University of the Highlands and Islands
Inverness, United Kingdom
University of the Highlands and Islands
Inverness, United Kingdom
Founded
1992
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
36,000+
Campuses
48 Locations
Discover the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI)
Discover the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI)
The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) is a distinctive collegiate public university and the only university based in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. It is an integrated tertiary institution encompassing both further and higher education, composed of a partnership of colleges and research institutions spread across Inverness, the Highlands and Islands, Moray, and Perthshire.
UHI offers a unique multi-campus learning experience with 48 locations set among Scotland's stunning mountains, forests, islands, and historic towns. The university is known for its innovative approach to blended and distance learning, small class sizes, and a curriculum enriched by the natural environment, culture, and heritage of the region. Nearly three-quarters of UHI's research has been judged world-leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework.
As a member of the University of the Arctic, UHI connects students to an international network of over 200 institutions in the circumpolar region. The university is rated best in Scotland for postgraduate student satisfaction, achieving this distinction for four consecutive years in the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey.
Key Milestones
- 1992: Feasibility report published, leading to the establishment of the UHI project to bring university-level education to the Highlands and Islands.
- 2001: Scottish Parliament awarded Higher Education Institute status; institution became known as UHI Millennium Institute.
- 2008: Privy Council granted taught degree awarding powers (tDAP), allowing UHI to award its own degrees.
- 2011: Full university status awarded by the Privy Council; institution officially became the University of the Highlands and Islands.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
UHI's academic structure is built around two main faculties that manage their curriculum through cognate subject groups. The university offers programmes from access level through to PhD, delivered across its network of colleges, specialist teaching centres, and internationally recognised research institutes.
Faculty of Arts, Humanities, Business and Education
This faculty offers programmes reflecting the distinctive culture and heritage of the Highlands and Islands, including honours programmes in Gaelic, Theological Studies, and Scottish History, alongside mainstream arts and business subjects.
- Scottish History and Gaelic Studies
- Business and Management
- Literature and Creative Writing
Faculty of Science, Health and the Environment
This faculty covers a broad range of science, health, and environmental programmes, leveraging UHI's unique natural laboratories across the Highlands and Islands for hands-on learning and research.
- Marine Science
- Environmental Science
- Nursing and Health Sciences
Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS UHI)
Founded in 1884, SAMS is one of the oldest marine science organisations in the world, located in Oban on Scotland's west coast. It delivers specialist marine science teaching and internationally recognised research.
- Marine Biology
- Aquaculture
- Oceanography and Smart Observations
UHI Perth
Situated on the southern edge of the Highlands in the city of Perth, this academic partner offers a wide range of programmes including aerospace engineering, mountain studies, and culture and heritage subjects.
- Aerospace Engineering
- Mountain Studies
- Accounting and Finance
Sabhal Mor Ostaig UHI
Located on the Isle of Skye, Sabhal Mor Ostaig is the National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture. It offers immersive Gaelic-medium education and is central to UHI's commitment to supporting Gaelic culture.
- Gaelic Language
- Gaelic Culture and Heritage
- Gaelic Music
UHI Archaeology Institute
Based on the Orkney Mainland with staff in Shetland and the Western Isles, the Archaeology Institute integrates teaching, scientific research, and applied industrial research across Northern Scotland.
- Archaeology
- Viking Studies
- Archaeological Conservation
Admission Requirements for UHI
Admission Requirements for UHI
Undergraduate Admission
- Application PortalUCAS or Common App
- Academic RequirementMinimum Grade C in relevant subjects or equivalent international qualifications
- English LanguageIELTS 6.0 overall (no sub-score below 5.0) or equivalent
- Personal StatementRequired for all courses
- Additional RequirementsSome courses require interview, audition, portfolio, or PVG check
Postgraduate Admission
- Application PortalApply directly via UHI course webpage (no fee)
- Academic Requirement2:2 (or above) UK Honours degree or international equivalent
- English LanguageIELTS 6.0-6.5 depending on programme, or equivalent
- Work ExperienceRelevant work experience may be required for some programmes
- Supporting DocumentsOfficial transcripts, references, and proof of English proficiency
Submit your UCAS application by this date for equal consideration. Decisions are typically communicated by 31 March.
Applications received between January and June are processed with decisions by 15 July. Applications after 30 June enter UCAS Clearing.
Postgraduate programmes accept applications on a rolling basis. Apply early to secure your place and allow time for visa processing.
