About University of Aberdeen

The third-oldest university in Scotland and the fifth-oldest university in the UK, the University of Aberdeen welcomes students from over 130 countries. It is a top 20 UK university according to the Guardian University Guide 2023 and Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023 and ranks among the best 200 universities in the world (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023). It also ranked fourth in the latest UK National Student Survey for student satisfaction.

Aberdeen has been recognised as a premier research-led institution for its remarkable contributions in addressing real-world challenges. It has produced five Nobel Laureates and has a vast community of alumni across the globe. The university has received the prestigious Queen’s Anniversary Prize on two occasions: in 2017 for its breakthrough impact in health and science globally; and in 2021 for its world-leading research and education in Soil Science. It was at the University of Aberdeen that the first colour photography was developed and research into developing the world’s first MRI scanner was carried out.

The Old Aberdeen and Foresterhill Medical campuses are the major centres of learning and research. Students can choose from a vast range of programmes available from across 12 schools. The university focuses on the professional development of every student. Its programmes are designed based on industry needs, and graduates are welcome to access the full range of appointments available through the Careers and Employability Service for as long as they need them.

Aberdeen is a city rich in culture and history, surrounded by beautiful countryside and coastlines, and has been named one of the safest university cities in the UK. The university offers outstanding sports facilities, including Aberdeen Sports Village and the Olympic standard aquatic centre. Students can also enjoy the many services and amenities available across campus and through AUSA, the students’ association.

Graduate outcomes

Aberdeen offers a Careers and Employability Service to provide students and graduates with the advice and information they need to support their career planning. Students can gain recognition with the Star Awards for skills developed in approved roles within student societies, sports clubs committee memberships, volunteering, and ambassador roles. They can explore enterprise and start a business, volunteer or apply for work placements.

Aberdeen’s alumni go on to make an impact in a range of sectors across the world. Gordon Cameron works for Disney Pixar, Laura Main is an actress in Call the Midwife (BBC drama), Sandy McKinnon set up Foodstory outlets in Aberdeen, and Amy Papiransky was a Traditional Musician of the Year finalist in 2018.

Other alumni have enjoyed success after graduating from the University of Aberdeen. You can find out more on our ‘From Aberdeen To’ web pages.

By studying at the University of Aberdeen, students will be able to take advantage of the active alumni association. The alumni association holds reunions, overseas talks and has mentors and ambassadors internationally. Many alumni support the university with placements, lectures, mentoring and other support of graduates beyond graduation.

What’s new

Science Teaching Hub

The University of Aberdeen's new, state-of-the-art Science Teaching Hub opened its doors in early 2022. The building has been designed around the provision of specialist teaching, training and learning for students across several disciplines such as chemistry, medical sciences, biological sciences and geosciences. Students will be able to learn in laboratory spaces in a digital, completely paperless environment equipped with digital screens on every workbench.

Aberdeen 2040

As part of the university’s 525th birthday celebrations in 2020, a new strategic vision was launched – Aberdeen 2040. Over the coming years, the university will fulfil their 20 commitments to be a more inclusive, interdisciplinary, international and sustainable university. For example, the university is committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions before 2040.

Open Days and Visits

The University of Aberdeen’s 2024 Open Day dates have now been confirmed, and the university also offers Campus Visits to students throughout the year. Students can enjoy a tour of the campus, meet academics, see facilities and ask current students about their experience of studying at Aberdeen.

Postgraduate Virtual Open Days are held three times a year and allow prospective students to speak live with academics about life at Aberdeen, chat with current students, find out about support networks and take virtual tours of the campuses.

This online event is the perfect opportunity to speak with current students, watch live presentations, and ask questions to academic staff.

The event will be held across two sessions, 10am to midday, and 5pm to 7pm, and you only need to attend one session. You can register for the event and find out more here.