University of Edinburgh

Edinburgh. Extraordinary futures await. The University of Edinburgh, founded in 1583, is an internationally renowned centre for teaching and research. We are widely regarded as one of the most prestigious universities in Europe, consistently placed among the top 50 leading universities in the world (Times Higher Education World Rankings) and placed 34th in the QS World University Rankings 2026. Our students have been making an impact on the world for more than 400 years. Each year is different – every individual, every degree, every campus experience is unique and a vital part of our mission to make the world a better place.

Why study at the University of Edinburgh?

We offer more than 300 taught masters courses and 180 research areas, with a range of ways to study, from on-campus taught programmes to online part-time study.

All our postgraduates benefit from our inspiring research culture. The academics involved in your teaching and learning are leaders in their fields and although the emphasis at postgraduate level is very much on independent study.

The University of Edinburgh is ranked in the UK’s top 10 universities and in the world’s top 100 universities for the employability of our graduates (QS World University Rankings 2025).

19,555

postgraduate students

335

courses

35th

in the QS World University Rankings 2027

Edinburgh United Kingdom

main campus

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About the University of Edinburgh

At the University of Edinburgh, extraordinary is just something our community has always done. Working together, for more than 400 years, we’ve influenced the world in extraordinary ways – expanding the depth of human knowledge and improving the lives of people worldwide.

Teaching and research excellence

Our position as one of Britain’s leading research universities was reaffirmed by the results of the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF). The REF rates 90% of our research activity as world-leading or internationally excellent, ranking us fourth in the UK based on the quality and breadth of our research. Find out how the University community is continuing to make its mark upon the world through its research, innovation, ideas and actions in Edinburgh Impact.

Global connections

Our ambitious global engagement plan puts world-class teaching and research experiences within reach. We collaborate with global partners, directly and through prestigious networks such as Universitas 21, COIMBRA, UNICA, LERU, and Una Europa.

Edinburgh Global

Careers and employability

The University of Edinburgh is ranked in the UK’s top 10 universities and in the world’s top 100 universities for the employability of our graduates (QS World University Rankings 2025).

Our award-winning Careers Service offers practical advice and support. We encourage and support our students to plan and work towards their career goals.

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Departments at the University of Edinburgh

School of Biological Sciences

The School of Biological Sciences at the University of Edinburgh is based at the King’s Buildings campus, located in the south of Scotland’s capital city and approximately two miles from the centre of Edinburgh. We are one of the largest biology departments in the United Kingdom, and our staff and students contribute to a vibrant academic community, each with a shared vision to shape tomorrow’s world. We offer twelve on-campus masters programmes spanning the breadth of the Biological Sciences. Our postgraduate teaching derives from our research strengths, and you will learn from scientists of international repute. Through our world-leading research, teaching, innovation and impact, we strive to solve real-world problems of local, national and international relevance. By studying with us you will be in an exceptional position to help make the future better for generations to come.

Business School

Ranked among the world’s top 30 universities (QS 2025), the University of Edinburgh sits at the heart of Scotland’s vibrant capital city. The Business School upholds a long tradition of top-grade teaching, stand-out research, and community connection, first welcoming students in October 1919. The Business School’s portfolio of postgraduate degrees explores critical themes that drive positive impact, including Climate Change Finance & Investment and Finance, Technology, & Policy. The MBA programme flexes to fit the needs of students, welcoming new members to an expansive, international network. With world-leading Masters and MBA programmes in Edinburgh and online, the students of the Business School are equipped with the expert knowledge to put them at the forefront of their chosen fields. Join the Masters of Change.

School of Informatics

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.

School of Divinity

The School of Divinity at the University of Edinburgh is one of the largest centres in the UK for the study of religion. This means we can offer our students a wide range of specialist degree programmes and course options. In addition, we have eight active research centres and networks and regular research seminars. These make for a stimulating environment for postgraduate research study and provide many opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. <br> Our postgraduate department offers you the chance to engage with cutting-edge research on theology and religion in a wide variety of areas. For us, learning is something that staff and students do together through our dedicated and diverse community. We have around 150 postgraduate students and 300 undergraduates, who are drawn from many parts of the world. Nearly 40 full-time academic staff include internationally respected scholars in a wide range of specialisms.

