Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University
Heriot Watt University is ranked 6th in Scotland, 34th in the UK and 287th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2026), and 1st in Scotland and 2nd in the UK for undergraduate employability (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024).
Heriot-Watt University has been shaping futures since 1821, producing career ready graduates in business, technology, science, engineering, fashion and design.
It is a truly international university with five global campuses in Edinburgh, the Scottish Borders, Orkney, Dubai and Malaysia, along with partners in 150 countries and more than 30,000 students studying worldwide.
Bachelor’s degree programmes are designed around the current and emerging needs of global industries, helping students gain the knowledge and practical skills needed for successful careers.
The university focuses on applying knowledge in real world settings. Students learn through hands on projects, practical group work and industry linked learning, with opportunities to engage with employers through guest lectures, live projects and campus events.
Students who successfully complete the NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) at University Foundation College (UFC) in Qatar benefit from guaranteed progression to bachelor’s degree programmes at Heriot-Watt University (subject to meeting the entry requirements) and gain access to world class education and future career opportunities.
Life at Heriot-Watt University
Everything you could want from cosmopolitan student life.
Edinburgh offers a wide range of clubs, pubs and bars, each with its own atmosphere to match how you want to socialise.
There are plenty of restaurants and cafés to suit every taste, whatever you are in the mood for.
The city is rich in culture, with film, theatre, music and comedy happening throughout the year. It is also home to world famous events such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Edinburgh International Festival.
Edinburgh is compact and easy to explore on foot or by bicycle, with convenient bus and tram connections across the city.
If you need a break from the city, you can relax in the Meadows, climb Arthur’s Seat, or visit the nearby beach, as Edinburgh is close to the coast.
Degrees are designed to be career focused and aligned with the needs of business and society.
Students have opportunities to connect with leading global employers such as PwC and Bloomberg, who actively recruit Heriot-Watt University graduates because of the practical skills and industry readiness they bring to the workplace.
The university supports students in becoming career ready through dedicated employability services.
Students at Heriot-Watt University have lifelong access to career support, with opportunities to engage with employers through workshops, career fairs and industry insight events both on campus and online.
They also gain access to thousands of job opportunities through the Target Connect careers platform, along with personalised guidance from the Careers team on CV preparation, job applications, selection tests and interviews.
Edinburgh was voted the best city in the UK for culture (Time Out, 2023) and ranked among the top two student cities in the UK (QS Best Student Cities 2024), making it an excellent place to live and study. Just 30 minutes from the Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh campus, you can explore the medieval Old Town, enjoy designer shopping, relax on nearby beaches and experience Scotland’s beautiful landscapes.
Edinburgh is widely regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful cities. It is vibrant, modern and full of opportunities, where rich history and striking architecture sit alongside green spaces and hidden corners waiting to be discovered.
A city of heritage – Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The compact city layout makes it easy to explore on foot, with something new to discover around every corner.
A city of culture – Edinburgh offers a thriving cultural scene, from music and film to theatre and comedy. It is also home to the world’s largest arts festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, along with many free museums and art galleries.
A city of business – As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is recognised as one of the UK’s leading business hubs outside London. The city hosts a mix of innovative start ups, established companies and global organisations, creating strong opportunities to connect with employers and develop business ideas.
A well connected city – Edinburgh is easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle, supported by an efficient network of buses and trams. Regular bus services connect the Heriot-Watt University campus with the city centre, while rail, coach and Edinburgh Airport provide convenient connections across the UK, Europe and beyond.
Heriot-Watt University is committed to helping students make the most of their time at university by providing support throughout their academic journey. Students benefit from guidance for their studies, support for personal wellbeing and a welcoming campus community.
Study support – Each student is assigned a personal tutor or student advisor who provides guidance and support throughout their time at Heriot-Watt University. They offer advice on academic matters and can connect students with other support services within the university.
Health and wellbeing – Maintaining good physical and mental health helps students perform at their best. The university offers counselling services and a Chaplaincy on the Edinburgh campus where students can speak openly and receive support. Student Success Advisors, who are recent Heriot-Watt graduates, are also available to listen and provide guidance. An NHS health centre on campus provides medical and dental services.
