Computer science remains a popular and competitive field for students interested in technology careers. If you want to build a career in software, data, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or research, studying computer science can help you develop the technical foundation needed for the technology sector.
Computer science is one of the most popular academic fields, but not all computer science curricula are the same. China is home to several highly ranked universities in computer science and information systems, including institutions that appear near the top of major global subject rankings. Below, we list some of the top universities to study computer science in China.
Top Schools Offering Computer Science in China
1. Tsinghua University
Tsinghua University is one of China’s leading universities for computer science. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 for Computer Science and Information Systems, Tsinghua is the highest-ranked university in mainland China and is ranked 11th globally.
Tsinghua University’s Department of Computer Science and Technology (DCST) has contributed to teaching, research, and product development in computer science and technology. Its official history lists achievements including the 0520-C IBM-compatible microcomputer and CERNET, which the department describes as the world’s largest national education and research network.
DCST offers undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D.-level study in computer science and technology. The undergraduate curriculum requires at least 172 credit units and includes a freshman seminar, advanced laboratory work, summer practice, and a bachelor’s thesis. At the master’s level, the department lists a Master of Science in Computer Science and Technology and a Master of Engineering, both with research and thesis requirements.
2. Peking University
Peking University is another leading Chinese research university for computer science. Its School of Computer Science was established in 2021 on the basis of the Department of Computer Science and Technology, which dates back to 1978.
The School of Computer Science has 109 faculty members, including professors, researchers, associate professors, assistant professors, associate researchers, lecturers, and assistant researchers. Current international graduate admission information lists full-time master’s and Ph.D. programs in Computer Science and Technology.
For international graduate applicants in Computer Science and Technology, Peking University states that courses are taught in Chinese or English. The standard length is three years for the master’s program, four years for Ph.D. applicants with a master’s degree, and five years for Ph.D. applicants entering without a master’s degree.
3. Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU)
Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) is one of China’s strongest universities for computer science. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 for Computer Science and Information Systems, SJTU is listed among the highest-ranked mainland Chinese universities and is ranked 30th globally.
SJTU’s current School of Computer Science was officially established on May 11, 2025. It integrates the former Department of Computer Science and Engineering, School of Software, School of Cyber Science and Engineering, John Hopcroft Center for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence Institute, Institute of Cyber Science and Technology, and Qingyuan Research Institute of SJTU.
The school’s computer science research covers areas such as parallel and distributed computing, computer networks, information security and cryptography, data and service computing, system software, and intelligent human-computer interaction. Its graduate training plan also lists institutes such as Network and Service Computing, Cryptography and Information Security, and Intelligent Human-Computer Interaction.
4. Fudan University
Fudan University is a major research university in Shanghai. Its School of Computer Science, also known as the Software School, states that computer science programs at Fudan have more than 60 years of history. The Department of Computer Science was founded in 1975, and the School of Computer Science was established in 2008.
The School of Computer Science offers degree programs from bachelor’s to doctoral level. Its listed fields include Computer Science and Technology, Computer Software and Theory, Computer Application Technology, Computer Architecture, Data Science, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Computer Technology, Information Security, and related areas.
The Software School has international collaborations, including a joint dual-degree bachelor’s program and a joint dual-degree master’s program with University College Dublin. The school emphasizes practical skills, research ability, and an international perspective.
5. Zhejiang University
Zhejiang University is a comprehensive, research-oriented university in Hangzhou. Its international admissions information describes undergraduate programs as usually lasting four to six academic years, with most programs taught in Chinese and some programs taught in English.
Zhejiang University’s College of Computer Science and Technology (CCST) offers computer-science-related education through departments including artificial intelligence, computer science and technology, information security, and software engineering. Students should confirm the current program catalog and language of instruction before applying, since ZJU notes that program catalogs may change.
For graduate study, Zhejiang University states that master’s programs normally last two to three academic years and are generally taught in Chinese, with some English-taught programs available. Applicants should check the current master’s and doctoral catalogs, supervisor requirements, and program pages for the latest computer science options.
6. University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
The University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) is closely associated with China’s early development of computer science education. Its School of Computer Science and Engineering states that Computer Science and Technology at UESTC was founded in 1956 as part of the first batch of computer science disciplines in China.
The UESTC School of Computer Science and Engineering offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral study pathways. Current research fields listed for graduate study include information security, digital media technology, embedded systems, computer networks, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing.
This school provides undergraduate and graduate study options in computer science and technology. International applicants should check the current UESTC admissions brochure and program pages for the available language of instruction and degree-specific requirements.
7. Huazhong University of Science and Technology
Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) is a major university in Wuhan with strengths in science and engineering. Students interested in computer science should consult HUST’s current school and international admissions pages, as program availability and application requirements can vary by degree level and language of instruction.
HUST’s 2026 international graduate admissions guide sets eligibility rules for master’s and doctoral applicants and notes that applicants are evaluated based on academic performance and potential. It also lists language requirements for Chinese-medium and English-medium graduate programs.
For computer science applicants, the most important step is to confirm the current major name, language of instruction, supervisor or research-field requirements, tuition, and scholarship availability directly through HUST’s official admissions channels.
We hope that this article on universities for computer science in China was helpful. Make sure to also check out the China Page and the Available Programs for International Students!
