About the degree programme

Our MSc programme in Sensor and Imaging Systems (SIS) focuses on the technologies and techniques that underpin a vast range of societal, research and industrial needs. It is designed for people looking to develop skills that will open up opportunities in a host of end applications.

Sensing and sensor systems are essential for advances in research across all fields of physics, engineering and chemistry and are enhanced when multiple sensing functions are combined into arrays to enable imaging. 

Industrial applications of sensor systems are ubiquitous: from mass-produced sensors found in modern smart phones and every modern car to the state-of-the-art, specialist high-value sensors routinely used in oil and gas recovery, scientific equipment, machine tools, medical equipment and environmental monitoring. 

Our programme is delivered and awarded jointly by the Universities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, allowing you to benefit from the combined resources and complementary expertise of staff from two top ranking Russell Group universities, working together to offer you a curriculum relevant to the needs of industry.

Tuition fees

Please see the University of Glasgow's website for tuition fee information for this programme:

Sensor and Imaging Systems (University of Glasgow)

Deposit

Please see the University of Glasgow's website for information about deposits required for this programme.

Sensor and Imaging Systems (University of Glasgow)

Costs

Accommodation and living costs

You need to cover your accommodation and living costs for the duration of your programme.

We estimate that you might spend £1,167 to £2,330 per month if you are a single student.

Living costs include:

  • food
  • utility bills
  • travel, clothes, books and stationery
  • recreational costs (for example, TV subscriptions and social events)

Living costs

Accommodation costs depend on where you live while studying and the type of accommodation you choose.

University postgraduate accommodation options and costs

Funding opportunities

These entry requirements are for the 2026-27 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2027-28 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2026.

Qualifications

Entry requirements information for this programme can be found on the University of Glasgow's website. 
 

International qualifications

To find international equivalent qualifications, select where you studied from the country or region list.

English language requirements

Entry requirements for this degree can be found on the University of Glasgow application page. 
 

What you will study

​The MSc programme in Sensor and Imaging Systems is a 12-month programme and requires a minimum of 180 credits.

​You will take a minimum of 60 credits at the University of Glasgow in Semester 1 and 60 credits at the University of Edinburgh in Semester 2.

​The remaining 60 credits will consist of an MSc research project, focused on a specific theoretical, computational or experimental aspect of Sensor and Imaging Systems.

​You will conduct your research project either at the University of Glasgow or at the University of Edinburgh, under the direct supervision of a member of academic staff and as part of your research group.

How you will be taught

​This programme is both flexible and interdisciplinary. You can tailor your studies to your prior experience and research interests through the courses you select and your research project, which you will provisionally identify at the start of the programme.

​The courses you take in Semester 1 will focus on the fundamental skills, understanding and knowledge you will need to complete an MSc in Sensor and Imaging Systems. In Semester 2, you will take courses that provide training in more specialist aspects.

​Semester 1

In Semester 1, you will study your courses at the University of Glasgow.

Please see the University of Glasgow's website for complete and up-to-date course details.

Courses: Sensor and Imaging Systems (University of Glasgow)

​Semester 2

In Semester 2, you will study your courses at the University of Edinburgh.

Please see our Degree Programme Tables for course details. Please note this is the latest information available and may be for a previous academic year and should be considered indicative.

MSc Sensor & Imaging Systems (1 year) (2025-2026)

Research project

Over the summer, you will undertake a research project worth 60 credits.

You will conduct your research at either:

  • University of Glasgow (School of Physics or School of Engineering)
  • University of Edinburgh (School of Engineering)

You will be allocated an academic supervisor from the appropriate School and University.

​Some project options may not be available if your academic background is not suitable.

Teaching and assessment

Support for your studies

You will have access to a range of support services if you need them throughout your degree.

We will assign you to a student adviser, and this should be the first person to contact if you need help. They can guide you to other University service teams depending on what support you need.  

How we support you

Career opportunities

Sensor systems are spearheading the next wave of connectivity and intelligence for internet connected devices, underpinning all of the new ‘smart markets’, e.g., grid, cities, transport and mobility, digital healthcare and big data.

You will graduate with domain-appropriate skills suitable for a range of careers. Markets that need graduates with sensor and imaging systems skills include: 

  • defence and security
  • renewables
  • aerospace
  • subsea
  • intelligent transport
  • environmental science
  • built environment
  • energy and the smart grid
  • healthcare and drug discovery
  • medical diagnostics
  • food and drink

Further study

After completing this programme, you may wish to consider applying for a PhD or other research programme.

Applying for research degrees

Moving on to a PhD (advice from the University's Careers Service)

Careers Service

Our Careers Service can help you to fully develop your potential and achieve your future goals. 

The Careers Service supports you not only while you are studying at the University, but also for up to two years after you finish your studies. 

With the Careers Service, you can: 

  • access digital resources to help you understand your skills and strengths
  • try different types of experiences and reflect on how and what you develop
  • get help finding work, including part-time jobs, vacation work, internships and graduate jobs
  • attend careers events and practice interviews
  • get information and advice to help you make informed decisions 

How to apply

Applications for this programme are handled by the University of Glasgow.

When to apply

Please visit the University of Glasgow's website for information on application deadlines and dates.

Sensor and Imaging Systems MSc (University of Glasgow)

Application fee

There is no fee to apply to this programme.

Apply

Apply for this programme through the University of Glasgow's website.

Accommodation

Visit our website for accommodation information. 

University of Edinburgh accommodation website

We offer accommodation options for couples and families.

Accommodation for couples and families

If you prefer to live elsewhere, we can offer you advice on finding accommodation in Edinburgh.

Accommodation information from the Edinburgh University Students' Association Advice Place

Societies and clubs

Our societies and sports clubs will help you develop your interests, meet like-minded people, find a new hobby or simply socialise.

Societies

Sport Clubs

The city of Edinburgh

Scotland's inspiring capital will form the background to your studies — a city with an irresistible blend of history, natural beauty and modern city life. 

Find out more about living in Edinburgh

Health and wellbeing support

You will have access to free health and wellbeing services throughout your time at university if you need them.

The support services we offer include: 

  • a student counselling service
  • a health centre (doctor's surgery)
  • support if you're living in University accommodation
  • dedicated help and support if you have a disability or need adjustments

Health and wellbeing support services 

Disability and Learning Support