MSc Operational Research with Risk

Postgraduate entry requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the MSc Operational Research with Risk program at The University of Edinburgh are well-equipped for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in industries where risk analysis, operational research, and decision-making skills are essential. With their advanced knowledge of risk management techniques, operational research methodologies, and analytical expertise, graduates are prepared to make meaningful contributions in various sectors, including finance, consulting, logistics, healthcare, and engineering.  

1. Risk Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as risk analysts, working for financial institutions, insurance companies, or consulting firms. They assess and analyze risks in different domains, including financial markets, investment portfolios, and business operations, using quantitative modeling techniques, statistical analysis, and probabilistic methods to identify potential risks and develop effective risk management strategies.

2. Operations Researcher: Graduates may work as operations researchers, applying mathematical modeling, optimization algorithms, and simulation techniques to solve complex problems in various industries. They help organizations optimize resource allocation, improve operational efficiency, and make informed decisions in uncertain environments, contributing to cost savings, process improvements, and strategic planning initiatives.

3. Risk Manager/Consultant: Graduates can pursue careers as risk managers or consultants, helping organizations identify, assess, and mitigate risks across different business functions. They develop risk management frameworks, conduct risk assessments, and implement risk mitigation strategies, advising clients on how to manage risks effectively and achieve their business objectives while complying with regulatory requirements.

4. Financial Analyst/Quantitative Analyst: Graduates with expertise in financial risk analysis can pursue careers as financial analysts or quantitative analysts, working for investment banks, asset management firms, or hedge funds. They analyze financial data, evaluate investment opportunities, and assess market risks, using mathematical models, statistical methods, and computational techniques to make informed investment decisions and manage portfolio risks.

5. Supply Chain Analyst/Logistics Manager: Graduates may work in supply chain management or logistics roles, optimizing supply chain networks, managing inventory levels, and coordinating logistics operations. They use operational research techniques and risk analysis methodologies to identify potential disruptions, mitigate supply chain risks, and improve resilience in supply chain operations.

6. Healthcare Risk Analyst/Manager: Graduates can pursue careers in healthcare organizations as risk analysts or risk managers, helping to identify and manage risks in healthcare delivery processes, patient safety initiatives, and regulatory compliance efforts. They analyze healthcare data, assess clinical risks, and develop risk mitigation strategies to improve patient outcomes and minimize adverse events.

7. Project Manager/Operations Manager: Graduates may work in project management or operations management roles, overseeing complex projects and operations in various industries. They use their analytical skills and risk management expertise to plan, execute, and monitor projects, ensuring that they are completed on time, within budget, and according to quality standards, while minimizing project risks and uncertainties.

8. Research Scientist/Academic Researcher: Graduates interested in research and academia can pursue careers as research scientists or academic researchers, conducting research in the fields of risk analysis, operational research, and decision sciences. They may work in academic institutions, research laboratories, or industry research centers, exploring new methodologies, algorithms, and applications in risk management and decision-making.