
University of Stirling
Location
United Kingdom
QS Ranking 2025
452
-21Guardian University Ranking 2024
61
-2Students Satisfaction
79.6%
Graduates Employability
96%
Int. Student Percentage
15%
Int. Fee Range
£16,00 to £24,000/pa
Overview
The University of Stirling, Scotland, UK is famous for the beauty of its campus and high academic standards. Stirling offers a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and strives to build a supporting and innovative learning environment. With an emphasis on research and a global perspective, Stirling prepares students to achieve success in a highly dynamic world.
Extended Overview
Stirling provides its students with the classical university experience, outbalanced by a dynamic student life, intensive academic study, and ancient-and-very-beautiful settings.
The campus is exquisite and spacious, extending over 330 acres with a loch and historic Airthrey Castle, offering a sense of place that is unique and inspiring. It prides itself for a diverse and vibrant student body.
The university brings students together from various parts of the world, creating a rich multicultural environment. The university has about 14,000 students in total from more than 120 countries around the world.
Beyond the academics, Stirling has a variety of student extra-curricular activities that match the sports and societies to festivals and artistic productions, ensuring an overall experience of university life.
Students can also contribute to student media outlets, such as "The Stirling Observer" student newspaper, and gain experience in journalism and communication. Adding to its global appeal is the university's commitment to global engagement and sustainability.
Mission Statement
Over the decades, Stirling has grown into a respected institution, expanding its academic offerings and research capabilities. The university strive to develop and instill a responsible ethic of lifelong learning and growth in our students and stakeholders. And at the same time, they are focusing on helping students learn, develop their skills, and explore new knowledge.
History
The university is located in the Central Belt of Scotland, a public university is one of the oldest universities (nearly 400 years old) in the UK. The development of the university began with the construction of the Pathfoot Building, which was completed in 1968 and served as an area for lectures, offices, and an emerging art collection.
In the course of a highly competitive selection process, the Robbins Review, advocating for increased access to the university, was the main driving force behind the choice of Stirling as the university's site.
Key Milestones:
1967: Founded by Royal Charter.
1968: Pathfoot Building completed.
1970: Construction of Cottrell Building begins.
1971: Andrew Miller Building completed.
1982: Business Studies department and Institute of Aquaculture established.
1998: R.G. Bomont Building completed.
2002: Iris Murdoch Building opened; campus designated as heritage site.
2003: Colin Bell Building completed.
Campuses, Historical Places, and Natural Features:
- Campus: The primary campus encompasses 360 acres, including the Stirling University Innovation Park and the Dementia Centre.
- Historical Places: Airthrey Castle estate, Pathfoot Building (DoCoMoMo recognition), Cottrell Building.
- Lakes: Airthrey Loch is a prominent feature within the campus grounds.
- Surrounding: The campus is located in the foothills of the Ochil Hills, providing stunning natural surroundings.
- Expansion: The university has expanded with the addition of buildings like the Bomont, Iris Murdoch, and Colin Bell buildings.
- Student numbers: As of 2022, the university has 14,000 students.
Accreditation
The Stirling University, Cardiff, Scotland, UK is a well-reputed institution with a strong focus on quality education and research. The university is accredited by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), the UK's independent quality body.
- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
- BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT
- British Psychological Society (BPS)
- Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
- Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM)
- Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA)
- General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS)
- Institute of Chartered Accountants in Scotland (ICAS)
- Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA)
- Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES)
- Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC)
Campus Facilities
The University of Stirling's campus is designed to provide a comprehensive and enriching experience for its students, with a variety of facilities catering to academic, social, and recreational needs. Here's a breakdown:
Campus Central:
This is the heart of the campus, serving as a hub for student services, administration, and social interaction.
- It houses the Student Hub, providing information and support on various aspects of university life.
- Campus Central also features cafes and social spaces, fostering a sense of community.
- It's a key point of access to other campus facilities.
Sports Facilities:
The University of Stirling is renowned for its excellent sports facilities, including:
- A state-of-the-art sports center with a gym, swimming pool, and sports halls.
- Outdoor sports pitches and tennis courts.
- A 9-hole golf course.
- The campus is also home to the Scottish National Swimming Academy.
- These facilities support a wide range of sports clubs and recreational activities.
