Computer Science in the UK

Computer Science degrees aim to provide core skills to shape businesses and organisations, carry out smoother operations and protect businesses from external factors. These degrees are designed to equip a student with new tools, programs and development packages and impart knowledge and competencies in areas such as IT, software engineering, games development, design, and security.

Once you complete your Computer Science program, you’ll not only be able to gain skills in computing with a strong programming and mathematical focus but also learn project management, presentation and team-building skills which are essential for employers.

Why pursue Computer Science in the UK

UK universities have always been at the forefront of Computer Science courses, with departments of many universities conducting researches for globally reputed companies. Besides this, other reasons why international students prefer the UK include:

• According to the QS World University Ranking 2020 (subject wise), 102 universities offer Computer Science courses in the UK

• Availability of single, joint, and multiple subject combinations with the program

• Choice of full-time, part-time, and flexible study options along with placement integrated courses popularly known as sandwich courses

• Several UK universities offer four-year of undergraduate or integrated master’s degrees (MSci) in Computer Science

• Some universities also provide a one-year work placement in industry or one year of study abroad as part of the degree

Types of specialisations

Computer Science is a globally reputed course, which offers several specialisations and career options. Some of the popular specialisations for the course in the UK are Advanced Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computing, Visual Computing and Robotics, Cyber Security, Electronics and Computer Science, Information Communication and Social Sciences, Network and Security and Cognition and Language.

Cost of studying

For pursuing your Bachelor’s and Master’s in Computer Science in the UK, average annual tuition fees can range between GBP 15,000 to GBP 36,000. Remember that your expenses will also be affected by the choice of college, course, and many other factors. It is best to discuss your financials with an expert before making your final decision.

Read more: Cost of studying in the UK

Eligibility criteria

1. For Bachelor’s degree: All applications are made through Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) portal (for autumn intake). You would be required to have good scores in your 10+2 or any High School Diploma. You will also require high scores in your English-proficiency tests such as IELTS with a minimum overall band of 6. However, do check with your institution for the required minimum scores.

2. For Master’s degree: You’ll need a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum average of 60%-70% in relevant subjects. You will also need a high score in your English-proficiency tests such as IELTS with a minimum overall band of 6.

Read more: All about IELTS

Career prospects

Computer Science graduates enjoy enviable employment opportunities as system analysts, independent consultants, software developers, programmers, data analysts and managers. Upon graduation, initial employment will involve training schemes, entry-level programmer positions and junior members of project teams.

The need for talent across all sectors and industries allows Computer Science graduates to choose a diverse option of industries they wish to work in. They can find employment opportunities in multiple sectors such as IT, Wholesale and Retail trade, Manufacturing, Professional, scientific, and technical arena and Education as Computer Games Tester, E-Learning Developer, Forensic Computer Analyst, Information Systems Manager, IT Project Manager, IT Service Engineer, Network Manager, Software Developer, Systems Analyst, Technical Architect, Technical Author, Web Designer and Web Developer. To give you an estimate of the earnings of a computer science graduate, the average salary of a Software Engineer is approx. £30,000 - 50,000 in London. *

When finalising the course, always consider the program content title only gives the overall glimpse of it. Given the IT field is continuously evolving, its degree courses are also subject to annual review and amendments. We recommend you consult your case with one of our international education experts and make the right choice.

*Source: https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/london-software-engineer-salary-SRCH_IL.0,6_IM1035_KO7,24.htm