Heriot-Watt University logo

Heriot-Watt University

Edinburgh, UK · Ranking #39

Heriot‑Watt University is a globally connected public research university based in Edinburgh, Scotland, with a pioneering history dating back to 1821 and formal university status granted in 1966. It has five campuses worldwide (including Edinburgh, Scottish Borders, Orkney, Dubai and Malaysia) and a diverse international community, embracing career‑focused education and applied research. Strong industry partnerships, especially in engineering, science, business, energy and technology, underpin its academic programmes, and the university consistently performs well in employability indicators and subject rankings such as petroleum engineering, construction and built environment. Known for its practical orientation and professional links, Heriot‑Watt nurtures graduates ready for global careers supported by research institutes, entrepreneurial networks and a broad alumni base.

Heriot-Watt University logo

Heriot-Watt University

About the university

Heriot‑Watt University is a globally connected public research university based in Edinburgh, Scotland, with a pioneering history dating back to 1821 and formal university status granted in 1966. It has five campuses worldwide (including Edinburgh, Scottish Borders, Orkney, Dubai and Malaysia) and a diverse international community, embracing career‑focused education and applied research. Strong industry partnerships, especially in engineering, science, business, energy and technology, underpin its academic programmes, and the university consistently performs well in employability indicators and subject rankings such as petroleum engineering, construction and built environment. Known for its practical orientation and professional links, Heriot‑Watt nurtures graduates ready for global careers supported by research institutes, entrepreneurial networks and a broad alumni base.

Key information

  • Location: Edinburgh, UK
  • Ranking #39
  • QS #235
  • THE #351
  • US News #937
  • National ranking #32
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Engineering
  • Business & Management
  • Computer Science
  • Mathematical & Physical Sciences
  • Architecture & Built Environment
  • Textiles & Design

Programs (29)

  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Marketing
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Law
  • Political Science
  • International Relations
  • Philosophy
  • History
  • Linguistics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Environmental Science
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Anthropology
  • Education
  • Fine Arts
  • Music

Student body

  • Total students: 31,000
  • Undergraduate: 22,000
  • Graduate: 9,000
  • International students: 30%

Campus life

Campus life at Heriot‑Watt University combines academic focus with active student engagement. Students participate in over 100 clubs and societies spanning academic interests, culture, athletics and community events. The Students’ Union organises social events, volunteering opportunities and leadership programmes throughout the year. Edinburgh’s campus is set on green parkland near the city, offering modern facilities including libraries, labs, sports facilities (such as Scotland’s national sports performance centre Oriam) and study spaces. Its vibrant international community creates a supportive environment for networking, cultural exchange and personal growth while proximity to Edinburgh city centre offers additional cultural and career opportunities.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: £720 - £1,120 / per month

Housing options

  • On‑campus halls
  • Shared flats
  • Private student housing

Student clubs and organizations

  • Academic societies
  • Sports clubs
  • Cultural & Arts clubs
  • Special interest groups

Sports

  • Football
  • Rugby
  • Basketball
  • Athletics

Career & internships

Employment rate: 90%

Partner companies

  • Shell
  • BP
  • Deloitte
  • EY
  • Amazon
  • IBM

Internships: Heriot‑Watt University emphasises employability by embedding internship opportunities, industry placements and career development activities within many degree programmes. Its Careers Service provides personalised guidance, workshops, employer networking events and recruitment fairs that connect students with organisations locally and internationally. Practical placements help students gain real‑world experience aligned to their field of study and strengthen professional portfolios before graduation.

Admission requirements

Required tests

  • TOEFL
  • IELTS

Required documents

  • High School Certificate
  • Academic Transcripts
  • English Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
  • Personal Statement
  • References

Minimum GPA: 3

Tuition costs

  • £20,000 - £28,000 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 60.00%
  • Scholarships available: Heriot‑Watt offers a variety of scholarships including International Excellence Awards, subject‑specific funding and merit‑based awards that can reduce tuition fees for qualified international students. Postgraduate research students may be eligible for funded studentships or faculty bursaries. Eligibility criteria, award values and application procedures vary by year and programme and are published on the university official funding pages.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1821
  • Teaching languages: English, english
  • Study formats: offline

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