Applications received from 1 July onwards will be notified of a decision by mid-August at the latest, subject to availability.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at UHI
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at UHI
UHI is recognised as one of the most affordable universities in the UK, offering competitive tuition fees while maintaining high-quality education. Fees vary depending on your programme, level of study, and residency status. Contact the university directly for the most current fee schedules.
| Fee Category | UK/Scottish Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 1,820 - GBP 9,250 | GBP 7,080 - GBP 16,950 |
| Postgraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 2,852 - GBP 12,000 | GBP 13,000 - GBP 15,000 |
| Accommodation (estimated per year) | GBP 4,000 - GBP 6,500 | GBP 4,000 - GBP 6,500 |
| Living Expenses (estimated per year) | GBP 8,000 - GBP 10,000 | GBP 8,000 - GBP 10,000 |
| Total | Contact UHI for programme-specific totals | Contact UHI for programme-specific totals |
EU Scholarship
Available for students who have spent the previous three years living in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, this scholarship provides a significant reduction in tuition fees for on-campus undergraduate programmes.
- Discount: GBP 3,000 per year for BA/BA (Hons) programmes
- Eligibility: EU/EEA/Swiss residents (3 years prior)
- Application: Automatically applied at offer stage
International Student Scholarship
UHI offers a tuition fee discount for international students enrolling in undergraduate courses of at least one year in duration, helping to make study in Scotland more accessible.
- Discount: 10% tuition fee reduction
- Eligibility: International students on eligible UG courses
- Application: Automatically applied upon meeting residency requirements
Campus and Facilities Across the Highlands and Islands
Campus and Facilities Across the Highlands and Islands
UHI is unlike any other university in the UK, with 48 locations spread across the Highlands and Islands, Moray, and Perthshire. From island campuses in Orkney and Shetland to city centres in Inverness and Perth, each location offers modern learning spaces set within Scotland's most spectacular landscapes.
The executive office and main campus in Inverness features modern teaching facilities and the Centre for Health Science.
One of the oldest marine science organisations in the world, offering unparalleled coastal research facilities on Scotland's west coast.
The National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture, set on the stunning Sleat peninsula of the Isle of Skye.
Housing and Dining
Student Accommodation
Most UHI campuses offer a range of student accommodation options. University residences include free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen and dining facilities, and dedicated on-site support.
- Single en-suite and shared bedrooms available
- Laundry services and free Wi-Fi included
- Assistance with private rented accommodation
Campus Facilities
Each campus features well-maintained classrooms, high-tech laboratories, and practice centres equipped with modern technology. Facilities vary by location and may include marine labs, art studios, and business incubation centres.
- Libraries and digital learning resources
- Sports facilities including gyms and fitness classes
- Student support services and counselling
Student Life at UHI
Student Life at UHI
Student life at UHI is shaped by the extraordinary natural environment and close-knit communities of the Highlands and Islands. With small class sizes and a supportive atmosphere, students enjoy a uniquely personal university experience alongside access to outdoor adventures, cultural events, and a vibrant student association.
Location: Inverness and the Scottish Highlands
Location: Inverness and the Scottish Highlands
Inverness: Gateway to the Highlands
Inverness is the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, offering a vibrant mix of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. As the northernmost city in the UK, it provides easy access to world-famous landscapes, outdoor activities, and a welcoming community with a lower cost of living than major Scottish cities.
Natural Beauty
Surrounded by mountains, lochs, and coastline, Inverness offers access to Loch Ness, the Cairngorms National Park, and some of Scotland's most dramatic landscapes.
Rich Cultural Heritage
The Highlands are steeped in Gaelic culture, Viking history, and ancient archaeological sites. Experience festivals, traditional music, and a thriving arts community.
Affordable Living
The cost of living in the Highlands and Islands is generally lower than the UK average, with affordable rent and groceries compared to more urban areas.
Outstanding Connectivity
Inverness has its own airport with flights to London and other UK cities, a mainline railway station, and road links making it accessible despite its northern location.
Career Outcomes and Alumni
Career Outcomes and Alumni
Industries and Employers Connected to UHI Graduates
Practical Information for Students
Practical Information for Students
For International Students
UHI's international office provides guidance on Student Route Visa applications, including issuing your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number after you pay your deposit and meet all conditions of your offer.
International students must demonstrate English proficiency (typically IELTS 6.0 with no sub-score below 5.0). UHI provides language support and resources to help you succeed in your studies.
UHI's student accommodation team helps you find suitable housing at your chosen campus. Options include university residences with en-suite rooms, shared facilities, and assistance finding private rentals.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University Rankings
University Rankings
As a distinctive multi-campus institution, UHI is not always included in traditional national league tables. However, it is recognised for outstanding student satisfaction, affordable fees, and research quality, with nearly three-quarters of its research judged world-leading or internationally excellent.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Business and Management | The Guardian University League Tables by Subject | #29 in UK |
| Environmental Science | EduRank | #121 in UK |
| Postgraduate Student Satisfaction | Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey | #1 in Scotland (4 consecutive years) |
| Affordability | Complete University Guide | Top 10 Most Affordable UK Universities |
Features
Multi-campus public university serving the Highlands & Islands region; strong focus on regional development, flexible learning options including distance learning, partnerships with local colleges and industry
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 - June
Location
12b Ness Walk, Inverness, IV3 5SQ, Scotland, UK
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