The Library:
The University Library provides extensive resources for students and researchers.
- It houses a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources.
- The library offers quiet study spaces, computer access, and research support.
- It also provides access to online databases and e-learning materials.
The Macrobert Arts Centre:
This is a cultural hub on campus, offering a diverse program of events, including:
- Cinema screenings.
- Theatre performances.
- Dance shows.
- Art exhibitions.
- It provides a platform for students and the local community to engage with the arts.
Additional Facilities:
- Accommodation: Various halls of residence and student flats are available on campus.
- Catering: Numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars are located throughout the campus, offering a variety of food and drink options.
- Student Union: The Student Union provides a range of services and activities, including clubs, societies, and social events.
- Pathfoot Building: Houses art exhibitions and some teaching spaces.
- Computer Labs: Many computer labs are located around the campus.
- Green spaces: The campus is set within a beautiful estate, featuring a loch and extensive green spaces.
Courses
Undergraduate
- Accountancy
- Accountancy and Finance
- Animal Biology
- Applied Biological Sciences
- Applied Mathematics
- Biology
- Business Computing
- Business Law
- Business Studies
- Cell Biology
- Computing Science
- Criminology and Social Policy
- Criminology and Sociology
- Data Science
- Digital Media
- Ecology and Conservation
- Economics
- Education (Primary)
- Education (Secondary)
- English Studies
- Environmental Geography
- Environmental Geography and Outdoor Education
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Science and Outdoor Education
- Film and Media
- Finance
- French
- Heritage and Tourism
- History
- History and Heritage
- Human Resource Management
- International Management Studies with European Languages and Society
- International Politics
- Journalism Studies
- Law
- Law (4 Years)
- Law: Accelerated Graduate
- Management
- Marine Biology
- Marketing
- Mathematics
- Modern Languages (Degrees Combined with Other Subjects)
- Nursing - Adult
- Nursing - Adult (4 Years)
- Nursing - Mental Health
- Nursing - Mental Health (4 Years)
- Philosophy
- Politics
- Politics, Philosophy and Economics
- Professional Accountancy
- Professional Education (Secondary, Chemistry or Physics)
- Psychology
- Psychology (4 Years)
- Religion Degrees Combined with Other Subjects
- Retail Marketing
- Scottish History
- Social Work
- Sociology and Social Policy
- Software Development with Cyber Security
- Software Engineering
- Spanish and Latin American Studies
- Sport (Degrees Combined with Other Subjects)
- Sport and Exercise Science
- Sport Business Management
- Sport Development and Coaching
- Sport Psychology
University of Stirling Postgraduate courses
- Advancing Practice
- Applied Professional Studies
- Applied Social Research
- Aquatic Pathobiology
- Aquatic Veterinary Studies
- Artificial Intelligence
- Autism Research
- Behavioural Science
- Big Data
- Big Data (Online)
- Business Analytics
- Business Analytics (Online)
- Business and Management
- Business and Management (1 Year)
- Creative Writing
- Criminological Research
- Criminology
- Data Science for Business
- Data Science for Business (Online)
- Dementia Studies (Online)
- Digital Banking and Finance
- Digital Media and Communication
- Disaster Interventions and Humanitarian Aid
- Education
- Educational Research
- English Language and Linguistics
- Environmental Management
- Environmental Remote Sensing and Geospatial Sciences
- Finance
- Finance and Data Analytics
- Finance and Risk Management
- Financial Technology (FinTech)
- Gender Studies (Applied)
- Gerontology and Global Ageing (Online)
- Global Politics and Policies
- Health Psychology
- Health Research (Online)
- Heritage
- Historical Research
- Historical Research (1 Year)
- Housing Studies
- Housing Studies (with Internship)
- Housing Studies (with Internship) (1 Year)
- Human Resource Management
- Human Rights and Diplomacy
- Human-Animal Interaction
- International Accounting and Finance
- International Business
- International Conflict and Cooperation
- International Energy and Environmental Law
- International Journalism
- Investment Analysis
- Management and English Language Teaching
- Marketing
- Marketing Analytics
- Marketing and Brand Management
- Mathematics and Data Science
- MBA
- MBA (Business Scale Up) (Online)
