Robert Gordon University
Aberdeen, United Kingdom
Robert Gordon University
Aberdeen, United Kingdom
Founded
1992 (origins 1750)
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
18,000+
Countries Represented
150+
Discover Robert Gordon University: Overview & History
Discover Robert Gordon University: Overview & History
Robert Gordon University (RGU) is a public research university located on the banks of the River Dee in Aberdeen, Scotland. Known as one of the UK's top universities for graduate employability, RGU delivers professionally focused education across more than 300 courses to students from over 150 countries.
The university traces its origins to Robert Gordon's Hospital, a charitable institution founded in 1750 using a bequest from Aberdeen merchant Robert Gordon, who made his fortune trading in Gdansk, Poland. Over the centuries, the institution evolved through several stages, becoming Robert Gordon's Technical College in 1910 and Robert Gordon's Institute of Technology in 1965, before being granted full university status in 1992.
Today, RGU operates from its consolidated Garthdee campus, the result of a GBP 120 million investment programme completed in 2013. The university is structured around 11 academic schools and is recognised for its strong industry links, applied research, and consistently high graduate employment outcomes.
Key Milestones
- 1750: Robert Gordon's Hospital opens its doors to its first 14 pupils in Aberdeen, funded by the bequest of merchant Robert Gordon.
- 1910: The institution becomes Robert Gordon's Technical College following mergers with adult education establishments.
- 1992: Granted full university status under the Further and Higher Education Act, becoming Robert Gordon University.
- 2013: Completion of the GBP 120 million Garthdee campus redevelopment, including the Sir Ian Wood Building.
Academic Structure & Schools
Academic Structure & Schools
Robert Gordon University is organised into 11 academic schools that offer undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degree programmes. The curriculum is designed in close collaboration with industry, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for professional practice across a wide range of disciplines.
Aberdeen Business School
One of Scotland's leading business schools, offering industry-accredited programmes in management, accounting, and economics with strong links to the energy and finance sectors.
- BA (Hons) Business Management
- BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance
- MBA Master of Business Administration
School of Computing, Engineering and Technology
Delivers programmes in computing science, cybersecurity, digital media, and all branches of engineering, with state-of-the-art laboratories and strong ties to Aberdeen's energy industry.
- BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Cyber Security and Networks
- MSc Data Science
School of Health Sciences
Provides professionally accredited programmes in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and diagnostic radiography, consistently ranked among the best in the UK for health-related subjects.
- BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy
- BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy
- MSc Health Sciences
Gray's School of Art
One of Scotland's oldest art schools, offering creative programmes in fine art, design, and digital media within purpose-built studio facilities on the Garthdee campus.
- BA (Hons) Fine Art
- BDes (Hons) Graphic Design
- MDes Design
The Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment
Named after the benefactor who donated the Garthdee estate, this school offers RIBA-accredited architecture programmes alongside surveying and construction management courses.
- BArch (Hons) Architecture
- BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying
- MSc Construction Project Management
School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedic Practice
Delivers NMC-approved nursing and midwifery programmes with extensive clinical placements across NHS Grampian, preparing graduates for immediate professional registration.
- BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult)
- BSc (Hons) Midwifery
- BSc (Hons) Paramedic Practice
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Application RouteUCAS or direct application via RGU portal
- A-Level RequirementTypically BCC or equivalent (varies by programme)
- IB DiplomaMinimum 28 points (programme dependent)
- English Language (IELTS)Minimum 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5)
- Application FeeGBP 28.50 (via UCAS)
Postgraduate Admission
- Application RouteDirect application via RGU online portal
- Degree RequirementBachelor's degree or equivalent (minimum 2:2 or equivalent)
- English Language (IELTS)Minimum 6.5 overall (no band below 5.5)
- Supporting DocumentsCV, statement of purpose, two references
- Application FeeNo application fee for postgraduate programmes
Deadline for undergraduate applications to receive equal consideration through UCAS.
Final date for undergraduate applications via UCAS, subject to course availability.
Recommended deadline for international postgraduate applicants for the September start.
Recommended deadline for international postgraduate applicants for the January start.
Tuition Fees & Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees & Scholarship Opportunities
Robert Gordon University offers competitive tuition fees compared to many UK institutions. Aberdeen is also one of the most affordable student cities in the UK, helping to reduce your overall cost of study. Below is an indicative breakdown of annual costs.
| Cost Category | UK/Home Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 1,820 (Scottish) / GBP 9,250 (rUK) | GBP 15,000 - GBP 18,300 |
| Postgraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 5,070 - GBP 9,250 | GBP 14,920 - GBP 20,380 |
| Accommodation (per year) | GBP 4,500 - GBP 7,000 | GBP 4,500 - GBP 7,000 |
| Living Expenses (estimated per year) | GBP 9,000 - GBP 12,000 | GBP 9,000 - GBP 12,000 |
| Total | GBP 15,320 - GBP 28,250 | GBP 28,420 - GBP 37,680 |
GREAT Scholarships
Funded by the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, this scholarship supports international postgraduate students from eligible countries pursuing a one-year master's degree at RGU.
