Robert Gordon University: Where Your Degree Actually Gets You Hired

Choosing a university isn’t just about prestige, it’s about outcomes. Robert Gordon University (RGU), based in Aberdeen, Scotland, has built a reputation not on tradition, but on delivering real-world results. With strong industry links, especially in the energy sector, and a graduate employment rate of over 96%, RGU consistently prepares students for high-impact careers across the globe.

This 2025 guide breaks down everything future students need to know, from tuition fees and course options to campus life and student accommodation in Aberdeen. Whether exploring engineering, business, health sciences, or creative industries, RGU stands out for its practical approach, world-class facilities, and focus on employability.

No distraction, just the facts that matter. Here’s what makes RGU one of the UK’s most career-driven universities.

TL;DR: Why Robert Gordon University (RGU) Stands Out

1. A Truly Global Community: With over 16,000 students from 130+ countries, RGU thrives on diversity and a vibrant multicultural atmosphere.
2. The “Professional University” in Aberdeen: Ranked #91 in the UK, RGU offers 300+ courses designed to bridge theory and real-world application.
3. Career Success by the Numbers: An impressive 96.1% of graduates land a job—or further study—within six months. With strong industry partnerships, especially in the energy sector, RGU is where academics meet opportunity.
4. Affordable Excellence: 2025 fees-

• Undergraduate: £5,070–£18,300
• Postgraduate: £14,920–£20,380

5. A Campus Designed for You: The Garthdee campus is stunning—and smart. It’s backed by a £120 million investment, featuring modern facilities tailored to student life and learning.
6. Proud Acceptance and Satisfaction Stats

• 22% international acceptance rate
• Consistently ranks in the UK top 10 for student satisfaction

Thinking about life outside campus? Don’t miss our guide to the pros and cons of living in Aberdeen, covering everything from weather and nightlife to cost of living and student accommodation.

Why RGU Actually Works?

Robert Gordon University doesn't pretend to be something it's not. They call themselves "The Professional University," and they mean it. While your mates at other universities are writing essays about theoretical concepts, RGU students are in mock courtrooms, TV studios, and engineering labs that look exactly like the places they'll work after graduation. The professors here don't just teach - they actually work in industry. That's the kind of real-world connection you just don't get elsewhere.

What makes RGU special:

• Every course includes proper work experience, not just a week of photocopying
• Industry partnerships that actually matter for your career
• Professors who've worked in the real world, not just academia
• Facilities that mirror actual workplaces
• International students from everywhere (seriously, 130+ countries)
• Graduate employment rates that'll make your parents happy

The Garthdee campus, located along the River Dee, offers a scenic and modern environment built for student success. It’s consistently mentioned in conversations about the best university campuses in the UK, not just for its architecture but for how well it supports learning and wellbeing.

When comparing institutions, RGU also earns its place among the top universities in the UK for students seeking career-focused education, practical experience, and high graduate outcomes.

Aberdeen - More Than Just Oil and Rain

Look, Aberdeen gets a bad rap. People think it's all oil rigs and terrible weather. Wrong on both counts.

Yes, Aberdeen's the energy capital of Europe. But that's brilliant for students because there's money here, jobs here, and opportunities here. The oil industry brought people from everywhere, so you get this amazing international community.

For a fun take on the city’s quirks, check out these fun facts about Aberdeen that might surprise even long-time locals.

Student life perks:

• Way cheaper than Edinburgh or Glasgow (your bank account will thank you)
• Beach walks when you need to clear your head
• Highland adventures are an hour away
• Proper international community, not just British students
• Job opportunities that other cities can't match

The city centre is compact, so it’s easy to walk almost everywhere, no need to spend half your student loan on transport like you might in London. For times when walking isn’t practical, Aberdeen’s public transport is reliable and student-friendly. Learn more about getting around in the transport system in Aberdeen guide.

