University of Strathclyde Logo University of Strathclyde

Address: University of Strathclyde, 16 Richmond Street, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, Scotland, UK
Phone: +44 (0)141 548 2000
Email: info@strath.ac.uk
Website: www.strath.ac.uk


The language requirements for admission to the University of Strathclyde vary depending on the program and level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate). Here’s an overview of the typical requirements for non-native English speakers:

1. Undergraduate Programs

For undergraduate programs, the university generally requires one of the following English language proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic):

    • Minimum overall score of 6.0 with no component below 5.5.

  • TOEFL iBT:

    • Minimum overall score of 78 with no section below 17.

  • PTE Academic:

    • Minimum overall score of 54 with no component below 51.

  • Cambridge English Proficiency:

    • Minimum overall score of 169 with no component below 162.

  • Duolingo English Test:

    • A minimum score of 105 is often accepted for certain programs.

2. Postgraduate Programs

For postgraduate programs, the language requirements are typically higher:

  • IELTS (Academic):

    • Minimum overall score of 6.5 with no component below 6.0.

  • TOEFL iBT:

    • Minimum overall score of 90 with no section below 20.

  • PTE Academic:

    • Minimum overall score of 62 with no component below 59.

  • Cambridge English Proficiency:

    • Minimum overall score of 176 with no component below 169.

  • Duolingo English Test:

    • A minimum score of 110 is often accepted for certain programs.

3. Alternative Qualifications

Students may also meet the English language requirements through other qualifications, such as:

  • International Baccalaureate (IB): A minimum score in English at the higher level may be accepted.
  • A-levels: English language A-level may satisfy the requirement.
  • GCE O-levels: A minimum grade in English may be acceptable.
  • Trinity College London ISE: ISE II or III may be accepted with specific scores.

4. Exemptions

Certain applicants may be exempt from these requirements if they:

  • Come from a country where English is the first language.
  • Have completed an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in English from an approved institution.

5. Pre-sessional English Courses

For students who do not meet the required English language proficiency, Strathclyde offers pre-sessional English courses. These courses aim to improve language skills and prepare students for academic study. The duration of these courses can vary depending on the individual’s proficiency level.

The University of Strathclyde offers a wide range of highly regarded programs, particularly known for its strong focus on engineering, technology, business, and innovation. Here are some of the key course specialities for which Strathclyde is famous:

1. Engineering

Strathclyde is one of the best universities in the UK for engineering, with world-class research facilities and strong industry links. Key areas include:

  • Mechanical Engineering

    • Focus on design, manufacturing, and materials, with connections to leading companies like Rolls-Royce.
    • Specializations in aerospace, automotive engineering, and robotics.

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

    • Known for research in power systems, renewable energy, signal processing, and communications.
    • Includes cutting-edge work in smart grid technologies and energy systems.

  • Civil and Environmental Engineering

    • Expertise in infrastructure design, sustainable construction, and urban development.
    • Strong focus on environmental sustainability and water resources management.

  • Chemical Engineering

    • Strathclyde offers top-tier programs in chemical engineering with applications in energy, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.

  • Naval Architecture, Ocean & Marine Engineering

    • Specializes in ship design, marine systems, and offshore engineering, with a global reputation in marine technology.

2. Strathclyde Business School (SBS)

Strathclyde Business School is one of the best in Europe, known for its industry relevance and strong international partnerships.

  • MBA Program

    • One of the best MBA programs in the UK, with global rankings.
    • Specializations in strategy, leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

  • Accounting and Finance

    • Ranked among the top in the UK for finance and accounting, with courses focused on corporate finance, investment analysis, and financial management.

  • Marketing

    • A highly regarded department offering specialized courses in international marketing, digital marketing, and brand management.

  • Entrepreneurship

    • Recognized for its focus on entrepreneurship, Strathclyde offers degrees in entrepreneurship and innovation, nurturing future business leaders.

