Why Choose Postgraduate Study at Edinburgh?

The University of Edinburgh is one of the world's most highly respected universities, known for its history, stunning location in Scotland's capital city, and groundbreaking research. Choosing a Postgraduate Taught (PGT) course here—typically leading to an MSc, MA, or MBA—is a powerful step toward advancing your career and deepening your knowledge.

A PGT degree is an intensive, specialised qualification, usually completed in one year full-time. It’s perfect if you want to focus sharply on a new subject, gain highly sought-after professional skills, or accelerate your career path.

A World of Choice: Popular Course Areas

Edinburgh offers a truly vast range of postgraduate taught programmes, covering virtually every academic discipline. Whether your background is in arts, sciences, or business, you'll find a course designed to push the boundaries of your expertise.

While the complete A-Z list is enormous, here are some of the most popular and future-focused areas you can explore:

1. Technology and Data: The University is a global leader in computing and data. Popular courses include:
2. MSc Data Science
3. MSc Artificial Intelligence
4. MSc Computer Science
5. Business and Finance: The Business School offers highly-regarded programs that prepare students for international leadership roles. Key options often include:
6. MBA (Master of Business Administration)
7. MSc Business Analytics
8. MSc Finance
9. Science and Engineering: From medical breakthroughs to sustainable solutions, the university covers critical, in-demand fields such as:
10. MSc Biotechnology
11. MSc Advanced Power Engineering
12. MSc Public Health
13. Humanities and Social Sciences: Building on its historic reputation, the University offers a depth of study in subjects like:
14. MSc Education
15. MSc Psychological Research
16. LLM (Master of Laws) programmes

What Exactly is a Taught Masters?

A Taught Masters degree is structured like an advanced undergraduate programme, but with a much higher level of specialisation. It is composed of two main parts:

1. Taught Modules: For the first part of the course, you attend lectures, seminars, and practical sessions. Your learning is assessed through exams, coursework, and presentations.
2. Dissertation or Research Project: The final section is usually a significant piece of independent research, written under the guidance of a supervisor. This allows you to dive deep into a topic you are truly passionate about.

Most full-time taught Masters degrees run for 12 months.

Essential Steps to Apply for a Postgraduate Course

Applying to a highly competitive institution like the University of Edinburgh requires careful preparation. Here are the key things you need to focus on before submitting your application:

1. Check Entry Requirements Carefully

You generally need to hold a strong undergraduate degree in an appropriate subject. The specific requirement often translates to an equivalent of a UK 2:1 Honours degree (or a bachelor's degree with a high percentage/GPA from an overseas institution).

1. Academic Qualifications: Always check the degree finder for the specific academic standards and background needed for your chosen course. Some require a degree in a very specific field, while others are more flexible.
2. English Language: All applicants must prove their English language proficiency, even if English is their first language. This is usually done by taking an approved test like IELTS or TOEFL. The required scores are high and vary by programme, so confirm the exact levels needed for your chosen course.

2. Prepare Your Supporting Documents

When you apply via the University’s online application system, you’ll need a set of crucial documents ready to upload:

1. Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Official records of your university grades.
2. Personal Statement (Statement of Purpose): This is your chance to explain why you want to study the programme, what you can bring to it, and how it fits your career goals. It must be compelling and well-written.
3. Letters of Recommendation (LORs): You will typically need one or two references, often from an academic who taught you at your previous university. Some courses, particularly professional ones like the MBA, may require a reference from an employer.
4. CV or Résumé: A clear summary of your education, skills, and relevant work or volunteer experience.
5. Standardised Test Scores (If Required): Some specific programmes, such as those in the Business School, may require a GMAT or GRE score.

3. Pay Attention to Application Deadlines

Unlike undergraduate courses, most postgraduate courses at Edinburgh operate with rolling admissions and may have multiple application deadlines throughout the year.

1. It is always best to apply as early as you can, especially for highly competitive courses like Data Science or AI, as places can fill up fast.
2. Check the degree finder for the exact closing date for your chosen programme, and plan to submit well in advance, especially if you also need to factor in time for a student visa or funding applications.

Studying at the University of Edinburgh places you in a vibrant, historic city with a world-class reputation for research and innovation. By following these steps and ensuring your application is complete and compelling, you can greatly increase your chances of starting your postgraduate journey in Scotland.

References

1. https://study.ed.ac.uk/programmes/postgraduate-taught-a-z
2. https://study.ed.ac.uk/programmes/postgraduate-taught?query=