Aberdeen's hidden gems:

• Belmont Filmhouse (indie films and student discounts)
• Footdee (a tiny fishing village in the city)
• The Green (Victorian park, perfect for summer studying)
• Union Street (main shopping area with everything you need)
• Beach Boulevard (coastal walks and sea air)

For those wondering what to explore between lectures, don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Aberdeen, from indie cinemas to local festivals.

The Campus That Wins Over Even the Harshest Critics

Robert Gordon University’s campus doesn’t just look impressive, it delivers where it counts. With a £120 million investment into cutting-edge facilities, RGU offers a learning environment designed to mirror real-world professional settings. The result? A space that often surprises even the most sceptical visitors.

At the heart of the campus is the striking glass-fronted library, visible from across Aberdeen. Inside, it’s built for productivity, with quiet study pods, collaborative project zones, and 24/7 access during exams, everything today’s students need to thrive academically.

Facilities That Actually Matter for Career Readiness:

• TV and radio studios equipped with broadcast-quality technology
• Engineering labs and workshops featuring industry-standard machinery
• Mock courtroom complete with a judge’s bench and courtroom layout for law students
• Nursing simulation wards that replicate real hospital environments down to the detail
• Business school trading floor with Bloomberg terminals for finance and economics students
• Art and design studios that match professional creative environments
• Olympic-standard sports facilities, including a modern gym, climbing wall, swimming pool, and courts for a variety of sports

RGU’s commitment to hands-on, career-focused education is reflected in every part of the campus. These are not just learning spaces, they’re realistic training grounds that prepare students to hit the ground running in their chosen fields.

Academic Programs That Get You Hired

RGU doesn't mess about with fluffy courses. Everything's designed around one question: "Will this help students get proper jobs?"

Aberdeen Business School

Triple-accredited and seriously well-connected. The professors don't just teach business theory - they run businesses, consult for major companies, and bring real projects into the classroom.

Popular courses:

• International Business Management (study abroad options everywhere)
• Accounting and Finance (Big Four accounting firms recruit heavily here)
• Marketing Management (live client projects from day one)
• Oil & Gas Enterprise Management (unique course, massive demand)

Engineering Excellence

Aberdeen's energy capital status means engineering here isn't theoretical. Students work on real offshore projects, renewable energy solutions, and industry challenges.

Top programs:

• Petroleum Engineering (globally ranked, Shell and BP partnerships)
• Chemical Engineering (year-long placements guaranteed)
• Mechanical Engineering (Formula Student team that actually wins)
• Civil Engineering (sustainable construction focus)
• Electrical Engineering (smart grid and renewable focus)

The placement year isn't optional. It's built into the course. Engineering students spend Year 3 or 4 working for companies like Wood Group, Baker Hughes, or Subsea7. Most get job offers before returning to finish their degrees.

School of Health Sciences

RGU's nursing program consistently outranks more famous universities. Students train in real NHS facilities from day one, not just university mock-ups.

Health programs:

• Adult Nursing (direct NHS employment pathway)
• Mental Health Nursing (growing demand, excellent prospects)
• Physiotherapy (competitive entry, brilliant career prospects)
• Occupational Therapy (unique Scottish qualification)
• Public Health (government and international opportunities)

Clinical placements happen in the Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, which is integrated with the campus. Students literally walk from lectures to real hospital wards.

Computing and Digital Innovation

The computing school focuses on industry-relevant skills, not just academic theory. Students work with IBM, Microsoft, and local tech companies on real projects.

Tech courses:

• Computer Science (software development emphasis)
• Cyber Security (massive demand, excellent starting salaries)
• Data Science (AI and machine learning focus)
• Software Engineering (industry-standard methodologies)
• Digital Media (creative technology combination)

Gray's School of Art

One of Scotland's oldest art schools, but it is housed in modern facilities with professional-standard equipment. Students exhibit in real galleries and work with actual clients.

Creative programs:

• Fine Art (traditional and digital media)
• Design (graphic, product, and digital)
• Fashion and Textiles (sustainable fashion focus)
• Three-Dimensional Design (furniture, jewellery, ceramics)
• Digital Media (animation, game design, interactive media)

The final year exhibition takes over the Aberdeen Art Gallery. Real collectors and buyers attend. Students sell work and get commissions. Looking to compare art and design options across the UK? Don’t miss this roundup of the best art universities in the UK to see how Gray’s stacks up against other leading institutions.

