Choosing the right course is among the most significant choices of your study abroad journey. If you wish to pursue study in UK after 12th, intend or even plan to do PhD research, to select the most appropriate course for you may mean success or failure in your academic endeavor and profession.
The top reason why students study in UK is the vast number of professional programs, 50,000+ courses in 160+ universities. In fact, most of the top courses you can study in UK regularly make it to the list of best world universities, with QS World University Rankings 2025.
Here are some of the most popular courses for Indian and international students intending to study in UK universities:
Top 10 Courses to Study in UK
1. Business and Management Studies
The business and management continues to be one of the chosen subject to study in the United Kingdom university. The emphasis is on leadership, finance, marketing and entrepreneurship. Bringing you some of the most reputable MBAs and undergraduate business degrees on the planet, UK business schools could be your answer.
- Top Universities: London Business School, Judge (Cambridge), Alliance (Manchester)
- Job Titles: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Management Consultant
- Scholarships: Chevening Fellowship, Commonwealth Fellowship
- Why Study in UK: UK MBAs can be completed in 1 year, which saves you time and money.
2. Computer Science and IT
Digital transformation is a common occurrence across the world and the above is one of the best courses to study in the UK. Programs are in the fields of AI, cybersecurity, software development and data science.
- Best Universities: University of Oxford, University of Edinburgh, University of Bristol
- Jobs: Software Engineer, Data Analyst, AI Research Scientist
- Study in UK Without IELTS: Several universities accept MOI (medium of instruction) or internal examination.
- Indian Scholarships to Study in UK: GREAT Scholarship, University-specific scholarships
3. Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical)
Engineering is a typical pick amongst the Indian students who want study in UK after 12th. An Engineering degree in UK have emphasis on research based learning and strong industry links.
- Top Universities: Imperial College London, Leeds University, Southampton University
- Job Titles: Mechanical Engineer, Civil Engineer, Project Manager
- Cost to Study in UK: Approx. £20,000–£35,000 per year
- Why Do You Want to Study in UK: Less time – the degree is shorter and older laboratories and technology, and a job that you could take anywhere in the world after!
4. Medicine and Healthcare
Medicine is one the most professional and combining levels to study in UK for Indian students. Partnerships that the UK National Health Service (NHS) provide a wide range of clinical experience.
- Top Universities: University of Cambridge, University of Glasgow, University of Edinburgh
- Job Roles: Doctor, Surgeon, Nurse, Public Health Consultant
- Scholarship to Study in UK: British Council Medical Scholarships, university-specific bursaries
- Total Cost to Study in UK from India: Around £30,000–£45,000/year for tuition + living costs
5. Law
If you’re interested in legal studies, the UK offers a robust curriculum in Law through its globally reputed universities. LLB and LLM degrees are recognized in many countries, including India.
- Top Universities: University College London, King’s College London, University of Nottingham
- Job Roles: Corporate Lawyer, Legal Advisor, Barrister
- Study in UK from India: Law degrees in the UK typically offer faster routes to qualification
- Why to Study in UK: UK’s legal system has influenced laws across the Commonwealth
6. Design, Fashion, and Creative Arts
The UK is a global hub for fashion and arts. Whether it’s product design or fashion communication, this is one of the most creative courses to study in UK universities.
- Top Universities: Central Saint Martins, London College of Fashion, University for the Creative Arts
- Job Roles: Fashion Designer, Visual Artist, Product Designer
- Study in UK Without IELTS: Many art-based courses accept portfolios and interviews in place of IELTS
- Why study in UK: Direct access to global fashion hubs like London and international internships
7. Finance, Accounting and Economics
A go-to choice for students interested in numbers and strategy. UK universities provide an in-depth understanding of global markets, economics, and financial management.
- Top Universities: London School of Economics (LSE), University of Warwick, University of Bath
- Job Roles: Investment Banker, Financial Analyst, Economist
- Scholarships to Study in UK: Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, University of Bath Excellence Scholarship
- How Much Money Is Required to Study in UK: £15,000–£30,000/year depending on the university
8. Media, Communication, and Journalism
The UK’s media industry is vibrant, and universities offer strong academic programs in journalism, digital communication, and PR. If you’re a creative thinker, this is an ideal course to explore.
- Top Universities: University of Westminster, University of Leeds, Goldsmiths (University of London)
- Job Roles: Journalist, Media Planner, Digital Marketer
- Study in UK for International Students: Post-study work visa allows students to explore media opportunities for up to 2 years after graduation
9. Psychology and Mental Health
Mental health awareness has grown globally, making psychology one of the best courses to study in UK. UK degrees emphasize both theoretical understanding and practical training.
- Top Universities: University of Glasgow, University of Essex, University of Reading
- Job Roles: Clinical Psychologist, Therapist, Researcher
- Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in UK: Leeds India Scholarship, UEA India Awards
10. Hospitality, Hotel Management, and Tourism
The UK offers world-class programs in hospitality and tourism management, with strong industry linkages to hotels, airlines, and event companies.
- Top Universities: University of Surrey, University of Strathclyde, Oxford Brookes University
- Job Roles: Hotel Manager, Event Coordinator, Tourism Consultant
- Study in UK for Indian Students After 12th: Many diploma and undergraduate programs are open for direct admission
- Why Study in UK: Gain international exposure in a tourism-rich country with job-oriented training
With so huge a range of subjects to cover, it can be overwhelming. This is why it’s important to talk to specialist study in UK experts who can lead you into taking the best course to suit your goals. Whether you would like to study in UK for Indian students post 12th or would like to know How much money is needed to study in UK or simply need to be guided to find the best scholarships to study in UK, we are here to help at every step.
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