Heriot-Watt University Review: A Comprehensive Guide
Heriot-Watt University is a global institution with a strong UK base, known for its focus on science, engineering, business, and technology. With roots dating back to 1821, it’s one of the oldest higher education institutions in the UK, based in Edinburgh, Scotland. It has a reputation for producing work-ready graduates with strong industry links, especially in fields like engineering, computing, construction, and finance.
Heriot-Watt University Summary
- City: Edinburgh
-
Graduate Employment Rate：
84% within 15 months of graduation.
Table of Contents
Overview of Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University is a leading UK institution recognised for its focus on practical, industry-aligned education. With its main campus in Edinburgh, it also operates in the Scottish Borders and Orkney, and has international campuses in Dubai and Malaysia. This global reach makes it one of the most internationally connected universities in the UK.
The university is best known for its strong emphasis on science, engineering, business, mathematics, and technology. It works closely with employers to shape its programmes, giving students access to real-world projects and work placements. They consistently rank well for graduate employment, with many students moving into high-demand sectors such as data science, renewable energy, construction, actuarial science, and financial services.
Students benefit from modern facilities, expert teaching, and a supportive academic environment. With over 27,000 students from around the world, the university offers a global learning experience while maintaining a strong Scottish academic tradition.
Heriot-Watt University Rankings 2026
UK Ranking (Complete University Guide 2026): 25th
World Ranking (QS World University Ranking 2026): 287th
Heriot-Watt University Courses and Programmes
BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying
Duration: 4 years
Location: Edinburgh
Start Date: September
Heriot-Watt’s Quantity Surveying degree equips students with the essential financial, contractual, and technical knowledge needed to become professional quantity surveyors. The course focuses on ensuring that construction projects deliver value for money and are managed effectively from design to completion.
Key Features:
Industry-Focused Curriculum:
You’ll start with the basics of building construction, then specialise in cost management, contracts, and legal aspects of construction projects.
Comprehensive Skill Development:
Learn how to provide strategic advice, manage budgets, work with architects and consultants, and oversee the full lifecycle of a project.
Expert-Led Learning:
Taught by research-active staff and professionals from the construction and engineering sectors. Regular guest speakers from the industry give insights and help you build your professional network.
Strong Research Foundation:
The programme is informed by the research from the Institute of Sustainable Built Environment (ISBE), and part of the School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society (EGIS) – a leading institution in construction and sustainability.
Recognition and Rankings:
- 96% of engineering research rated as world-leading (REF 2021)
- Ranked 1st in Scotland and 3rd in the UK for engineering research (joint submission with University of Edinburgh)
- Member of the Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Design, backed by the Royal Academy of Engineering
BSc (Hons) Computer Science
Duration: 4 years
Location: Edinburgh
Start Date: September
This professionally accredited Computer Science degree offers a strong foundation in core computing principles while developing practical skills in software development, systems design, and artificial intelligence. Designed with direct input from industry, the course prepares students to build robust, innovative technologies for real-world applications.
Why Choose This Course?
Heriot-Watt was one of the first UK universities to offer undergraduate computing degrees. Today, it remains a leader in Computer Science, Data Science, Software Engineering, and AI education.
Hands-On Learning Environment
- Access to the GRID (Global Research, Innovation and Discovery) facility featuring VR labs and a Games Design Studio.
- Student Equipment Fund to support personal and course-related tech purchases like Raspberry Pis, Oculus Rifts, and drones.
- Engage with real-world tech challenges from day one.
International Opportunities
- Go Global Programme: Study a semester or more at the Dubai campus.
- Exchange Partnerships: Notably with the Australian National University in Canberra.
Home of the National Robotarium
- Based on campus and developed in partnership with the University of Edinburgh.
- Focused on creating robotics and AI solutions with industry, fast-tracking innovation from lab to market.
- Direct involvement in training the next generation of robotics and AI professionals.
Research-Driven Teaching
- Delivered by enthusiastic staff with active research roles in AI, machine learning, systems, and software engineering.
- Benefit from current innovations and deep academic expertise throughout your studies.
BEng (Hons) Chemical Engineering
Duration: 4 years
Location: Edinburgh
Start Date: September
This industry-focused degree gives students a solid foundation in chemical and process engineering. It blends science, maths, and engineering with practical skills, preparing graduates to become professional engineers in a wide range of sectors.
