University applications for AI degrees rise 15 per cent in UK

LONDON April 29: Applications to study artificial intelligence (AI) at UK universities have surged by 15% this year, even as interest in broader computing degrees is on the decline.

According to new UCAS figures shared with the PA news agency, applications for AI-specific degrees have jumped 15% among women and 12% among men — a promising trend for diversity in the tech world. Yet, AI courses still represent just 5% of all computing-related applications. Traditional programs like computer science, software engineering, and computer games and animation continue to dominate — but declines across these subjects have dragged overall computing applications down by 10%.

This drop marks a sharp contrast to five consecutive years of steady growth in computing enrollments.

Experts believe the AI boom mirrors the rising excitement around the technology — fueled by government initiatives and a media spotlight that shows no signs of dimming. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer introduced the AI Opportunities Action Plan, outlining major investments to grow the UK’s AI infrastructure and integrate AI tools more widely across the public sector. The ambition? To cement the UK’s position as a global AI powerhouse.

BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, which also analyzed the figures, says young people recognize that AI will shape the future — and they want to be part of that change.

“Young people — especially an increasing number of young women — understand that studying AI gives them the tools to change the world,” said Julia Adamson, Managing Director for Education at BCS. “This reflects the evolution of the digital economy. Fields like AI and information systems are expanding rapidly, particularly for female applicants — a positive step toward a more diverse tech workforce.”

However, Adamson notes that while specialized AI degrees are rising sharply, they still represent a relatively small slice of the overall computing education landscape. Many future AI professionals may instead enter the field through postgraduate conversion routes, such as the Google DeepMind Research Ready programme.

BCS is now working with government, educators, universities, and industry leaders to better understand the factors behind these shifting trends — from the scarcity of entry-level developer roles, to AI’s influence on perceptions of tech careers, the impact of big tech on global politics, and the persistent under-representation of women in technology.

“We’re exploring how early subject choices, job market dynamics, and even geopolitical forces are shaping the future of tech education,” Adamson added.