Millie’s UK University Spotlight: Scottish Universities!
Rolling hills, towering castles, and dramatic scenery are just some of the things that come to mind when you think of Scotland. Studying in this magical country promises a rich university experience filled with culture, history, and excitement. And with Millie’s Scottish University Spotlight, you'll soon learn everything there is to know about studying in Scotland!
Living in Scotland
Scotland is a country in the northern part of the UK, with a history that stretches back to Roman times. Its misty weather pairs magically with Scotland’s moors, lochs, and castles, making it a treasure trove for myth-lovers. But what’s it really like to study there? To answer that, Millie has broken down what it means to attend a Scottish university.
#1 - Flexibility in course structure
Scottish universities follow a unique degree structure, similar to that of American universities. This allows you more flexibility in your degree, enabling you to explore different paths and find what's right for you compared to universities in England. It's a fantastic option for those uncertain about what they wish to pursue after high school. Let's be honest; few people truly know what they want to do in the future.
However, this means the degree length in Scotland spans four years, with some courses like medicine lasting even longer. This is in contrast to the standard three-year courses in the rest of the UK. While some students may prefer the three-year degrees, the Scottish system lets students study subjects outside their main discipline during the initial two years. They then specialize in the last two, providing more room for exploration.
#2 - So… the weather isn’t its BEST feature
While the scenery is undoubtedly stunning, the accompanying weather is... less so. Scotland is notorious for its challenging weather compared to the rest of the UK. While this might be a downer, it certainly enhances the mystical ambiance of its moors and castles. So, always remember to pack an abundance of waterproofs and warm clothes (one can NEVER have too many fluffy socks), and you'll be prepared!
#3 - The friendly atmosphere
“If you’ve heard the myths about the friendliness of Scots, let us tell you: it’s all true.”
If you've heard the tales of the Scots' warmth and friendliness, let us assure you, they're absolutely true. Scottish people rank among the friendliest you'll ever encounter (despite the occasional rowdy football match), and they're especially welcoming to foreigners. They'll go above and beyond to make you feel right at home. International students comprise about 22% of the student body in Scottish universities. Hence, no matter your origin, you won't feel out of place in unfamiliar surroundings. The locals are ever eager to recommend top spots in town (expect to hear plenty of "aye"s and "wee"s), and your university will have you feeling settled in no time with welcome events, societies to join, and the much-anticipated Freshers Week — a week teeming with social activities and nightlife. Given the cheerful nature of its residents, you'll find it easy to turn a blind eye to Scotland's notorious weather and fully immerse in the university experience!
#4 - Things to do
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a festival lover, you'll never face a dull moment at a Scottish university! If you’re situated near a bustling city like Edinburgh or Glasgow, there's a plethora of activities awaiting you. Blow off some steam with friends at the countless pubs, bars, and clubs. Consider visiting Edinburgh Castle, an exquisite 11th-century landmark and one of Scotland's primary attractions. Alternatively, wander through Glasgow’s Necropolis, often described as "a city of the dead." For those with a penchant for botany, or if you simply relish a leisurely stroll, the Kibble Palace and Botanic Gardens in Glasgow are a must-visit. The calendar is chock-full of engaging activities, ensuring you'll always have something to look forward to.
Come August, Edinburgh buzzes with an array of festivals celebrating Scottish culture, art, and talent. Highlights include the Fringe Festival, the Edinburgh Art Festival, and the Edinburgh Tattoo (of the military-band variety).
“There’s so much to get involved in throughout the year; you’ll never be bored!”
If you're into sports, you can challenge yourself with a trek up Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK. Or maybe plan a day out to Loch Ness to see if you can spot the fabled Loch Ness Monster (or as the Scots affectionately call it, Nessie!). And perhaps, by the end of it all, you’ll even be brave enough to try haggis!
So, that’s a glimpse of what it’s like to study in Scotland. Now, let's dive into some of its best universities, starting with the University of Edinburgh.
The University of Edinburgh
This university was opened in 1583, and is situated in Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh. It has over 33,600 students, just under 40% of whom are international. Edinburgh ranks 16th in the world (Top Universities) and 13th in the UK (Complete University Guide), making it a competitive and popular choice worldwide. Added bonus: it’s only a ten minute walk from the iconic Edinburgh Castle! Here are some of Edinburgh’s top ranked majors:
Veterinary Medicine - Ranked #2
- IB: 38 points with 6, 6, 6 at Higher Level including 6s in Chemistry and Biology and 5s in Standard Level Physics and English
- A-Levels: AAA including Chemistry and Biology
- AP: 4, 4, 4 or above including Chemistry, Biology and Maths/Physics
English Language and Literature - Ranked #23
- IB: 37 points with 6, 6, 6 at Higher Level including English
- A-Levels: AAA to ABB including English Literature
- AP: 4, 4, 4, or above including English Literature
Social Policy - Ranked #5
- IB: 36 points with 6, 6, 5 at Higher Level including a 5 in English
- A-Levels: AAB to ABB
- AP: 4, 4, 4, or above
Did you know…
- The University of Edinburgh’s “The Student” is the oldest student newspaper in the UK, dating back to 1887?
- The city of Edinburgh was voted as the best place for young people to travel in the UK in the British Youth Travel Awards in 2017 (British Youth Travel Awards)?
- Some of the university’s famous alumni include Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Charles Darwin, Alexander Graham Bell and JK Rowling?
