Yahoo News Best ten UK universities to study computer science
In an age where almost every industry requires knowledge of computers, students who have studied computer science are more in demand than ever.
Here, we list the top ten universities that offer computer science degrees, with entry requirements, course details and examples of the biggest advantages of studying at each university.
The rankings are based on the latest data from the Complete University Guide, which ranks university courses according to graduate prospects, entry standards, research quality and student satisfaction.
10. University of Bristol
Entry requirements: A*AA
The course: Core ideas are introduced in years one and two, which cover the principles of programming and algorithms; how modern computers work; theory; designing programming languages; concurrent systems and networks; and machine learning. All three years include a large proportion of independent study.
Biggest Advantage: Second year includes a software group project in which students work together to deliver a pitch to a client.
Click here to read our guide to the University of Bristol
9. University of Manchester
Entry requirements: A*AA
The course: Computer science is always changing, and this course equips students with the necessary skills to keep pace with developments. Most of the work is project-based team work: tackling real-life problems and creating solutions to them.
Biggest advantage: The programme's strength lies in its flexibility, allowing the freedom to choose from a wide range of computer-science topics.
Click here to read our guide to the University of Manchester
8. University College London (UCL)
Entry requirements: A*A*A-A*AB
The course: Modules address all main strands of computer science: architecture, programming, theory, design and mathematics. The second and third years include a variety of minor subjects including entrepreneurship, nanotechnology, bio-mechanics, management, sustainable building design and connected systems. The final year features a substantial supervised project.
Biggest advantage: UCL offers excellent laboratories and facilities in a friendly and personal learning environment.
Click here to read our guide to University College London
7. University of Southampton
Entry requirements: A*AA
The course: This degree provides the core professional skills, knowledge and understanding that underpin computer science. Key areas include: programming languages, development environments, modelling tools, methodologies, structuring applications and data achieving thorough program testing.
Biggest advantage: The average salary of computer-science graduates six months after graduation is £30,000.
Click here to read our guide to the University of Southampton
6. Durham University
Entry requirements: A* in mathematics and the general university entry requirements.
The course: Basic core skills are taught in year one, including algorithms, computer systems, programming and mathematics. Second year includes learning a wider range of skills centred around software and theory.
Biggest advantage: If you take the computer-science BSc, you can also have a year abroad or a placement in the industry working out real-life problems for big companies.
Click here to read our guide to Durham University
5. University of Warwick
Entry requirements: AAA
The course: You'll acquire technical skills in software, engineering, algorithm and system design. The second year covers areas such as computer networking, theory and software engineering. Final year includes an individual project in which you'll apply your new skills to an area of your choice.
Biggest advantage: Students can boost their employment prospects by spending a year working in industry or studying abroad.
Click here to read our guide to the University of Warwick
4. University of St Andrews
Entry requirements: AAAB (SQA Highers: AAAB)
The course: First-year students learn the basic concepts behind computer science, several programming languages and theory. Alongside this course, you are required to study an additional non-computer-science subject. Final year includes mostly theoretical and practical principles including human computer interaction, video games, databases and operating systems.
Biggest advantage: The staff to student ratio is 12:1, meaning plenty of help and support.
Click here to read our guide to the University of St Andrews
3. University of Oxford
Entry requirements: A*AA
The course: First year includes core topics such as mathematics, design and analysis of algorithm, digital systems, probability and linear algebra. Year two allows you to choose six different topics - options include databases, logic and proof and a variety of computer design topics as well as core courses.
Biggest advantage: Students can opt to learn more by doing a four-year course.
Click here to read our guide to the University of Oxford
2. Imperial College London
Entry requirements: A*A*A
The course: Students here do mathematics jointly with computer science. In essence, they cover all the essentials of computer science, with an emphasis on software development and mathematics. Year three concludes with an individual project in either mathematics or computer science.
Biggest advantage: Imperial has one of the biggest lists of modules, which means everyone should find something that particularly interests them.
Click here to read our guide to Imperial College London
1. University of Cambridge
Entry requirements: A*A*A
The course: Cambridge takes a broad and deep approach, helping students to develop the skills to create future technology. Year one includes topics based on the foundations of computer science and includes one mathematics paper. Year three allows students to find their specialism, with a variety of modules to choose from.
Biggest Advantage: The department is known for its cutting-edge research and extensive facilities.
Click here to read our guide to the University of Cambridge