School of Engineering

Engineering is an exciting, hands-on subject that will inspire you to challenge the way things are done, to think creatively and develop solutions that will genuinely make a difference to the world. <br></br> Join us and you can contribute to the transition to a lower-carbon future, including next-generation materials and processes, devices for medical diagnosis, data-driven innovation, energy, robotics, and AI systems, and help make infrastructure and the environment safer and healthier.

School of GeoSciences

Our world is facing many significant and complex challenges. Rising inequality and the mass displacement of people, urbanisation, unprecedented rates of climate and environmental change and associated extreme events, and finite natural resources all pose formidable challenges for the future. By studying with us you will be in an exceptional position to help make the future better. Spanning a wide range of physical and social sciences, and the humanities, we are internationally renowned for our approach to interdisciplinary research and teaching. Through our world-leading research, teaching, innovation and impact, we strive to solve real-world problems of local, national and international relevance. You will be uniquely placed to address local and global issues relating to inequality and vulnerability; urban precarity; nature; cultural meanings; development and sustainability; climate and environmental change; natural resources; and natural hazards, risk and resilience.

School of Chemistry

The School of Chemistry at the University of Edinburgh is set on the beautiful King’s Buildings campus. The University of Edinburgh placed 34th in the QS World University rankings 2026. Our world class chemistry research, teaching and facilities attract ambitious and talented students from around the world, who want to make a difference to current and future global issues. During your time with us in the amazing city of Edinburgh, you will have the opportunity to not only develop a practical knowledge of your chosen subject. We will also help you nurture and develop your transferable, communication and leadership skills, helping you steer your chemistry career to new levels.

Moray House School of Education and Sport

Moray House School of Education and Sport (MHSES), University of Edinburgh, has been making a major contribution and impact to the fields of education and sport both in Scotland and worldwide for almost 200 years. In that time, our staff, students and alumni have influenced and transformed learning, teaching, and wider educational and sport policy in the UK and beyond. We are the leading School of Education and Sport in Scotland – ranked first for research breadth and quality in Education and Sport, and third in the UK (REF 2021). We consistently rank in the top tiers of global education and sport-related studies. Ranked Top 20 worldwide for Education and Sport (QS 2024), we're a leading centre for research impact and teaching excellence. We are deeply committed to social justice, inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility. Our aim in all our work is to significantly impact the education, wellbeing and development of children, young people and adults, through problem-solving in the fields of education and sport.

School of History, Classics & Archaeology

The School of History, Classics and Archaeology at the University of Edinburgh is a leading global centre for the study of the human past. We have been ranked 10th in the World for Arts and Humanities, 2025 QS World University Rankings. We host an international graduate community of over 450 students, with a diverse team of academics from across the globe. Our School is the ideal environment in which to share ideas, collaborate on research, gain new perspectives, and meet like-minded individuals. We have an active research culture that hosts regular workshops, seminars, conferences and symposia across all three subject areas, as well as many informal gatherings and events.

School of Social and Political Science

For as long as we have society, we’ll need social scientists. Edinburgh is the ideal place to study social and political science. The city is the capital of Scotland and home to the Scottish Government, the Scottish Parliament and the country’s highest courts, as well as the world’s largest arts festival. It provides a rich environment where students can achieve their potential.

Edinburgh Futures Institute

At Edinburgh Futures Institute, we bring people and disciplines together to tackle today’s most complex challenges and explore new ways of thinking about the future. Our interdisciplinary postgraduate programmes are challenge-led, globally relevant, and designed for those who want an education that shapes better futures, for themselves and the world. Our students study beyond traditional subject boundaries, collaborating with academics, industry, government, and communities on real-world projects. Through this project-based, data-informed approach, students develop creative solutions, professional skills, and the confidence to make a meaningful impact. Bring your academic, professional, and life experience as you work across disciplines, dig deep into pressing global issues, and gain the tools to shape change.