Disability support – The Disability Service offers dedicated support for students who require additional assistance. Staff provide advice and help arrange suitable support, including adjustments for exams and coursework or specialised equipment for lectures.
International students – The Global Student Office supports international students as they prepare to study and live in the UK. This includes guidance on immigration matters as well as academic support such as English language classes and workshops to strengthen study skills.
Modern and spacious student accommodation designed with high standards of sustainability and energy efficiency is available for students at the Edinburgh campus.
The campus offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different needs and budgets. All rooms provide a private study bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, and accommodation is single occupancy with self catered facilities.
Undergraduate students are typically placed with other new first year students, helping them build friendships and settle into university life. The accommodation is conveniently located close to the Student Union, sports facilities and academic buildings.
The Residence Life team supports students living on campus by promoting wellbeing and organising regular social and community events.
Accommodation guarantee
Heriot-Watt University guarantees an offer of accommodation, either on campus or off campus, for all new full time students in their first year.
Students qualify for the accommodation guarantee if they meet the following conditions:
You are a new full time student starting a full academic year in September.
You have a conditional or unconditional firm offer from the university.
You live outside the city of Edinburgh.
You apply for accommodation online before the accommodation guarantee deadline.
Once you receive a conditional or unconditional offer from the university, you can begin the process of securing your accommodation.
Accommodation at Heriot-Watt University: Learn more about student accommodation.
The main campus in Edinburgh is set within 380 acres of green parkland, providing a peaceful and spacious environment for studying and student life.
Heriot-Watt University offers a wide range of services to support students in different aspects of university life, including academic guidance, personal wellbeing, technical support and financial advice. Student Services help students throughout their studies with facilities and support in areas such as accommodation, computing, healthcare, sport, welfare and careers. These services work alongside the facilities and activities offered by the Students’ Association.
The university has invested more than £9 million in upgrading the Library and Learning Commons, creating modern, technology enabled study spaces for students. The campus library is open 24 hours a day during semester and examination periods, giving students continuous access to books, journals and learning resources.
GRID is a state of the art facility designed to support global research, innovation and collaboration. It brings together academic disciplines, industry partners and the wider community, providing an advanced teaching and learning environment for students and researchers in mathematics, engineering, physical sciences and computer science.
The Edinburgh campus is home to Oriam, Scotland’s Sports Performance Centre. This world class facility serves as a training base for Scottish Rugby, Football, Squash and Handball teams and is located within a purpose built sports complex valued at £33 million.
The Sports Union provides a wide range of sport and fitness opportunities for Heriot-Watt University students. With more than 30 sports clubs, from archery and volleyball to dance and snowsports, there are activities for students of all interests and experience levels.
All students automatically become members of the Students’ Union, which represents a diverse and global student community. The union supports student life and ensures that students’ interests and wellbeing remain at the centre of campus activities.
The university also offers a vibrant range of student societies. With more than 70 clubs and societies available, students can explore new interests, develop skills and meet like minded peers. Whether joining the Medieval Society, supporting charitable initiatives or participating in cultural and academic groups, there are many opportunities to get involved and discover new passions.
At Heriot-Watt University, we recognise that environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility that influences every aspect of how we live, study, and work. Our Climate Action Framework was co-created with our dedicated students, staff, alumni, and external community groups. This initiative outlines our University-wide approach to reducing our environmental footprint and fosters a culture of action that empowers everyone to take meaningful steps towards a sustainable future.
RANKING
Ranked 6th in Scotland, 34th in the UK and 287th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2026)
Ranked 1st in Scotland and 2nd in the UK for undergraduate employability (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024)
Search Programmes at Heriot-Watt University
Discover a wide range of bachelor's degree programmes at Heriot-Watt University, an NCUK partner university. Use the NCUK University Course Finder to explore programmes by subject area and find the perfect course for your academic and career goals.
How to Apply
We have an experienced team of admissions staff waiting to talk you through your options at University Foundation College and beyond, helping you to make decisions today which will positively influence your education and career.
We will provide you with personal counselling and support as you make the transition from high school to University Foundation College and then to your university degree programme.