School of Informatics

University of Edinburgh

The School of Informatics is the largest Informatics research centre in Europe. Our size means that we have a high concentration of international research leaders who design and deliver our courses. Our students can 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, blockchains and distributed ledgers to computer animation and human-computer interaction. Strong industry connections with global organisations such as IBM, Amazon, Microsoft, JP Morgan, and Rockstar North open doors to exciting internships and career opportunities. Alongside outstanding academic and pastoral support, students benefit from a vibrant community and active societies including Scotland’s largest tech society CompSoc and Edinburgh Hoppers.

Why study at the School of Informatics?

Join one of Europe’s largest and most prestigious centres for computer science and artificial intelligence, ranked among the world’s top universities.

Learn from leading researchers shaping the future of AI, data science, robotics, and cognitive science in a vibrant, research-driven environment.

Benefit from strong industry links with global tech companies and Edinburgh’s vibrant start up scene, offering exceptional career opportunities.

Access outstanding IT facilities with over 250 high-spec computers, dedicated support staff, and Appleton Tower’s 9th-floor project space with panoramic city views.

Graduate with in-demand skills - most students secure employment, further study, or launch start-ups, with Edinburgh ranked 24th globally by employers (QS 2025).

425

postgraduate students

13

courses

4th

Ranked in the UK and 23rd in the world for Computer Science (QS World University Rankings 2025)

Edinburgh  United Kingdom

main campus

About the School of Informatics

The School of Informatics at the University of Edinburgh is one of the largest and most distinguished centres for computer science and artificial intelligence in Europe. Situated in the heart of Scotland’s capital, the School brings together world-leading researchers and students to explore the science and engineering of information - how it is represented, processed, and communicated by natural and artificial systems.

Our mission is to advance the understanding and application of informatics to address complex real-world problems, foster innovation, and shape the future of technology and society.

Interdisciplinary work is central to our ethos, with strong connections across cognitive science, linguistics, robotics, biology, medicine, and social sciences. From foundational research in algorithms and data science to pioneering developments in AI ethics and machine learning, our community drives both theoretical advances and transformative applications.

Students in the School of Informatics are immersed in a dynamic research-led environment that encourages critical thinking, entrepreneurship, and cross-disciplinary engagement. We aim to equip our graduates with the skills and insight to lead in academia, industry, and beyond.

Courses

Our 6 taught MSc programmes at the School of Informatics offer a comprehensive and dynamic education in cutting-edge areas of computing and information sciences. Designed for both recent graduates and professionals, our programmes provide the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today’s tech-driven world.


The University of Edinburgh is a world-leading, research-intensive university, offering a dynamic environment for postgraduate study in informatics. You will study in the heart of Edinburgh, a city consistently ranked among the most desirable places to live and one of the UK’s fastest-growing tech hubs.

Edinburgh is ranked 13th in the QS Top Student Cities 2025, combining modern facilities with a rich historical and cultural heritage. The city is home to a diverse, multicultural community and hosts a calendar of international events and festivals, making it a hub for creativity, innovation, and global connections.

Students benefit from Edinburgh’s historic architecture, museums, galleries, and theatres, alongside vibrant social and nightlife options including bars, clubs, cinemas, and music venues. The city’s green spaces, scenic parks, and the iconic Old Town offer a unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm.

Edinburgh consistently ranks as one of the top cities in Europe for quality of life, study, and work. It was recently named the UK’s most attractive city to live and work, and ranks 20th in Europe in Numbeo’s quality of life index.

Studying informatics here means not only access to world-class research and teaching but also the opportunity to live, learn, and thrive in a city that inspires curiosity, innovation, and global engagement.


Teaching combines lectures, tutorials, lab sessions, and project-based work. Many programmes include team projects and opportunities for hands-on research under the guidance of leading academics.

There are no formal internships and work placements that run as part of our programmes, but we are a very well-connected department that regularly communicates opportunities to students and have a careers service who will help you.

You will have the opportunity to engage with research during the MSc dissertation. Many of the projects proposed to students for their summer dissertations are linked to the supervisor’s ongoing work and often involve collaboration across areas such as AI, robotics, cognitive science, and other interdisciplinary field. This experience helps prepare you for PhD or industry careers. You can find more information regarding the MSc dissertation here (please note, the link is for the 2025-26 academic year and the information is subject to change for 2026-27).

Graduates enter roles in AI, software development, data science, research, and consulting. Around 20% pursue further study, and Edinburgh graduates are ranked 24th globally by employers (QS 2025).

Applicants typically need a strong undergraduate degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field. Some programmes may require programming experience, statistics knowledge, or relevant research experience. Entry requirements for each programme can be found on the Degree Finder.


Register your interest with the School of Informatics


Main campus

University of Edinburgh

Edinburgh

Scotland

United Kingdom

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