Discover the top UK universities for Data Science in 2026. These universities offer a mix of strong academic teaching, cutting-edge research, and vibrant student life.
Best Universities for Data 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 Edinburgh | 92 | 84 |
| 2 Silver | University of Warwick | 90 | 79 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Manchester | 89 | 78 |
| 4 | University of Bristol | 87 | 83 |
| 5 | University of Glasgow | 85 | 80 |
| 6 | University of Leeds | 84 | 79 |
| 7 | University of Nottingham | 83 | 76 |
| 8 | Lancaster University | 82 | 78 |
| 9 | University of Birmingham | 81 | 77 |
| 10 | University of York | 80 | 75 |
1. University of Edinburgh Gold
2. University of Warwick Silver
3. University of Manchester Bronze
4. University of Bristol
5. University of Glasgow
6. University of Leeds
7. University of Nottingham
8. Lancaster University
9. University of Birmingham
10. University of York
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Data 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 Data Science Universities Explained
University of Oxford
World-leading research, rigorous academics, and excellent career prospects.University of Manchester
Strong industry links, diverse course options, and vibrant campus life.University of Edinburgh
Innovative teaching methods and a supportive learning environment.University of Glasgow
Balanced focus on theory and practical skills with great student satisfaction.University of Leeds
Strong student community and active social scene alongside academic excellence.University of Southampton
Renowned for research and employability in tech sectors.University of Nottingham
Good balance between academic quality and social opportunities.University of Sheffield
Excellent facilities and supportive student services.Newcastle University
Affordable living with strong teaching and graduate outcomes.University of York
Emerging strength in data analytics and close-knit student community.Career Prospects After a Data Science Degree
Graduates are highly sought after in fields like data analytics, machine learning, finance, and AI. For related options, check out Computer Science and Software Engineering.
Data Science Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Entry requirements usually include A-levels in maths or related subjects with UCAS points around 112-136. Always review specific university course pages for exact details.
Cheapest Cities to Study Data Science in the UK
Cities like Newcastle, Glasgow, and Sheffield offer good value for money on rent, nightlife, and student services.
Best Data Science Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Leeds, Manchester, and Nottingham lead the way in student nightlife and social activities.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Look for universities like Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Sheffield, which score highly for student wellbeing and support.
Not Sure About Data Science? Consider These Alternatives
Explore Statistics, Mathematics, or Computer Science.
Summary: Which Data Science Uni is Right for You?
Focus on a combination of academic strength, social life, and career prospects. Use our rankings to help you find the best fit.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Data Science
Leading UK universities for Data Science include University College London, University of Edinburgh, and Imperial College London. Check our latest rankings for up-to-date student feedback.
University College London often ranks highest for Data Science, thanks to its strong research, industry links, and student satisfaction scores.
Yes, a Data Science degree offers excellent career prospects in high-demand fields such as finance, technology, and healthcare analytics.
The UK is renowned for Data Science education, but the US, Canada, and Germany also have strong programs with valuable industry connections.
Maths and Computer Science are key A-levels, with Physics and Statistics also highly recommended. Always check university course pages for specific entry requirements.
Graduates work as data analysts, machine learning engineers, business intelligence specialists, and in roles across finance, tech, healthcare, and more.
Yes, Data Science skills are highly sought after as organisations rely more on data-driven decisions.
Starting salaries typically range from £28,000 to £38,000, with experienced professionals earning significantly more.
Courses heavy on advanced maths, programming, and machine learning can be challenging but rewarding.
Graduates typically work in tech companies, finance, healthcare, consulting, and government sectors.
Yes, Data Science is highly valued for its practical skills and broad applicability 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
