computer-science-courses
Computer science is becoming one of the most popular study programmes worldwide. Source: Bertrand Guay / AFP

Computer science courses are all the rage right now. In the US, overall employment for computer and information technology is expected to grow by 15% in the next 10 years, creating about 682,800 new jobs. When taking into account the need to replace workers who leave their posts permanently, around 418,500 jobs are projected to open each year. 

This is apparent not only in the US but across the world, as well. In India, employment in the profession is expected to grow by 13% over the next decade. Those who are qualified in computer science courses can earn up to US$131,490 in their jobs — well above average among high-skilled positions in India.

Despite this, gaining an education in computer science can be difficult. The Times of India reports that engineering colleges are already having to increase their existing intake in computer science, IT and related courses, stretching their limited resources to accommodate this demand. 

In this, many Indian students are beginning to look abroad for a computer science education. The usual options are the US, UK and Canada — but computer science courses in these countries often come with high tuition fees, housing costs, and more. 

This doesn’t mean that there aren’t affordable options when it comes to pursuing computer science courses, though. Here are four countries you can consider for an affordable education in computer science:

Four cheapest countries for computer science courses:

computer-science-courses

Germany is known for affordable higher education as well as delicious pretzels. Source: Anne-Christine Poujoulat / AFP

Germany 

When it comes to careers in computer science, Germany is one of the best countries to consider. At the moment, the sector makes up for nearly 7% of German economic output, opening up one million jobs in the country. The IT market itself is projected to grow by US16.21 billion from 2021 to 2025

For Indian students, Germany is a promising higher education destination. Outside of being home to a number of world-class universities, there are opportunities to stay after your studies and take advantage of the growing tech industry. Work in Germany long enough and you could also stand a chance to gain permanent residency. 

The biggest factor, of course, is the affordable cost. Tuition costs in Germany are generally free for public universities, regardless if you are a citizen or an international student. 

Belgium 

Belgium is another affordable study destination for Indian students. Universities here are generally well-performing, with many offering forward-looking computer science courses. This includes Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, which is generally considered one of the top institutions in Belgium. 

The cost of living in Belgium is relatively affordable when compared to other countries offering computer science courses, as well. On average, rent is 10.99% lower than that in the US — making for a cheaper study experience for Indians. 

computer-science-courses

Norway is full of scenic views to be explored, especially the Northern Lights. Source: Olivier Morin / AFP

Norway 

Known as the Land of the Midnight Sun, Norway is famous for stunning landscapes and lush natural sights. 

However, that isn’t the reason many international students, especially Indian students, are leaving their homes for Norway. 

The main reason for its popularity is that many public universities in Norway do not charge any tuition fees. Free education is available to all international students, including Indian students. 

The country may be small, but it is home to many universities, nine of which are ranked the best, according to International Rankings. Studying in Norway opens the door to great job opportunities. As one of the most sought-after degrees at the moment, many universities in Norway are equipped with computer science programmes.

Among them is the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) which ranked number one in the country for computer science. As the tuition fees at NTNU are free, students need only pay for living expenses.

Taiwan

Located in East Asia is one of the most affordable countries for international students. The average cost of education in Taiwan is estimated at US$4,050 per year.

Aside from its affordability, Taiwan has many world-class universities to offer. Coming in at 19th place in the QS Higher Education System Strength Rankings Taiwan, the country has caught the eye of many international students. There is a sizable Indian student community here too. 

Several universities in Taiwan offer computer science programmes. Focusing on equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to become career-ready graduates, universities in Taiwan ensure that their facilities are state-of-the-art and constantly up-to-date. 

Among the many universities offering computer science programmes is the National Taiwan University (NTU), the country’s most prestigious.