- MBA (Sustainability Impact) (Online)
- Media Management
- Media Research
- Professional Education and Leadership
- Psychological Research Methods
- Psychology (Accredited Conversion Course)
- Psychology of Sport (Accredited)
- Public Health (Online)
- Public Policy
- Public Relations and Strategic Communication
- Public Relations and Strategic Communication (Online)
- Publishing Studies
- Publishing Studies (1 Year)
- Social Statistics and Social Research
- Social Work Studies
- Social Work Studies (2 Years)
- Sport Management
- Sport Nutrition
- Strategic Communication and Public Relations (Joint Degree UPF Barcelona)
- Substance Use (Online)
- Sustainable Aquaculture
- Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
- Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) (Online)
Research
- Accounting and Finance
- Applied Social Research
- Applied Social Research (3 Years)
- Applied Social Research (Criminal Justice)
- Applied Social Research (Dementia Studies)
- Applied Social Research (Drug and Alcohol Studies)
- Applied Social Research (Family Therapy)
- Applied Social Research (Housing)
- Applied Social Research (Social Research)
- Applied Social Research (Social Work)
- Applied Social Research (Substance Use)
- Aquaculture
- Aquatic Veterinary Studies
- Biology
- Clinical Doctorates
- Computing Science
- Criminology
- Data Science
- Data Science (3 Years)
- Dementia and Ageing
- Diplomacy
- Ecology
- Economics
- Education
- Education (3 Years)
- English Studies (Including Creative Writing)
- English Studies and Film, Media and Journalism
- Environmental Science
- Film and Media Studies
- French
- Health Psychology
- Health Sciences
- Heritage
- History
- Housing
- Languages, Cultures and Religions
- Law
- Management, Work and Organisation
- Marketing and Retail
- Mathematics
- Nursing and Midwifery
- Philosophy
- Politics
- Psychology
- Public Relations
- Publishing Studies
- Religious Studies
- Social Work
- Sociology and Social Policy
- Spanish
- Sports Studies
- TESOL Research
Pre-Sessional
- English (10 Weeks) (On Campus)
Divisions and Departments
The STIR is organised into five (05) faculties and many academic schools. Each of these offer a range of courses and research opportunities. Here are the main divisions and departments:
Faculty of Social Sciences:
- Applied Social Sciences
- Education
Faculty of Arts and Humanities:
- Communications, Media and Culture
- History and Politics
- Law and Philosophy
- Literature and Languages
- London Academy of Diplomacy
Stirling Management School:
- Accounting & Finance
- Economics
- Management, Work and Organisation
- Marketing and Retail
- Centre for Advanced Management Education
- Centre for Graduate Research in Management
Faculty of Natural Sciences:
- Aquaculture
- Biological and Environmental Sciences
- Computing Science and Mathematics
- Psychology
Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport:
- Sport
- Health Sciences
Faculty and Staff
The University of Stirling, Scotland, UK employs a prestigious faculty and diverse staff committed to providing high-quality education and research opportunities.
- Lord Jack McConnell - Chancellor
- Professor Sir Gerry McCormac - Principal and Vice-Chancellor
- Eileen Schofield - Chief Operating Officer
- Professor Malcolm MacLeod - Senior Deputy Principal
- Professor Paul A. Townsend - Deputy Principal
- Professor Helen Scott - Deputy Principal
- Professor Neville Wylie - Deputy Principal
- Professor Terri Scott - Deputy Principal
- Joanna Morrow - Deputy Secretary
- Jennifer Harrison - Executive Director
- Karen Lawson - Executive Director
- Rose Edwards - Executive Director
- Professor Kirstie Blair - Dean of the Faculty
- Professor Jayne Donaldson - Dean of the Faculty
- Professor Alistair Jump - Dean of the Faculty
- Professor Kevin Grant - Dean of Stirling Management School
- Professor Iain Docherty - Dean for the Institute for Advanced Studies
Student Life
Stirling enjoys a uniquely rich student life, where the gentle atmosphere of the campus meets the excitement of Scotland's Central Belt.
Central Belt, Scotland: A Blend of Nature and City Life:
For Glenn, giving the best of both fronts in the Central Belt of Scotland, the location of Stirling is one such lucky place. Though the campus itself is geologically bounded with hills and lochs and truly a natural beauty, hence being a peaceful place for relaxation, the city of stirling with closely located urban centers give students access to vibrant cultural scenes and main city life exuberance.
