University of the West of Scotland
Paisley, United Kingdom
University of the West of Scotland
Paisley, United Kingdom
Founded
1897
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
16,000+
Campuses
5
About the University of the West of Scotland
About the University of the West of Scotland
The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is a public university with roots tracing back to 1897, when the Paisley College of Technology was established. The institution was granted university status in 1992 and adopted its current name in 2007 following the merger of the University of Paisley with Bell College, Hamilton.
UWS is one of Scotland's largest modern universities, with five campuses located in Paisley, Lanarkshire, Ayr, Dumfries, and London. The university serves over 16,000 students representing 109 nationalities and offers career-focused undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degree programmes across four academic schools.
The university has a strong emphasis on vocational education and maintains close links with business and industry. In the Research Excellence Framework 2021, 90% of UWS research was rated as world-leading, internationally excellent, or recognised internationally, and the university has been ranked in the world's top 200 young universities by Times Higher Education.
Key Milestones
- 1897: Paisley College of Technology established, marking the origins of the institution.
- 1992: Granted university status and became the University of Paisley.
- 2007: Merger with Bell College, Hamilton; renamed University of the West of Scotland.
- 2015: London campus opened in the Docklands area, expanding the university's international reach.
Academic Structure at UWS
Academic Structure at UWS
UWS is academically organised into four schools, each offering a range of courses at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral level. The university provides career-focused programmes designed to equip students with practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge across diverse disciplines.
School of Business and Creative Industries
Offers programmes in business, management, accounting, finance, creative industries, media, and filmmaking. The school maintains strong industry connections and provides practical, career-oriented education.
- BA (Hons) Business
- BA (Hons) Filmmaking and Screen Writing
- MBA
School of Computing, Engineering and Physical Sciences
Covers computing science, engineering disciplines, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and related fields. The school is known for strong teaching assessments in computing and engineering research.
- BSc (Hons) Computing Science
- BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering
- MSc Cyber Security
School of Education and Social Sciences
Provides programmes in education, social sciences, psychology, criminal justice, social work, and politics. The school is committed to research on society, policy, and inequality.
- BA (Hons) Criminal Justice
- BA (Hons) Social Work
- MSc Psychology
School of Health and Life Sciences
Home to Scotland's largest school of health, nursing, and midwifery. Offers programmes in nursing, midwifery, sport science, and biomedical sciences with strong clinical placement opportunities.
- BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing
- BSc (Hons) Midwifery
- BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science
Creative and Cultural Industries
Programmes spanning broadcast production, commercial music, journalism, and new media art. Students benefit from hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment and real-world project work.
- BA (Hons) Broadcast Production (TV and Radio)
- BA (Hons) Commercial Music
- BA (Hons) Journalism
Engineering and Technology
Offers specialised engineering programmes including aircraft engineering, chemical engineering, and mechanical engineering with options for paid work placements and professional accreditation.
- BEng (Hons) Aircraft Engineering
- BEng (Hons) Chemical Engineering
- MSc Mechanical Engineering
Admission Requirements for UWS
Admission Requirements for UWS
Undergraduate Admission
- Application MethodApply through UCAS for full-time undergraduate programmes
- Academic QualificationsUK A-levels, Scottish Highers, or equivalent international qualifications
- English Language (IELTS)Minimum overall score of 6.0
- Personal StatementRequired as part of UCAS application
- ReferencesOne academic reference required
Postgraduate Admission
- Application MethodApply directly through the UWS website
- Academic QualificationsA recognised bachelor's degree (minimum 2:2 or equivalent)
- English Language (IELTS)Minimum overall score of 6.0 (6.5 for research degrees)
- Supporting DocumentsTranscripts, CV, personal statement, and references
- Work ExperienceMay be required for certain professional programmes such as MBA
Deadline for undergraduate applications to receive equal consideration through UCAS.
Final deadline for international undergraduate applicants for the autumn intake.
Postgraduate taught programmes accept applications on a rolling basis until places are filled.
Some programmes offer a January start date. Check individual course pages for specific deadlines.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships at UWS
Tuition Fees & Scholarships at UWS
UWS offers competitive tuition fees compared to many UK universities. Fees vary based on your residency status, programme level, and course of study. Several scholarships and financial support options are available for both domestic and international students.
| Fee Category | Scottish/EU Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 1,820 (SAAS funded) | GBP 15,500 - 18,000 |
| Postgraduate Taught (per year) | GBP 5,500 - 8,500 | GBP 11,750 - 18,000 |
| Accommodation (per year) | GBP 3,500 - 5,500 | GBP 3,500 - 5,500 |
| Living Expenses (estimated per year) | GBP 9,000 - 12,000 | GBP 9,000 - 12,000 |
| Total | Contact UWS for exact totals | Contact UWS for exact totals |
UWS International Scholarship
Merit-based scholarships available for international students across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, offering partial tuition fee discounts.