The University of St. Andrews
Founded in 1413, the University of St. Andrews is the third oldest university in the English-speaking world. It is located in Fife, Southern Scotland, and has magnificent architecture that rivals Oxford and Cambridge! St. Andrews has over 10,000 students from over 130 different countries. It ranks 4th in the UK (Complete University Guide) and 91st in the world (Top Universities). Here are some of its top majors:
Philosophy - Ranked #2
- IB: 38 points (6, 6, 6 at Higher Level) to 36 points (6, 6, 5 at Higher Level)
- A-Levels: A*A*A to ABB
- AP: 4, 4, 4, or above
Ancient History - Ranked #3
- IB: 38 points (6, 6, 6 at Higher Level) to 36 points (6, 6, 5 at Higher Level)
- A-Levels: A*A*A to ABB
- AP: 4, 4, 4, or above
Theological Studies - Ranked #5
- IB: 38 points (6, 6, 6 at Higher Level) to 36 points (6, 6, 5 at Higher Level)
- A-Levels: A*A*A to ABB
- AP: 4, 4, 4, or above
Did you know…
- St. Andrews is the oldest university in Scotland?
- The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, more commonly known as William and Kate, met and studied together at St. Andrews?
- St. Andrews students enjoy partaking in quirky age-old traditions such as the May Dip (where students run into the freezing North Sea at dawn to cleanse any academic sins) and the Raisin Weekend (a social weekend involving a shaving-foam fight)?
The University of Glasgow
Glasgow University is the fourth oldest university in the English-speaking world, founded in 1451. It is located in the Scottish city of Glasgow, and ranks 16th in the UK (Complete University Guide) and 73rd in the world (Top Universities). The university houses over 26,600 students from over 140 countries. Here are some of Glasgow’s top ranked majors:
Accounting and Finance - Ranked #4
- IB: 38 points (6, 6, 6 at Higher Level) to 32 points (6, 5, 5 at Higher Level) including Higher Level Maths and a 5 in Standard Level English
- A-Levels: AAA to ABB including Maths
- AP: 4, 4, 4 in relevant subjects
Dentistry - Ranked #1
- IB: 36 points with 6, 6, 6 at Higher Level including Chemistry, Biology and Maths/Physics
- A-Levels: AAA including Chemistry and Biology
- AP: 4, 4, 4 in relevant subjects
Theatre Studies - Ranked #4
- IB: 38 points (6, 6, 6 at Higher Level) to 32 points (6, 5, 5 at Higher Level) including Higher Level English and a Humanities subject
- A-Levels: AAB to BBB including a Humanities Subject
- AP: 4, 4, 4 in relevant subjects
Did you know…
- The Father of Economics, Adam Smith, studied at the University of Glasgow at just 14 years old?
- The first international football game of England vs Scotland was held at Glasgow in 1872?
- Glasgow graduates Frank and Harold Barnwell contributed to the Allied victory in both World Wars by building fighter planes to rival those used by German pilots?
The University of Dundee
Dundee is located in Eastern Scotland and is one of Scotland’s more recent universities, founded in 1881. The famous red-brick buildings house just under 16,000 students, 22% of whom are international. The University of Dundee ranks 30th in the UK (Complete University Guide) and 322nd in the world (Top Universities). Here are some of its top ranked majors:
Civil Engineering - Ranked #12
- IB: 30 points with 5, 5, 5 at Higher Levels including Maths and a Science (preferably Physics)
- A-Levels: BBB including Maths and a Science (preferably Physics)
- AP: APs with minimum Grade 3 or above
Computing Science - Ranked #33
- IB: 30 points with 5, 5, 5 at Higher Levels including Maths and a Science (preferably Computer Science)
- A-Levels: BBB including Maths and a Science (preferably Computer Science)
- AP: APs with minimum Grade 3 or above
Medicine - Ranked #3
- IB: 37 points with 6, 6, 6 at Higher Level including Chemistry and Maths/Biology/Physics
- A-Levels: AAA including Chemistry and Maths/Biology/Physics
- AP: 5, 5, 5 including Chemistry and Biology
Did you know…
- Dundee is known as Scotland’s most student-friendly city?
- The city owes its fortune to three industries powered by the creativity of its inhabitants: jute, jam and journalism?
- Author Mary Shelley started forming the ideas for her revolutionary book “Frankenstein” in Dundee?
The University of Aberdeen
The University of Aberdeen was founded in 1495 and is situated in North East Scotland. The university ranks 40th in the UK (Complete University Guide) and 205th in the world (Top Universities), accommodating over 14,000 students representing more than 120 countries. Aberdeen has a wide range of just under 400 courses, with everything from Accountancy to Zoology. Here are some of its top ranked majors:
Environment Science - Ranked #6
- IB: 32 points with 5, 5, 5 at Higher Level including Maths and a Science
- A-Levels: BBB including Maths and a Science
- AP: 3 APs with minimum Grade 3 or above and a minimum High School GPA of 3.0
Microbiology - Ranked #25
- IB: 32 points with 5, 5, 5 at Higher Level including Maths and a Science
- A-Levels: BBB
- AP: 3 APs with minimum Grade 3 or above and a minimum High School GPA of 3.0
Business Management - Ranking #12
- IB: 32 points with 5, 5, 5 at Higher Level
- A-Levels: BBB
- AP: 3 APs with minimum Grade 3 or above and a minimum High School GPA of 3.0
Did you know…
- Aberdeen is Scotland’s 3rd oldest university?
- The university has outstanding sports facilities including the Olympic-standard Aberdeen Sports Village and Aquatic Centre?
- There have been over 40 lottery millionaires in Aberdeen, making it one of the UK’s luckiest cities? If you’re thinking of trying for the lottery, you know where to go!
Now you know a bit more about what it means to live in Scotland and study at some of its best universities. Despite the weather, the thousands of students who study in Scotland have a great time and love every moment of their university degree! Remember, sign yourself up for a free consultation to plan your next steps at university!