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The language requirements for admission to Heriot-Watt University depend on the level of study (undergraduate, postgraduate) and the specific program. English proficiency is essential for all non-native speakers, and students are typically required to demonstrate this through recognized tests.

Here are the common English language requirements:

1. Undergraduate Programs

For students whose first language is not English, the following tests and minimum scores are commonly accepted:

• IELTS (Academic): Overall 6.0 (with no component below 5.5)
• TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 78-87 (with no component less than 17)
• PTE Academic: Overall 56 (with no component lower than 51)
• Cambridge English C1 Advanced: Overall score of 169 (with no component below 162)

Some programs may have higher requirements, such as in Actuarial Science, Business, and Engineering, which often require:

• IELTS: 6.5 (with no component below 6.0)
• TOEFL iBT: 90+ (with no section below 20)
• PTE Academic: 62+ (with no component below 59)

2. Postgraduate Programs

For postgraduate courses, the language requirements are usually higher. Typical scores include:

• IELTS (Academic): Overall 6.5 (with no component below 6.0)
• TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 90 (with no component lower than 20)
• PTE Academic: Overall 62 (with no component lower than 59)
• Cambridge English C1 Advanced: Overall 176 (with no component below 169)

Programs in disciplines like Business, Law, and Engineering may require:

• IELTS: 7.0+ (with no component lower than 6.5)
• TOEFL iBT: 100+ (with no section below 22)

3. Alternative Tests and Qualifications

• Cambridge C2 Proficiency: Accepted with a minimum score of 176-200, depending on the program.
• Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE): ISE II, III, or IV, with specific requirements depending on the program.
• Duolingo English Test: Some courses accept a Duolingo score of 105 or higher, but applicants should confirm if their specific course allows this.

4. Exemptions

Students from countries where English is the primary language or those who have studied in English at the secondary or university level may be exempt from these requirements, depending on the qualifications they hold.

5. Pre-sessional English Courses

If you don’t meet the language requirements, Heriot-Watt offers pre-sessional English courses designed to help students improve their language skills before starting their degree programs. These courses range from 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the student’s current proficiency level.

The specific requirements can vary by course, so it’s essential to check the university’s website or the specific program page for up-to-date language requirements.

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Heriot-Watt University is renowned for its strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and business-related fields. Here are some of the key course specialities for which the university is famous:

1. Actuarial Science

• Why it’s special: Heriot-Watt has one of the best actuarial science programs in the world. The course is accredited by major professional bodies such as the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA), making it a top destination for students aiming for careers in risk management, insurance, and financial services.
• Specialization: Actuarial Mathematics and Statistics, Risk Management, and Financial Mathematics.

2. Petroleum Engineering

• Why it’s special: The Institute of Petroleum Engineering at Heriot-Watt is internationally recognized. The program offers extensive industry connections, state-of-the-art facilities, and research-driven teaching, preparing graduates for careers in the oil and gas industry.
• Specialization: Petroleum Engineering, Reservoir Evaluation and Management, and Energy Transition pathways.

3. Energy and Renewable Energy

• Why it’s special: Heriot-Watt is a leader in renewable energy research and offers cutting-edge programs in sustainable and renewable energy systems. The university focuses on areas like solar power, wind energy, and energy storage.
• Specialization: Renewable Energy Engineering, Energy Transition, and Electrical Power Engineering.

4. Civil and Structural Engineering

• Why it’s special: Known for its strong ties to industry and high employability of its graduates, Heriot-Watt's civil engineering program ranks among the best in the UK. The program emphasizes sustainable construction and innovative engineering practices.
• Specialization: Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, and Geotechnical Engineering.

5. Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and Data Science

• Why it’s special: Heriot-Watt's Robotics Lab is one of the most advanced in the UK, and the university excels in areas like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and data science. Students benefit from interdisciplinary research and hands-on experience.
• Specialization: Robotics, Autonomous Systems, Machine Learning, and Data Science.

6. Business and Management (Edinburgh Business School)

• Why it’s special: Heriot-Watt’s Edinburgh Business School is globally recognized, especially for its MBA programs. It offers specialized programs that cater to the needs of global business leaders, with an emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation.
• Specialization: MBA, Finance, Marketing, and International Business.

7. Chemical Engineering

• Why it’s special: Chemical engineering at Heriot-Watt is consistently ranked highly in the UK. The university has strong industry links, and students benefit from research in areas like energy production, pharmaceuticals, and environmental technologies.
• Specialization: Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, and Process Safety.

8. Construction Project Management and Surveying

• Why it’s special: Heriot-Watt is known for its excellent construction management courses, which blend engineering with business principles. The programs are highly industry-focused and prepare students for leadership roles in construction and infrastructure development.
• Specialization: Construction Project Management, Quantity Surveying, and Commercial Management.

9. Computer Science

• Why it’s special: Heriot-Watt offers highly rated programs in computer science and related fields like software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Its graduates are highly sought after by tech companies.
• Specialization: Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, and Data Science.

