MSc Program. Grading systems used at Indian universities will also be taken into account when evaluating applicants.

Courses offered & admission process

Students can use King’s Apply to submit their applications. The following documents are required:

  • Transcripts of your previous qualifications
  • Two academic references
  • English language qualifications

The University of Manchester


Source: The University of Manchester

Manchester is the perfect hub for your stay in the UK, because of its accessible and culturally diverse atmosphere. 94% of the university’s graduates are either employed or enrolled in further studies. For students passionate about launching a business in the UK, Masood Entrepreneurship Centre provided resources and support to student-led start-ups and also offers guidance and encouragement needed to turn your idea into reality.

Why is it good to study here?

The Advanced Computer Science MSc provides you with the unique opportunity to customize your learning journey. Combining the latest developments in web technologies, artificial intelligence, computer security, data and knowledge management, digital biology, and software engineering results, students can specialize in the field of their choice.

Fees & Scholarship options

The fee for home students is £13,500 and for overseas students, it is £33,000. The following scholarships are available for international students pursuing UK computer science degrees:

  • British Chevening Scholarship
  • Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships Plan (CSFP) General Scholarship
  • Engineering the Future Scholarship

Eligibility and Duration

Indian students require a minimum of 65% (First Class with Distinction) in a BSc Eng, BEng or BTech degree to apply for the one-year full-time MSc Advanced Computer Science course.

Courses offered & admission process

Students can apply online for this course. Given the immense interest in this course, the university has a tiered admissions process with various selection deadlines throughout the year. Further details can be found in the application and selection section.


The University of Warwick


Source: The University of Warwick

The University of Warwick is a great place to study and develop your skills in computing technology and is one of the best computer science universities UK. Located in the heart of England, Warwick offers world-leading teaching, research, and infrastructure in a close-knit campus environment.

According to a recent assessment of research quality, an astonishing 92% has been rated as either ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, demonstrating the highest level of excellence. Warwick holds the esteemed position of being placed 64th in a global ranking, as well as 10th within the UK.

Why is it good to study here?

Ranked 4th in the UK (REF 2021), Warwick’s Department of Computer Science provides an outstanding opportunity for technically-minded graduates with experience in computer science, mathematics or physical sciences to hone their skills. You will receive training on cutting-edge techniques used both within academia and industry, allowing you to craft a future career equipped with essential abilities.

Fees & Scholarship options

The fee for home students is £ 10,950 and for overseas students, it is £ 31,450. The following scholarships are available to students pursuing Postgraduate computer science courses:

  • Chevening Scholarship
  • CIM Master’s Bursaries
  • Commonwealth Scholarships
  • Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme

Eligibility and Duration

Applicants for MSc Computer Science Master’s degree require a First Class Honours degree or a high 2:1 undergraduate degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, or another relevant quantitatively-focused degree.

Courses offered & admission process

Students can apply for the course online and would be required to submit a personal statement along with all supporting documents.


University of Bristol


Source: University of Bristol

Boasting a world-renowned academic reputation, Bristol is ranked 61st globally in the QS World University Rankings 2023 – making it one of the UK’s most sought-after and successful universities. Students are offered an unrivalled environment to study and research in computer science, artificial intelligence, cyber security, software engineering and much more.

Why is it good to study here?

This MSc Computer Science programme from one of the best computer science universities UK is designed for students from diverse academic backgrounds who lack prior computing knowledge.

The goal of this program is to develop an understanding and appreciation of the fundamental principles that underlie computer science, its role in software development, and its applications. Additionally, it will provide students with a practical introduction to industry-standard methods for analysis, design implementation testing and documentation used in software engineering.

Fees & Scholarship options

The fee for home students is £16,400 and for overseas students, it is £30,500. Scholarships available for international students pursuing MSc in Computer Science include:

  • Think Big postgraduate award
  • Commonwealth Shared Scholarships

Eligibility and Duration

To be eligible for admission to this program, you must possess an upper second-class honours degree or international equivalent in any field other than computer science or a related subject (which includes Information Technology). Proven numerical proficiency is also mandatory and can be demonstrated through attaining at least a B grade in GCSE Mathematics or similar university-level experience.

Courses offered & admission process

Students can apply via the online application portal along with the following documents:

  • Two academic references
  • University degree transcripts
  • Your personal statement should be a reflection of your abilities, past accomplishments, and educational aspirations. It’s also important to emphasize why you are interested in the program you’re applying for.
  • English language certificate to show that you meet the English language requirements

Queen Mary University of London


Source: Queen Mary University

At Queen Mary University (QMU), diversity of thought and opinion is paramount. The university believes in bringing different perspectives to create new ideas. Boasting a community comprised of staff and students from over 160 different countries, it is no surprise that this higher education institution has been called one of the most diverse in the world.

Why is it good to study here?

The ever-evolving technology of industry calls for an expansive, adaptable program that embraces the demand for advanced study options. MSc Computer Science at QMU allows students to explore new developments within the world of computing and fulfill a variety of career aspirations. Ranked 11th in the United Kingdom for quality computer science research (REF 2014), and sixth in the country overall for the excellence of electronic engineering research (REF 2014), this department has a long-standing history of success.

Fees & Scholarship options

The fee for home students is £12,250 and for overseas students, it is £28,950. Students can also apply for the following scholarships for pursuing postgraduate computer science courses:

  • Chevening Awards
  • Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship
  • Snowdon Masters Scholarship
  • The DeepMind Scholarship

Eligibility and Duration

To apply for this one-year, full-time course, students from India require a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. The minimum duration of the course should be three years and with the following score:

  • UK 1st class degree between 70% to 80%;
  • UK 2:1 degree between 60% to 70%; or
  • UK 2:2 Degree between 50%-60%.

Courses offered & admission process

Students can apply online along with the following documents:

  • Two academic references
  • University degree transcripts
  • Your personal statement

How to apply to study computer science in UK


Applying to study computer science in the UK is straightforward. You can apply for admission online to your chosen university by completing an online application form and submitting the relevant documents. However, there is a lot to consider in terms or requirements, the best fit for you, and other criteria.

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Date added
06.02.2023

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