Join our vibrant problem-solving community
Whether you are an excellent mathematician interested in computers and problem-solving or looking to upskill your existing knowledge and qualifications in the wider computing or artificial intelligence field, you have come to the right place.
The University of Edinburgh is a world-leading research-intensive University. In 1963 we established our first (and one of the first in Europe) research groups in AI, and in 2023 we launched a new Generative AI Laboratory that affirms our position at the forefront of AI research. You will learn from world experts in computer science, artificial intelligence and information science. You will be challenged in a thriving academic environment and gain high-demand tech skills. Our students and graduates consider our courses demanding but rewarding overall.
You will study in Scotland’s beautiful capital city, among hundreds of your peers from more than 150 countries, with social opportunities to forge life-long friendships.
Learn more about our programmes, and join us to gain a prestigious degree from one of the top universities in the world.
Facts and figures
1 - The University of Edinburgh is ranked #1 for research quality and breadth according to Times Higher Education's Computer Science and Informatics power rankings based on REF 2021 results
1 - Edinburgh was named the UK's most AI-ready city outside of London (2023)
1 - Edinburgh is home to the National Robotarium, the UK’s largest and most advanced robotics centre, a joint venture between the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University
3 - The University of Edinburgh is in the top 3 UK universities for computer science and IT degrees according to Computer Weekly (2021)
5 - The University of Edinburgh is in the top 5 UK universities to study blockchains and distributed ledgers (2023)
7 - The University of Edinburgh is ranked #7 among the best UK spin-out generators according to the Royal Academy of Engineering Enterprise Hub and Beauhurst (2022)
10 - The University of Edinburgh offers one of the world's top 10 AI and Data Science degrees according to Forbes (2020)
20 - The University of Edinburgh is ranked #20 in the world in the QS World Ranking for Computer Science and Information Systems (2024)
21 - The University of Edinburgh is ranked #21 in the world in the QS World Ranking for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (2024)
60 - Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence have been a focus of Edinburgh research since 1963
290 - There are over 290 student clubs and societies brightening up student life
440 - The University of Edinburgh was founded in 1583, 440 years ago
You can apply now for an undergraduate degree. We have a range of single degrees:
Artificial Intelligence (BSc) | Cognitive Science (BSc) | Computer Science (BSc and BEng) | Software Engineering (BEng)
Four joint degrees branching out to business, mathematics and physics are available
Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science (BSc) | Computer Science and Management Science (BSc) | Computer Science and Mathematics (BSc) | Computer Science and Physics (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 are now open. These include a range of one-year masters programmes (with part-time options):
Advanced Technology for Financial Computing MSc | 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.
Apply/register interest in studying in one of our Centres for Doctoral Training
A variety of research degree options are also available.
Student experience
Watch our students talk about the challenges and the delights of their day to day life.
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.
Your future career prospects
- 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
World-class expertise
- You can select from an unparalleled range of theoretical and application courses taught by academics working at the cutting-edge of the field
- Courses range from algorithmic game theory, and blockchains and distributed ledgers to computer animation and human-computer interaction
- You can craft your degree to reflect your interests and career aspirations
- You need a strong math background (but do not require computer science/programming experience)
- We offer prime academic, peer, pastoral and career support
Our student societies promote interactions with industry including invited talks and CV clinics, as well foster social interactions amongst their members.
Societies of particular interest to Computer Science/Informatics students:
CompSoc | Hoppers | Formula Student | EdIntelligence | Hyped | Others
Our students' experience
"Studying informatics has allowed me to explore a range of different topics such as functional programming, object oriented programming, data science, computer systems and software engineering. "
"With Computing and Artificial Intelligence covering basically everything we do in the modern world, gaining a deep understanding on computer systems leaves me with strong career prospects for after graduation."
"I chose Informatics because it has many different fields I could branch into: if I found I really loved the design aspect then I could become a web developer, if I really loved analysis, I could become a data analyst."
Meet our alumni
Watch our alumni reminisce about their experiences as students and what they've been up to since graduating.
