Robert Gordon University: What it's really like

Want to study in an idyllic location in Scotland? Robert Gordon University (RGU) could be for you…

RGU at a glance:

Patricia, Student Recruitment Officer and Robert Gordon graduate, explains what student life at the university looks like.

What is Robert Gordon University?

Robert Gordon University (RGU) is situated in Aberdeen, Scotland, along the banks of the beautiful River Dee. It’s a campus university, with its 11 faculties spread across the campus. Subjects taught here include computing, art and design, engineering, the health professions, and architecture.

Why apply to RGU?

Robert Gordon has been voted the top modern university in Scotland for graduate prospects (Guardian University Guide 2022). Getting a good job after you graduate is a big part of why you should go to university, so this shows that we stand out when it comes to making you employable after your studies.

RGU also offers competitive fees and scholarships - courses start from £5000 a year. Aberdeen is also such a welcoming city, and the university echoes this, with lots of activities for you to get involved in and ways to make friends.

Who isn’t the right fit for RGU?

We’re looking for students that have made an informed decision before they come here. That means you should do your research on the courses on offer, the city itself, and the types of teaching. It’s worth also bearing in mind that this might not be the right place for you if you don’t want to have to pack for all four seasons!

Any application tips? 

Be yourself! Think about which of your skills and interests will fit nicely into the degree you’re applying for. Your Personal Statement should showcase who you are, what you’re passionate about, and where this degree will take you.

It’s important to look at the entry requirements for each degree, but bear in mind that RGU will consider non-traditional qualifications and relevant experience. 

What’s the location like?

RGU is located in Aberdeen, which is famous for its sparkling granite architecture. It’s in the beautiful countryside of Aberdeenshire, which is considered the gateway to the Cairngorms mountain range, as well as being right by the sea. So you can spend your weekends hiking, enjoying the beach or exploring nature locally.

Aberdeen as a city has vibrant nightlife; museums and art galleries; world-class performance venues; and year-round festivals and events. It’s busy and bustling, without being overcrowded.

What facilities does RGU have to offer?

Something we’re really proud of at RGU is our investment in state-of-the-art facilities. For example, we have a wind tunnel, a courtroom, a forensic imaging suite, medical ward… all of these giving students a learning experience that’s as close to a ‘real life’ scenario as possible.

The campus also has a beautiful library tower with amazing views of the city. There’s a sports centre with a gym, climbing wall and swimming pool (fun fact: we’ve had an Olympic swimmer here using the pool!).

What is the accommodation like?

There are three RGU accommodation sites across the city, and one on the campus.

All the off-campus sites are in well thought-out locations, so they’re all either a short walk or quick bus trip to campus. They’re also in convenient locations for working part-time whilst you study, which is handy if your degree is one of the many at RGU that include a placement option.

The on-campus halls, Woolmanhill, are a popular option. There are lots of events here where students can meet and make friends; plus, it’s the most cost-effective option (prices start from around £85 a week). There’s a bus that leaves the halls in the morning and returns in the evening too. 

How does RGU meet the needs of students with different accessibility requirements?

RGU wants everyone to have the best possible learning experience. Its Inclusion Centre: Disability and Dyslexia provides a tailored approach to every student who needs support, and can even offer one-to-one meetings to discuss your needs before your arrival at the university. 

Want to explore more UK universities? Remember, Unifrog’s Shortlisting tool can help you put together a list of great potential courses.