School of Informatics

The School of Informatics is the largest Informatics research centre in Europe. We are currently ranked 15th in the world for Data Science and 20th in the world for Computer Science and Information Systems in QS World University Rankings by subject (2023). We attract the best staff and students from around the world so you will have the opportunity to make friends from around the world.

We called our department the School of Informatics because we study and research more than just computer science. Informatics is the study of information, computation and communication. This can apply to artificial systems, such as computers, or natural systems such as brains, genes and living cells.

Our size means that we have a high concentration of international research leaders who design and deliver our courses. Our students are able to tailor their experience to their interests and be in control of their learning by choosing from a wide range of theoretical to strongly application-oriented courses: from algorithmic game theory, and blockchains and distributed ledgers to computer animation and human-computer interaction.

We have strong links with industry which can help you find exciting internships and job opportunities. IBM, Amazon, Sky, JP Morgan, Microsoft, Facebook, Intel, RockStar North as well as RBS, and Citigroup are popular graduate destinations for our students.

Our students have access to prime academic, pastoral and peer support and plenty of opportunities to get involved with student societies, including the biggest tech society in Scotland: CompSoc.

What Masters programmes can you study at the School of Informatics?

• Advanced Technology for Financial Computing MSc
• Artifical Intelligence MSc
• Cognitive Science MSc
• Computer Science MSc
• Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust MSc
• Data Science MSc
• Design Informatics MSc

Why study in Edinburgh?

• Largest Informatics research centre in Europe, currently ranked 15th in the world for Data Science and 20th in the world for Computer Science and Information Systems in QS World University Rankings by subject (2023).
• 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.
• Graduates are highly sought-after by employers: most industries rely highly on computer systems, from media to entertainment and medicine.
• Popular employers include: Google, Facebook, Amazon, IBM, SkyScanner, Intel, ARM, Samsung, NVIDIA, Keysight, RockStar North as well as RBS, J.P. Morgan and Citigroup.

Student experience and skills

• Highly competitive programmes.
• Prime peer support and active societies.
• Courses range from the strong technological subjects to the strong application subjects.
• We offer a new perspective on the ways computational thinking can be applied to different settings.
• You will develop a solid scientific understanding of computer-based systems and gain the practical skills to analyse, design, implement and maintain them in any setting.