Living on Campus:
Student campus life in Stirling is one great whole living experience. Students live within an estate of 330 acres, surrounded by magnificent nature and heritage, here in Airthrey Castle.
Such closure under a self-contained campus builds very good camaraderie, experiencing the easy flow to the city and surroundings.
Nightlife and Culture:
Stirling nightlife presents a mix of traditional Scottish pubs, modern bars, and student-centric joints. The city itself boasts of unique cultural events, all the way from musical festivals to theatre performances so there always is something on offer for every taste.
Further on, Glasgow and Edinburgh provide a scope for an even wider cultural experience at a dime's worth of battery from the city. Then here you have the Macrobert Arts Centre on campus with an amazing array of diverse cultural shows.
Accommodation:
It provides various types of accommodations, from traditional halls of residence to modern student flats to fit into almost all sizes of pockets and preferences.
This ensures that students would find their ideal living environment within a comfortable tension field and friendly campuses. The accommodation services provide a lot of support and guidance throughout the stay of the student.
Student Union:
The University of Stirling Students' Union is the heart of student social life. It organises various clubs, societies, and events, meant for building an enriched community endowed with inclusivity.
With inclusion of sports, academic, cultural societies, and all others, the union provides connections between students interested in common purpose and passion.
Street Food:
Though not famous for its street food culture, the city does offer several cafes and restaurants that deal in local and international cuisine. Farmers' markets and food festivals provide opportunities to sample local produce and other culinary delights. Greater options for street food might be available in Glasgow and Edinburgh not too far away.
Top-tier Shopping Experiences:
The city centre of Stirling combines high-street brands with independent boutiques or specialty shops. If students wish to bag themselves more at the bargain, these two (Glasgow and Edinburgh) cities offer a perfect gateway to world-class shopping.
To summarize, Stirling brings together the best students, an experienced education system, and an enriching cultural life in the atmosphere of a modern Scotland. Thus, once more, this environment is a complement that guarantees their stay in university to be valuable and meaningful.
Student Statistics
- Female 63%
- Male 37%
- Other 00%
- UK Students 74%
- EU Students 10%
- International 15%
- Full-time 81%
- Part-time 19%
- First year 41%
- Other years 59%
- Postgraduate 37%
- Undergraduate 63%
Transportation
The university's location in the Central Belt of Scotland ensures that it is well-connected by various transportation options, making it easy for students and visitors to reach the campus and explore the surrounding areas.
Public Transport:
By Bus and Coach:
- Regular bus services connect the campus to Stirling city center and other nearby towns.
- Citylink and National Express: These coach services provide long-distance travel to and from Stirling, connecting the city to major cities across the UK.
- Local bus services are frequent and reliable.
By Train:
- Stirling railway station provides national rail connections, making it easy to travel to and from the university.
- The station is well-connected to major cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh.
- On campus bus: There are bus routes that travel across the campus itself.
On Foot:
- The campus is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, with walkways connecting various buildings and facilities.
- Walking is a convenient way to navigate the campus.
By Bike:
- The university encourages cycling, with bike racks and paths available throughout the campus.
- Cycling is a popular way to travel between the campus and Stirling city center.
Other Transportation Options:
By Car:
- The university campus is accessible by car, with car parks available for students and staff.
- The campus is located near major roads, providing easy access to other parts of Scotland.
By Air:
- Edinburgh Airport and Glasgow Airport are the closest international airports, providing connections to destinations worldwide.
- Both airports are easily accessible from Stirling by train or car.
By Ferry:
- While there are no direct ferry services to Stirling, ferry terminals on the west coast of Scotland provide connections to the Scottish islands.
- From those ferry terminals, connection to Stirling is possible via train or coach.
Housing and Accommodation
The university offers a diverse range of accommodation options, both on and off-campus, to cater to the needs of its student population.
On-Campus Accommodation:
- The university provides a variety of on-campus accommodation, including halls of residence and student flats.
- These options cater to different budgets and preferences, with a mix of en-suite and standard rooms.
- The number of rooms available varies annually, but the university provides a significant number of spaces.
- On campus accommodation is within easy walking distance to the university's facilities.
