University of Strathclyde

STUDY AT the University of Strathclyde  

The University has four faculties offering over 400 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Business, Engineering, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Science. Each faculty is renowned for its strong industry links, teaching excellence and highly ranked programmes.   
 

HISTORY of the university of Strathclyde  

The University was founded in 1796 when Professor John Anderson founded Anderson’s Institution in Glasgow with the aim of creating “a place of useful learning.” Over the following century and a half, the institution evolved through several names, becoming increasingly focused on science, technology and practical education. In 1964, following a merger with the Scottish College of Commerce, it was granted a Royal Charter and became the University of Strathclyde.  

Today, Strathclyde continues this tradition by combining academic education with practical learning, research and engagement with industry and wider society. 
 

SPECIALIST AREAS at the university of strathclyde  

Strathclyde Business School  
Strathclyde Business School is one of the few institutions in the world to have achieved triple accreditation from AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS and is the first business school in Scotland to be awarded the Small Business Charter Award.   

Science  
The University of Strathclyde’s Faculty of Science brings together a broad range of scientific disciplines, including Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Statistics, Computer and Information Sciences, and Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences. It combines research-informed teaching with opportunities to apply scientific knowledge to real-world challenges, including healthcare, environmental issues, technology and space science.  

Students benefit from modern laboratories, specialist facilities and strong links with industry, the NHS and international partners.  

Humanities and Social Sciences   
The Strathclyde Law School offers unrivalled experiential learning opportunities that allow students to put theory into practice. The Law programmes offer students the ability to develop their legal skills and become a member of Scotland’s largest student-run Law Clinic. The multi-award-winning Law Clinic was founded in 2003 and is the first and the biggest of the existing Scottish law clinics.    

Engineering  
Strathclyde is home to Scotland’s largest Engineering Faculty and their its impressive multimillion-pound investments in engineering facilities give students access to state-of-the-art equipment and workspace in which to study.   

Almost all of the established undergraduate engineering courses are fully accredited by professional engineering institutions. With the faculty’s excellent industry links, many programmes also include placement opportunities with practical industry experience.   
 

LIFE ON CAMPUS  

Strathclyde has a friendly, inclusive, and welcoming culture. Students can choose from over 200 clubs and societies – a great way to meet new friends and try new things, or continue a hobby at university.   

The campus is very compact and students can access university buildings, the student union, the library, sports centre and other facilities with only a 5-10 minute walk. The university benefits from being in the city centre, next to excellent shopping, restaurants, museums and parks. Two mainline railway stations are a short walk away, as well as the bus station and subway.   

At the heart of the campus is the University of Strathclyde Students' Union. This is the representative body for students at the university, and provides a wide range of services, including student representation, clubs and societies, volunteering opportunities, events, and welfare support, helping students make the most of their university experience. The Union also serves as a social hub on campus, bringing together a diverse student community through activities, campaigns, and entertainment throughout the academic year.  
 

STUDENT SUPPORT AT the university of Strathclyde   

Student wellbeing is extremely important to the University of Strathclyde, and a wide range of student support is available to help students get the most out of their studies and succeed both academically and personally.   

Support available includes the Disability and Wellbeing Service, Financial Guidance, Academic Skills Development, Careers Service, English language and the student union. In addition, dedicated support is available for international students from the International Student Support team.   

The University's Advice Hub is always there when you need clear, confidential guidance. Whether you need help with money, housing, study, visas or any aspect of life admin, you can drop in, ask anything and get useful advice from people who understand the challenges of student life.  
 

The university of strathclyde FACILITIES   

Following a £1 billion campus investment, the University of Strathclyde boasts a modern, innovative learning environment with world-class teaching, research, sport and student support facilities.  

Key developments include the £60 million Learning & Teaching Building, the £31 million Strathclyde Sport facility, the £89 million Technology and Innovation Centre, and the £75 million National Manufacturing Institute Scotland. These investments reflect Strathclyde’s commitment to providing students with access to cutting-edge facilities, industry-focused learning opportunities, and an outstanding university experience.  
 

SPORTS AND SOCIETIES AT the university of strathclyde  

The Sports Union supports around 50 sports clubs, catering for everyone from beginners to experienced athletes, with opportunities for both recreational and competitive participation. Alongside sport, Strath Union offers over 200 student-led societies, aimed at a huge range of student communities. These are a great way for students to meet new people and develop skills outside the classroom.  
 

