Degree finder

Introduction

Informatics is the study of information computation and communication in computers and in natural systems such as brains, genes and living cells.

We offer degrees in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, Cognitive Science and in Informatics, which draws on all of these disciplines.

Studying at the University of Edinburgh’s School of Informatics will provide you with a good foundation in computer sciences and will offer a new perspective on ways that computational thinking can be applied to different settings.

You will develop a solid scientific understanding and the practical skills required to analyse, design, implement and maintain computer-based systems in any setting.

The MInf degree allows you to study up to masters level as an undergraduate. You will take advanced courses, study subjects in-depth and choose from a broad range of courses.

What you'll study

Year 1

First year will introduce you to the fundamental principles of computation and programming. You will learn how information can be represented and processed in computer systems. For most of our programmes you will study the mathematics courses Calculus and Linear Algebra in addition to courses from a wide range of subjects across the University.

Year 2

Second year covers topics in formal and natural language processing, algorithms and data structures, computer systems, software engineering, reasoning and agents. The particular combination of topics depends on your chosen degree programme. For most of our degrees you will also study discrete mathematics and probability, and select other courses of your choice, depending on your degree.

Year 3

In your third year your studies will become more focused with a choice of up to eight courses specific to your degree, chosen from a range of 20, together with individual practical work and a large-scale group project.

Year 4

You will build a portfolio of between 6 and 10 specialised courses, chosen from a range of 50, that match your particular interests. In this period you will undertake an individual research project and write a dissertation on your chosen topic.

Year 5

As Year 4 (For MInf)

Learning and assessment

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials and practical classes. In later years you will spend more time working on projects that involve building computer systems from scratch, developing systems, doing experimental work or working on more theoretical topics with guidance from your supervisor.

You will be assessed by coursework assignments and exams. You will undertake a group project in your third year and an individual project in your final year (or final two years for MInf students).

Careers

Graduates from the School of Informatics have excellent career prospects. The vast majority make direct vocational use of their degree in the IT industry. Increasingly, graduates find work in any trade, industry or profession that is heavily reliant on computing systems, including media, communications, finance, energy and medicine.

Our facilities

You will be based within the University of Edinburgh’s School of Informatics with lectures, tutorials and classes held in Appleton Tower, which provides purpose-built facilities and dedicated learning and teaching spaces in the University’s Central Area.

You will have 24-hour access to computer laboratories and quality software support is available. Visit the School website for a virtual tour of these facilities.

There are opportunities for placements both within the University and international companies. There are also opportunities to study abroad through the University’s various exchange programmes.

Study abroad

Opportunities to study abroad are available in this subject area.