Off-Campus Accommodation:
- Students can also choose to live in private accommodation in Stirling city center or surrounding areas.
- The university provides support and guidance to students seeking off-campus housing.
Campus Facilities:
- Shops: There is a small shop located on campus.
- Cafes and Restaurants: Numerous cafes and restaurants are located throughout the campus, offering a variety of food and drink options.
- Bar: The Student Union has a bar that is popular with students.
- Gym: The university's sports center provides excellent gym and fitness facilities.
- Bookshop: A bookshop is located on campus.
- Bank: Cash machines (ATMs) are located on campus.
- Green and Outdoor Spaces: The campus is set within a beautiful 330-acre estate, featuring Airthrey Loch and extensive green spaces, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Distance from Bustling Streets: The campus is located in a peaceful setting, away from the immediate bustle of city streets, but Stirling city center is easily accessible by bus.
- Distance from Tube Stations: Stirling does not have a Tube (underground) system. The main transport hub is Stirling railway station, which is well-connected to the campus by bus and walking.
Relevant Topics:
- The university's accommodation services provide support and guidance to students in finding suitable housing.
- Students are encouraged to apply for accommodation early, as spaces can fill up quickly.
- The university website provides detailed information about the various halls of residence and student flats, including room types, facilities, and costs.
- The university aims to create a welcoming and inclusive living environment for all students.
- Many halls of residence organise social events and activities, fostering a sense of community.
- The campus is considered very safe.
Extracurricular Activities
The STIR (University of Stirling) offers an exciting and engaging student experience beyond the classroom. With numerous personal and social growth opportunities, students can participate in various extracurricular activities, such as:
Sports & recreation:
- American Football Club
- Archery Club
- Art Club
- Athletics Club
- Book Club
- Badminton Club
- Baseball Club
- Basketball Club
- Boxing Club
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Club
- Chess Club
- Cheerleading Club
- Cricket Club
- Cycling Club
- Dance Club
- Darts Club
- Equestrian Club
- Fencing Club
- Football- (Men's + Women's) Club
- Futsal Club
- Gaelic Football - (Men's + Ladies) Club
- Golf Club
- Handball Club
- Hockey- (Men's + Women's) Club
- Judo Club
- Kayak Club
- Lacrosse- (Men's + Women's) Club
- Mountaineering Club
- Muay Thai Boxing Club
- Netball Club
- Orienteering & Hill Running Club
- Parkour Club
- Pole Fitness Club
- Polo Club (Men's + Women's)
- Power Lifting Club
- Rowing Club
- Rugby- (Men's + Women's) Club
- Shinty Club
- Snow Sports Club
- Squash Club
- Sub-Aqua Club
- Surf Club
- Swimming Club
- Table Tennis Club
- Taekwondo Club
- Tennis Club
- Touch Rugby Club
- Trampoline & Gymnastics Club
- Triathlon Club
- Ultimate Frisbee Club
- Underwater Hockey Club
- Volleyball Club
- Waterpolo Club
- Weightlifting Club
Societies & interests:
- African & Caribbean Society
- Air3 Radio
- AirTV
- Anime Society
- Aquascience
- Armed Forces Society
- Baking Society
- Brig Newspaper
- Catholic Society
- Christian Union
- Creative Writing
- Debating
- Disney Appreciation Society
- Doctoral Research Society
- Drama (SUDS)
- Dumyat Dragons Quadball
- Earth and Environment
- Economics Society
- Esports
- F.E.M. (Feminists for Equity Movement)
- Film Appreciation Society
- Formula 1 Society
- Gaelic Society
- Geography
- Global Justice Stirling
- History Society
- International Society
- Islamic Society
- K-Pop Society Stirling
- Labour
- Language Exchange Society
- Latin Dance Society
- Law
- LGBTQ+ Society
- Live Music Society
- Marine Conservation Society
- Marketing Society
- Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) Society
- Musical Theatre
- Nat20 (Dungeons & Dragons)
- Nordic Society
- Pakistani Society
- Paramedic Society
- Philosophy
- Photography & Videography
- Politics
- Pool Society
- Psychology
- Pub Quiz Society (SUPQS)
- Re-Enactment Society
- Medieval Living History Society.
