University of Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

About the University of Edinburgh

Founded in 1583, the University of Edinburgh is one of the oldest universities in Scotland. It is a research university located in Edinburgh, Scotland, and is known for its strengths in the humanities, social sciences, and science and technology. Edinburgh is also home to several major research centers and institutes, including the Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation and the Roslin Institute.

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A brief history

The University of Edinburgh, located in the historic city of Edinburgh, Scotland, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Its origins can be traced back to 1582 when it was established by a royal charter granted by King James VI of Scotland. The university was initially known as the “Tounis College” and consisted of a small faculty teaching a range of subjects including theology, law, philosophy, and medicine.Throughout its history, the University of Edinburgh has been a center of innovation and academic excellence. In the 19th century, it became one of the leading institutions in the United Kingdom for the study of medicine, and its medical school gained international recognition. Many renowned figures, including Sir Alexander Fleming, the discoverer of penicillin, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes, studied medicine at the university.

General information

The university comprises three main colleges: the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences; the College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine; and the College of Science and Engineering. Within these colleges, there are over 300 undergraduate degree programs and more than 300 postgraduate programs, offering a wide range of academic disciplines for students to explore and specialize in. The university’s campus is spread across several locations, with the main campus situated in the heart of the city. The iconic Old College, designed by renowned architect Robert Adam, is a notable feature of the campus and houses the university’s administrative offices. The campus also includes state-of-the-art facilities, libraries, laboratories, and research centers that support the academic pursuits of students and faculty.

32,427

Total students

67%

Undergraduate percentage

A*A*A-ABB

A-Level requirements

37-40

Average International Baccalaureate (IB) score

Quick facts about Edinburgh University

  • International Students – Edinburgh University’s student population consists of 33.4% students from other nations
  • Student to Faculty Ratio – 14:1
  • Clubs – Edinburgh University provides a vast option of clubs with over 300 clubs available for students
  • Degree Offerings – Edinburgh University offers over 350 programs

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University of Edinburgh by the numbers

Yes, the University of Edinburgh offers various scholarships and financial aid options for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. Eligibility criteria and application processes can be found on the university’s website.

The University of Edinburgh consistently ranks among the top universities globally. It is commonly ranked within the top 20 universities in the world.

Yes, the university offers numerous research opportunities and internships across various disciplines. Students can engage in research projects or seek internships through their academic departments or specialized research centers.

The university provides a range of support services, including academic support, career guidance, counseling, disability services, and international student support. There are also student-led societies and clubs for extracurricular involvement.

The university offers a variety of accommodation options, including halls of residence and self-catered flats. Students can choose from different locations and styles of accommodation based on their preferences and budgets.

Yes, the University of Edinburgh has a wide range of study abroad and exchange programs with partner institutions worldwide. Students can apply to spend a semester or an academic year studying in another country.

The university provides comprehensive career services to help graduates with job searches, CV/resume building, interview preparation, and networking opportunities. Alumni also have access to ongoing career support and resources.

The University of Edinburgh has a diverse and vibrant student community, with a total student population of over 40,000. This includes both undergraduate and postgraduate students from various countries and backgrounds.

The University of Edinburgh has a strong reputation for research and innovation. It is consistently recognized as one of the leading research universities in the world and is home to numerous research centers and institutes across a wide range of disciplines.

Yes, the university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and societies catering to diverse interests. Whether you’re interested in sports, arts, culture, social causes, or academic pursuits, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and meet like-minded individuals.

Six popular courses

Politics, Philosophy and Economics

This interdisciplinary major combines the study of politics, philosophy, and economics to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of societal and economic systems. Students explore political theory, economic principles, and philosophical perspectives to analyze and address complex social and economic issues.

Medicine

The Medicine program at the University of Edinburgh is designed to train future doctors and medical professionals. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience. Students learn about human anatomy, physiology, disease diagnosis, treatment, and patient care through a combination of lectures, laboratory work, and clinical placements.

Business Management

The Business Management major focuses on developing students’ skills and knowledge in areas such as finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and strategic management. The program equips students with a strong foundation in business principles and prepares them for careers in various sectors, including corporate, nonprofit, and entrepreneurial ventures.

Biological Sciences

This major encompasses the study of living organisms, from microorganisms to plants and animals. Students explore various aspects of biology, including genetics, cell biology, ecology, and evolution. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory work, field research, and data analysis to develop a comprehensive understanding of the biological world.

Computer Science

The Computer Science major at the University of Edinburgh covers the principles, theories, and applications of computing. Students learn programming languages, algorithms, software engineering, artificial intelligence, and computer systems. The program emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and technical skills to prepare students for careers in software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and other technology-related fields.

Ecological and Environmental Sciences

This major focuses on the study of ecosystems, environmental processes, and sustainability. Students explore topics such as biodiversity, climate change, conservation, and environmental policy. The program integrates fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation to develop a holistic understanding of the natural environment and the challenges it faces.

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Notable alumni

Sir Chris Hoy is a highly accomplished former professional track cyclist and one of Great Britain's most successful Olympic athletes. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Hoy attended the University of Edinburgh and studied sports science. Throughout his career, he achieved remarkable success, winning a total of six Olympic gold medals and eleven world championships. Hoy's dedication, skill, and competitive spirit established him as a cycling legend and a national hero in the United Kingdom. He has made significant contributions to the sport, inspiring future generations of cyclists and promoting the importance of physical fitness and healthy living.
Sir Chris Hoy
Sir Chris Hoy
Peter Higgs is a renowned theoretical physicist and Nobel laureate who made significant contributions to our understanding of particle physics. He was born on May 29, 1929, in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. Higgs attended Cotham Grammar School in Bristol before pursuing his higher education. Higgs enrolled at the University of Edinburgh in 1946 to study physics. He completed his bachelor's degree in 1950 and continued his studies at Edinburgh, obtaining his master's degree in 1952. Afterward, he joined the Atomic Energy Research Establishment in Harwell, Oxfordshire, as a researcher. During his time there, Higgs worked on nuclear physics and reactor theory.Higgs became widely recognized for his groundbreaking work in the 1960s, proposing the existence of a particle that would later be named the "Higgs boson." His theoretical work, published in 1964, introduced the concept of the Higgs field, which is an essential component of the Standard Model of particle physics.
Peter Higgs
Peter Higgs

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