Overview

Although it was only granted university status in 1993, Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) has roots that reach all the way back to 1875. With approximately 20,000 international students enrolled from over 100 different countries, Glasgow Caledonian University is not only one of the largest institutions in Scotland, but also one of the top 10 most modern universities in the United Kingdom.

Many courses at Glasgow Caledonian University are recognised by professional organisations and provide internship opportunities because of the university’s strong ties to the business community. The university offers optometry degrees exclusively and is the largest provider of healthcare graduates to the NHS in Scotland. Consumer protection, tourism management, and fashion marketing are just a few of the innovative specialised degrees offered at Glasgow Caledonian.

The Chartered Banker Institute (the oldest banking institute in the world), the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment, and the Institute of Operational Risk all recognise GCU’s business school as the first and only in the world to offer triple-accredited degrees in financial services.

In addition, GCU has introduced a unique and interesting Global MBA (Master of Business Administration) curriculum, targeted at ambitious, socially conscious individuals with managerial and leadership aspirations. Participation in optional overseas cultural immersion tours to New York and London is also available as part of the programme.

History

The Glasgow College of Technology and the Glasgow Polytechnic are the progenitors of the current university. In 1993, they combined to establish what is now known as Glasgow Caledonian University. After a merger between the Scottish College of Commerce and the Royal College of Science and Technology in 1971, the Glasgow College of Technology was born. When compared to the Royal College of Science and Technology, which was established in 1887, the Scottish College of Business was formed much later, in 1946.

A merger between the Scottish College of Textiles and the Scottish College of Commerce in 1975 led to the formation of Glasgow Polytechnic. In 1883, the Scottish College of Textiles was established, and in 1946, the Scottish College of Commerce was established.
The Scottish government began consolidating and reorganising the country’s universities and colleges in 1992. Glasgow Caledonian University was established in 1993 as a result of the merger of Glasgow College of Technology and Glasgow Polytechnic. Glasgow Caledonian University has developed and broadened its curriculum since it first opened.

Among universities, Glasgow Caledonian stands out for its dedication to social justice and its close ties to business and industry.
Despite Glasgow Caledonian University’s brief existence, it has become one of Scotland’s preeminent academic institutions. The university is well-positioned to continue making significant contributions to the fields of education and research due to its strong commitment to social justice and its concentration on industrial partnerships and research excellence.

Ranking & Achievements

Glasgow Caledonian University rankings

  • 52nd in the Times University Guide 2023
  • 52nd in the Guardian University Guide 2023

In frequent surveys of British academics, Glasgow Caledonian University consistently ranks among the country’s most prestigious universities. Higher Education Statistics Agency of the United Kingdom ranked GCU as the top university in Glasgow, the second best in Scotland, and the eleventh best in the United Kingdom for graduate employability.

More than 80% of the University’s health-related research was rated outstanding for its effect in REF 2021, a figure topped by only one other UK institution.

Faculties

  • Economics and Law
  • Fashion, Marketing, Tourism and Events
  • Finance, Accounting and Risk
  • Management and HRM
  • Media and Journalism
  • Social Sciences

Courses

Fees & Scholarships

  • The course fee started at £11,500 for international students

Glasgow Caledonian University Scholarships

GCU is pleased to offer a £4,000 scholarship.
The goal of the Master of Science (MSc) in User Experience and Interaction Design (UXID) programme is to provide you with the interdisciplinary training you need to create, test, and refine interactive systems that improve users’ experiences.
The education is rigorously academic and nevertheless relevant to what employers want now and in the future.
Graduates of the Master of Science in User Experience and Interaction Design (MSc UXID) curriculum will have the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in User Experience (UX) design and research, as well as for those in the fields of Interaction Design development and Usability Experts. You’ll stand out as a candidate for these positions at tech firms, Fintech firms, the public sector, academic institutions, manufacturers, startups, and advertising agencies.

Facilities & Services

The INTO Language Centre at University provides pre-sessional and academic English language courses to international students, making it the only university in Scotland to do so.
They might be as basic as introductory classes or as advanced as doctoral degrees.

International students felt the most supported at this university than at any other in Scotland, according to the 2013 International Student Barometer.
In addition to a meet-and-greet service at Glasgow Airport and a slew of annual social events, the International Office also hosts drop-in sessions, seminars, and workshops.
There are podcasts available that give freshmen a glimpse of student life at Glasgow Caledonian. Opened in 2013, the Welcome Suite features a Skype room among other amenities designed to make international students feel more at ease throughout their time at the university.

Student Life

The award-winning library is a popular study area for students, with 1,200 individual study carts and more than 350 computer workstations. Choose from one of their four catering locations for some food or a drink.
Take care of yourself by working out at The Arc, their on-site fitness centre. Some examples of available exercise courses are spin, yoga, body pump, body attack, circuit training, and box circuit. Via the Students’ Association, you can sign up for a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs. Use their on-campus resources, including the Careers Team, the Counselling Centre, and the Financial Aid Office.

Accommodation

Glasgow Caledonian University

All students are assured on-campus housing at the university’s Caledonian Court, which has 660 rooms in flats with six to eight people. There are 340 rooms, most of which are singles with a small number of twins, and all of them have private en suite amenities, making them the most affordable option in Scotland. The city centre is just a few minutes away on foot, as are the gym, health and fitness centre, and a number of cafes and campus stores.

Location

Being one of Europe’s liveliest cities, Glasgow is teeming with exciting nightlife, exciting shopping, bustling entertainment, and exciting international festivals. Glasgow has been ranked among Europe’s best cities to visit and among the best two in the United Kingdom by both Frommer’s and Condenaste.

FAQs

What is Glasgow Caledonian University famous for?

The Times Higher Education Exceptional Assistance for Foreign Students award is one of several honours GCU has received for its student support services. All of GCU's student support services, including the careers service, finance office, register, etc., are accessible to students through the Campus Life Desk.

Is it hard to get into Glasgow Caledonian University?

The typical GPA at Glasgow Caledonian University is 3.15. There is a grade point average requirement at Glasgow Caledonian University. For the time being, admission to Glasgow Caledonian University is competitive. However keep in mind that in order to boost their "prestige," several schools in this GPA level are becoming more selective.

Is Glasgow Caledonian University good for international students?

The School's mission is to provide not just exceptional academic programmes and exemplary support for international students, but also an unforgettable experience. This is why almost 130 countries are represented among Glasgow Caledonian University's international student body.

Is Glasgow University cheap?

The cost of living and attending the University of Glasgow is estimated to be between £11,200 and £15,300 each academic year, while this range can be higher or lower based on factors including where you choose to reside and your personal preferences.

What IELTS score is required for Glasgow University?

IELTS 7.0 (with no subtest less than 7) IB Baccalaureate with a minimum of 6 Standard Level marks.

Do I need IELTS to study in Scotland?

If you intend to enrol in an undergraduate or graduate programme, or enter the workforce in an organisation catering to professionals, in an English-speaking country, you should take the IELTS Academic test.

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