<p>Hey fleetwoodjazz (:</p>
<p>I've got a brother in UoE so I feel obliged to answer your queries...so from all the conversations I've had with him, I'll try my best.</p>
<p>He is incidentally studying Electrical & Electronic Engineering (that's what you're offered right?), and will graduate in two months. From what I know, UoE is one of the best in this particular field of engineering in UK. As a whole, the university stands pretty well too - top 15 according to Sunday Times University Guide for 2 years in a row. Oh yeah, based on the THES (i think) research last year in compiling the top unis from all over the world, UoE came in top 50 (no.48 to be specific). Plus, it is one of the most highly regarded, if not the best in Scotland itself. So you know you're gonna be in an academically sound institution (:</p>
<p>The course itself is very rigorous, more so for my brother since he entered straight into their 3rd year (he already had a diploma). In that year alone, he had about 9 projects if I remembered correctly. The good thing about their programme is that it stresses upon both the theory and practical knowledge, so I think that'll give you an edge over other graduates. He once told me that he saw a group of mechanical eng students testing out a racing car they had built earlier on...so that says something about their programme, no? (:</p>
<p>As for Edinburgh itself, it is undoubtedly beautiful and immensely rich in history. I don't think my brother partied though since he's busy with work...but the life there is pretty easy-going and relaxed, people are friendly. He likes it but he told me he's already bored of it. If he has the option of staying there to work, he won't :P Although it is the main city of Scotland, it's not quite as buzzing a city as London. I came across this quote once about Edinburgh, it goes something like this:</p>
<p>"Edinburgh is a city with the atmosphere of a town and the mindset of a village."</p>
<p>Hehe not entirely word-for-word but you get the idea, right? Anyhow as for the expenses, it won't cost you as much as living in London, Oxford and Cambridge. In fact, I've found a website which tabulates the cost</a> of living as an international student living in Glasgow (2004/5), so I should think it'll be approximately the same for Edinburgh at about £5200 - £6200 per academic year.</p>
<p>Anyway, if you worry about the city itself, fret not. Once you're in UK, it pretty much opens up your gateway to Europe...you could always plan a short trip to other European countries during your winter/spring break (: And oh, the Edinburgh Festival in August is a very popular event, if you intend to stay there during your summer vacation.</p>
<p>Whoops I think I've said too much. Well hope this helps you make your decision, if only a little. Good luck! (:</p>