Nestled in the vibrant city of Dundee, Scotland, Abertay University stands as a beacon of modern education, combining the charm of a close-knit campus with the dynamic energy of city life. With a rich history dating back to 1888, Abertay has consistently evolved to meet the needs of industry, producing graduates who are not only well-prepared for the workforce but also equipped to lead and innovate across a wide range of sectors. Today, Abertay is renowned as one of the UK’s leading tech universities, offering a diverse array of programs that cater to the ever-changing demands of the global job market.
A Warm Welcome to Abertay University
Abertay University is more than just an institution of higher learning; it is a community. From the moment you step onto the campus, you are greeted with a sense of warmth and inclusivity that sets the tone for your entire university experience. The university prides itself on its friendly and welcoming environment, which is reflected in its high student satisfaction ratings. In fact, Abertay has been named the top modern university in Scotland for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey (NSS) 2024. This accolade is a testament to the university’s commitment to providing an exceptional student experience, both inside and outside the classroom.
A Leader in Tech Education
Abertay University has carved out a niche for itself as one of the UK’s leading tech universities. The university is particularly renowned for its expertise in video games education, with its degrees in this field consistently ranked among the best in Europe for the past seven years. But Abertay’s academic offerings extend far beyond gaming. From Mental Health Nursing to Civil Engineering, and from Business Analytics to Ethical Hacking, the university offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for the realities of the modern workforce. Many of these programs also include real-world work experience, ensuring that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also job-ready.
An Inclusive and Friendly Environment
Diversity and inclusivity are at the heart of Abertay’s ethos. The university is home to students from over 60 different nationalities, creating a rich tapestry of cultures and perspectives. This diversity is celebrated and embraced, fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. Abertay also takes pride in its efforts to widen access to higher education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, a priority that has positioned the university as a leader in this area in Scotland.
The university’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its numerous accolades. In addition to being named the top modern university in Scotland for student satisfaction, Abertay has also been ranked in the top 10 in the UK for student experience by the Daily Mail Guide 2024. Furthermore, the university is among the top three in the UK for research intensity among modern universities, according to the Complete University Guide (CUG) 2024.
A Campus That Inspires
Abertay’s compact city center campus is a blend of the old and the new, offering students the best of both worlds. The historic Edwardian Old College stands as a reminder of the university’s rich heritage, while the modern Kydd Building houses state-of-the-art facilities, including the Emergent Technology Centre, the National Centre for Excellence in Computer Games, and Scotland’s only industry-standard food science consumer research lab.
The campus is designed to foster collaboration and innovation. Annie’s Cafe, located across the road from the Kydd Building, serves as the social heart of the campus, offering students a place to meet, chat, or work using free Wi-Fi. Above the cafe lies the cyberQuarter, an £18 million cybersecurity research and development center that works with businesses to raise awareness of cybersecurity and develop cutting-edge solutions.
The recently refurbished Bernard King Library is another highlight of the campus. This award-winning facility provides students with modern learning and collaboration spaces, making it a focal point for academic and social activities.
Excellence in Research and Knowledge Exchange
Abertay University is not just a great place to be a student; it is also a hub of world-leading research. The university’s research teams are internationally recognized for their groundbreaking discoveries, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, video games, and food science. Abertay’s research is characterized by its interdisciplinary approach, with teams working across traditional boundaries to address complex challenges in new and emerging fields.
The university’s commitment to research excellence is matched by its dedication to knowledge exchange. Abertay works closely with industry partners to ensure that its research has a real-world impact, driving innovation and economic growth in the region and beyond.
Dedicated Teaching and Support Staff
At the heart of Abertay’s success is its dedicated teaching and support staff. Many of the university’s academics are actively involved in research or work closely with industry, bringing their expertise and real-world experience into the classroom. This ensures that students are not only learning from world leaders in their fields but are also exposed to the latest developments and trends in their chosen disciplines.
The university also offers a wide range of support services to help students navigate the challenges of university life. From accommodation and financial advice to health and wellbeing support, Abertay is committed to ensuring that every student has the resources they need to succeed. The university’s counseling service provides a safe space for students to work through any issues they may face, while a team of student mentors offers guidance and support to newcomers. The Students’ Association also plays a key role in providing advice and advocacy, ensuring that every student’s voice is heard.
A Vibrant Student Community
The friendly and welcoming environment at Abertay is created by its diverse and vibrant student community. With students from over 60 different nationalities, the campus is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and perspectives. This diversity is celebrated through a wide range of cultural events and activities, creating a rich and dynamic student experience.
Abertay also welcomes a high proportion of mature students, recognizing the value of their life experience and the unique perspectives they bring to the university community. The university’s commitment to widening access to higher education is reflected in its efforts to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
Looking to the Future
Abertay University’s strategic plan is focused on building on its strengths and continuing to provide an exceptional student experience. The university is committed to maintaining its position as a leader in tech education, while also expanding its research capabilities and strengthening its partnerships with industry. Abertay’s goal is to ensure that its graduates are not only well-prepared for the workforce but also equipped to make a positive impact on the world.
In conclusion, Abertay University is more than just a place to study; it is a community where students are supported, challenged, and inspired to achieve their full potential. With its strong focus on teaching, research, and inclusivity, Abertay is a university that truly prepares its graduates for the future. Whether you are a local school leaver, an international student, or a mature learner, Abertay offers a welcoming and supportive environment where you can thrive.