3. Renewable and Sustainable Energy

  • Strathclyde is a leader in energy systems and renewable energy research, offering specialized programs in:
    • Renewable Energy Systems
    • Energy Management
    • Sustainable Energy Engineering
    • Strong focus on wind power, solar energy, and offshore energy systems.

4. Photonics and Quantum Technologies

  • Strathclyde has a globally recognized Institute of Photonics and is a leader in quantum technologies.
  • Courses include photonics, laser technologies, and quantum computing.

5. Computer and Information Sciences

Strathclyde’s computer science programs are known for their innovation and practical approach, particularly in:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

    • Focus on AI, machine learning, and data science, with applications in areas such as robotics and automated systems.

  • Cybersecurity

    • Offers courses in network security, data protection, and ethical hacking.

  • Software Engineering

    • A hands-on approach with a strong focus on software development, programming, and app development.

6. Law

  • The Strathclyde Law School is highly regarded, especially for its programs in:
    • Human Rights Law
    • Criminal Justice
    • European Law
    • Offers a Clinical LLB program, which gives students hands-on experience through legal clinics.

7. Architecture

  • Strathclyde’s architecture program is known for its blend of design, technology, and sustainability. Courses focus on sustainable architecture, urban planning, and building technology.

8. Health and Biomedical Sciences

  • Biomedical Engineering

    • Known for its expertise in medical devices, biomaterials, and rehabilitation technologies.

  • Pharmacy and Pharmacology

    • Offers programs in pharmaceutical science with strong research in drug discovery and health technologies.

  • Health Psychology

    • Strathclyde has a reputation for its applied psychology programs, particularly in health psychology and behavioral science.

9. Education

  • Strathclyde’s School of Education is one of the best in Scotland, offering courses in teacher education, educational leadership, and inclusive education.

10. Public Policy and International Relations

  • Strathclyde has strong programs in public policy, international relations, and European politics, supported by the International Public Policy Institute (IPPI).

11. Supply Chain and Logistics Management

  • Strathclyde offers highly ranked programs in supply chain management and logistics, which are internationally recognized for their focus on global commerce and supply chain optimization.

12. Environmental Science and Sustainability

  • Courses in environmental engineering and sustainable development focus on addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices across industries.

13. Mathematics and Statistics

  • The university offers strong programs in applied mathematics and statistics, with applications in data science, actuarial science, and financial modeling.

The University of Strathclyde is a leading international technological university. Established in 1796 as a place of ‘useful learning,' the University remains committed to research, teaching, useful learning and employability. As well as an award-winning Careers service there is close engagement with industry through industrial placements for students and research facilities such as our £89m Technology & Innovation Centre, opened by The Queen in 2015. This facility is transforming the way academics, industry and government work in partnership in energy, health, sustainable cities and manufacturing.

We are in the UK’s top 20 universities for research intensity according to the Times Higher Education’s analysis of REF2014. Strathclyde has a triple accredited Business school (AMBA, AACSB and EQUIS) and one of the largest and best equipped Engineering faculties in Scotland. In autumn 2018 Strathclyde will open a new £31m sports facility and is starting work on a £60m Learning and Teaching hub.

Strathclyde was named Times Higher Education Business School of the Year 2016, Entrepreneurial University of the Year 2013 and UK University of the Year 2012.
The University has a vibrant international community with students from over 100 countries and is investing £650m in its campus over a decade. Strathclyde’s campus is in the centre of Glasgow, one of the UK’s largest and most dynamic cities and a good base for exploring Scotland, the UK and Europe. Glasgow has excellent transport links and, with two international airports, is a one-hour flight from London and a short trip from the beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

The University of Strathclyde, based in Glasgow, Scotland, is widely recognized for several key reasons, particularly in engineering, business, and innovation. Here’s why it is famous:

1. World-Leading Engineering Programs

  • Engineering Faculty: Strathclyde is one of the largest and most renowned engineering faculties in the UK. It excels in areas such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, and aerospace engineering.
  • Rankings: The university consistently ranks highly in global and UK rankings for engineering disciplines. Its research is closely tied to industry, providing students with practical experience.
  • Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Innovation: Strathclyde is home to The Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC) and The National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), which are world-class centers for innovation in manufacturing and technology, collaborating with global firms like Boeing and Rolls-Royce.

