The field of Information Technology (IT) has become indispensable in today's digital world, and pursuing a course in this domain can open doors to a wide range of exciting career opportunities.
Universities in the UK offer comprehensive IT courses that combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students to navigate the rapidly evolving technological landscape. These courses cover various aspects of IT, including software development, database management, cybersecurity, and project management, and international students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, industry collaborations, and opportunities for work experience through internships and industry projects. UK universities are known for their academic excellence, with many institutions ranking highly in global league tables and pursuing an IT course in the UK gives students a solid foundation and the necessary expertise to thrive in the dynamic and ever-expanding IT industry.
Learn more about the best universities in the UK for the study of information technology and arrange a free consultation to begin your questions answered on UK study today.
Best Universities for Information Technology in the UK
1. University of St Andrews
The MSc in Computing and Information Technology is a one-year programme offered by the School of Computer Science. It aims to develop students' understanding of computing systems and their impact on business processes and project management. It also provides an opportunity for students without prior programming experience to gain programming skills in a modern software development environment.
The programme consists of two semesters of taught components followed by an 11-week project, culminating in the submission of a 15,000-word dissertation. Students have access to modern computing laboratories equipped with dual-screen PC workstations and group-working facilities, available 24 hours a day.
The core modules include Master's programming Projects, which reinforce programming skills, and students can choose between Object-Oriented Modelling, Design and programming, which focuses on object-oriented concepts, or programming Principles and Practice, which introduces computational thinking and problem-solving skills for beginners.
- Suggested Course: Computing and Information Technology (MSc)
- Entry Requirements: A good 2.1 Honours undergraduate degree.
- International fees: £27,230
2. University of Glasgow
The Masters in Information Technology by the University of Glasgow is a highly practical and intensive postgraduate programme designed to equip students with advanced IT skills. This conversion degree programme is suitable for students without a computing science background. The School of Computing Science, which offers the programme, is ranked among the top 10 departments in the UK, and it is part of the Scottish Informatics and Computer Science Alliance (SICSA), aiming to lead in research and education in the field.
The programme benefits from strong industry connections, with contributions from companies like IBM, J.P. Morgan, Amazon, Adobe, and Red Hat. Students have opportunities to develop professional and transferable skills, engage with employers through presentations and recruitment events, and access a well-equipped computer laboratory. The programme includes core courses in database theory, enterprise cyber security, programming, software engineering, systems and networks, as well as team projects and individual IT projects.
Optional courses cover advanced programming, algorithms and data structures, cryptography and secure development, cybersecurity fundamentals, forensics, human-computer interaction, internet technology, and information visualisation.
- Suggested Course: Information Technology MSc
- Entry Requirements: A minimum of a 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent in a subject other than computing.
- International fees: £29370
3. Liverpool Hope University
The Information Technology degree programme offered by the School of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Engineering provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the rapidly evolving field of IT. The curriculum is designed to meet the demands of organisations that heavily rely on IT for their core functions. The degree focuses on developing various technologies, particularly web and mobile, integral to everyday life. Students will cultivate computational thinking and a systems approach to problem-solving throughout their studies.
The programme is intellectually stimulating, taught by experienced faculty with diverse backgrounds and interests. Ethical considerations and the social impact of IT are also explored. The first year covers computing principles, professional development, programming principles, and database technology. The second year delves into software engineering and website development. In the final year, students explore mobile technologies, the Internet of Things, and advanced web technologies.
- Suggested Course: Bachelors in Information Technology
- Entry Requirements: A-Levels: BBC; UCAS Tariff Points: 112 UCAS Tariff points must come from a minimum of two A Levels (or equivalent). Additional points can be made up from a range of alternative qualifications.
- International fees: £12,500
4. Heriot-Watt University
The MSc Information Technology (Business) programme at Heriot-Watt University offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines business management and software engineering. It provides a blend of practical, analytical, and theoretical courses focusing on various aspects of IT systems, data management, business strategy, project leadership, and e-commerce. The programme aims to produce graduates with strong analytical and project management skills, enabling them to bridge the gap between software developers and business strategists effectively.
While programming is not the main focus, students develop proficiency in communication and management. The course includes a master's project and dissertation, which can be conducted in collaboration with external industrial or academic organisations. Optional courses cover topics such as big data management, competitive strategy, information systems methodologies, entrepreneurship, e-commerce technology, project management, entrepreneurial venturing, software engineering foundations, and statistical modelling and analysis.
- Suggested Course: MSc Information Technology (Business)
- Entry Requirements: A good honours degree in a numerate subject area.
- International fees: £22,264
5. University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield's Information Systems Management MSc programme offers practical knowledge in the field of information systems and their impact on organisational structures and processes. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of essential management skills and focuses on key areas such as strategy, human resources, operations, and supply chain management. It explores the relationship between project management, information technologies, and information systems in driving organisational progress.
Students can customise their studies based on their interests, with options like e-business, e-commerce, business intelligence, and international business strategy. By the course's end, students will have a deep understanding of management principles, cutting-edge information systems theory, and the technologies that drive modern workplaces. This degree suits individuals aspiring to managerial roles or those looking to enhance their career prospects in business information systems.
- Suggested Course: MSc Information Systems Management
- Entry Requirements: Minimum 2:1 undergraduate honours degree or an approved professional qualification.
- International fees: £27,500
Information Technology FAQ
Q. What are the admission requirements?
Admission requirements for information technology courses may vary depending on the university and the specific programme. Generally, applicants are expected to have completed their secondary education or an equivalent qualification. They may be required to meet certain academic criteria, such as specific grades or subjects in their previous studies.
Q. What is the highest salary for information technology?
IT professionals with specialised skills and expertise in areas such as cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing are often in high demand and can command higher salaries. In top-tier positions, such as IT directors or chief technology officers (CTOs), salaries can range from six figures to even seven figures in some cases.
Q. What are the benefits of studying information technology?
Studying information technology provides a wide range of career opportunities in various industries, as nearly every sector relies on technology and IT systems. IT professionals are in high demand and often enjoy job stability and growth prospects. Additionally, studying information technology equips individuals with valuable technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and analytical thinking, which are applicable in a variety of professional settings.
Q. Which degree is eligible for IT jobs?
IT jobs typically require a degree in a relevant field, such as computer science, information technology, software engineering, or a related discipline. A bachelor's degree is often the minimum requirement for entry-level positions in the IT industry. However, for more specialised or advanced roles, employers may prefer candidates with a master's or higher qualification.
Q. How many years are there in the IT course?
A bachelor's degree in information technology typically takes three to four years to complete, while a master's in IT usually requires an additional one to two years of study beyond the undergraduate level. Doctoral programmes in IT can take three to five years or more.