Checkout the Master in IT & Computer Science Courses in Riyadh....
Mar 29, 2025 12:08:33
Programs Offered:
MSc in Computer Science
MSc in Information Systems
MSc in Software Engineering
MSc in Cybersecurity
Details:
One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Saudi Arabia.
Courses are usually in Arabic, but some programs offer English-medium instruction, especially at the graduate level.
Scholarships are available for international students.
Programs Offered:
Master of Science in Software Engineering
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Master of Science in Data Science
Details:
Private university with modern infrastructure.
English is the medium of instruction.
Welcomes international students and offers support for visa and accommodation.
Programs Offered:
Master’s in Computer Science and Advanced Technologies
Research-based programs in AI, Robotics, Data Science, etc.
Details:
More research-oriented.
Ideal for students interested in R&D or PhD tracks later.
May require collaboration with affiliated universities.
Programs Offered:
Master of Science in Computer Science
Master of Information Systems
MBA with IT Concentration
Details:
Private university with strong business and tech programs.
Courses are delivered in English.
Popular with international students, especially from South Asia.
Programs Offered:
MSc in Computer Science
MSc in Information Technology
Details:
Public university with Islamic and technical disciplines.
Programs are increasingly open to international students.
Language of instruction may vary; check if English option is available.
Most universities in Riyadh require a recognized Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, or related fields.
IELTS/TOEFL scores may be needed for English-medium programs.
Saudi student visas (study visas) are typically processed through university admission offices.
Some universities offer full or partial scholarships for international students.
Why It’s Top:
Oldest and most prestigious university in Saudi Arabia
Strong Computer Science, Software Engineering, and AI programs
Excellent research facilities and global academic collaborations
Highlights:
Offers Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programs in Computer Science and related fields
Many programs taught in English at the graduate level
International scholarships available
Why It’s Great:
First private university in Saudi Arabia, located in central Riyadh
Focus on modern, industry-relevant IT and CS programs
Taught entirely in English
Highlights:
Specializations in Software Engineering, Data Science, and Cybersecurity
Strong ties to international institutions and industry
Known for a diverse student body, including many Indian and other international students
Why It’s Notable:
While it's more specialized, it offers programs in Cybersecurity and Information Security, which fall under CS
Research-focused and aligned with national cyber defense initiatives
Highlights:
Advanced labs and real-world applications
More niche, but very strong for Cybersecurity
Why It’s Good:
Offers a well-structured MSc in Computer Science and MBA with IT focus
Modern campus and infrastructure
Programs in English, designed with international students in mind
Highlights:
Combines business and tech—good for students looking for career flexibility
Industry partnerships for internships and projects
Why It’s Included:
Major public university with growing STEM and CS departments
Traditionally Islamic-focused but now expanding its modern tech programs
Highlights:
Offers programs in Computer Science and IT
Still growing in reputation in the tech space, but worth considering
King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) – more of a research institution, but collaborates with universities for graduate programs in AI, robotics, and data science.
For reputation and research: King Saud University
For modern, English-medium programs: Prince Sultan University
For Cybersecurity specialization: King Fahd Security College
For business-tech blend: Al Yamamah University
For budget and scholarship opportunities: KSU or IMSIU
Programs Offered:
BSc in Computer Science
BSc in Information Technology
BSc in Software Engineering
BSc in Information Systems
Why It’s Great:
Highly ranked and well-respected across the Middle East
Strong research, labs, and internship opportunities
Programs mostly in Arabic, but growing number of English-supported resources
Scholarships available for international students
Programs Offered:
BSc in Computer Science
BSc in Software Engineering
BSc in Cybersecurity
BSc in Artificial Intelligence
Why It’s Great:
English is the medium of instruction
Strong focus on practical skills, projects, and international collaborations
Diverse campus with students from many nationalities
Accredited and aligned with U.S. standards (ABET)
Programs Offered:
BSc in Computer Science
BSc in Information Systems
Why It’s Good:
Modern campus with industry-aligned programs
Courses taught in English
Business + IT integration opportunities
Programs Offered:
BSc in Computer Science
BSc in Information Technology
Why It’s Notable:
Public university with growing tech focus
Some programs in English
More affordable for international students
Focus on academic and Islamic values
Programs Offered:
BSc in Computer Science
BSc in Information Systems
BSc in Network & Cybersecurity
Why It’s Unique:
Largest women-only university in the world
Offers modern IT and CS programs for female students
Fully equipped labs and international faculty
High school equivalency certificate required (12th-grade completion)
Proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS) may be required for English programs
Passport, student visa, medical clearance
Some universities offer full or partial scholarships
University |
Language |
Tuition |
Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
|
KSU |
Mostly Arabic |
Low |
Academic/research focus |
|
PSU |
English |
Moderate |
Practical, modern skills |
|
Al Yamamah |
English |
Moderate |
Tech + business blend |
|
IMSIU |
Mixed |
Low |
Affordable & values-based |
|
PNU |
English |
Low |
Female students only |
Master's Programs Offered:
MSc in Computer Science
MSc in Information Systems
MSc in Software Engineering
MSc in Cybersecurity
MSc in Artificial Intelligence (newly introduced)
Why KSU?
