Join our vibrant problem-solving community
At the University of Edinburgh’s School of Informatics, we bring together curious minds who want to shape the future through data, computing, and artificial intelligence. Whether you are a talented mathematician passionate about problem-solving, or a computing professional looking to upskill in AI and data science, you have come to the right place.
A world leader in informatics and AI
As a world-leading, research-intensive university, Edinburgh has been at the forefront of computing and AI for decades. We established one of Europe’s first AI research groups in 1963, and in 2023 launched our new Generative AI Laboratory, reinforcing our global leadership in artificial intelligence. You will learn from world experts in computer science, AI, and information science, developing high-demand tech skills in a supportive yet challenging academic environment. Our students describe the experience as demanding, but deeply rewarding.
Study what inspires you
Choose from an unparalleled range of courses across theory and real-world application, from algorithmic game theory and blockchain to computer animation and human-computer interaction. Design a degree that reflects your interests and career goals, guided by leading researchers working at the cutting edge of their fields.
A global community in an inspiring city
Join a community of students from over 150 countries, all studying in Scotland’s beautiful capital city. Edinburgh offers both a rich academic culture and countless opportunities to connect, collaborate, and build lifelong friendships.
Shape the future with informatics at Edinburgh
Discover how you can gain a prestigious degree from one of the world’s top universities and become part of the next generation driving innovation in data and AI.
World-leading university
Global reputation
- No.4 in the UK based on the quality and breadth of research
(Times Higher Education REF 2021) - No. 23 in the world for Computer Science and Information Systems
(QS World Rankings 2025) - No. 24 in the world for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
(QS World Rankings 2025)
Innovation and impact
- Home to the National Robotarium the UK’s largest and most advanced robotics centre, jointly run with Heriot-Watt University.
- The University of Edinburgh helped launch 127 start-ups through Edinburgh Innovations (UoE 2024)
Student life and city
- Founded in 1583 with 442 years of innovation, discovery, and excellence
- Join 320+ student clubs and societies across campus
- No.1 most liveable city in the UK (ECA 2024)
- No. 9 most AI-ready city in the UK (SAS 2025)
You can apply now for an undergraduate degree. We have a range of single degrees:
Computer Science (BSc and BEng)
We offer two joint degrees, combining computer science with maths and artificial intelligence:
Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science (BSc)
Computer Science and Mathematics (BSc)
Our flagship programme, a 5-year undergraduate integrated master of Informatics (MInf) degree, complements foundation knowledge in computer science with master-level courses.
Applications for our postgraduate degrees will open in October. These include a range of one-year master's programmes (with part-time options):
Artificial Intelligence MSc | Cognitive Science MSc | Computer Science MSc | Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust MSc | Data Science MSc | Design Informatics MSc
We offer flexible, integrated doctoral training, including taught courses and a PhD-level research project through one of our centres for doctoral training.
A variety of research degree options are also available.
- Edinburgh is a hot spot for Data Science, Artificial Intelligence and Robotics with strong commercial links offering opportunities for placements and internships
- 70% of graduates go into employment, 20% go on to further study, a number set up their own businesses (including unicorn start-up, FanDuel, valued at over $1bn)
- Our graduates are highly sought-after by employers: most industries rely highly on computer systems, from media to entertainment and medicine
- Some examples of the employers our graduates go on to work at include: Skyscanner, Blackrock, Microsoft, JP Morgan & Co. and Google DeepMind
- Watch our alumni reminisce about their experiences as students and what they've been up to since graduating - Alumni Perspectives
Hear from Informatics students and staff as they share their experiences of studying on Central Campus.
Hear from our students and staff as they share their experiences of our community.
Hear from Informatics students and staff as they share their favourite things about living in Edinburgh.
Meet Aagoon
Something that really drew me in is the flexibility of the courses. I loved having the freedom to structure my degree with courses that genuinely interest me and even try out things I had never looked into before!
Meet Sara
The career services and networking opportunities are excellent for advancing your career prospects and building valuable connections. Tech events, such as hackathons, help you explore new technologies and enhance your technical skills.
Meet Visvesh
I chose to study at the University of Edinburgh because of its academic excellence and reputation. The School of Informatics is one of the most prestigious computer science departments in the world and the amount of research produced here is mind-boggling.
Funding your studies
Find out more about student funding:
Search for Bursaries, Scholarships and other Financial Aid available to prospective students:
No one knows what it is like to study here more than the students themselves. You can read about our undergraduate students’ experience in their summer blog.
Student societies
Our student societies promote interactions with industry including invited talks and CV clinics and foster social interactions amongst their members.
Societies of particular interest to Computer Science/Informatics students
CompSoc | Hoppers | Formula Student | Hyped | Learn more about student societies
Tour of our main teaching facilities at Appleton Tower
There are a number of opportunities for prospective students to visit the University of Edinburgh and the School of Informatics teaching facilities throughout the year.
You can explore the University of Edinburgh campus virtually and in-person.
Nobel Prize in Physics for the ‘Godfather of AI’, Geoffrey Hinton
Professor Geoffrey Hinton, who graduated from the University of Edinburgh with a PhD in Artificial Intelligence in 1978 has been awarded a Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on machine learning.
Get in touch and stay connected
If you have any questions regarding our programmes, please contact: futurestudents@ed.ac.uk
Open Days
Postgraduate Open Days and events
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