Computer Science: A Spotlight on 5 Courses in the UK

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Computer science is a field that’s constantly evolving and is an extremely popular career choice for international students. The course helps students develop specific, in-demand skills which give access to the most valuable companies in the world, as well as the fastest-growing startups. 

The United Kingdom is a popular destination for students of computer science, offering world-class education, several tech hubs, and an opportunity for an unforgettable study abroad experience. 

Read on to learn about five great computer science courses in the United Kingdom!

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1. Bachelor of Science (Honours) – Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence

Enjoy breathtaking seafront views from the Welsh town of Aberystwyth, as well as a low cost of living, at Aberystwyth University (AU). Join an academic institution known for world-leading research that’s also popular with international students. AU was ranked second among institutions in the UK for overall student satisfaction in 2022 and ranked in the UK’s top 40 universities

Here’s a rundown of this course’s degree type and costs:

  • Course Type: 3-Year bachelor’s degree
  • Average Cost of Living: £8,313 per year
  • Tuition: £16,000 per year
  • Application Fee: Free

AU’s Bachelor of Science degree allows students to develop the skills needed to solve complex problems, including analysis, design, solution choice, and implementation. An emphasis on AI will give students a head start in the software industry, or in bio-information or computational intelligence jobs.

Looking for 2022 scholarships for academic institutions in the UK? Check out our blog post to learn more!

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2. 2-Semester Pathway: Foundation Pathway in Computer Science – Continue to Bachelor of Science (Honours) – Computer Science

Study at Swansea University, known for its stunning seafront campus, cutting-edge research, and innovations. Swansea has a friendly atmosphere and a strong academic reputation. It also received many awards for its student satisfaction, teaching excellence, and gender equality. With students attending the school from around the globe, SU is amongst the top 5 schools for post-graduate career prospects in the UK. 

Here’s a rundown of this course’s degree type and costs:

  • Course Type: 8-month pathway (international foundation year) followed by 3 years to complete a bachelor’s degree
  • Average Cost of Living: £12,180 per year
  • Tuition: £14,600 per year
  • Application Fee: Free

Swansea’s BSc Computer Science degree will teach students to develop their programming skills in C and Java. World-renowned academics such as Professor Matt Jones will teach students about computer graphics, computer systems modelling, software engineering, data visualization, and more advanced theoretical aspects of computer science.

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3. Bachelor of Science (Honours) – Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science 

Study at the heart of Scotland’s capital in the city of Edinburgh, surrounded by museums, galleries, and historic buildings. The University of Edinburgh (UE) is ranked among the top 10 in the UK. International students account for 44% of UE’s total student body, making it one of the most diverse academic institutions in the world. This Scottish academic institution is known for its employer and academic reputation, and world-leading research. 

Let’s look closer at this course’s degree type and costs:

  • Course Type: 4-year bachelor’s degree
  • Average Cost of Living: £9,207 per year
  • Tuition: £30,400 per year
  • Application Fee: Free

The University of Edinburgh’s BSc Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science degree has two main goals: to understand natural intelligence through the use of computer models and to use techniques and technology to build systems capable of intelligent decisions and action. The combination of both AI and computer science classes allows students to tailor their courses to their interests and be in control of their learning.

Note: Only international students from eligible countries are able to apply to the University of Edinburgh on the ApplyBoard Platform. 

Check out our list of the top 10 universities in the UK over the last year.

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4. Integrated Masters: Master of Engineering – Computer Science

Study at this elite Russell Group institution that attracts over 3,500 international students from 80 different countries yearly. Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) is ranked 85th in the world according to the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ranking 2022. Queen’s has invested £350 million in developing world-class facilities, with ambitious plans to invest a further £250 million over the next decade. 

Here’s a rundown of the course’s degree type and costs:

  • Course Type: 4-year integrated master’s degree
  • Average Cost of Living: £9,207 per year
  • Tuition: £21,400 per year
  • Application Fee: Free

QUB’s Computer Science master’s degree classes include machine learning, augmented reality, data analytics, hardware architecture, and software engineering. Industry placements, company-sponsored hackathons, and project-based learning are integral parts of the curriculum and improve graduate employability rates.

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5. Bachelor of Science (Honours) – Mathematics with Computer Science

With its main campus set in 130 hectares of beautiful parkland, The University of Reading is among the top 30 UK universities. 98% of their research is rated as being world-class, being a key partner for businesses of all sizes. With more than 19,000 students, the University of Reading is proud to welcome staff and students from all over the world. 

Here’s a rundown of this course’s degree type and costs:

  • Course Type: 4-year integrated master’s degree
  • Average Cost of Living: £9,207 per year
  • Tuition: £21,400 GBP per year
  • Application Fee: Free

The University of Reading’s BSc of Mathematics with Computer Science degree will provide students with skills prized by a range of employers. The class split between both subjects is roughly two-thirds mathematics and one-third computer science. In the final year, students can further specialize their degree through summer placements and by choosing optional modules.

Interested in computer science courses outside of the UK? Check out our blog post on computer science programs in the US!


The computer science field is constantly growing, and offers plenty of career opportunities. If this field sounds like the right fit for you, these courses can help you pursue your career goals. Apply to your dream course today!

Find the UK computer science course that’s right for you on the ApplyBoard Platform!

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