Getting In - The Reality Check

RGU's acceptance rate is 78% overall, but don't let that fool you into thinking it's easy. Popular courses like Nursing, Engineering, and Art are much more competitive.

Entry Requirements That Matter

Standard undergraduate requirements:

English language requirements:

• IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in each section)
• TOEFL iBT: 90 overall
• PTE Academic: 62 overall

But here's the thing - grades aren't everything. RGU looks for students who understand what they're getting into. Your personal statement needs to show you've researched the course and have realistic career goals.

Application Process

UCAS Application:

• £28.50 application fee (worth every penny)
• January 15 deadline (don't leave it late)
• Personal statement crucial (show career focus)
• One reference required (choose someone who knows your potential)

Portfolio requirements (Art & Design):

• 20-30 pieces showing range and development
• Include sketchbooks and work-in-progress
• Digital submission acceptable
• Quality over quantity always

International students apply directly through UCAS but get additional support from RGU's international office. They're genuinely helpful, not just there for marketing.

Interview Tips

Some courses require interviews. Engineering and Business sometimes do phone interviews for international students. Art & Design always interviews.

What they're looking for:

• Genuine interest in the subject
• Understanding of career prospects
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving approach
• Cultural fit with RGU's practical philosophy

To strengthen preparation and boost confidence, explore the 5 tips for university exam preparation, which includes practical strategies that can also help with admissions interviews.

Money Talk - What It Actually Costs

RGU offers incredible value compared to universities in southern England. You get professional-standard education without London prices.

2025 Tuition Fees

Engineering and Computing courses cost more because of lab access and software licenses. Art courses include materials costs. Nursing students often get NHS sponsorship.

Living Costs Reality

Aberdeen's brilliant for student budgets. I've got friends at King's College London spending £2,000+ monthly just on rent and basic living. In Aberdeen, you can live comfortably for £800-£1,200 monthly.

Monthly budget breakdown:

• Accommodation: £400-£800 (depending on preferences and location)
• Food: £150-£250 (cooking vs. eating out)
• Transport: £30-£60 (student bus pass covers everything)
• Entertainment: £100-£200 (nights out, cinema, activities)
• Personal expenses: £100-£150 (clothes, phone, random stuff)

Cook for yourself, and you'll save loads. Aberdeen's got great markets for fresh food, and supermarkets are competitive. For a detailed estimate tailored to individual lifestyles, try the interactive cost of living calculator. 

To dive deeper into day-to-day expenses, explore the full guide on the cost of living in Aberdeen. Those looking for budget-friendly housing options can also check out our comprehensive post on affordable student accommodation in Aberdeen.

Scholarships Worth Applying For

International scholarships:

• GREAT Scholarship: £10,000 (postgraduate master's)
• RGU International Fund: Emergency financial support
• January Start Scholarship: £4,000 tuition discount
• Country-specific scholarships (check with admissions)

UK student support:

• Ardmuir Access Scholarship: Free accommodation for 4 years
• Academic Excellence Awards: Merit-based support
• Sports scholarships: For talented athletes
• Subject-specific awards: Engineering, art, business

Student Accommodation - Where You'll Actually Live

RGU guarantees first-year students accommodation. That's massive considering how competitive student housing has become.

University Halls

• Garthdee Towers: Located right on campus, featuring en-suite rooms and shared kitchens. Ideal for international students seeking the full university experience. Weekly cost ranges from £130 to £180. The social atmosphere makes it easy to meet new people, and its walking distance to campus facilities is a major plus.
• Crathie Student Village: About ten minutes from campus, offering self-catered apartments. Popular among UK students looking for more independence. Weekly rent ranges from £110 to £150.
• Woolmanhill Flats: Situated in the city centre, close to nightlife and shopping areas, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in Aberdeen’s vibrant urban life. Weekly rent is approximately £120 to £160.
• Ramsay Development: The newest addition, featuring studio apartments. A premium option tailored for postgraduates or students seeking more privacy. Weekly rent ranges from £150 to £200.

