Best Computer Science Universities in Spain
Whether you're seeking top-tier education, cutting-edge research, or industry connections, here’s your guide to the universities in Spain that excel in Computer Science:
Top Institutions to Consider
1. University of Granada (UGR)
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Rated as a national leader in Computer Science Engineering
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Among the top in Spain for emerging technologies and artificial intelligence—ranked 14th globally in WURI 2024
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Recently entered the World Reputation Rankings 2025, placing among the top 300 globally and being the only Andalusian university featured
2. Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC)
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Widely recognized for excellence in engineering and computing education
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Ranked #1 in Spain for Computer Science, and #49 in Europe, based on research output
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Strong academic profile with numerous English-taught programs, over 200 research groups, and high graduate employability
3. Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM)
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A leading technical university renowned for engineering and Computer Science
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Recognized among the top institutions in Spain for Computer Science
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Enjoys solid global ranking placements in engineering and tech domains
4. Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M)
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Known for innovative and tech-oriented programs in Computer Science
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Consistently ranked for computing excellence and ranked among the top young universities in Europe
5. University of Barcelona (UB)
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A historic and comprehensive university offering strong Computer Science education
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Ranked highly in both research performance and national prestige in CS
6. Pompeu Fabra University (UPF)
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A prestigious institution for young universities, consistently ranked at the top nationally
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Known for modern CS program strengths in AI, HCI, and computational biology
7. Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV)
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Noted for practical, industry-aligned Computer Science and engineering programs
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Holds strong subject and global rankings—among the top 5% of institutions worldwide for CS
Comparative Overview
| University | Strengths & Highlights |
|---|---|
| University of Granada (UGR) | Research leader in CS; high global reputation; AI & emerging tech focus |
| Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC) | #1 in Spain, strong research ecosystem, high employability |
| Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM) | Tradition in engineering and tech; robust CS education |
| Carlos III University of Madrid (UC3M) | Innovative, English-friendly, strong CS reputation |
| University of Barcelona (UB) | Broad-based excellence, strong research footprint |
| Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) | Elite young institution, modern CS specialties |
| Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV) | Practical CS focus, solid global rankings |
Why These Stand Out
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Research Excellence: UPC and UGR consistently lead in academic output and innovation.
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Industry Interaction: Institutions like UPC and UC3M maintain strong ties with tech firms for internships and placements.
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Global Recognition: UGR, UPF, and UB shine both within Spain and internationally.
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English-Taught Programs: Many of these universities offer comprehensive English curricula—ideal for international students.
Academic Reputation Highlights
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UGR is now top 300 globally in reputation and excelling in AI and CS research
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UPC is ranked #1 in Spain and among Europe’s top 50 for engineering and CS
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UPV and UC3M consistently place in the top 4–5% globally for Computer Science
If you're pursuing Computer Science in Spain, institutions like UGR, UPC, UPM, UC3M, UB, UPF, and UPV are among the elite choices. Consider each university’s strengths—such as research focus, global reputation, language offerings, and location—when making your choice.
