University of Dundee Logo University of Dundee

Address: University of Dundee, Nethergate, Dundee DD1 4HN, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0)1382 383000
Email: info@dundee.ac.uk
Website: www.dundee.ac.uk


University of Dundee has specific English language requirements for international students whose first language is not English. These requirements ensure that students possess the necessary language skills to succeed in their academic studies. Here are the general language requirements:

1. Undergraduate Programs

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System):
    • Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no component lower than 6.0.
  • TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language):
    • Minimum overall score of 90, with at least:
      • 21 in reading
      • 21 in listening
      • 22 in speaking
      • 23 in writing.
  • PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English):
    • Minimum score of 62, with no less than 56 in each component.
  • Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
    • Minimum score of 176, with no section below 169.

2. Postgraduate Programs

  • IELTS:
    • Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no component lower than 6.0.
  • TOEFL iBT:
    • Minimum overall score of 90, with the following sub-scores:
      • 21 in reading
      • 21 in listening
      • 22 in speaking
      • 23 in writing.
  • PTE Academic:
    • Minimum score of 62, with no less than 56 in each skill.
  • Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
    • Minimum score of 176, with no section below 169.

3. Alternative Qualifications

  • Students may be exempt from taking an English proficiency test if they have completed their secondary education in an English-speaking country or hold qualifications such as:
    • GCSE/IGCSE English Language: Grade C/4 or above.
    • International Baccalaureate (IB): English at Higher Level, with a grade of 5 or above.

4. Pre-Sessional English Courses

  • For students who do not meet the required English language proficiency, the University of Dundee offers pre-sessional English language courses. These courses help students improve their English skills before starting their main academic program.

University of Dundee offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, with several course specialities that are particularly well-regarded. Here are some key course specialities at Dundee:

1. Medicine and Health Sciences

  • Specialty: The University of Dundee is known for its prestigious Medical School, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in medicine, nursing, and healthcare. The curriculum emphasizes clinical skills, research, and public health.

2. Dentistry

  • Specialty: Dundee's Dental School is highly regarded and offers programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical training. Students gain hands-on experience in modern facilities, preparing them for careers in dentistry and oral health.

3. Life Sciences

  • Specialty: The university is a leader in Biomedical Sciences, offering courses in areas such as genetics, microbiology, and pharmacology. Research in these fields has a strong emphasis on translational science and clinical applications.

4. Art and Design

  • Specialty: The Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design offers programs in fine art, design, and visual communication. It is known for fostering creativity and innovation, with strong links to industry.

5. Business and Management

  • Specialty: The university offers a range of programs in business and management, including Marketing, Finance, and Entrepreneurship. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the dynamic business environment.

6. Social Sciences

  • Specialty: Dundee has strong programs in areas such as Social Work, Psychology, and Politics. The university emphasizes research-led teaching and real-world applications, equipping students for careers in social services and public policy.

7. Engineering and Technology

  • Specialty: The university offers courses in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Computing. The engineering programs focus on practical skills, innovation, and sustainability.

8. Law

  • Specialty: The School of Law offers various undergraduate and postgraduate law programs, including LLB and LLM degrees. The curriculum covers various legal fields, including international law and human rights.

At the University of Dundee, several distinguished professors are recognized for their contributions to their respective fields. Here are a few notable professors:

1. Professor Sir James Black

  • Field: Pharmacology
  • Notable Achievements: A Nobel Laureate in Physiology or Medicine, Sir James Black is celebrated for his development of beta-blockers and H2-receptor antagonists. His work has had a profound impact on the field of medicine and drug development.

2. Professor Fiona Wood

  • Field: Plastic Surgery and Burns Care
  • Notable Achievements: Professor Wood is known for her pioneering work in the treatment of burns and skin regeneration. She co-developed the "spray-on skin" technique and has received numerous awards for her contributions to medicine.

3. Professor Peter Downes

  • Field: Biology and Biochemistry
  • Notable Achievements: Professor Downes is recognized for his research in cell signaling and metabolic regulation. His work has implications for understanding various diseases, including cancer.

