Computer Science
Overview
As a city, Bristol is known for its concentration of high-technology industry. Computers, communications and microelectronics are well represented, alongside digital media, computer games and electronic commerce. The University's Department of Computer Science has close relationships with many of these organisations via collaborative projects, staff secondments and visiting industrial staff.
The Department of Computer Science is an international centre of excellence in the foundations and applications of computing. Staff in the department carry out research in intelligent systems, digital media, foundations, personal systems, and architecture and design.
The department is located in the Merchant Venturers Building alongside the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering and the Department of Engineering Mathematics. This brings together the research in computing, communications, electronics and photonics within the University.
Entry requirements
PhD applicants must hold/achieve the minimum award level of a master's degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline. Applicants without a master's qualification may be considered on an exceptional basis, provided they hold a first-class undergraduate degree. Please note, acceptance will also depend on evidence of readiness to pursue a research degree.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office webpage.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level E.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Fees and funding
- UK: full-time
- £4,665 per year
- UK: part-time
- £2,332 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £25,300 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.
Alumni discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding for 2023/24
A number of funded studentships are available each year, supported by research council, industry, University or other funds. View the faculty webpages for a list of currently available funded projects or visit jobs.ac.uk.
View information on funding postgraduate study for prospective UK, EU and international postgraduate students.
Self-funded or sponsored students are also very welcome to apply.
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
Career prospects
The Computer Science PhD can open doors to many different stimulating commercial or academic careers. Graduates have become part of new and existing world-class research groups, as well as highly rewarding careers in a variety of industries around the world.
Research groups
The Department of Computer Science's large programme of research is supported by industry, the European Union, UK government research establishments and public corporations. The academic research programme is organised into research groups.
A list of Research Groups in Engineering can be found on the Faculty webpages.
The University of Bristol Research Portal can be used to find academics, their research interests, and projects for all faculties.
Contact us
- Contact
Postgraduate Research Admissions Team
- Phone
- +44 (0) 117 374 6636
- sceem-pgr-admissions@bristol.ac.uk