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Studying Science in Scotland
Scotland is renowned for its rich history of scientific discoveries, from penicillin to the telephone.
But while scientific discoveries are still constantly happening, almost every field of science in Scotland needs more qualified scientists.
In a recent NHS Scotland survey it was revealed that half of Scotland's biomedical scientists will retire in the next 5-10 years, leaving a major skills shortage. So Scottish Universities are aiming to encourage more students into lab sciences.
Why study science in Scotland?
Scotland has an outstanding reputation in molecular imaging and radiology, with groups all over the country collaborating on research projects. But there is still a shortage of qualified professionals in this field, in particular:
- Radiologists
- Medical physicists
- Imaging pharmacists
- Radio-chemists
- Image analysers
- Medical and bio-informaticians and technicians
Scotland is a world leader in producing energy from alternative sources, like wind, hydro and geothermal. Because all countries have tough EU targets to produce alternative energy there are always plenty of job opportunities in this field of science. And there's no shortage of these natural resources in Scotland! If you'd like to know more take a look at
The Path is Green, a resource for green careers in Scotland.
Where to study
There are over 370 science courses across 16 Scottish universities.
Universities are based in major Scottish cities but also have campuses outside of these cities:
- Aberdeen
- Dundee
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
- St Andrews
- Stirling
- Inverness
Admission to university
Universities in Scotland (and the whole of the UK) use a points system for entry. Points are given to other qualifications and experience. Each course asks for a certain amount of points to apply.
You can work out how many points you need to apply for a course with
the UCAS points calculator.
Are my qualifications accepted in Scotland?
Each university or college will decide whether or not your qualifications meet the entrance requirements for its courses. You should check with the university or college if your qualifications meet its requirements. Ultimately, admissions policy is a matter for the University/College.
In addition, most courses also require you to pass a language exam if English isn't your first language. For details, visit
UCAS page on Studying in the UK.
Help with funding
There are a number of programmes which offer funding either through individual institutions or government initiatives.
You should also contact individual Higher Education Institutions for details about their own funding and scholarships.
More about Schemes and Scholarship.
Scottish International Scholarship Programme
The scholarships are available for courses at any Scottish higher education institution and applications for science and technology and creative industries will be given priority.
More about the Scottish International Scholarship Programme.
What it's like studying science in Scotland
Find out what it's like from people who are already studying:
Related links
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