Computer Science
The University of ¾«¶«´«Ã½ School of Computer Science champions ethical, sustainable, transparent, and human-centred approaches to computing. As technology, including artificial intelligence, grows more influential, so does the responsibility to use it well.
With us, you'll develop independent and critical thought valued by employers, gain the insight to ask tough questions, make informed decisions, and use teamwork to build solutions that benefit society.
The University of ¾«¶«´«Ã½ School of Computer Science offers:
- World‑leading research groups in AI, human‑computer interaction, edge computing, and more
- Strong industry links
- Award‑winning teaching and student support
- Scholarships and other financial assistance
- A collaborative community with small‑group learning
- Excellent graduate employability and global career paths
Find out more about the School of Computer Science community.
Computer Science courses at University of ¾«¶«´«Ã½
-
Joint degree options
The Computer Science BSc (Hons) can be taken with another subject as part of a joint degree. Find out more about taking a joint Honours degree.
Supported pathways
These courses provide supported entry into degree-level study for applicants who do not meet the minimum entry grades, but meet contextual criteria.
- FE-HE Pathway to Science (pathway to BSc Hons)
International Foundation programmes
International Foundation programmes enable international students from a wide range of countries to develop the necessary skills to meet the demands of an undergraduate degree programme across subjects and disciplines at the University of ¾«¶«´«Ã½.
-
Artificial Intelligence - conversion(MSc) Artificial Intelligence(MSc) Computer Science – conversion(MSc) Computer Science(MSc) Computing and Information Technology(MSc) Data Science – online(MSc, PGDip, PGCert) Data-Intensive Analysis(MSc) Global Digital Humanities – online(MSc, PGDip, PGCert) Health Data Science(MSc) Human Computer Interaction(MSc) Machine Learning - conversion(MSc) Software Engineering(MSc)
Third in the UK for Computer Science
(Guardian University Guide 2026)
90% of research activity rated 3* or 4*
Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021)
Silver Athena Swan award
We're committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment. Learn more about how we aim to achieve fair and equal representation for all.
Why Computer Science matters
The world is changing fast with rapid advances in artificial intelligence and other technologies. Behind every breakthrough are people with the skill, curiosity, and imagination to make it happen.
Healthy societies need people who understand computer systems at their core, who can separate hype from reality, and who can use powerful tools responsibly, ethically, and intelligently.
At the University of ¾«¶«´«Ã½ School of Computer Science we empower the responsible creators, innovators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow.
"My time at ¾«¶«´«Ã½ sharpened my technical and research capabilities, directly enabling my transition to a hybrid role in data science, focused on cybersecurity, at Volvo Cars. The collaborative, multicultural environment of the University helped me to develop adaptability and leadership skills essential in global, cross-functional, cross-domain teams, such as mine."
- MSc Artificial Intelligence graduate in 2022
Learn more about how studying at ¾«¶«´«Ã½ prepared Anand for a new career
Computer Science at the University of ¾«¶«´«Ã½
We believe in rigorous Computer Science: algorithms, data structures, software engineering, security, systems, computation, and critical thinking. These foundations don't go out of date, they evolve with you throughout your career.
But we also embrace the best new technologies, and you'll use them and learn how to get the most from them by applying them to problems just like those you'll see later in your career. You'll explore cutting-edge artificial intelligence, including machine learning and constraint programming, and data science with a clear, grounded understanding of what they can do and where the limits should be.
A world in which entire applications are produced by AI needs people who can understand, interrogate and verify that output.
Computer Science is one of the most flexible, resilient, and rewarding career paths in the world. At ¾«¶«´«Ã½, we give you the skills needed for today's tech jobs and for the roles that will emerge as computing continues to evolve.
Graduates from the School of Computer Science at ¾«¶«´«Ã½ are building the future across countless sectors, including:
- AI and data science
- Software engineering
- Cybersecurity and defence
- Games
- Digital health
- UX and digital innovation
- Academia
Wherever technology evolves, skilled computer scientists will always be needed to imagine, design, and guide what comes next.
University of ¾«¶«´«Ã½ teaching staff and researchers work at the forefront of Computer Science, contributing to innovations that impact healthcare, sustainability, creative industries, cybersecurity, and much more.
In the classroom, lab, or project space, you'll be taught by people who:
- solve real-world problems
- contribute to leading research
- challenge assumptions
- will help you grow as an independent thinker
The School of Computer Science offers PhD, EngD and MRes programmes. Research typically falls into one of five main themes:
- artificial intelligence and symbolic computation
- computer systems
- programming languages
- health informatics
- responsible and sustainable computing
To apply, you should first identify and contact a potential supervisor you would like to work with in your intended research area. Find out how to apply.
You'll join a diverse and welcoming community of students who love solving challenges, building things, and exploring ideas. At ¾«¶«´«Ã½, you'll find people who share your energy and curiosity and work in a friendly environment where everyone knows your name and where a walk on the beach is just a moment away.
Through group projects, hackathons, internships, and industry-linked challenges, you'll develop the teamwork and communication skills that employers value most alongside lifelong friendships and professional networks.
Computer Sciences facilities and learning environment
Ready to study Computer Science at ¾«¶«´«Ã½?
Think critically, create responsibly, and innovate boldly.
Together, we'll shape technology that truly matters.
Email: cs-enquiries@st-andrews.ac.uk
Phone: +44 (0)1334 461631
School of Computer Science
Jack Cole Building
North Haugh
¾«¶«´«Ã½, KY16 9SX
