The University of the West of Scotland is one of Scotland's largest modern universities, with four campuses in Paisley, Ayr, Lanarkshire, Dumfries as well as a campus at the Docklands in London. The Dumfries Campus is run in partnership with the University of Glasgow.
The university has close links with industry and commerce which is reflected in course design and the employability of its students. 90% of research carried out at UWS was classed as world leading, internationally excellent, or recognised internationally in 2021.
Courses and students
It teaches a wide range of courses through four academic schools:
You may be able to complete part of your undergraduate course abroad through the Turing Scheme or exchange schemes with universities in the USA.
The university has over 14,000 students, with 31% of those being international students.
Facilities and Services
Facilities and Services
The new ultra-modern Lanarkshire Campus offers modern and innovative learning and social spaces. It is also one of the UK’s greenest education environments, powered by 100% renewable energy, plus a rainwater harvesting system.
Facilities across the campuses include engineering workshops; nursing and midwifery simulation wards; specialist technology labs for computing, specialised zoology laboratory facilities; and performance studios. The campus also features a state-of-the-art gym and health facilities.
Each of the four campuses has a well-equipped library, open learning study spaces and computer labs with free email and internet access.
The Students’ Association has unions at all four campuses. The Paisley Capus has its own building, providing a space for students to relax and includes a coffee shop, main bar, games area, cafeteria and an event space. There are also a range of sports facilities across the four campuses, including gyms, sports halls, football and rugby pitches and jogging routes.
Each campus also has a choice of accommodation available in the form of shared flats or studios, including a new £13.2 million student residence at the Paisley Campus.
Ranking
The university is ranked 1st in Scotland for Childhood and Youth Studies in The Complete University Guide 2025.
Ranked 121st in both the Times University Guide 2025 and the Guardian University Guide 2025.
