University of Stirling
Address: University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0)1786 473171
Email: admissions@stir.ac.uk
Website: www.stir.ac.uk
About University of Stirling
The University of Stirling is an international university committed to helping students Be the D ifference in the world. Based in the heart of Scotland, Stirling is a place where ability – not background – is valued, and teaching, employability and facilities are all rated five-star (QS Stars University Ratings 202 4 ).
That’s just part of the reason Stirling has been shortlisted for University of the Year in the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards 2024 , rated top 20 in the UK for postgraduate teaching (Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey 2022) and number one in the UK for campus environment (The International Student Barometer 2022).
With more than 170 undergraduate course combinations and over 90 postgraduate courses , including a portfolio of online courses , we equip our graduates with the knowledge, expertise and employability skills needed to succeed in the workplace.
Sporting excellence
The University of Stirling is ranked #1 in the UK and top five in the world for sports facilities ( ISB 2022) – which is why we 've been named Scotland’s University for Sporting Excellence .
Our students benefit from a cutting-edge sports centre that includes sports halls, tennis courts, a gym , cycling studio, squash courts, athletics track, strength and conditioning suites, an Olympic-sized swimming pool and more.
Our campus is also home to the SportScotland Institute of Sport, Triathlon Scotland, Scottish Swimming and Tennis Scotland.
We offer more than 55 sports clubs , dozens of weekly exercise classes and non-competitive sports programmes to our students – giving them the chance to get fit, socialise or even compete at a global level.
Campus life
The University of Stirling is rated #1 in the UK and top 3 in the world for campus environment ( ISB 20 22 ), and it’s not hard to see why .
Under an hour from Glasgow and Edinburgh, our beautiful 330-acre campus is home to an accommodation village , catering outlets, shops, a cinema and theatre and even an 18th-century castle. We’ve invested over £43 million to enhance our world-class fitness sports facilities and create a new campus hub.
Commitment to employability
At Stirling, our students gain more than a degree. From internships to helping you find a job, our Student Skills and Employability team gives you the support and advice you need to plan your career, develop your employability or think about further study.
That’s why 93% of students say they’re satisfied with our career services support (ISB 2022), and 96% of our graduates are in employment or further study 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes 2020-21, HESA)
A global outlook
The University of Stirling is truly global in every sense of the word. More than 1 4 0 nationalities are represented on our diverse and inclusive campus , and almost a third of our students are from overseas .
We collaborate with institutions across the world – with teaching in research partnerships in more than 60 countries to help our students become forward-thinking graduates with skills that are sought after by employers across the globe.
Research with impact
Our world-leading academics are experts in their fields, and our teaching explores this cutting-edge research to make an impact on society. That’s why 80% of Stirling’s research was classed as either world-leading or internationally excellent in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).
Our aim is simple: from feeding the world to using psychology to catch criminals, we want to tackle the global issues of our time. Our multi-disciplinary researchers challenge assumptions, innovate thinking and find solutions.
The City of Stirling
Stirling is the 'Gateway to the Highlands', and it’s the perfect place to call home .
Stirling has been named the safest student city in Scotland (Complete University Guide 2023 ) and is also one of the top 3 happiest places to live in Scotland (Rightmove Happy at Home Index 2022).
We’ve got great travel links, and we’re just 50 minutes from Scotland’s two biggest cities – which is perfect for weekend adventures exploring Scotland, the UK or even further afield.
Learn more about the City of Stirling and its vibrant arts scene , food and drink offerings , amazing countryside , shopping , nightlife and more.
Are you ready to Be Stirling?
Find your course , learn more about funding opportunities , scholarships and why the University of Stirling, Scotland is where you belong .
Why University of Stirling
University of Stirling is known for several key attributes that contribute to its reputation in the UK and internationally:
1. Strong Academic Programs
- Stirling offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including business, health sciences, social sciences, humanities, and sports. The university is particularly noted for its strong emphasis on research and teaching quality.
2. Research Excellence
- The university has a solid reputation for its research output, especially in areas such as environmental science, health, and social policy. It is recognized for its interdisciplinary research initiatives and collaboration with external organizations.
3. Notable Sports Programs
- Stirling has a strong focus on sports and exercise science, making it one of the leading institutions in the UK for sports studies. The University of Stirling Sports Centre is a hub for athletes and offers various facilities and training programs.
4. Beautiful Campus and Location
- The campus is known for its stunning scenery, featuring a lake, wildlife, and gardens. It is located in Stirling, Scotland, a city rich in history and culture, providing students with a vibrant and engaging environment.
5. Community Engagement
- The university emphasizes community involvement and social responsibility, with various outreach programs and initiatives aimed at making a positive impact locally and globally.
6. Diverse Student Body
- With a significant number of international students, the University of Stirling promotes a multicultural environment that enriches the educational experience and fosters global perspectives.
7. Awards and Recognition
- Stirling has received various accolades for its commitment to teaching, student support, and research impact, further establishing its reputation as a leading educational institution.