10. Mathematics and Statistics

• Why it’s special: Heriot-Watt is known for its strong math and statistics departments, offering courses that range from pure mathematics to applied statistics, with special focus on actuarial science.
• Specialization: Mathematical Modelling, Applied Statistics, and Actuarial Mathematics.

11. Environmental Science and Sustainability

• Why it’s special: With an increasing focus on sustainability, Heriot-Watt’s programs in environmental science and sustainability are highly relevant. Students explore ways to address climate change, environmental conservation, and sustainable resource management.
• Specialization: Climate Change, Sustainable Resource Management, and Environmental Engineering.

12. Architecture

• Why it’s special: The university offers innovative courses in architecture and architectural engineering, blending creative design with technical know-how. Heriot-Watt emphasizes sustainable architecture and smart city development.
• Specialization: Architectural Engineering and Sustainable Architecture.

13. Logistics and Supply Chain Management

• Why it’s special: Heriot-Watt has a global reputation for its programs in logistics and supply chain management, particularly through its collaboration with the industry. The courses are designed to tackle real-world logistical challenges in global commerce.
• Specialization: Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management, and Procurement.

14. Finance and Economics

• Why it’s special: Heriot-Watt’s finance and economics courses are highly regarded, particularly for their focus on global markets and risk analysis. The university also offers specialized master's programs in financial mathematics and financial risk management.
• Specialization: Financial Risk Management, Economics, and Quantitative Finance.

15. Marine Science and Engineering

• Why it’s special: The university offers specialized programs in marine science and marine engineering, particularly through its Orkney Campus, which focuses on marine energy, oceanography, and the sustainable use of marine resources.
• Specialization: Marine Renewable Energy, Oceanography, and Marine Conservation.

Heriot-Watt University's strong emphasis on STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), combined with its global business programs, makes it one of the UK's top institutions for students seeking careers in these high-demand fields.

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Here are some of the top professors at Heriot-Watt University known for their significant contributions to their fields and research:

1. Professor Mercedes Maroto-Valer (Energy & Environment)

• Position: Associate Principal (Global Sustainability) and Director of the Research Centre for Carbon Solutions (RCCS)
• Field: Energy, Carbon Capture, and Storage (CCS)
• Notability: Professor Maroto-Valer is a leading expert in carbon capture and storage (CCS), a key technology for reducing carbon emissions. She has been awarded numerous accolades for her work in advancing solutions to climate change and energy sustainability.

2. Professor Garry Pender (Civil and Environmental Engineering)

• Position: Deputy Principal (Research and Innovation)
• Field: Water Engineering and Flood Risk Management
• Notability: Professor Pender specializes in flood risk management and sustainable water resources, contributing to groundbreaking research in civil engineering related to environmental challenges.

3. Professor Julian Jones (Materials Chemistry)

• Position: Professor of Materials Chemistry and Vice-Principal
• Field: Chemistry, Materials Science
• Notability: Known for his work in advanced materials and nanotechnology, Professor Jones focuses on creating innovative materials with applications in electronics, energy, and sustainability.

4. Professor Stephen McLaughlin (Electrical and Electronic Engineering)

• Position: Head of School of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Field: Signal Processing, Wireless Communications
• Notability: A renowned expert in signal processing and communications, Professor McLaughlin is known for his work in wireless technologies and has led multiple projects funded by the UK Research Councils.

5. Professor Phillip Morgan (Actuarial Mathematics and Statistics)

• Position: Professor of Actuarial Mathematics
• Field: Actuarial Science, Financial Mathematics
• Notability: As a leading figure in actuarial science, Professor Morgan's research focuses on risk management and financial modeling, which has had significant impact on the finance and insurance industries.

6. Professor John Underhill (Geoscience and Petroleum Engineering)

• Position: Chair of Exploration Geoscience
• Field: Petroleum Geology, Energy Transition
• Notability: Professor Underhill is recognized for his work in subsurface geology and its applications in the energy industry, particularly in oil and gas exploration. His research is crucial for the energy transition towards renewables.

7. Professor Ruth Falconer (Computer Science)

• Position: Head of Division of Computing Science
• Field: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics
• Notability: Professor Falconer’s research in artificial intelligence and simulation modeling has helped shape modern approaches to robotics and machine learning, with a focus on smart technologies and autonomous systems.

8. Professor Alistair Borthwick (Civil Engineering)

• Position: Professor of Applied Hydrodynamics
• Field: Hydrodynamics, Coastal and Environmental Engineering
• Notability: A specialist in hydrodynamics and coastal engineering, Professor Borthwick's research is key in understanding water flows, marine energy, and sustainable infrastructure in coastal regions.

These professors contribute to Heriot-Watt's reputation as a leader in science, engineering, and technology, making a global impact through their research and collaboration with industry.

Heriot-Watt congratulates Nobel laureates