Studying Computer Science in Spain

Studying computer science in Spain means you will receive your computer science education from some of the world’s top universities. Spain is packed with world-class universities renowned internationally for their expertise. Graduates who complete their computer science studies may find work as programmers, coders, software developers, etc. A career in computer science is quite lucrative and in-demand nowadays.

Computer science is one of the most diverse fields of study, and the skills you learn in your computer science program are easily applicable anywhere. Computer science degrees are in great demand, not only in Spain but anywhere in the world and across almost any sector. One of the essential aspects of computer science is that it teaches problem-solving skills, which are necessary even on a day-to-day basis. 

Best Universities for Computer Science in Spain

Spanish higher education institutions have a reputation for quality and excellence. International students in Spain gain their knowledge and skills from highly experienced professionals. They are also introduced to numerous opportunities to enhance their knowledge and enrich their skill set. Through the skills they learn at Spanish universities, students have the chance to enter the computer science job market confidently and fully prepared. 

Here are the best universities for Computer Science in Spain: 

1. Polytechnic University of Catalonia

The Polytechnic University of Catalonia is a public university located in Barcelona, renowned for research and higher education in engineering, architecture, science, and technology. It is actually one of the leading technical universities in Europe. This university shows a commitment to society and change. With over 28,000 students across its degree programs and study levels, UPC is guided by principles of freedom, democracy, justice, cooperation, and efficiency. 

2. University Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M)

Also a public university, UC3M is located in the Community of Madrid, Spain, and was established in 1989. This university aims to contribute to the improvement of society through its quality teaching and advanced research. It has around 27 departments in a wide range of study fields, including computer science. It has been ranked among the top young universities in Europe and among the best in computer science in Spain by QS World University Rankings.

3. Polytechnic University of Madrid 

The Polytechnic University of Madrid, also known as the Technical University of Madrid, is committed to quality in all areas of activity within the institution, including teaching, research, knowledge, and provision of services. Being among the top universities for computer science in Spain, the Polytechnic University of Madrid continuously aims for improvement, whether it is the study material, training of its teachers, or students’ needs. 

4. University of Barcelona

The University of Barcelona is one of Spain’s most prominent universities and one of the oldest in Catalonia. Today, it gathers more than 64,000 students in its degree programs, with over 12,000 being international students. This university offers degree programs in various disciplines, including computer science, in which it excels at. The University of Barcelona is focused on qualitative research, and it is considered one of the most innovative universities in the country.

5. Complutense University of Madrid

The Complutense University of Madrid is one of Spain’s oldest universities, founded in Alcalá in 1293. Students at this university have access to world-class facilities and library resources while receiving a quality education and creating a path towards their careers. The Complutense University of Madrid has a great reputation for excellence, not only in computer science degrees but also in a variety of its other disciplines.

6. Polytechnic University of Valencia

Located in Valencia, this university has an exceptional focus on science and technology, which is what makes it one of the top universities to study computer science in Spain. Although it became a university in 1971, some of the schools at this university are over a century old. This university aims to further the development of society and contribute to its technical, economic, and cultural enhancement. 

7. University of Granada

The University of Granada is one of the largest universities in Spain, offering an extensive selection of academic programs, including over 70 undergraduate degree programs, over 100 master’s programs, and around 28 Ph.D. programs. Students have the chance to take part in numerous international mobility programs in over 80 countries of the world. With over 80,000 students across its degree programs and courses, this university is one of the best in Spain.

8. University of Navarra

The University of Navarra is a private university in Pamplona, Spain, offering a personalized approach to teaching and learning, not only in computer science degrees but also beyond. This university promotes academic research in a variety of knowledge areas in order to encourage innovation and development. Through its personalized mentoring, it gives students the skills they need to create an excellent career. 

Admission Requirements 

The admission requirements to study computer science in Spain differ for international students in comparison to Spanish students. This is because international students might have to validate their qualifications or provide language test results. Some universities might also ask that the documentation be submitted in Spanish, for which students might need an official translator (but this depends on the university). 

Entry Requirements

Universities in Spain require students to submit their recognized high school certificates as part of the admission process. This certificate shows that your qualifications are valid in Spain. Usually, international students might have to validate their diploma at the Spanish embassy to meet the entry requirements for computer science programs in Spain. Students might also need to pass an entrance exam, depending on the university.

Language Requirements

Language requirements are also part of the entry requirements when looking to study abroad in Spain. If the study program is in English, non-native speakers of English must submit an English language proficiency test (such as TOEFL or IELTS). On the other hand, if the program is in Spanish, international students must submit the test results of a Spanish proficiency test as part of the entry requirement by presenting the DELE test results (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) or other. 

Selection Criteria 

If/when there are more applicants than places available in a computer science program at Spanish universities, the admissions team will decide who gains admission by using a selection criterion. Priority is usually given to students eligible for direct admission to the study program (without additional training course) or graduates who need the least number of credits (if additional courses are necessary). If there happens to be a tie, the student’s academic record and English level (when English is the medium of instruction) is usually considered. 

Cost of Studying Computer Science in Spain 

The cost of studying computer science in Spain differs from public and private institutions. Spanish public universities charge on a pay-per-credit basis, meaning the total cost depends on the number of credits per program. Generally, a bachelor’s degree in computer science in Spain will cost an average of €1,500 per year at public universities. In contrast, a master’s degree in computer science will cost around €3,500 per year. Non-EU/EEA students usually need to pay higher tuition fees at public universities in Spain, generally up to €6,000 per year. You might be required to pay up to €20,000 annually for computer science degree programs at private universities.