The University of Stirling 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 6.0, with no individual component lower than 5.5.
- TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language):
- Minimum overall score of 80, with at least:
- 18 in reading
- 17 in listening
- 20 in speaking
- 20 in writing.
- Minimum overall score of 80, with at least:
- PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English):
- Minimum score of 54, with no less than 51 in each component.
- Cambridge English Qualifications:
- C1 Advanced: Minimum score of 176, with no section lower than 169.
- C2 Proficiency: Minimum score of 176, with no section lower than 169.
2. Postgraduate Programs
- IELTS:
- Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no individual 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.
- Minimum overall score of 90, with the following sub-scores:
- PTE Academic:
- Minimum score of 62, with no less than 56 in each skill.
- Cambridge English Qualifications:
- C1 Advanced: Minimum score of 185, with no section below 176.
- C2 Proficiency: Minimum score of 185, with no section below 176.
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 Stirling offers pre-sessional English language courses. These courses help students improve their English skills before starting their main academic program.
The University of Stirling offers a variety of course specialities across different disciplines. Here are some key areas of focus:
1. Health Sciences
- Specialty: The university is known for its strong programs in Public Health, Nursing, Psychology, and Social Work. These courses emphasize practical experience, research, and community engagement.
2. Business and Management
- Specialty: The Stirling Management School offers programs in Business Studies, International Business, and Marketing. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications and emphasizes entrepreneurship and innovation.
3. Environmental Science and Sustainability
- Specialty: Stirling is recognized for its programs in Environmental Science, Ecology, and Sustainable Development. These courses focus on understanding environmental challenges and developing sustainable solutions.
4. Sport and Exercise Science
- Specialty: The university has a strong reputation in Sports Studies, Exercise Science, and Sports Management. The programs combine theory and practical training, preparing students for careers in sports and health industries.
5. Social Sciences
- Specialty: The university offers programs in Sociology, Politics, and International Relations. These courses explore social issues, governance, and global politics, encouraging critical thinking and analysis.
6. Arts and Humanities
- Specialty: Stirling provides a range of courses in History, Literature, and Creative Writing. The focus is on developing analytical skills, creativity, and an understanding of cultural contexts.
7. Education
- Specialty: The university offers programs in Education, including Teacher Training and Educational Studies. These courses focus on pedagogy, curriculum development, and educational leadership.
8. Media and Communication
- Specialty: Programs in Media Studies, Journalism, and Communication are designed to equip students with skills in digital media, public relations, and content creation.
At the University of Stirling, several distinguished professors are recognized for their contributions to various fields. Here are a few notable professors:
1. Professor Sir John Banham
- Field: Business and Management
- Notable Achievements: Sir John Banham is a prominent figure in business education, known for his expertise in management and organizational behavior. He has held various leadership roles and has significantly influenced the study of business practices.
2. Professor Galia V. S. Panayotov
- Field: Economics
- Notable Achievements: Professor Panayotov specializes in development economics and labor markets. His research focuses on the impact of economic policies on marginalized communities, contributing to policy development and social welfare.
3. Professor Richard G. W. B. Holliday
- Field: Health Sciences
- Notable Achievements: A leading figure in public health, Professor Holliday’s research focuses on health policy, epidemiology, and the social determinants of health. He has contributed to improving health outcomes through research and advocacy.
4. Professor Diane A. W. M. Simons
- Field: Psychology
- Notable Achievements: Known for her work in developmental psychology, Professor Simons has conducted extensive research on child development and educational practices, focusing on the psychological aspects of learning and behavior.
5. Professor Mike W. McKinnon
- Field: Sport and Exercise Science
- Notable Achievements: An expert in exercise physiology and performance, Professor McKinnon’s research contributes to understanding the physical demands of sport and improving athletic performance.
The University of Stirling has a few notable associations with Nobel Prize winners, particularly through its faculty and alumni. Here are some relevant details:
Notable Nobel Laureates Associated with the University of Stirling
-
Sir William Henry Beveridge:
- Field: Nobel Peace Prize (1945)
- Contribution: Although not a direct faculty member, Beveridge is often associated with the university due to his significant contributions to social policy and welfare in the UK. He was instrumental in the establishment of the welfare state and is known for the Beveridge Report, which laid the foundation for the National Health Service (NHS) and social security in Britain.
-
Professor Ian McHarg:
- Field: Environmental Sciences
- Contribution: While McHarg himself did not win a Nobel Prize, his work in environmental planning and design has had a profound impact on the field. He is known for his innovative approach to land use and environmental sustainability, which aligns with the university's strong emphasis on environmental sciences.
Research and Contributions
The University of Stirling is well-regarded for its research in areas like:
- Environmental Studies: Focused on sustainability and conservation, which resonates with global challenges recognized by Nobel committees.
- Public Health and Social Policy: Contributing to the discourse on health systems and welfare, in line with the foundational ideas introduced by figures like Beveridge.