Oldest and most prestigious university in Saudi Arabia
Strong research programs, well-equipped labs, and partnerships with global institutions
Scholarships available for international students
Programs mainly in Arabic, but some are offered in English at the postgraduate level
Master's Programs Offered:
Master of Science in Software Engineering
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Master of Science in Data Science
Why PSU?
English-medium instruction
Strong focus on hands-on experience, projects, and international standards (ABET-accredited programs)
Excellent for students wanting to work in modern tech industries
Welcomes international students with visa and support services
Master's Programs Offered:
MSc in Computer Science
MSc in Information Systems
MBA with a specialization in IT Management (for tech-business blend)
Why Al Yamamah?
Modern curriculum, taught in English
Strong industry connections for internships and project work
Flexible class schedules for working professionals
Master's Programs Offered:
MSc in Computer Science
MSc in Information Technology
Why IMSIU?
Affordable education with a growing tech faculty
Some programs offered in English
Public university, suitable for international students seeking scholarship opportunities
Master's Programs Offered:
Master’s in Cybersecurity
Specialized programs related to information security and digital forensics
Why Consider This?
Excellent for students looking to specialize in security fields
Government-affiliated institution with strong R&D backing
Recognized Bachelor's degree in CS, IT, or a related field
IELTS/TOEFL for English programs
Academic transcripts, letters of recommendation
Valid passport and study visa (university helps with this)
Some programs may require a statement of purpose or interview
Specialization |
Best University |
|---|---|
|
General Computer Science |
King Saud University |
|
Cybersecurity |
Prince Sultan University / KSU |
|
Software Engineering |
Prince Sultan University |
|
Data Science / AI |
PSU / KSU |
|
IT Management |
Al Yamamah University |
Programs Offered:
PhD in Computer Science
PhD in Information Systems
PhD in Software Engineering
PhD in Artificial Intelligence (in development under research initiatives)
Why KSU?
Top public university in Saudi Arabia
Strong research focus with access to national-level labs and projects
Programs may be in Arabic or English (especially for research components)
Offers full scholarships to outstanding international PhD students
Faculty actively publish in top international journals and conferences
Entry Requirements:
Master’s in CS, IT, or related field (with good academic record)
Research proposal and publications (if available)
IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught research
Interviews and supervisor approval often required
Programs Offered:
PhD in Computer Science
PhD in Information Technology
Why IMSIU?
Affordable, government-funded university
Expanding its research output and facilities in STEM fields
Islamic values with modern academic programs
Suitable for students looking for faith-based academic environment combined with tech research
PhD Program Status:
PSU currently does not offer full PhD programs independently, but is involved in collaborative doctoral research programs with international institutions.
Offers research pathways through partnerships or dual PhD models
Fields Supported:
Cybersecurity
Data Science
Software Engineering
AI & Machine Learning
Focus:
Advanced computing, nanotech applications in IT, AI-based systems
Why It’s Unique:
Cutting-edge interdisciplinary research opportunities
Suitable for candidates interested in AI, robotics, quantum computing, and IoT
Usually requires partnership with KSU’s main faculties
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Master’s Degree |
In Computer Science, IT, or a related field |
|
Research Proposal |
Clear, focused, and aligned with university research areas |
|
Language Proficiency |
IELTS/TOEFL (if program is in English) |
|
Supervisor Approval |
Some programs require pre-approval from a faculty member |
|
Transcripts & Recommendations |
Academic references and transcripts are mandatory |
|
Scholarship Availability |
Many universities offer fully funded PhD spots for exceptional candidates |
KSU Graduate Scholarships – Full tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance
Saudi Ministry of Education Grants – Available for select international research students
Imam University Scholarships – Faith-based + academic performance criteria
Interest Area |
Recommended University |
|---|---|
|
General CS Research |
KSU |
|
AI / Machine Learning |
KSU / KACST collaboration |
|
Cybersecurity |
IMSIU / PSU collaborations |
|
Affordable & Islamic Environment |
IMSIU |
|
Nanotech / Robotics / Interdisciplinary |
King Abdullah Institute (via KSU) |
Basic Requirements:
Completion of 12th grade / Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) or equivalent
Science stream preferred (Maths/Physics/Computer Science subjects)
Minimum percentage: Varies by university (usually 60% – 75%)
Equivalency Certificate may be required from the Saudi Ministry of Education
Language Proficiency:
Some programs are in Arabic, others in English (mainly private universities)
