Robert Gordon University (RGU), located in the Scottish city of Aberdeen, is a modern institution with a rich educational history dating back to the 18th century. Officially gaining university status in 1992, RGU is renowned for its focus on professional and vocational education, often referred to as 'The Professional University.' With a student population of over 16,000, including more than 1,000 international students, RGU has consistently been recognised for its strong links to industry and high employability rates for its graduates.
One of the key features of the university's approach is the integration of work placements into most courses, particularly in fields such as engineering, healthcare, business, and art and design. RGU's Aberdeen Business School is AACSB accredited, placing it among the top 5% of business schools worldwide. The university is also situated in the heart of Aberdeen, known as Europe's oil and gas capital, providing students with significant opportunities for internships and employment in the energy sector. With a strong graduate employability reputation, RGU remains one of the top destinations for students seeking practical, career-focused degrees.
At Robert Gordon University, students benefit from a wide range of support services to ensure they have the tools to succeed academically and personally. Key services include:
- International Student Support: RGU's International Student Advice service helps with everything from visa applications to cultural adaptation and career planning. The team also offers orientation sessions to help international students settle into life at the university.
- Pre-sessional English Programmes: For students who meet the academic entry requirements but need to improve their English language skills, RGU offers an eight-week pre-sessional English programme. Ongoing English language support is also provided throughout the academic year.
- Careers Support: RGU has a dedicated careers service that helps students find internships and graduate job opportunities. The university's close ties to industry, particularly the oil and gas sector, allow students to gain hands-on experience and build strong professional networks.
Robert Gordon University is consistently recognised as one of the top post-1992 universities in the UK. The Times University Guide 2024 ranks RGU 62nd, while the Guardian University Guide 2024 ranks 98th. Globally, RGU ranks within the 901-950th bracket in the QS World University Rankings 2025, reflecting its growing international profile.
RGU's commitment to professional education is reflected in its strong industry links and impressive graduate employment rates, ranking it among the best in the UK for several years. The university's Aberdeen Business School is AACSB accredited, and fields such as Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy, and Media Studies have been highlighted for their excellence in the Research Excellence Framework (REF).
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Student life at Robert Gordon University is vibrant and intensely focused on community and well-being. The university offers various clubs and societies catering to different interests, from sports teams to cultural and academic societies. RGU plays a vital role in student life, organising events, campaigns, and activities to enhance the student experience.
Aberdeen is a lively, student-friendly city offering a mix of urban life, coastal scenery, and historical landmarks. Students can enjoy everything from the city's bustling nightlife to the nearby countryside and beaches. The city's affordable cost of living makes it a popular choice for international students.
Robert Gordon University guarantees university-managed accommodation for first-year students. The university provides over 1,500 rooms spread across both campuses, with various options, including en-suite rooms, studio apartments, and shared flats. All residences are within walking distance or a short bus ride from the main academic buildings, and the university operates a shuttle bus service between campuses.
Students seeking private accommodation in Aberdeen can also receive help from the university's accommodation office, which assists in finding private halls of residence or shared apartments with local landlords.