Why I chose to study Computer Science at Birmingham

There are approximately 25,000 universities worldwide, and only around 8,000 of them offer Computer Science as a degree. Out of all these options, I chose University of Birmingham. In this blog, I’ll share three key reasons why Birmingham stood out to me and why it was the right choice for my Computer Science journey.

Academic Excellence and World-Class Teaching

Aside from being ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide in the QS World University Rankings, Birmingham has one of the strongest Computer Science programmes in the UK. In the Complete University Guide 2026, Birmingham ranked 5th in the UK for Computer Science, placing it ahead of most other universities in the country for this subject. These rankings reflect the University’s research quality and academic performance, not just in computer science but across the board. The teaching is research-led, and the content is broad, modern and rigorous, ensuring that students are taught to think critically and solve complex problems rather than just simply learning to code. All of this made the decision to come to Birmingham a clear one for me.

My Personal Experience

My favourite module so far was Security of Real-World Systems. Although challenging, it was genuinely enjoyable. The continuous assessment was based on a game that required applying reverse-engineering techniques to manipulate system behaviour, making it one of the most engaging assessments I have completed. As someone who struggles to stay focused during theory-heavy or overly dry content, I really appreciated how the lecturers brought creativity and excitement to a module that could otherwise feel quite abstract. This is what you can expect when studying Computer Science at Birmingham: teaching that is rigorous, engaging, and genuinely enjoyable.

An Environment Designed for Learning and Growth

Birmingham provides a learning environment that truly supports Computer Science students with modern facilities and dedicated spaces. Within the School of Computer Science building itself, there are teaching rooms and computer laboratories equipped for practical classes, coding labs and collaborative work, giving students regular access to machines and software needed for hands-on learning. Beyond teaching labs, the Computer Science programme benefits from state-of-the-art research labs focused on areas like medical imaging, intelligent robotics, human-computer interaction and security, giving students exposure to cutting-edge technology environments as part of their course. Outside of formal labs, the wider campus offers 24/7 library access with thousands of study spaces and excellent IT infrastructure, making it easy to work independently or in groups during busy coursework and exam periods.

My Personal Experience

Beyond being academically useful, these state-of-the-art facilities also create great spaces to work and spend time with others and make new friends. Some of my favourite memories from university are late nights in first year working on assignments in the Sloman Lounge in the Computer Science building, alongside friends from my course. I’m very much a “friends-you-make-along-the-way” kind of person, and those moments always bring a smile to my face when I look back. Moments like these are just one more reason why studying at Birmingham has been such a special experience.

Excellent Employability and Career Support

Birmingham is very intentional about preparing students for employment, particularly within Computer Science and other STEM disciplines. Through the Careers Network, students have access to multiple careers fairs each year, including dedicated events such as the STEM Careers Fair, where they can connect directly with employers offering internships, placements, and graduate roles. Alongside these, employer talks and panel events focused on areas like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Cybersecurity allow students to explore specialised career paths within Computer Science.

My Personal Experience

As an international student in my third year, the process of finding employment can feel daunting. However, the Careers Network provides specialised support for international students, including guidance on the UK job market, CV and application advice tailored to UK standards, and information on the Graduate Route visa. Access to one-to-one appointments, interview workshops, and employer-led networking events has made the job-search process far more manageable and significantly less anxiety-inducing.

There are many more reasons I could talk about, but these are the three that have stood out to me the most. The University of Birmingham was my choice, and so far, it has proven to be the right one. Beyond strong academic teaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and career-focused opportunities, it’s also the friendships and shared experiences along the way that have made my time here so special. Birmingham offers far more than just a degree; it offers an experience.