ACCOMMODATION at university of strathclyde   

The University offers a variety of room types, including standard and en-suite accommodation, with utilities, Wi-Fi, insurance, and sport membership included. University residences are located within walking distance of the main campus and are designed to foster a strong student community.  
 

INTERNATIONAL FOCUS   

The University of Strathclyde has a strong international focus, with a diverse community of students and staff from around the world. The university works with international academic and industry partners on education, research and innovation, while also providing students with opportunities to study abroad, take part in exchanges, and gain international work experience. This global outlook is integrated into the student experience, helping students develop a broader perspective and prepare for careers in an increasingly international workplace. 
 

INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS  

The University of Strathclyde maintains long-standing, strong industry connections through initiatives such as the dedicated Innovation and Industry Engagement division and the Glasgow City Innovation District.  

These connections also include collaborative research, student projects and placements, consultancy, Knowledge Transfer Partnerships and professional training. The University also works closely with businesses through initiatives such as the Technology and Innovation Centre, helping to connect academic expertise with industry and support innovation. 
 

STUDY ABROAD OPPORTUNITIES AND INTERNSHIPS 

The University of Strathclyde offers a wide range of opportunities for students to study abroad and gain international experience as part of their degree. Students can spend a semester or full academic year at one of Strathclyde’s partner universities, with destinations across Europe, North America, Australia, Asia and beyond. There are also shorter opportunities, including summer schools, internships, research placements and volunteering, allowing students to develop their academic, personal and cultural experiences while building international connections. 
 

EMPLOYABILITY AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES 

Students at the University of Strathclyde benefit from access to the Careers Service during their studies, and for up to 5 years after they graduate.  

Through its award-winning Careers Service, students have access to careers fairs, coaching, CV workshops, networking events, internship opportunities, and employer-led recruitment activities. Strathclyde's close partnerships with leading national and international organisations provide valuable opportunities for work placements, industry projects, and professional development.  

As a result, Strathclyde graduates are highly sought after by employers and are well prepared for successful careers across a wide range of sectors. 
 

STUDY IN Glasgow, Scotland 

Strathclyde's campus is based right in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland's largest and most cosmopolitan city.  

Known for its energy, humour and warm welcome, the city is regularly ranked among the world's friendliest cities. A UNESCO City of Music with around 7,000 concerts every year, the city has one of the most thriving live entertainment scenes in the UK.  

Glasgow is compact and well-connected with over 90 parks and greenspaces and is easy to explore on foot or bicycle. Young people ages 5 to 21 who live in Scotland for at least 6 months a year can also apply for a free bus pass to use most bus services in Scotland.  

And you are only a ride away from some of the most stunning natural landscapes on earth. From the dramatic mountains and misty valleys of the highlands to the turquoise waters of its breath-taking islands, Scotland is never short of must-see experiences.  
 

Why STUDY AT THE University of strathclyde 

• The University of Strathclyde is a leading technological university with a strong reputation for innovation, research, and industry collaboration. 

• Home to students from over 140 countries, creating a diverse and inclusive international community. 

• Significant investment of around £1 billion in campus development, providing world-class teaching, research, and student facilities. 

• Strong graduate employability, supported by an award-winning Careers Service, employer partnerships, internships, and work placement opportunities. 

• Excellent links with industry, ensuring courses are relevant to current and future workforce needs. 

• Dedicated support services for international students, including visa guidance, academic support, wellbeing services, and careers advice. 

• A wide range of accommodation options within walking distance of campus, helping students settle quickly into university life. 

• A safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where students can develop academically, professionally, and personally. 

• Located in Glasgow, one of the UK's most welcoming, affordable, and student-friendly cities, as well as Scotland’s largest city. 

 

DO YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE?

The information on this page has been submitted by the university. If you want to know more, get in touch and one of our student advisors will answer all your questions.

Universities receive hundreds of enquiries every day and are not always able to respond in a comprehensive manner. As an official representative of the university in Canada, we can help you make your UK study goals come true. From navigating UK admissions to preparing your finances, accommodation and visa, your student advisor will guide you through every step.

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FACTS ABOUT University of Strathclyde  

 
Established: 1796 

Location: Glasgow, Scotland  

Population of Glasgow: around 1.2 million (650,300 within city) 

Closest airport: Glasgow International Airport 25 mins by bus (also Glasgow Prestwick flies to Europe). Edinburgh International Airport 1 hour by bus  

Student population: around 30,000 

International students: around 6,000 (20% of student population) 

Nationalities on campus: around 140 

Employability rate: around 92% 
 

Areas of expertise/centres of excellence 

Business, Engineering, Law & International Relations, Education, Biomedical & Forensic Science  
 

FUN FACTS 

  • Strathclyde was the first technological university in the UK receiving its royal charter in 1964. 
  • City of Marble: The ornate Glasgow City Chambers in George Square was constructed using more marble than Vatican City. 
  • Birth of Chicken Tikka Masala: The wildly popular curry dish is said to have been invented right in Glasgow, at the Shish Mahal restaurant in 1971. 
     