School of Physics and Astronomy

The School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Edinburgh is renowned for its excellence for the quality, scale and breadth of its research. Located in one of the UK’s leading physics and astronomy department, The School of Physics and Astronomy offers world-class education. With a rich history of discovery, including the Higgs boson, students are provided with extraordinary academic and career potential. Recent graduates have undertaken exciting careers across a range of industries and research, helping shape the future of physics and astronomy. Depending on what programme you choose, you’ll have the chance to answer fundamental and exciting questions about living matter and the science of life. You will gain advanced experimental and computational techniques, and theoretical understanding. You will be taught by leading academics with a genuine passion for their subject, and benefit from our commitment to continuously refine our teaching approaches to achieve the best educational outcome.

Edinburgh Law School

Established in 1707, and situated in the heart of Scotland’s capital, the University of Edinburgh's Law School has been at the heart of legal research and education for more than 300 years. By studying at Edinburgh Law School, you’ll join a vibrant, active community of world-leading researchers, legal professionals and students at all stages of their education.

School of Health in Social Science

Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the School of Health in Social Science is a dynamic and inclusive environment for learning and teaching. With a rich history of healthcare and research, we offer an inspiring environment to grow your expertise. Our postgraduate programmes in Nursing Studies, Clinical and Health Psychology, Counselling and Psychotherapy, and Applied Social Sciences, provide a range of flexible options to suit your goals. Whether you’re looking to gain professional accreditation, advance your career, or make a meaningful impact in your field, our programmes equip you with the skills and knowledge to shape the future of health policy and practice.

Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies

The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh is an internationally-recognised institution providing veterinary education, research, and clinical practice. With a strong commitment to innovative teaching methods and combining multiple subjects or disciplines to approach topics from different perspectives, we provide an exceptional learning experience for our students. Our online postgraduate programmes offer opportunities to advance your knowledge and skills in veterinary medicine, and aligned subjects, with the flexibility to study from anywhere in the world.

Edinburgh Medical School

Edinburgh Medical School is a leader in biomedical and medical education, offering a wide range of programmes to over 6,000 students. With a strong commitment to flexible and accessible learning, we provide opportunities for students to study on campus or online, depending on their needs and preferences. Whether you're looking to pursue a traditional university experience or balance your studies with work or other commitments, we have a programme that can help you achieve your goals.

School of Mathematics

We are one of the world’s leading mathematical sciences departments, with an innovative educational environment and a vibrant academic community. We are home to internationally excellent researchers and are proud of the breadth and depth of our mathematical research. Quantitative skills have never been more in demand, and with close links to industry and weekly employability events, our graduates leave with all the attributes they need to take the next step.

Edinburgh College of Art

Edinburgh College of Art (ECA) brings together creative practices that shape the world around us. As part of the University of Edinburgh, ECA offers innovative postgraduate programmes across art, design, history of art, music, architecture and landscape architecture, grounded in research-led teaching, critical enquiry, collaboration and real-world practice. Teaching is delivered by internationally recognised academics, artists and practitioners who support students to develop ambitious, independent and socially engaged work. Students benefit from outstanding studios, workshops and digital facilities, a supportive and inclusive creative community, and rich opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across the wider University. Based in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, students learn in one of Europe’s most inspiring cultural environments, with exceptional access to world-class galleries, museums, archives and festivals, preparing graduates for diverse creative and professional futures.

Why study at the University of Edinburgh?

19,555

335

35th

Edinburgh United Kingdom

About the University of Edinburgh

Teaching and research excellence

Global connections

Careers and employability

Departments at the University of Edinburgh

School of Biological Sciences

Business School

School of Informatics

School of Divinity

School of Engineering

School of GeoSciences

School of Chemistry

Moray House School of Education and Sport

School of History, Classics & Archaeology

School of Social and Political Science

Edinburgh Futures Institute

School of Physics and Astronomy

Edinburgh Law School

School of Health in Social Science

Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies

Edinburgh Medical School

School of Mathematics

Edinburgh College of Art

School of Economics

School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures

School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences

Student life at the University of Edinburgh

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Edinburgh the city

Disciplines available at the University of Edinburgh

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