Private Accommodation – Purpose-Built Student Halls (PBSA)

After the first year, many students choose Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) for the convenience, community, and quality it offers. Aberdeen has a growing range of PBSAs, providing modern, secure, and fully furnished rooms with excellent facilities tailored for student life.

Some of the top student accommodation in Aberdeen includes:

• Spring Gardens: Located near the city centre, offering ensuite rooms with communal social spaces, study areas, and 24/7 security. 
• Causeway View: Modern studios and shared flats, with amenities like a gym, library, and communal lounges.
• St Andrew Street: A stylish building featuring apartments and studios, close to both RGU and the city centre.

For more about living arrangements and locations, check out our detailed guide to the best areas to live in Aberdeen. Popular student areas:

• Old Aberdeen: Historic, close to the University of Aberdeen
• Rosemount: Trendy, good restaurants and bars
• West End: Quieter, professional atmosphere
• Torry: Affordable, up-and-coming area

PBSA options provide hassle-free living with bills often included, on-site maintenance, and opportunities to socialise with fellow students in vibrant communal areas.

Why choose PBSA?

• Fully furnished, move-in-ready rooms
• Inclusive bills for simplified budgeting
• Enhanced security and professional management
• Social events and shared common areas for community building
• Prime locations near campus and city amenities

Learn why live in Aberdeen student accommodation and get comprehensive tips on finding the right place in our student housing guide for Aberdeen.

Student Life Beyond Studying

Robert Gordon University’s social scene often flies under the radar, but it’s vibrant and full of opportunities. The student union hosts over 40 societies and 30 sports clubs, ensuring there’s something for everyone beyond the classroom.

Societies That Matter

Professional societies:

• Business Society: Networking events with industry professionals
• Engineering Society: Site visits and guest lectures
• Nursing Society: Study support and career guidance
• Computing Society: Hackathons and tech talks

Cultural groups:

• International Students Society: Cultural exchange and support
• Indian Society: Diwali celebrations and networking
• African-Caribbean Society: Music events and cultural education
• Chinese Society: Language exchange and festivals

Interest clubs:

• Photography Society: Aberdeen's stunning landscapes provide endless opportunities
• Gaming Society: Tournaments and casual gaming
• Music Society: Bands, choirs, and performance opportunities
• Outdoor Adventure Society: Highland hiking and winter sports

For a full rundown of the exciting activities and groups available, explore the detailed guide on student societies in Aberdeen.

Sports and Fitness

RGU: SPORT offers everything from casual fitness to competitive teams. The facilities rival professional clubs.

Popular sports:

• Football: Men's and women's teams competing nationally
• Rugby: Strong tradition and excellent facilities
• Swimming: Olympic-standard pool and coaching
• Climbing: Indoor wall and outdoor adventure trips
• Martial arts: Multiple disciplines and skill levels

The gym's open early morning until late evening. During exam periods, it's 24/7. Exercise helps manage stress, and the endorphins keep you sane during dissertation deadlines.

To get a better sense of what it’s like living and studying in the city, check out the comprehensive guide on student life in Aberdeen.

Aberdeen Nightlife

Don't believe anyone who says Aberdeen's boring. The nightlife's genuinely good, and student prices make it affordable.

Student-friendly venues:

• The Garage: Live music, alternative nights, student discounts
• Revolution: Cocktails and dancing, popular with international students
• BrewDog Aberdeen: Craft beer and food, great for casual evenings
• Tunnels: Underground venue, club nights and gigs
• The Blue Lamp: Jazz and blues, sophisticated atmosphere

Wednesday nights are student nights everywhere. Drink responsibly, but have fun. Universities are not just about studying.