Key Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Top Rankings | – 1st in the UK for Chemical Engineering (NSS 2024) – 2nd in Scotland and 10th in the UK (Times & Sunday Times 2024) |
| Pathway Flexibility | – Option to transfer to MEng after Year 4 – Specialisms available in: Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Computational Chemistry, Biology, Materials and Nanoscience. |
| Final Year Project | Group-based project applying practical and theoretical knowledge |
| Professional Links | – Free student membership with IChemE – Programme shaped by latest industry and research developments |
Research Excellence
| Research Quality | 96% of engineering research rated world-leading (REF 2021) |
|---|---|
| Research Institutes | – IMPEE (Mechanical, Process and Energy Engineering) – Research Institute for Biological Chemistry, Biophysics & Bioengineering |
| Energy Academy | University-wide centre linking all energy-related research and innovation |
Heriot-Watt University Entry Deadline
| Date | What Happens |
| 13 May 2025 | Applications open. Students can start filling in their UCAS forms. |
| 2 Sep 2025 | Students can start submitting completed applications to UCAS. |
| 15 Oct 2025 (6pm) | Deadline for Oxford, Cambridge, and most medicine, dentistry, vet courses. |
| 14 Jan 2026 (6pm) | Main deadline for most undergraduate courses. |
| 26 Feb 2026 | UCAS Extra opens. Students with no offers can apply for more courses. |
| 30 Jun 2026 (6pm) | Last date to apply before Clearing. After this, applications go to Clearing. |
| 5 Jul 2026 | Clearing opens. Students can view and apply to available places. |
| 24 Sep 2026 | Final deadline to apply for 2026 entry. |
| 19 Oct 2026 | Last date to add a Clearing choice. |
Heriot-Watt University Entry Requirements
Minimum English and Maths Requirements (All Courses)
| Subject | Qualification | Grade Required |
|---|---|---|
| English | National 5 or GCSE | Grade C / GCSE Grade 4 |
| Mathematics (or Applications of Maths) | National 5 or GCSE | Grade C / GCSE Grade 4 |
| Exceptions | Maths is not required for: – Language programmes – Fashion programmes – Business Management (Edinburgh Business School) |
UK Qualifications
| Qualification | Entry Notes |
|---|---|
| A-Levels | Offers are based on subject relevance and grade (e.g. ABB–BBB). May qualify for direct Year 2 entry. |
| BTEC Level 3 (Extended Diploma) | Accepted. Some courses may also ask for specific A-Levels alongside BTEC. |
| VCE Double Award | Accepted. |
Heriot-Watt University Fees
Fees vary by course, here are some of the 2025/2026 fees:
MA Accountancy and Finance
UK
International
BSc (Hons) Computer Science
UK
International
Heriot-Watt University Facilities
The Edinburgh Campus is home to Oriam – Scotland’s National Sports Performance Centre.
This £33 million facility offers top-level training infrastructure for elite athletes and everyday users alike.
Key Features of Oriam:
- National training base for Scotland’s football and rugby squads
- Designed for elite performance and high-level competition
- Open to students, staff, the public, and local sports teams
- Supports coaches, athletes, and volunteers across a range of sports
- Built to encourage collaboration and development in sport
Heriot-Watt University Notable Alumni
Fiona Hyslop – Former Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Fair Work and Culture.
Iain Baikie – Physicist and entrepreneur, founder of KP Technology.
Aamer Anwar – Prominent Scottish human rights lawyer and Rector of the University of Glasgow.
Adam Crozier – Former CEO of ITV and Royal Mail, and Chairman of BT Group.
Chris Whitty – Chief Medical Officer for England
Sir Moir Lockhead – Former Chief Executive of FirstGroup and Vice-Chair of the Scottish Government’s Council of Economic Advisers.
Kate Forbes – MSP and former Scottish Finance Secretary
Robert Buchan – Mining entrepreneur and philanthropist.
Mark Cousins – Film director and critic known for The Story of Film: An Odyssey.
Gillian Docherty OBE – CEO of The Data Lab and advocate for AI and data innovation in Scotland.
Experience the City of Edinburgh as a Student
Living and studying in Edinburgh offers a rich student experience shaped by history, culture, and a vibrant social scene.
As a student, you’ll find the city compact and walkable, with efficient public transport linking Heriot-Watt’s campus in the west to the city centre. There’s plenty to do, from exploring the historic Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle to hiking up Arthur’s Seat for a city view.
The city is home to multiple universities, giving it a strong student population and a lively social atmosphere. You’ll have access to music venues, cafés, festivals, and museums – many of them free. The annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe transforms the city every August, drawing artists and visitors from across the globe.
Edinburgh is also well connected for weekend trips, with direct rail lines to Glasgow, London, and the Highlands. If you’re from overseas, this helps make travel across the UK easier and more accessible.
How much does it cost to live in Edinburgh as a Student
Accommodation
£450 – £650
Food and Groceries
£150 – £250
Transport
£40 – £60 (bus pass)
Other Expenses
£50 – £100
Heriot-Watt University Contact Information
- Official website: https://www.hw.ac.uk/
- Address: Edinburgh EH14 4AS, United Kingdom
- General information for international students: +44 131 449 5111
