Semester in Scotland -
Edinburgh Napier University

Athlete Friendly

Quarter Friendly

Green Campus

Wake up in down-to-earth Edinburgh

Study at Edinburgh Napier University, a top-notch rigorous institution with three distinct campuses: focus on applied sciences in the new sleek buildings of Sighthill Campus, daydream about the Scottish highlands (and your studies) in the turreted Merchiston Campus building with humanities classrooms at the top of a winding staircase, or plan your financial future gazing out of the large windows of the Craiglockhart business school. The charm of this enchanting hilly city, romanticized by poets and ghost stories, will stay with you long after you've returned home.

What to Expect

Language(s):

English

Average Courseload:

3 courses (12-15 U.S. credits)

GPA Requirement:

2.50

Visa Requirement:

NONE Required!

Highlights:

Learn from industry professionals alongside local students in project-based classes

Explore the bustling capital city with castles and captivating old-world charm

Vibrant campus life with numerous sports teams, clubs, and volunteer opportunities

Live, study and socialize with students from Scotland and 100+ other countries

Stunning campus, with buildings dating from the 16th to the 21st centuries

My time abroad has been the most eye opening journey and I’m a more independent person because of it. I’m so grateful for all the experiences, friends, and memories I’ve made along the way!

Casey Ferguson

Kean University

Semester in Scotland - Edinburgh Napier University

Studying abroad in Scotland has equipped me with a worldwide perspective that will benefit me while finishing my degree as well as in my future career in journalism.

Bianca Gallo

University of Tampa

Semester in Scotland - Edinburgh Napier University

The best aspect of the program was the amazing people I met, the different culture, living in the city, and experiencing new and exciting things everyday.

Katelynn Buckner

California Baptist University

Semester in Scotland - Edinburgh Napier University

Studying abroad in Edinburgh opened me up to a new culture. I’ve made friends from all over the world and increased my appreciation for the things I have here and the things I have at home.

Maggie Walker

Fisher College

Semester in Scotland - Edinburgh Napier University

Studying abroad with CIS Abroad was the best decision I have ever made. From the moment I applied, their program was thorough, clear, and simple, and their team is responsive, passionate, and caring. CIS Abroad was not only affordable, but so beyond worth the money spent on the program. For less than I pay a semester at my home institution, we were provided extremely comfortable student accommodation, a fantastic education at a Scottish Institution, and experiences that I will never in my life forget.

Hanna Fuchs

Ithaca College

Semester in Scotland - Edinburgh Napier University

Edinburgh is like stepping back in time. The old buildings and architecture are just beautiful. I loved roaming around the city for months and I always managed to find something new and exciting.

Madison Miller

University of Arkansas - Fayetteville

Semester in Scotland - Edinburgh Napier University

I met so many wonderful people and instantly felt at home with the help of CIS Abroad's amazing site director. There are tons of opportunities to travel and the weekend trip to the Highlands was one of my highlights.

Ceara Woelfel

Elizabethtown College

Semester in Scotland - Edinburgh Napier University

Program Details

Edinburgh Napier University

Edinburgh Napier University is one of the largest universities in Scotland and was recently rated one of the top two "new" universities in the UK. The three main sites of this multi-campus university (Sighthill, Merchiston, and Craiglockhart) are linked by free shuttle, with quick access to the city center. The modern university is grounded in tradition, as evidenced by the grand 16th-century architecture that merges with cutting-edge facilities. Students respect the university for its innovative and enterprising approach to learning.

Edinburgh Napier University was founded in 1964 by John Napier, inventor of logarithms and the decimal point. The university's origins as a technical college have given it a foundation in applied learning, deep relationships with industry, and responsiveness to the job market. It offers a diverse range of courses in business, computing and creative industries, engineering, health, and life and social sciences. All of these courses will be available to you. And the university's connected interlibrary loan system (with knowledgeable librarians ready to help you navigate their electronic resources) means students rarely need to purchase textbooks.

The community is as diverse as the course offerings; over 30 percent of the University's more than 15,000 students are international. You'll meet people from all over the globe as well as local Scottish students. Enjoy the vibrant campus life with numerous sports, clubs, and volunteer opportunities.

Accreditation(s): Recognized by the Privy Council and a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU and the European University Association (EUA)

Course Information

Browse Courses

Course listings are for exploratory purposes, final course availability is determined during the enrollment process.

Filters

Life in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a quirky mix of historic meets modern. Life is booming here in Scotland, which means you'll walk along cobblestone streets and gaze upon cutting-edge, modern architecture. You'll step into a wifi hotspot with the Edinburgh Castle as your backdrop. The city is also making waves for its commitment to "green" and sustainable practices. You'll never be far from Edinburgh's expansive parks and craggy cliffs, where you can take in amazing views, have a picnic, or just relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

The Scots in Edinburgh adore their festivals, and you'll love them, too. To name a few, you might enjoy the International Science Festival, the Jazz and Blues Festival, or the Festival Fringe. You can tour the Edinburgh Castle that's been dominating your view, or visit attractions like the Camera Obscura, the Royal Museum, or the Royal Yacht Britannia. Unwind and chat with the locals at a pub, where you can work up your courage to take a bite of haggis, the national dish.

