A guide to studying in Scotland
Many students who drop out of school have already chosen where they intend to spend their next three or more years of study, while for others the decision is still ahead. Studying in Scotland has many advantages. For starters, Scottish and European Union citizens do not have to cover the costs of their higher education, while for English, Welsh and Northern Irish students the fees are lower than at their country’s universities.
Furthermore, students at Scottish universities spend four years learning and developing their skills compared to three in other parts of the UK.
Whether you want to study in a big city, a small town, or even a rural setting, Scotland offers it all. The study programs are diverse and cover everything from classics to engineering to sports.
Rural institutions of higher education in Scotland
If you study best in a peaceful setting with lots of fresh air and outdoor scenery, the University of the Highlands and Islands might be for you. As the name suggests, the campuses are spread across the northernmost parts of Scotland, such as Shetland, Orkney and Moray.
The modern facilities are housed in specially designed academic buildings, many of which boast expansive views of the local hills and valleys.
Each campus has its own atmosphere and sense of community thanks to the small number of students studying at each location. This is one of the best features of the university and it will make everyone feel welcome.
In the north, you could be studying Tourism, Science, Gaelic (which is rare in the UK!) And more.
Scottish Small Town Universities
Not a fan of big cities, prices, congestion, and other factors that go along with them? Fortunately, Scotland is home to several universities located in smaller cities, one of the best known is the University of St Andrews, famous not only for its high academic standards, but also for being the alma mater of Prince William.
The city is perched on the east coast and is easily accessible by car or bus, but not by train. Prices in the area are high and rents are considerably higher than the Scottish average. St Andrews has a strong focus on academics, so the city is not the liveliest place to spend student life, but this, of course, suits a lot of people. The city has excellent restaurants and shops, including designer outlets. You can also find real pearls in the many charity shops.
Here you can read classic subjects such as Art History, Divinity and Mathematics, among others.
The University of Stirling is a medium-sized institution located on one of Britain’s most striking campuses with its own lake and trails leading to the nearby mountains. Founded in the 1960s, the university prides itself on offering a variety of modern courses such as Film and Media, Sports Studies, and Marketing.
The city is the historic capital of Scotland and therefore boasts impressive attractions such as Stirling Castle, the Old Bridge and the Wallace Monument. Its center is compact with a major shopping center, some independent shops, and a generous supply of pubs and restaurants. Life here is much cheaper than in the larger cities of Scotland.
Other options to consider are the University of the West of Scotland and individual campuses such as the Dumfries branch of the University of Glasgow and the Galashiels campus of Heriot-Watt University.
Scotland’s Big City Universities
Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee and Aberdeen are home to more than one university. Therefore, there is a certain degree of rivalry among students who place great emphasis on university rankings.
Glasgow is arguably the most student-friendly city in Scotland in terms of prices and entertainment opportunities. Much of its student population resides in the West End of the city, the most modern part of the city. Many are involved in one or more of the city’s many political movements.
Edinburgh is a bit more expensive, but it has a rich historical heritage and an academic atmosphere. With four colleges to choose from, you could study anything from classics to computer science.
The best way to choose a Scottish university is to spend time in each location, soaking up the local atmosphere. Spend a couple of days in a city hotel in Glasgow and then continue on to Edinburgh or any other place you’ve decided to visit.