For English-medium programs:
IELTS (5.5+) or TOEFL (around 60–80 iBT) may be required
Other:
Valid passport and ability to obtain a student visa
Health clearance and proof of vaccination
Personal interview (for some universities)
Portfolio or entrance test (in rare cases)
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, IT, Software Engineering, or a related field
Minimum GPA: Typically 2.75 – 3.0 out of 4 (around 60–70%)
Bachelor’s must be from an accredited institution
Transcripts and certificate attestation may be required
Language Proficiency:
For English-medium programs:
IELTS: 6.0 – 6.5
TOEFL iBT: 70 – 90
Some public universities offer programs in Arabic; Arabic proficiency or placement test may apply
Additional Requirements:
Letters of recommendation (2 or 3)
Statement of purpose or personal essay
CV/Resume (optional but recommended)
Entrance exam (in some universities)
Academic Requirements:
Master’s degree in Computer Science, IT, or related field
Strong academic record (GPA usually 3.0+ / 4.0 or equivalent)
Evidence of research work (publications or thesis)
Language Proficiency:
IELTS: 6.5 – 7.0 or TOEFL iBT: 80 – 100
Arabic not usually required unless pursuing an Arabic-taught program
Research Requirements:
Detailed research proposal
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Supervisor approval or matching (some universities require contacting faculty before applying)
Interview (online or in-person)
Other Documents:
Valid passport & study visa
Medical fitness certificate
Letters of recommendation
Academic CV
Level |
Academic Requirement |
Language Requirement |
Other |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s |
12th grade (Science preferred) |
IELTS 5.5+ (if in English) |
Visa, medical check, equivalency |
|
Master’s |
Bachelor's in CS/IT |
IELTS 6.0+ / TOEFL 70+ |
SOP, recommendations |
|
PhD |
Master’s in CS/IT |
IELTS 6.5–7.0 / TOEFL 80+ |
Research proposal, publications, supervisor match |
Starts: September
Application Period: March to June/July
Most popular intake, especially for international students
Starts: January/February
Application Period: September to November
Fewer programs open, mostly private universities offer this intake
Fall Intake:
Application Opens: March – April
Deadline: Usually end of May or early June
Decision: July–August
Spring Intake: Rare for international students
Fall Intake:
Application Opens: March
Deadline: Late June – Early July
Spring Intake:
Application Opens: September
Deadline: End of November
Fall Intake:
Opens: March
Closes: June
Spring Intake:
Opens: September
Closes: November
Mostly follows the Fall intake cycle
Application Opens: March
Deadline: May
Spring intake: Rare, may be available for some programs
Step |
Timing |
|---|---|
|
Apply for Admission |
3–6 months before intake |
|
Receive Admission Offer |
1–2 months after applying |
|
Apply for Visa |
As soon as offer is received |
|
Arrive in Riyadh |
2–4 weeks before classes begin |
Activity |
Fall Intake (Sep) |
Spring Intake (Jan/Feb) |
|---|---|---|
|
Applications Open |
March |
September |
|
Deadline |
Late May – June |
Late November |
|
Admission Results |
July – August |
December |
|
Visa Process |
July – August |
December – January |
|
Orientation / Start Date |
Early September |
Mid-February |
University |
Annual Tuition (SAR) |
Approx. in INR () |
|---|---|---|
|
King Saud University (KSU) |
Free for scholarship students |
2.2 – 2.7 Lakhs/year |
|
Prince Sultan University (PSU) |
70,000 – 85,000 SAR |
15.5 – 18.5 Lakhs/year |
|
Al Yamamah University |
55,000 – 65,000 SAR |
12.2 – 14.2 Lakhs/year |
|
IMSIU (Public) |
Mostly Free (with scholarship) |
1.8 – 2.7 Lakhs/year |
|
Princess Nourah University (PNU) (Women only) |
Free (for scholarship holders) |
N/A |
University |
Total Tuition (SAR) |
Approx. in INR () |
|---|---|---|
|
KSU (Public) |
Free (with scholarship) / ~60,000 – 80,000 SAR (self-paid total) |
13.3 – 17.7 Lakhs |
|
PSU (Private) |
~90,000 – 120,000 SAR (full program) |
20 – 26.5 Lakhs |
|
Al Yamamah University |
~80,000 – 100,000 SAR |
17.5 – 22 Lakhs |
|
IMSIU |
Free (scholarship) / ~10,000 SAR per year |
2.2 Lakhs/year |
University |
Tuition Fees |
Approx. in INR () |
|---|---|---|
|
KSU |
Free (if on scholarship) + Monthly Stipend |
N/A |
|
IMSIU |
Mostly Free (public university) |
N/A |
|
PSU (via international collaboration) |
Varies based on partner university |
Depends on program |
Expense |
Approx. Cost (SAR/year) |
In INR () |
|---|---|---|
|
Accommodation |
10,000 – 20,000 |
2.2 – 4.4 Lakhs |
|
Food & Living |
8,000 – 12,000 |
1.8 – 2.6 Lakhs |
|
Health Insurance |
1,000 – 2,000 |
22K – 44K |
|
Books & Materials |
1,000+ |
22K+ |
King Saud University Scholarship – Full tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance
Saudi Ministry of Education Scholarships – For select foreign students
PSU Merit Scholarships – Partial tuition waivers for top students
University-specific grants – Based on GPA or financial need
Degree |
Public University (KSU/IMSIU) |
Private University (PSU/Yamamah) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s |
Free or SAR 10–12K/year |
SAR 55–85K/year |
|
Master’s |
Free or SAR 30–40K total |
SAR 80–120K total |
|
PhD |
Free + Stipend |
Not widely available |