From Edinburgh, you can explore the highlands and other haunts of Scotland, or you can even hop over to England or Europe for the weekend!

Live the Local Life

Volunteering

Meet locals and your wider community in one of the many volunteer opportunities. There is, for example, the John Muir Trust, a conservation charity dedicated to protecting and enhancing wild places.

Farmer Markets and Food Festivals

You'll find weekly local markets with fresh local produce, and regular food and drink festivals countrywide.

Skiing and snowboarding

Scotland's five ski centres offer a very different experience to mainstream Europe.

Hiking

A popular weekend pursuit with 283 separate mountains (now known as the Munros) reaching over 3000 feet.

Ceilidh

A traditional Gaelic social gathering, which involves playing folk music and dancing.

Live music

Music sessions pop up regularly in most bars and clubs. Some traditional sessions go back years.

Edinburgh Napier University - Residence Halls

Overview

Semester in Edinburgh offers a range of University-owned housing in the center of the city and within easy reach of the campus. From your ”flat,” you can easily reach shops, restaurants, cafés, bars, cinemas, and sports facilities. You’ll share your flat and its kitchen and living room with four to eight other students, but you’ll have your own bedroom and en-suite bathroom. You’ll also get a “bedding pack” with linens and a pillow upon arrival. Check out the photo gallery to get a sense of what your housing might be like.

Meals

Your flat comes equipped with standard kitchen appliances including a microwave, oven, and refrigerator so you can cook your own meals. Dishes, pots and pans, and cutlery can be purchased at low cost at nearby stores.

Inclusions and Amenities

Bathroom - Shared Commute - Public Transportation Double Room Kitchen Equipment Laundry Laundry - Onsite

What's Included

Inclusions

Program fees are in U.S. dollars and include the following:

Full-time tuition and fees
Housing
Medical and accident insurance
Academic advising
Financial aid counseling
Pre-departure orientation
Assistance with travel arrangements
CIS Abroad support services before, during, and after the program
Airport pickup
On-site orientation
Student Union fees
Edinburgh Napier University official transcript
The Local Life cultural program
CIS Abroad Micro-credential

Welcome & Orientation

Upon arrival, you'll be picked up the airport (nothing like a friendly face after a long flight!) and checked in at your accommodation. In the first few days, take part in both the University and CIS Abroad orientation program, where you'll learn practical tips for living in Scotland like where to go out, how to stay safe, where to shop. Then, it's off to explore the capital, Edinburgh, and enjoy a welcome meal.

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

Many alumni stay in touch, and some revisit Scotland with friends and family. Going back home after being abroad and the personal growth during that time can be a shock to your system. Your Site Director will walk you through some of the things to expect, and reflect on your experiences abroad so that you can remember the highlights. We never say goodbye in Scotland, so before you go, we share a "haste ye back" meal to celebrate your time here and make sure you know the "Scottish welcome is always open."

Program Excursions

While participating on a CIS Abroad program, you'll be able to take part in built-in day trips at no additional cost. These trips are subject to change from term to term; listed below are excursions that have run in the past.

The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site

Wander through the Old Town or explore the majestic terraces of the New Town. You'll want to bring ...

Learn More

Mountains and Lochs

Towering mountains, glittering lochs, thick woodlands, and miles upon miles of golden ...

Learn More

Hebridean and Outer Islands

These Scottish Western Isles of the Outer Hebrides are a diverse chain of interconnected islands ...

Learn More

Glasgow

Discover Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, on a memorable day trip filled with culture, history, ...

Learn More

Site Director

Jeanna Brady

Site Director in Scotland

Jeanna was born overlooking Loch Ness and grew up in the Highlands of Scotland. She studied in Edinburgh, and after majoring in science went on to work in local and central government. She believes in lifelong learning and remains a student of life! Jeanna has eight years of experience with CIS Abroad (seven as Site Director) and strongly believes in equity and accessible education for all. -Learning and education has been a strong influence in my family over generations. Education goes beyond the school. Studying abroad is a life changing experience. It allows you to see the world from a new different perspective and to be better prepared for your future in the increasingly globalised world we live in. My job to help you make the most of the many opportunities studying and living in Scotland affords you, and to ensure you have a successful, fun and memorable experience. I have strong Scottish heritage. My Celtic roots give my family our language, music, fun, compassion and culture which continues to this day. Like many Scots, I enjoy the unspoilt nature and landscape here, from great sailing, (and yes surfing) in the West, off-road motorcycle, hiking and skiing in the Highlands to the diverse cultural and multi cultural activities flourishing in many aspects of daily life here.'

