Are university rankings important for studying abroad?

1

I understand the importance of university rankings when considering studying abroad, particularly for job prospects. However, I’m unsure about the cutoff point. Are universities ranked within the top 500 globally still considered strong options for a Master’s degree, especially in the tech field?

I’m currently using the QS World University Rankings, but I’d appreciate recommendations for other ranking systems that might be particularly relevant for evaluating UK universities.

My background: I have a completed undergraduate degree and two years of work experience. I aim to transition into the tech industry through a Master’s program and have already begun pursuing relevant certifications.

2

Rankings provide a general overview, but they shouldn’t be the sole factor. Look beyond the overall global rank. Even universities ranked outside the top 500 can have excellent programs, especially in specific fields. For the UK, consider rankings like Times Higher Education, The Guardian University Guide, and the Complete University Guide, in addition to QS.