WHY CHOOSE STRAthclyde University? 

  • Recent campus transformation with £1 billion investment  
  • Strong links with industry, offering students excellent placements   
  • Award-winning Careers Service, access for 5 years after graduation   
  • Over 200 student clubs & societies   
  • Glasgow is the friendliest city in the world (Time Out Index 2022)  
  • Glasgow is the UK's first UNESCO City of Music 
     

NOTABLE ALUMNI 

  • John Logie Baird (inventor of television) 
  • Thomas Graham (formulated the Law of Diffusion of Gases) 
  • James Young (driving force behind the creation of today’s oil refinery industry) 
  • James Blyth (Wind energy pioneer) 
     

NOTABLE ACADEMICS  

  • Professor Stephen McArthur: Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the university, renowned for his pioneering application of Artificial Intelligence in energy systems 
  • Professor Karen Faulds: A leading researcher in Bio nanotechnology at the Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry. 
  • Professor Sir John Curtice: A highly prominent political scientist and professor of politics, frequently cited as the UK's leading expert on elections and polling. 
     

University of Strathclyde RANKINGS  

  • UK University of the Year (Daily Mail 2026
  • Scottish University of the Year (The Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
  • UK University of the Year (Times Higher Education Awards 2012 & 2019) 
  • UK University of the Year runner-up (The Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026)  
  • Fastest-rising UK University in the QS World University Rankings top 300  
  • 23 subjects ranked in the UK’s top ten in the Times UK University Rankings 2026 .
  • 90% of research rated ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ in the most recent Research Excellence Framework  
  • The Faculty of Science is proud to rank highly in particular for Chemistry, Pharmacology and Pharmacy and subjects allied to Medicine (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026). 
  • Glasgow was recently rated 5th best student city in the world according to students' views (QS Student Cities 2026).
  • A commercial and cultural hub, Glasgow was recently rated 5th best student city in the world according to students' views (QS Student Cities 2026).

UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIPS

The university offers scholarships to which all international students can apply. Contact your advisor for more information. If you do not yet have a personal student advisor, please get in touch with an Across the Pond Advisor or use the form on this page to request one.

 

Ashley
University of Strathclyde
WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO ARRIVE IN THE UK? WAS THE VISA EASY OR MORE COMPLICATED? 

I arrived at Glasgow International Airport early in the morning on a cloudy day in August. Passengers from my flight seemed to be the only ones in queue… Read more

Jaclyn
University of Strathclyde

My first week in Glasgow was filled with new places, jetlag, unique and delicious foods, jetlag, breathtaking sights, and more jetlag.

Things didn’t get off to the best start though. Due to a mixture of excitement and… Read more

Ginelle
Psychology, University of Strathclyde

After visiting the UK on a family vacation years ago, there was always something that was pulling me to come back. Once I finished undergrad, I thought doing my masters in the UK would be the best way for me to go back, but also shape my academic… Read more

Youstina H.
Forensic Science, University of Strathclyde

Moving to Glasgow, Scotland to complete my Master’s of Science was the best decision I have ever made. I took a leap forward and decided to pursue a Master’s of Science in Forensic Science at the University of Strathclyde once… Read more

Jessica M.
Law, University of Strathclyde

My experience with Across the Pond was wonderful! My adviser always responded to my e-mail in a quick span of time and encouraged me to what schools would be best for the experience I was looking for. She would help to look over my… Read more

Emilie G.
University of Strathclyde

Across The Pond has made an incredible difference in my entire application experience. I have studied abroad once before, that time without anything like Across The Pond, so I can honestly say that Across The Pond's efforts make the entire… Read more

Emily R.
University of Strathclyde
What was it like to settle in at Strathclyde University?

The process of setting into Scottish university life was fairly easy for me. I had just finished my undergraduate degree in June of 2014, so I was still in the mindset of a student.… Read more

Jessica
University of Strathclyde

My experience with Across the Pond was wonderful! My adviser always responded to my e-mail in a quick span of time and encouraged me to what schools would be best for the experience I was looking for. She would help to look over my personal… Read more

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