- Rock and Metal Society
- Scottish Nationalist Association
- Scottish Socialist Youth Stirling (SSYS)
- Social Work Society
- Solidarity Through Active Giving (STAG)
- South Asian Society
- Stirling A Cappella
- Stirling Ahlulbayt Society (SABSOC)
- University of Stirling Accounting Society
- University of Stirling Mathematics Society
- University of Stirling Nursing Society
- University of Stirling STAR (Student Action for Refugees) Society
- Strategy-Gaming & Role Play
- Student Managed Investment Fund
- Teaching and Education Society
- The Fellowship of Stirling
- True Crime Society
- University of Stirling Computer Club (USCC)
- University of Stirling Mini Golf Club
- Video Games Society
- Wild Swimming Society
- Wildlife Conservation
- Women in Business
Other:
- Student Volunteering
- Student Media (e.g., Brig Newspaper, Air3 Radio)
- Student Union Events
- Career Workshops
- Skill Development Workshops
- Peer Support Programmes
- Mentoring Programmes
- Public Speaking Events
- Student Government (Student Union Representation)
Partnerships and Collaborations
The STIR engages in a variety of partnerships and collaborations to enhance its academic offerings and research impact. These collaborations include:
Academic Partnerships:
- Ras Al Khaimah (UAE)
- University of Guelph (Canada)
- Hebei Normal University (China)
- Kwansei Gakuin University (Japan)
- Singapore Institute of Management (Singapore)
- UNITAR (United Nations Institute for Training and Research)
- University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (UCASS)
- SU Elevates
- Chengdu University
- INTO University
- São Paulo State University (UNESP)
- Hebei Normal University And more
Industry Partnerships:
- Scottish Aquaculture Innovation Centre
- NHS Forth Valley
- Sportscotland
- BUV
- National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub
- Scotland’s International Environment Centre
- Intergenerational Living Innovation Hub
Charitable Organisations:
- Alzheimer Scotland
- Scottish Wildlife Trust
- The Carnegie Trust for the Universities of Scotland
- The Ronald Miller Foundation
- Stanley Morrison Charitable Trust
- Friends of Logie Kirk
- Carnegie UK Trust
- National Fund for Acquisitions
- National Museums of Scotland
- The Taylor Family Foundation
- The Castansa Trust
- The Robertson Trust
- Scottish Funding Council
- The Souter Charitable Trust
- The Hugh Fraser Foundation
Research Opportunities
The university offers a range of research opportunities across different areas. Here are some of the key research areas and opportunities:
High-impact projects:
- Ageing and Dementia
- Being Connected
- Global Food Security
- Health & Behavior
Research areas:
- Communication, Cultural and Media Studies
- History and Heritage
- Language and Literature
- Law
- Philosophy
- Politics and International Studies
Research institutes, centres, and groups:
- Centre for Environment, Heritage and Policy
- Centre for Interpreting, Translation and Intercultural Studies at Stirling
- Centre for Policy, Conflict and Cooperation Research
- Eighteenth Century Studies
- International Centre for Gothic Studies
- Centre of Postcolonial Studies
- Scottish Studies at Stirling
- Stirling Centre for International Publishing and Book Cultures
- Stirling Magazines and Periodicals Research Group
- Stirling Media Research Institute (SMRI)
- Stirling Centre for Scottish Studies
- Dementia Services Development Centre
- Centre for Gender and Feminist Studies
- Centre for Transnational Legal Methods
- Stirling Environment and Energy Network
- Contemporary Portuguese Political History Research Centre
- Scottish Law and Innovation Network (SCOTLIN)
Fees and Scholarships
The University of Stirling, Scotland, UK offers a range of fees and scholarships to support students in their studies.
Tuition fees: The tuition fees for University of Stirling programmes vary depending on the course, level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate), and student's residency status (UK/EU or international).
