Our people

Our students and staff are the heart of the University. They are independent, critical, creative thinkers who develop the character of the University and its influence on the world.

Our reputation is a magnet for talent from across the globe. We have a long tradition of attracting students with the potential to succeed at university whatever their circumstances. Fairness, inclusivity and equality of opportunity are rooted in all that we do.

International profile

The international profile of our staff and students allows exposure to new ways of thinking, different cultures and different values, making the University and the city an exciting and richer place to study and live. The international partnerships nurtured in Edinburgh provide the perfect platform from which to showcase our global research.

Our students come from nearly 180 countries, from Germany to Peru. High numbers of our Scottish undergraduates come from backgrounds that are traditionally under-represented, and we have increasing numbers of students and learners engaging with us online.

Widening participation

Our commitment to widening participation continues, and we remain committed to the step change in attracting students from deprived backgrounds – whether from Scotland, the rest of the UK or further afield.

We create opportunities for all our students to make a difference, both while they are here and after they graduate. We work with our wider community and our local and global alumni to ensure they continue to benefit from the University and take our ideas out into the world.