4. Professor Iain MacKinnon

  • Field: Engineering
  • Notable Achievements: Professor MacKinnon has made significant contributions to the field of engineering, particularly in mechanical and energy systems. His research focuses on sustainable energy technologies.

5. Professor Margaret McGowan

  • Field: History and Art History
  • Notable Achievements: Professor McGowan is known for her research in the history of art and its relationship to society. She has published extensively on the subject and is recognized for her expertise.

University of Dundee has had several notable connections to Nobel Prize winners, especially through its faculty and research. Here are some highlights:

Notable Nobel Laureates Associated with the University of Dundee

  1. Sir James Black (1924-2010):

    • Field: Physiology or Medicine (1988)
    • Contribution: Sir James Black was awarded the Nobel Prize for his development of important drugs, including propranolol (a beta-blocker) and cimetidine (an H2-receptor antagonist), which have had significant impacts on medicine. He served as a professor at the University of Dundee and contributed to its reputation in medical research.

  2. Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell (1943-present):

    • Field: Physics (2018, awarded the Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics)
    • Contribution: While not a Nobel Prize winner herself, she is a highly regarded astrophysicist who played a crucial role in the discovery of pulsars. She has been a visiting researcher at the University of Dundee, contributing to the academic community.

Research Impact

The University of Dundee is also recognized for its research contributions in fields such as:

  • Biomedical Sciences: The university is known for its cutting-edge research in cancer, diabetes, and other areas, which align with Nobel-recognized fields of study.
  • Life Sciences: It has a strong reputation in life sciences, particularly in areas related to drug discovery and development.

The University of Dundee  aims to transform lives, working locally and globally through the creation, sharing and application of knowledge.

We build on our success by investing in excellent facilities, pushing the boundaries of research, and equipping our staff and students with the means to create real-world impact. Dundee’s research is highly rated by the most recent Research Excellence Framework (2022), which assesses the quality and impact of research submitted by universities across the UK. Furthermore, 84% of the University’s research was found to be ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’.

We pride ourselves in offering a wide range of subjects to study and world class teaching facilities. We currently have over 16,000 students studying across a number of subject areas including life sciences, creative arts, business, accountancy, computing, law, engineering, medicine, and dentistry.

We understand that studying in the UK can be a large financial commitment. That’s why we offer scholarship opportunities for international students, including the Global Excellence Scholarship of up to £6,000 per year of study, which is automatically awarded to our most inspiring applicants. 

University of Dundee is renowned for several key attributes that contribute to its reputation both nationally and internationally:

1. Strong Research Profile

  • The University of Dundee is recognized for its high-quality research, particularly in areas such as life sciences, medicine, and social sciences. It is known for its contributions to biomedical research, cancer studies, and genetics.

2. Notable Alumni

  • Dundee has produced several prominent alumni, including:
    • Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes.
    • J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter series, who studied French and the Classics at the university.

3. Top-Ranked Programs

  • The university offers highly regarded programs in various fields, particularly:
    • Medicine and Dentistry: Dundee has one of the best medical schools in the UK.
    • Art and Design: The Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design is particularly well-known.
    • Life Sciences: The university is a leader in biomedical research and education.

4. Innovative Teaching and Learning

  • Dundee emphasizes a student-centered approach to learning, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The university utilizes modern teaching methods and facilities, enhancing the overall educational experience.

5. Cultural and Historical Significance

  • The university is situated in Dundee, a city with a rich history and cultural scene. It is home to various museums, galleries, and theaters, providing students with a vibrant environment for learning and creativity.

6. Commitment to Community and Impact

  • The university actively engages with the local community and aims to have a positive impact on society. This includes partnerships with local organizations, outreach programs, and initiatives focused on social responsibility.

7. International Perspective

  • Dundee attracts a diverse student body from around the world, fostering a multicultural environment. The university offers various international programs and partnerships, enhancing its global reach and influence.