Discover the top UK universities for Computer Science in 2026. We highlight institutions with cutting-edge research, strong teaching, and lively student communities.
Best Universities for Computer Science: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Oxford | 98 | 85 |
| 2 Silver | University of Cambridge | 96 | 82 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Manchester | 92 | 91 |
| 4 | University of Glasgow | 90 | 88 |
| 5 | University of Leeds | 87 | 93 |
| 6 | King’s College London | 86 | 80 |
| 7 | University of Edinburgh | 85 | 84 |
| 8 | University of Bath | 83 | 87 |
| 9 | University of Bristol | 82 | 85 |
| 10 | University of York | 80 | 83 |
1. University of Oxford Gold
2. University of Cambridge Silver
3. University of Manchester Bronze
4. University of Glasgow
5. University of Leeds
6. King’s College London
7. University of Edinburgh
8. University of Bath
9. University of Bristol
10. University of York
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Computer Science rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Computer Science Universities Explained
University of Oxford
Leading in research innovation, exceptional teaching, and outstanding graduate employability.University of Cambridge
World-class facilities and a rich tradition in computing and technology.Imperial College London
Known for strong industry links and cutting-edge research opportunities.University of Edinburgh
Excellent student satisfaction and vibrant tech community.University of Manchester
Balanced academics with great support and strong graduate outcomes.University of Glasgow
Affordable city life combined with quality teaching and research.University of Bristol
Robust course content with strong ties to local tech industries.University of Warwick
Innovative curriculum and strong student satisfaction.University of Southampton
Leading research in software engineering and cybersecurity.University of Leeds
Great mix of social life, affordability, and academic strength.Career Prospects After a Computer Science Degree
Graduates are in high demand across software development, data science, cybersecurity, and AI sectors. Related courses to consider include Data Science and Cyber Security.
Computer Science Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Typical entry requirements include strong Maths and sometimes Physics A-levels, with UCAS points usually between 120 and 160. Always check specific course requirements.
Cheapest Cities to Study Computer Science in the UK
Glasgow, Sheffield, and Newcastle offer affordable living alongside quality education.
Best Computer Science Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Manchester, Leeds, and Newcastle rank highly for vibrant nightlife and student communities.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Top support services are found at Edinburgh, Bristol, and Warwick, helping students balance study and wellbeing.
Not Sure About Computer Science? Consider These Alternatives
Explore Software Engineering, Data Science, or Robotics.
Summary: Which Computer Science Uni is Right for You?
Consider research opportunities, teaching quality, city vibe, and career support. Bookmark your top choices and explore campus visits.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Computer Science
Top UK universities for Computer Science often include Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and UCL. Check our 2026 rankings for the latest student and academic insights.
Oxford University regularly ranks highest for Computer Science, thanks to its cutting-edge research and strong student satisfaction scores.
Yes, a Computer Science degree opens many doors in software development, AI, cybersecurity, and data science. Graduate demand and salaries remain strong across the UK tech sector.
The UK is world-renowned for Computer Science, but countries like the USA, Canada, and Germany also offer excellent programs and tech opportunities.
Maths is almost always required, with some universities also preferring Physics or Computing. Always check each course’s entry requirements before applying.
Computer Science graduates find roles in software development, data analysis, AI, cybersecurity, research, and IT consultancy, with growing demand in many sectors.
Yes, the tech sector in the UK is booming, with strong demand for graduates skilled in programming, data science, and cybersecurity.
Starting salaries range between £25,000 and £35,000, rising quickly with experience and specialisation in areas like AI or cybersecurity.
Courses focusing on advanced algorithms, AI, and theoretical computer science tend to be the most challenging. Practical coding and project work are also intense but rewarding.
Graduates work in tech companies, finance, healthcare, government, startups, and academia, benefiting from a broad skill set.
Absolutely. Computer Science is one of the most respected degrees, highly valued for its technical skills and problem-solving abilities across industries.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