2. Strathclyde Business School (SBS)

  • Highly Ranked Business School: Strathclyde Business School is consistently ranked as one of the best in the UK and Europe. It is triple-accredited by AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS, which is a mark of global excellence in business education.
  • MBA Program: The MBA program is world-renowned and has a strong focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership development. It is offered globally in partnership with international institutions.
  • Entrepreneurship and Leadership: Strathclyde places a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and business leadership, producing graduates who are well-prepared to enter the global marketplace.

3. Technology and Innovation Hub

  • Innovation and Research: The University of Strathclyde is at the forefront of technological innovation. It has a strong focus on translating research into practical applications, especially in renewable energy, quantum technologies, and health technologies.
  • Technology and Innovation Centre (TIC): Strathclyde's TIC is a world-leading research center that brings together experts from various fields to work on projects with industry partners. It focuses on areas such as photonics, healthcare innovation, advanced manufacturing, and renewable energy.

4. Energy and Renewable Energy Research

  • Renewable Energy Leadership: Strathclyde is internationally recognized for its work in renewable energy, particularly in wind power, energy storage, and smart grid technologies. Its Institute for Energy and Environment is one of the largest and most comprehensive power engineering and energy research groups in Europe.
  • Offshore Wind and Marine Energy Research: The university plays a key role in the development of offshore wind and marine energy technologies, with strong links to industry and government initiatives.

5. Top in Entrepreneurship and Innovation

  • Strathclyde has a strong reputation for fostering entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. It was named Times Higher Education’s UK University of the Year in 2012 and 2019, largely due to its focus on research commercialization and industry partnerships.
  • Strathclyde Entrepreneurial Network (SEN): The university supports student and alumni startups through the SEN, which has helped launch hundreds of successful businesses.

6. Law School and Public Policy

  • Strathclyde’s Law School is highly respected, particularly in areas like human rights law, criminal justice, and European law. It offers strong connections to both academic research and practical legal training.
  • The university also has significant influence in the field of public policy, especially through its International Public Policy Institute (IPPI), which focuses on policy research and global development.

7. Strong Industry Partnerships

  • Close Ties with Industry: Strathclyde has a long tradition of working closely with industry, government, and public bodies to ensure that its research and teaching have real-world impact. It has partnerships with companies such as Boeing, BP, EDF Energy, and Siemens.
  • Knowledge Exchange: The university emphasizes knowledge exchange and is one of the top UK institutions for generating income from partnerships with industry.

8. Research Excellence

  • Research Power: Strathclyde consistently ranks highly in the Research Excellence Framework (REF), the UK’s assessment of university research quality. It is particularly strong in engineering, business, chemistry, and physics, where it makes a significant global impact.
  • Photonics and Quantum Technologies: Strathclyde is a leader in photonics and quantum technologies, with its Institute of Photonics being one of the key centers for research in light-based technologies.

9. Education and Teaching Innovation

  • Strathclyde is committed to innovative teaching methods and providing students with a practical, industry-focused education. Its approach to learning by doing means students gain hands-on experience, often through placements and collaborations with business partners.

10. Urban and Sustainable Development

  • Strathclyde is involved in urban innovation projects that aim to make cities more sustainable and livable, with research focused on smart cities, urban infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. Its Centre for Sustainable Development plays a key role in addressing global sustainability challenges.

11. Glasgow's Largest University

  • As one of Scotland’s largest universities, Strathclyde has a strong community of over 23,000 students from around the world. Its central location in Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, adds to its dynamic, urban, and international atmosphere.

Awards and Recognition

  • Times Higher Education UK University of the Year (2012, 2019)
  • Queen’s Anniversary Prize for its work in energy innovation and advanced manufacturing.