- Award Value: GBP 10,000 tuition fee reduction
- Eligibility: Postgraduate master's students from eligible countries
- Application: Apply through the RGU scholarship portal after receiving an offer
RGU International Scholarship
RGU offers all direct-entry, self-funding international students a tuition fee discount to help with the cost of studying in Aberdeen. Additional merit-based awards are available for high-achieving applicants.
- Award Value: GBP 4,000 tuition fee discount
- Eligibility: Self-funding international students with a confirmed offer
- Total Annual Disbursement: Over GBP 500,000 in scholarships awarded annually
Campus & Facilities at Garthdee
Campus & Facilities at Garthdee
Robert Gordon University's Garthdee campus sits in spacious parkland on the banks of the River Dee, combining striking modern architecture with beautiful natural surroundings. The campus has benefited from over GBP 120 million in investment, providing students with purpose-built facilities for learning, research, and recreation.
The flagship academic building housing Aberdeen Business School and the School of Creative and Cultural Business, opened in 2013.
The iconic four-storey green glass library offers 24/7 access during term time, with extensive study spaces, books, journals, and computing facilities.
A comprehensive sports facility featuring a 25-metre swimming pool, climbing wall, three gyms, a large sports hall, and fitness studios.
Housing & Dining
Student Accommodation
RGU provides comfortable and affordable accommodation across four sites in Aberdeen, with first-year students guaranteed housing. Options range from shared flats to en-suite rooms.
- Over 1,500 rooms available across campus and city locations
- Garthdee Towers offering en-suite rooms with River Dee views
- Woolmanhill Flats situated near the city centre
Dining & Food Options
The Garthdee campus features a range of cafes, canteens, and food outlets offering discounted meals to all RGU students. The university also provides a free breakfast every Tuesday.
- Multiple cafes and canteens across campus
- Discounted meal options for all students
- Free Tuesday breakfast initiative for all enrolled students
Student Life at RGU
Student Life at RGU
Student life at Robert Gordon University is vibrant and inclusive, with a wide range of clubs, societies, and activities managed by RGU:Union. Whether you want to try a new sport, explore a creative hobby, or get involved in community volunteering, there is something for everyone on campus.
Life in Aberdeen: Scotland's Granite City
Life in Aberdeen: Scotland's Granite City
Aberdeen, Scotland
Aberdeen is a vibrant and multicultural city of over 220,000 people in northeast Scotland. Known as the Granite City for its distinctive stone architecture, Aberdeen offers an excellent quality of life with a strong economy, rich cultural heritage, and easy access to stunning Highland scenery and coastline.
Affordable Student Living
Aberdeen is consistently ranked as one of the most affordable student cities in the UK, with lower living costs compared to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and London.
Culture & Entertainment
The city hosts year-round festivals including the Aberdeen International Comedy Festival and Jazz Festival, and features attractions like the Aberdeen Art Gallery and Maritime Museum.
Outdoor Adventure
With miles of sandy beaches, the Cairngorms National Park nearby, and Scotland's famous castle country in Aberdeenshire, outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities.
Excellent Transport Links
Aberdeen has its own international airport connecting to over 25 destinations, direct rail services to major UK cities, and is only a 2.5-hour drive from Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Top Graduate Employers
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
RGU's dedicated international team assists with CAS issuance, Student Visa applications, and immigration advice. The UK Graduate Route visa allows you to stay and work for two years after completing your degree.
The university offers English language learning and testing support to help you meet entry requirements. Pre-sessional English courses are available for students who need to improve their language skills before starting their degree.
RGU's Careers and Graduate Futures Service provides CV workshops, interview preparation, career counselling, and networking events with industry professionals throughout your studies and after graduation.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Robert Gordon University World Rankings
Robert Gordon University World Rankings
Robert Gordon University is recognised in several major global and national university rankings. While RGU is a modern university that gained its status in 1992, it has built a strong reputation particularly for graduate employability, teaching quality, and subject-specific excellence in areas like physiotherapy, pharmacy, and architecture.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Physiotherapy | Complete University Guide | #1 in Scotland |
| Architecture | The Guardian | Top 20 in UK |
| Pharmacy & Pharmacology | Complete University Guide | Top 30 in UK |
| Business & Management | The Times Good University Guide | #41 in UK |
Features
At the core of our University is our mission to transform people and communities through the delivery of teaching excellence, the impact of our research, our focus on enterprise and to contribute to economic, social and cultural development, and environmental sustainability. Our community of staff, students and alumni are the driving force behind our mission. Their commitment, diversity and vibrancy broadens our creativity, innovation and curiosity. Through our campus operations, teaching, research, partnerships and services, we are focused on driving activity that creates a sustainable future both for our own University community and wider society.\n\n\n\n\n\n
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - January
Location
Garthdee House, Garthdee Rd, Aberdeen AB10 7AQ, United Kingdom
Map not found.
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
