MSc by Research

This one-year course provides you with the opportunity to acquire research skills by undertaking independent study related to the School's on-going research programme.

Why Study in Edinburgh

Simply because Edinburgh is by far the best informatics research centre in the UK and one of the best in the world.  UK-wide assessments of research activity in academia confirm this.

Programme Structure

The period of study for the degree is one year full-time or two years part-time.

The emphasis in this course is on independent research work, but you will also attend research  training classes. Your supervisor will identify your training needs.  Please consult our research directory to identify a supervisor. Research in informatics at Edinburgh spans the entire field so whatever your interests are we will almost certainly be able to supervise your work.

To be awarded the degree of MSc by Research you will submit a portfolio of your work for assessment by a Board of Examiners.

In your submission you will have to demonstrate that you have acquired an advanced level of knowledge and understanding in the field of study and are capable of undertaking independent research.

You might also be interested in our 4-year combined MSc/PhD in Neuroinformatics.

Entry Requirements

You should have a first or upper second class honours degree or its equivalent, and in an area of Informatics, such as Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Science or Computer Science. You should also have experience in computer programming.

Applicants with degrees in these disciplines will also be considered: Education, Electrical Engineering, Psychology, Mathematics, Philosophy, and Physics.

Course Costs

Costs include a tuition fee, research costs fee and living expenses.

Fee type	Home/EU	Overseas
Tuition Fee	£4,600	£14,000
Additional Programme Costs	£200 for Diploma £600 for MSc

Fees are subject to annual revision. For the latest information on fees, please visit Registry Office web site.

Living expenses are estimated at around £190 per week. More...

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Around 40 research scholarships are available each year to new students. Many of these are full scholarships, paying tuition fees, research costs, and living expenses. The rest are partial scholarships, paying tuition fees and research costs and/or a contribution towards living expenses.

Please indicate when you apply that you wish to be considered for a sponsorship.

Also visit our funding page for further details and possible sources of funding.

Careers

Almost a third of the UK's IT industry and research activity in Informatics is concentrated in the area around Edinburgh. In addition, Scotland is actively encouraging talented graduates to settle and work within its borders. Our reputation means that our graduates are well regarded by potential employers, both at home and abroad. Our students make direct vocational use of their degree and are employed as researchers, software developers and engineers, in academia and in industry. See our careers page for possible career routes and alumni destinations.