The Stir or University of Stirling Scholarships for International Students
The University of Stirling scholarships for international students provide financial support to talented students globally. Some of the popular scholarships include:
- Stirling Welcome Scholarship
- Chevening Scholarships
- Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
- Undergraduate Merit Scholarship
- Postgraduate Merit Scholarship
- The Fulbright University of Stirling Award
- Honours Year Scholarship
- EU Undergraduate Scholarship
- EU Postgraduate Scholarship
- Undergraduate USA Scholarship
- Postgraduate India Scholarship
- International Undergraduate Scholarship
- Postgraduate Pakistan Scholarship
- INTO Stirling Progression Scholarships
- Institute for Advanced Studies Studentships
- The Reid Family Scholarship
- Sanctuary scholarships
- The Data Lab Scholarships
- Stirling Alumni Scholarship
- Saint Andrew's Society of the State of New York Scholarship
- Singapore Institute of Management Postgraduate Scholarship
- Postgraduate East Asia Scholarship
- Postgraduate Ghana Scholarship
- Postgraduate Kenya Scholarship
- Postgraduate Nigeria Scholarship
- Lingnan University Postgraduate Scholarship
- Postgraduate Taught International Partnerships Scholarship And more
Alumni Network
Here are the names of some notable alumni:
Politics:
- Set Aung - Myanmar politician
- Gordon Banks - Former Labour MP
- Hannah Bardell - Former SNP MP for Livingston
- Scott Barrie - Former Labour MSP
- Bill Butler - Former Labour MSP
- Michael Connarty - Former MP for Falkirk East
- Angela Constance - SNP politician
- Angela Crawley - SNP politician
- Kenneth Gibson - SNP MSP
Academics:
- David Bebbington - Professor of History
- David Blanchflower - Professor of Economics, former Monetary Policy Committee Member
- Norman Jeffares - Emeritus Professor of English
- Norman Longworth - Honorary Professor of Lifelong Learning
- Norman MacCaig - Reader in poetry
- Ivana Markova - Emeritus Professor of Psychology
- Gerry McCormac - Principal and Professor of Physics
- Jean Redpath - (Honorary staff) Folk singer
- Stewart Sutherland - Former lecturer, later Baron Sutherland of Houndwood
- Herbert Wilson - Emeritus Professor of Physics
- Waswa Balunywa - Ugandan Academic and Principal of Makerere University Business School
Academia and science:
- Joseph Bristow - University professor, literary scholar
- Muffy Calder - Chief Scientific Advisor to the Scottish Government
- Jonathon Fletcher - Father of the search engine, developer of JumpStation
- Dario Floreano - Italian scientist
- Chris Lilley - W3C internet architect
- Kathleen Taylor - Biologist
Sport:
- Craig Benson - Swimmer, double Olympian
- Frankie Brown - Female Scottish footballer
- Todd Cooper - Swimmer, Double Olympian
- Scott Duncan - Professional tennis player
- Sir Alex Ferguson - former manager of Manchester United
- Colin Fleming - Professional tennis player
- Sir Bill Gammell - Scotland rugby international and businessman
- Charlotte Henshaw - Paralympic swimmer
- Andrew Hunter - Olympic and Commonwealth swimmer
- Shelley Kerr - First female manager in British men's football
Arts and media:
- Iain Banks - Author
- Alan Bissett - Writer
- Jonathan Clements - Author
- Mark Cousins - Film critic
- Grace Dent - Journalist, reporter, author and television critic
- Hamish Hamilton - Music and events director
- Jackie Kay - Poet and writer
- Nick Keir - Musician
- Greg McHugh - Actor, writer
- Rhona McLeod - Scottish broadcaster
- Fiona Ritchie - Radio presenter
Other:
- Neil Brailsford QC - Senator of the College of Justice
- Alison Brittain - chief executive of Whitbread
- Bill Gammell - Scottish businessman
- Neal Hazel, criminologist - former Deputy Chief Inspector of Probation for England and Wales
- Sam Mort, UNICEF - Chief of communications Afghanistan
- Julian Roberts - Chief executive of Old Mutual
Career Services
The University of Stirling services of career provides a number of programmes for career path improvement for students. This may involve support in skills enhancement, career guidance and advice, opportunities for internship and job placements, and any other potential services dealing with personal development, employability enhancement, and smooth transition into work. Some of the common areas include:
Skills Development:
- Career Workshops
- CV and Cover Letter Workshops
- Interview Skills Training
- LinkedIn Workshops
- Skills Development Sessions
- Online Skills Resources
- TARGETconnect.