Travel Tip! Plan ahead of your program! Do your research and reach out to our Alumni to make the most of your time in Scotland. There are so many free and affordable activities, including public galleries and museums, live music sessions, open-to-roam landscape, and a great range of clubs and societies on and off campus!

Your Support Staff

Caroline Shea

Program Enrollment Coordinator for Greece & Australia | Team Assistant

I received my BA in Nutrition Studies from UMass Amherst. During my undergrad I studied in London, my first time out of the US and have been on the road more or less ever since! For the past six years, I have been working in the travel industry, where I am enthusiastic about sharing my love for travel and the personal growth that comes with it. Additionally, I am a certified Health Coach, specializing in Intuitive Eating. Over the past year, I have been living in Mexico, dedicating most of my free time to the beach and learning how to surf.

Travel Tip! Sign up for a class or activity that you have never done before and always wanted to! It is a great way to meet people with similar interests - fellow travelers and locals alike.

Kaylee Klinger

Advising & Alumni Relations Manager

Received a Bachelor of Science in Communications with a minor in Business Administration from Ohio University. It was there where I discovered CIS Abroad and got the opportunity to study abroad twice; in Paris, France and Stirling Scotland as well as become an Alumni Ambassador. It was during my time in the Scottish Highlands where I discovered my passion for travel. On top of studying in Paris and Stirling, I've been blessed to have traveled to Australia, Canada, Ireland, England and Italy as well! I have a passion for hiking and visiting all of the National Parks in the United States. Also enjoy spending time with my cat, Mumford.

Travel Tip! The best travel tip I always share is, if possible try to catch a redeye flight. That has helped me tremendously fight jet-lag and it allows you more time to explore the extraordinary unfamiliar place!

Serenah Quiroga

Advising & Communications Coordinator

I am the daughter of an Argentinean immigrant so all of my dad's family still lives in Argentina. I grew up in South Dakota but attended high school and undergrad in the northern Chicago suburbs. I graduated in 2023 from Lake Forest College with a degree in Neuroscience and Psychology. I balanced life as a women's soccer student-athlete, dance team captain, president of the Neuroscience club and working as a medical assistant and babysitter. I studied abroad in Sorrento, Italy and traveled all throughout Europe during my time there. I also frequent Argentina to visit family but my dream destinations are Tokyo, Spain, Seychelles and sooo many more! I feel inspired to work in international education because I want to share the impact that international travels have had on my life and help provide resources for others to travel and gain a world perspective. Outside of work, I love going to concerts, dancing, reading and meeting new people. I am an empathetic and social butterfly that has a lot of compassion for others. At the same time, I value my 'me-time' and am extremely determined to be the best version of myself.

Travel Tip! Always find a reason to talk to a local or someone you may not know. Whether it's a simple hello, compliment, or question, there is always something to learn from every person you meet. Some of my best experiences and favorite memories were formed because of these interactions.

Nicole Baumgartner

International Operations Assistant Director

Nicole was born and raised in the beautiful Pacific Northwest in Seattle, Washington, and studied Political Science, Law Societies and Justice, and Human Rights at the University of Washington. Nicole has always had the travel bug so after graduating she moved to Spain to work as an English Assistant and fell in love with the country of tapas, flamenco, and constant sunshine! She lived in Granada, Spain for 9 years and is lucky to now call Barcelona home. She has always worked in education and loves seeing the profound benefits of students immersing themselves in another language and culture. She also loves to spend time at the beach, wandering around neighborhoods, and grabbing tapas with friends.

Travel Tip! When traveling always make friends with the locals! They will help really immerse you into the culture and give you a different perspective of your destination. They have the best recommendations for the most authentic restaurants and show you places that you would never find in a guidebook or on a blog. Not only will you have a great experience while traveling, but you also have the chance to make new, lifelong friends from around the world!

Dates & Prices

Additional Information:

Program Deposit

There is a non-refundable program deposit for all CIS Abroad programs. Paying the deposit secures your spot on the program! The deposit deadline and amount can be seen above in the Dates & Prices section.

As with all study abroad programs, you should count on a few additional expenses.

CIS Abroad reserves the right to alter fees at any time due to currency fluctuations and/or fee changes made by our partner universities.

ADVISOR TIP:

Please WAIT to book flights until you have received confirmed dates in your acceptance paperwork. Dates posted here are subject to change.

Semester in Scotland - Edinburgh Napier University

Wake up in down-to-earth Edinburgh

What to Expect

Highlights:

Learn More About This and Other Programs

Program Details

Edinburgh Napier University

Course Information

Life in Edinburgh

Live the Local Life

Volunteering

Farmer Markets and Food Festivals

Skiing and snowboarding

Hiking

Ceilidh

Live music

Edinburgh Napier University - Residence Halls

Overview

Meals

Inclusions and Amenities

What's Included

Inclusions

Welcome & Orientation

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

Dates & Prices

ADVISOR TIP:

Semester in Scotland -
Edinburgh Napier University