University of the West of Scotland

uws.ac.uk

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University of the West of Scotland is one of Scotland’s largest modern universities. 109 nationalities are represented across the University’s student population, and 39% of its students are international. The University’s four campuses in the west of Scotland - in Paisley, Lanarkshire, Dumfries and Ayr - are within easy reach of the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, and close to some of Scotland’s most amazing scenery. UWS also has a thriving campus in central London.


The state-of-the-art equipment and facilities across the University’s campuses allow students to put their knowledge into practice in real-world settings. They benefit from gaining experience and hands-on skills even from the early stages of their studies.


UWS has strong connections with business and industry. UWS researchers are making a real difference, working with partner organisations around the world on innovative technologies to tackle issues critical to developing technology, improving lives and creating a more equal society in Scotland and internationally.
 

University of the West of Scotland

The courses are designed with commercial, industrial and professional partners to ensure that learning meets the demands of the world of work. Many programmes are professionally recognised or accredited. A wide range of career-focused Bachelors, Masters and research degrees is offered across the UWS Schools.

Facts & Stats

  • Ranked in the world’s top 200 universities that are 50 years old, or younger (Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024).
  • 90% of research at UWS was classed as world-leading, internationally excellent, or recognised internationally in the Research Excellence Framework 2021.
  • Ranked 2nd in Scotland and 16th in the world for reducing inequalities in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024.
  • Scotland’s first official training partner for China following accreditation in 2018 from China’s State Administration for Foreign Expert Affairs (SAFEA).
  • 90% of UWS students are in employment or further study, six months after graduating (Graduate Outcomes Survey data released 2024).
  • Midwifery programme accredited by UNICEF as Baby Friendly recognising commitment to ensuring students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to advise and support breastfeeding mothers.
  • Free UWS gym membership for all students.
  • Winner of Students’ Association of the Year 2022 and 2023, in the National Union of Students (Scotland) Awards.
  • UWS was the academic partner of the 2024 European College of Sport Science Congress held in Glasgow.

Innovative UWS Research

UWS research activity informs teaching and learning to enrich students’ experience. The pioneering technologies UWS develops help shape society in Scotland and throughout the world, including ground-breaking research in artificial intelligence, eye-care, drone technology, thin films and sensors, 5G networking, and dementia care.

For example, UWS’s work with industry partner FIDO Tech, on pioneering AI technology to locate water leaks in underground pipes, is already saving billions of litres of water from being lost worldwide. 

In the 2021 REF (Research Excellence Framework) 90% of UWS's research was ranked as world-leading, internationally excellent, or recognised internationally.

Explore UWS

Find out more about UWS's dynamic modern campuses and their innovative learning facilities, accommodation, and more.

Inspiring Students

Find out from these UWS students about their experiences, and what they are gaining from their studies at UWS.

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