The University of Edinburgh is a world-renowned institution that boasts a rich history and an exceptional reputation for academic excellence. With a history dating back to the 16th century, the University of Edinburgh holds the distinction of being the sixth oldest university in the United Kingdom. The university has been a leader in teaching and research in a wide range of fields, including medicine, law, business, humanities, and the natural and social sciences.
Edinburgh is committed to providing outstanding education to its students, emphasising critical thinking, creativity, and innovation. Currently, the university boasts a diverse student population of over 45,000 individuals, who are spread out among its five campuses in the beautiful and vibrant city of Edinburgh. The teaching staff are experts in their respective fields and are dedicated to ensuring that students receive a first-class education that equips them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their chosen careers.
Some of the most notable personalities in modern history have been alumni of the university, including Alexander Graham Bell (inventor of the telephone), Charles Darwin (author of On the Origin of the Species), Sir Chris Hoy (eleven-time world champion and six-times Olympic track cycling champion), and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (write & creator of Sherlock Holmes).
Learn more about what to expect at the University of Edinburgh as an international student below and begin your application to study in Scotland at Edinburgh by arranging a free consultation with SI-UK today.
Five Reasons to Choose the University of Edinburgh
1. Rankings and reputation
The University of Edinburgh's ranking is consistently high in national and global league tables. Edinburgh is regularly ranked as one of the top universities in the UK and the world. In the 2023 QS World University Rankings, it was ranked 4th in the UK and 13th globally. In addition, the university is placed 6th in the UK and 24th in the world in the 2023 QS World University Ranking by subject: Sport-related subjects. The 2023 Times Higher Education World University Rankings placed the university’s Sport Science programmes first in the UK.
In the Research Excellence Framework 2021, the University of Edinburgh ranked first in Scotland in both Education and Sport-related research. Additionally, it holds the third rank in the UK for the breadth and quality of its research in Education, with almost 80 per cent of its research being classified as 'world leading' and 'internationally excellent'. Furthermore, almost 90 per cent of its Sport-related research activity is also classified as 'world leading' and 'internationally excellent', showing a growth of 22 per cent since the previous REF in 2014.
2. The city of Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a beautiful and historic city known for its stunning architecture, cultural attractions, and lively atmosphere. The city's history is evident in its architecture, with stunning buildings such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and St Giles' Cathedral. The city is also surrounded by natural beauty, with the Pentland Hills and the coast just a short distance away. Students at the University of Edinburgh can explore all that the city has to offer, both in terms of its cultural attractions and its natural beauty.
With over 60 libraries per 100,000 individuals, Edinburgh boasts the highest number of libraries per capita compared to any other city globally. This remarkable feat earned the city UNESCO's inaugural City of Literature designation in 2004. Edinburgh has more FTSE-100 companies than any other UK city outside London, making it an attractive job and business location.
3. Student support services
The University of Edinburgh offers various support services to make students feel at home and succeed academically. The university takes care of students’ personal, mental, and social well-being. Students can get a range of study support services, including academic writing support, maths and stats support, and language support. These are designed to help them achieve their academic goals.
The Student Support Team assists with various aspects of student life that go beyond the curriculum and coursework. The team can guide you towards relevant resources, services, and support available within the institution and the surrounding community. It also offers advice on university regulations and procedures relating to coursework and programme extensions, degree programme transfers, absences, taking a break from your studies, and withdrawing from your degree programme.
4. Variety of courses
Edinburgh is known for offering a wide variety of courses across various disciplines, from science and engineering to humanities and social sciences.
University of Edinburgh courses are designed by industry professionals and are made flexible and adaptable, allowing students to tailor their studies to their own interests and career aspirations. Students get a range of study options, including full-time, part-time, and online study.
The university's teaching is informed by the latest research, ensuring that students receive an education that is at the cutting edge of their chosen field. The university's academics are also committed to providing students with a challenging and engaging learning experience, encouraging students to think critically and independently.
5. Student satisfaction
The University of Edinburgh has a strong track record of student satisfaction, with consistently high levels reported in the National Student Survey. Students at the University of Edinburgh benefit from a supportive learning environment, with small class sizes and access to world-class teaching and research facilities. The university's commitment to providing a high-quality student experience is reflected in its strong record of student satisfaction.
Edinburgh’s students are well-placed in some of the world’s top companies and organisations. The university’s degrees are respected by graduates and employers alike, thanks to the high standard of its programmes.
Study at Edinburgh University
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