Career Guidance:
- CVs and covering letters
- Application forms
- LinkedIn profiles and networking
- Personal statements
- Building your confidence
- Alumni Mentoring
- Mock Interviews
Career Advice:
- Careers advice for my degree
- Which career is right for me?
- Further study
- International careers guidance
Job and Internship Opportunities:
- Postgraduate Careers Support
- Online Career Resources
- International Student Career Support
- Psychometric Testing and Assessment
- Global Opportunities
Other Potential Services:
- Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Support
- International Student Career Support
- Postgraduate Careers Support
- Online Career Resources
- Psychometric Testing and Assessment
- Global Opportunities
Awards and Recognitions
Awarded the QAA Quality Mark for meeting or exceeding UK expectations for quality and standards in its QAA review.
- Awarded 5 stars by QS World University Rankings 2021
- Student Nursing Times Awards in 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018
- Won the Athena SWAN Bronze award
- R G Bomont Award for Excellence in Clinical Practice
- Won Outstanding Marketing/Communications Team of the Year at the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) Awards
Rankings and Achievements
- 53rd in the University League Table 2025
- 63rd in the Times University Guide 2025
- 94th in the Guardian University Guide 2025
- 452nd in the QS World University Rankings 2025
- Top 15 in the UK for Communication and media in the Times University Guide 2025
- Top 15 in the UK for Criminology in the Times University Guide 2025
- Top 15 in the UK for Education in the Times University Guide 2025
- Top 15 in the UK for French in the Times University Guide 2025
- 1st in Scotland for Good environment on campus by the Times Higher Education
- Joint 2nd in the UK for Good environment on campus by the Times Higher Education
- 1st in Scotland for Good sports facilities on campus by the Times Higher Education
- 4th in the UK for Good sports facilities on campus by the Times Higher Education
- Joint 2nd in Scotland for Good extra-curricular activities/societies on campus by the Times Higher Education
- top 25 in the UK for Good extra-curricular activities/societies on campus by the Times Higher Education
- 431st in the QS World University Rankings 2024
- 38th in the Times University Guide 2023
- 59th in the Guardian University Guide 2023
Location
University of Stirling is located in the Central Belt of Scotland, built within the walled Airthrey Castle estate [Stirling, GB, FK9 4LA]. It offers a mix of academic excellence and natural beauty. And its campuses are spread across the city, integrating seamlessly with the urban environment.
Location and Campus:
- The university is located in the heart of Scotland in Stirling, a city in the Central Belt of Scotland.
- Its main campus is a single, expansive 330-acre estate, set against the backdrop of the Ochil Hills.
Surrounding:
- The campus is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including rolling hills, woodlands, and Airthrey Loch.
- The city of Stirling itself provides a mix of urban amenities and historical charm.
Campus Facilities:
- Lecture Halls: Modern and well-equipped lecture theatres and seminar rooms are available across the campus.
- Libraries: The University Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and digital materials, as well as study spaces.
- Laboratories: State-of-the-art laboratories are available for various disciplines, particularly in science and technology.
- Student Accommodation: A range of on-campus accommodation options, including halls of residence and student flats, is available.
- Historic Landmarks: Airthrey Castle, located within the campus grounds, is a significant historical landmark.
- Iconic Structures: The Pathfoot Building and the Macrobert Arts Centre are iconic structures on campus.
- Variety of Recreational Facilities: The campus features a sports centre with a gym, swimming pool, and sports halls, as well as outdoor sports fields and a golf course.
- Nearby Park: The campus itself functions as a large park-like setting, and the surrounding Ochil Hills offer further outdoor recreation.
- Stunning Landscapes: The campus is renowned for its stunning landscapes, with Airthrey Loch and the Ochil Hills providing picturesque views.
- Waterside Bar and Restaurant: While there isn't a specific "Waterside Bar and Restaurant" named on campus, there are many eating locations around the loch. The campus has many cafes and eating locations.
- The Learning Hub: The University Library and various study spaces across the campus serve as learning hubs, providing resources and support for students.
- Popular Tourist Destination: Stirling is a popular tourist destination, known for its historical sites, including Stirling Castle, and its scenic beauty.
- Vibrant Cultural Scene: The Macrobert Arts Centre on campus contributes to a vibrant cultural scene, offering a variety of performances and events. The city of Stirling and nearby cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh offer a rich cultural experience.