Cultural activities:

• Aberdeen Music Hall: Touring bands and comedy shows
• His Majesty's Theatre: West End musicals and plays
• Aberdeen Art Gallery: Free entry, excellent exhibitions
• Belmont Filmhouse: Independent films and student screenings

To dive deeper into how to get involved socially and meet like-minded peers, explore the full range of opportunities in our student clubs in Aberdeen blog.

Career Success - The Real Test

RGU's reputation comes from one thing: graduates get jobs. Not just any jobs - good jobs with career progression.

Employment Statistics That Matter

Graduate outcomes:

• 96.1% employment rate within 15 months
• Average starting salary: £24,000-£40,000
• 85% work in graduate-level positions
• Top-performing modern university for graduate prospects

These aren't inflated numbers. RGU tracks graduates for years, not just the first few months after graduation.

Where Graduates Actually Work

Energy sector success stories:

• Shell graduate training programs
• BP project management roles
• Wood Group engineering positions
• Subsea7 offshore operations
• TotalEnergies international assignments

Professional services recruitment:

• KPMG audit and consulting
• PwC business advisory
• Deloitte Technology Consulting
• EY financial services

Healthcare placements:

• NHS Scotland guaranteed employment for nursing graduates
• Private healthcare providers across the UK
• International opportunities (Middle East, Australia, Canada)
• Specialist roles in mental health and public health

Technology and innovation:

• IBM software development
• Microsoft cloud services
• Aberdeen tech startups
• Digital agencies across Scotland

Looking specifically for opportunities in the city, explore the best part-time jobs in Aberdeen for students to make the most of their time while studying.

RGUplus - Career Development Program

RGU doesn't just hope students find jobs. They run RGUplus, a comprehensive career development program.

What RGUplus includes:

• Professional skills workshops
• Industry networking events
• CV and LinkedIn optimisation
• Interview technique training
• Personal branding guidance

Students who complete RGUplus have significantly better employment outcomes. It's free, integrated into courses, and genuinely useful.

Real-world benefits:

• Direct employer connections
• Practice interviews with industry professionals
• Portfolio development guidance
• Professional reference preparation

For international students balancing work and study, understanding the benefits of part-time employment is essential. Discover why part-time work is a valuable experience in our blog on the benefits of part-time jobs for international students in the UK.

International Student Experience

RGU's international community comes from 130+ countries. It's genuinely diverse, not just marketing talk.

Pre-Arrival Support

The international office doesn't disappear after you apply. They help with visas, travel arrangements, and arrival logistics.

Support includes:

• Visa application guidance
• Airport pickup service
• Orientation program
• Banking and mobile phone setup
• Registration with local authorities

To ensure a smooth transition, prospective students can refer to the detailed student checklist for moving to the UK, which covers everything from documentation to essentials for the first days in the UK.

Integration Programs

Buddy system: New international students get paired with current students from similar backgrounds. Not forced friendship, but practical support during the first few weeks.

English language support:

• Pre-sessional courses for students needing language improvement
• Academic writing workshops during the semester
• Conversation groups for practice
• Study skills specifically for non-native speakers

Cultural Adaptation

Aberdeen's international community makes cultural adaptation easier. The oil industry brings families from everywhere, so the city's genuinely multicultural.

Religious facilities:

• Multiple mosques for Muslim students
• Churches of various denominations
• Jewish community and synagogue
• Hindu and Sikh temples
• Buddhist meditation groups

International food:

• Asian supermarkets for speciality ingredients
• Halal butchers and restaurants
• International sections in major supermarkets
• Student cooking groups sharing recipes

Adjusting to life far from home can be challenging. To help cope with these changes, explore practical strategies and emotional support in the blog on how to deal with homesickness as an international student.

Research Opportunities

RGU focuses on applied research that solves real problems. Students get involved from the undergraduate level.

Research Areas

Energy transition:

• Renewable energy technologies
• Carbon capture and storage
• Hydrogen fuel development
• Offshore wind engineering

Students work on projects that influence government policy and industry practice.