- Eligibility: International fee-paying students with strong academic records
- Value: Partial tuition fee reduction
- Application: Automatically considered upon admission
UWS Sport Scholarship
Financial support and performance services for talented student-athletes to help them achieve their full academic and sporting potential at UWS.
- Eligibility: High-performing student-athletes in recognised sports
- Benefits: Financial support, performance services, and academic flexibility
- Application: Separate application required through UWS Sport
Campus & Facilities at UWS
Campus & Facilities at UWS
UWS operates five campuses, each with its own character and modern facilities. The main Paisley campus spans over 20 acres in the centre of Scotland's largest town, while additional campuses in Lanarkshire, Ayr, Dumfries, and London extend the university's reach across the UK.
The main campus in central Paisley is home to around 10,000 students and four academic schools, with modern teaching facilities and the Robertson Trust Library.
Scotland's newest ultra-modern university campus, opened in 2018 at Hamilton International Technology Park with cutting-edge learning spaces.
An award-winning GBP 81 million campus set on 20 acres of parkland by the River Ayr, recognised as one of the UK's most environmentally friendly learning facilities.
Housing & Dining
Student Accommodation
Self-catered accommodation is available at the Paisley and Ayr campuses in shared flats or studios, with free Wi-Fi, kitchen facilities, and social areas. International students from outside a 25-mile radius receive priority.
- Modern student residences at Paisley campus (GBP 13.2 million development)
- On-site accommodation at Ayr campus for up to 200 students
- Accessible and adapted bedrooms for disabled students
Dining & Social Spaces
Each campus features dining options, cafeterias, and social spaces. The GBP 5 million Students' Union building in Paisley includes a coffee shop, main bar, games area, and a 450-capacity events area.
- Students' Union with cafe, bar, and events venue
- Campus cafeterias and food outlets
- The Neuk and Crannie social gathering spaces in Paisley
Student Life at UWS
Student Life at UWS
UWS offers a vibrant student experience with a strong sense of community across all its campuses. The award-winning Students' Association of UWS (SAUWS) organises events, supports student clubs and societies, and advocates for student welfare.
Paisley, Scotland — A Historic Town Near Glasgow
Paisley, Scotland — A Historic Town Near Glasgow
Discover Paisley
Paisley is a historic town in Renfrewshire, Scotland, situated on the banks of the White Cart Water just seven miles west of Glasgow. Famous as the birthplace of the iconic Paisley Pattern and home to the magnificent 12th-century Paisley Abbey, the town combines rich heritage with modern amenities. With Glasgow just 10 minutes away by train and Glasgow Airport located on the town's northern edge, Paisley offers excellent connectivity for students.
Paisley Abbey
A stunning 12th-century abbey known as the 'Cradle of the Royal Stewarts', featuring royal tombs, stained glass windows, and one of the finest organs in Scotland.
Proximity to Glasgow
Just 10 minutes by train to Glasgow city centre, giving students easy access to Scotland's largest city for culture, nightlife, shopping, and employment opportunities.
Glasgow Airport Access
Glasgow Airport is located within Paisley's boundaries, providing convenient international travel connections for students from around the world.
Gleniffer Braes Country Park
A 480-acre country park with woodland, farmland, and moorland offering stunning views, walking trails, and outdoor recreation just minutes from campus.
Career Outcomes & Alumni
Career Outcomes & Alumni
Notable Employers of UWS Graduates
Practical Information for Students
Practical Information for Students
For International Students
UWS has a dedicated team of International Student Advisors who assist with visa queries, working in the UK, and general wellbeing. A buddy system pairs new international students with existing students.
Pre-sessional English language courses run for 5 to 8 weeks before the start of term, helping students meet the English language requirements for their chosen programme.
International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Many UWS degree programmes include the option of a year's paid work placement.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of the West of Scotland — World Rankings
University of the West of Scotland — World Rankings
UWS is recognised in several major international and national university ranking systems. The university has been consistently ranked among the world's top young universities and is noted for its impact on reducing inequalities globally.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Business and Economics | Times Higher Education | #401-500 |
| Education | Times Higher Education | #401-500 |
| Engineering | Times Higher Education | #401-500 |
| Reducing Inequalities (SDG 10) | THE Impact Rankings | #16 Worldwide |
Features
UWS stands out as a modern, dynamic public university deeply rooted in a history dating back to 1897. It embraces innovation across its four Scottish campuses and a London campus, delivering career-focused undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across diverse disciplines. The institution supports a vibrant international community with over 9,000 international students from 130+ countries and maintains strong graduate outcomes—evidenced by a 95.5% employment or further study rate post-graduation (as of 2016/17). Faculty are well-supported, with an academic cohort of around 590 professionals. UWS also holds respectable global recognition: ranked among the top 800 overall and the top 200 young universities by THE, and achieving 16th place worldwide in advancing sustainable development (SDG 10: reducing inequalities).
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
High Street, Paisley, Renfrewshire, PA1 2BE, Scotland, United Kingdom
Map not found.
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