Health and social care:

• Nursing practice improvement
• Public health interventions
• Healthcare technology development
• Social care innovation

Digital innovation:

• Cybersecurity solutions
• Data analytics applications
• Software engineering methodologies
• Digital media technologies

Student Research Involvement

Undergraduate opportunities:

• Summer research internships (paid positions)
• Final year dissertation projects with real impact
• Conference presentations and publications
• Collaboration with PhD students

Postgraduate research:

• PhD programs across all schools
• Industry-sponsored research projects
• International collaboration opportunities
• Professional doctorate options for working professionals

You may also be given the opportunity to present research at an international energy conference in Houston. That's the kind of opportunity RGU provides.

Application Timeline

Getting organised early makes the application process smoother and less stressful.

Key Dates 2025

Undergraduate timeline:

• UCAS opens: September 2024
• Application deadline: January 15, 2025
• Interview period: February-April 2025
• Offers made: March-May 2025
• Confirmation deadline: May 2025
• Results Day: August 15, 2025
• Clearing: August-September 2025

Postgraduate timeline:

• Applications open: October 2024
• Rolling admissions throughout the year
• Recommended application: 3 months before start date
• Popular courses fill early (apply by March for September)
• International students: Apply by May for visa processing

Preparation Strategy

12 months before:

• Research courses thoroughly
• Visit campus if possible (or virtual tour)
• Begin personal statement planning
• Arrange school references

6 months before:

• Complete and submit applications
• Prepare portfolios (art students)
• Take English language tests
• Research scholarship opportunities

3 months before:

• Accept offers and confirm choices
• Apply for accommodation immediately
• Begin visa applications (international students)
• Plan travel and arrival logistics

1 month before:

• Complete enrollment procedures
• Join social media groups for new students
• Pack appropriately for Scottish weather
• Set up bank accounts and mobile phones

Making Your Decision

Choosing RGU means prioritising career outcomes over traditional university prestige. That's not for everyone, but it works brilliantly for career-focused students.

RGU suits you if you want:

• Direct pathways to graduate employment
• Industry connections that matter
• Practical, skills-based education
• The international community, without losing Scottish culture
• Value for money education
• Personal attention from professors
• Beautiful campus in a manageable city
• Real-world problem-solving focus

RGU might not work if you prefer:

• Large, anonymous university experience
• Pure academic research over practical application
• Traditional university traditions and societies
• Major metropolitan location
• Theoretical learning over hands-on experience

RGU: The Smart Choice for Serious Students

Thinking of joining Robert Gordon University's professional community? The journey begins with thorough research. Start by exploring course modules and assessment methods that match your career goals. Take time to connect with current students through social platforms and attend virtual sessions or open days. Understanding Aberdeen as both a city and a student destination is key, so factor in its culture, affordability, and lifestyle. Don’t forget to create a realistic budget that includes living costs, travel, and any hidden expenses.

When you're ready to apply, make it count. Craft a personal statement that reflects genuine career insight. Secure academic references early and ensure English language requirements are met well in advance. Submit your application on time and consider applying for scholarships at the same time to boost your chances of financial support.

Once your offer comes through, act quickly. Accept your place, apply for accommodation right away, and begin the visa process without delay. Connecting with other incoming students online helps ease the transition, and participating in orientation activities will ensure a strong start from day one.

Robert Gordon University delivers what many universities claim but few achieve: an education that leads directly to career success. The university’s graduate employment statistics and average starting salaries speak for themselves. With deep, active industry partnerships across sectors, from energy to healthcare and tech, RGU equips students with meaningful work experience, not just academic theory. Graduates leave not only qualified but career-ready.

Aberdeen, often underestimated, offers an exceptional student experience. The city's international community, cultural richness, and natural beauty provide the perfect backdrop for both academic focus and personal growth. It's also one of the most affordable cities in the UK for students, offering great value without compromising on quality.

In the end, choosing a university is about deciding what matters most: prestige or preparation. For those focused on building a future, gaining real-world skills, and stepping straight into employment, Robert Gordon University is a smart and serious choice.