Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt University is a world-leading institution with strong links to international industry driven by research and innovation in STEM, business and design. With a rich heritage stretching back to 1821, Heriot-Watt is a truly global university bringing together scholars and subject matter experts to offer a wide range of masters courses across full time, part time and online study models. They are in the top 13% of universities in Europe (QS Europe Rankings 2026), and students at Heriot-Watt have access to pioneering research and teaching, with almost 90% of the university’s research output ranked as world-leading and internationally excellent (Research Excellence Framework 2021).

Heriot-Watt Webinar Series

Become a drinks-sustainability expert
If you're looking to upskill or develop sustainability expertise relevant to the drinks industry, our webinar on Wednesday 6 May could be the perfect next step.

Become a biomedical engineer
Looking to apply your engineering expertise to healthcare, medicine and technology? Join our webinar and find out how you can shape a career as a biomedical engineer.

Become a quantum technologist
If you're curious about the rapidly expanding world of quantum technologies, or thinking about how you could be part of the next major scientific and technological shift, our webinar could be your perfect next step.

Become a mathematician
Fast-track your career as a mathematician. Join our webinar to find out about current postgraduate study options and take the first step to securing your future.

Become an architect
If you’re interested in shaping the built environment, or exploring a future where creativity meets technical expertise, our webinar could be the ideal next step.

From engineer to leader
Discover how Heriot Watt’s new Masters programme in Engineering Management helps engineering graduates and professionals combine technical depth with strategic leadership.

What is Heriot-Watt University known for?

Heriot-Watt University is internationally recognised for its research-led teaching and industry-focused postgraduate programmes. With five global campuses and a strong emphasis on employability, it produces the highest percentage of CEOs and Managing Directors in Scotland (Novuna 2025). Heriot-Watt is also ranked 1st in Scotland and 2nd in the UK for positive graduate outcomes in the 2024 Graduate Outcomes survey. Why study at HW?

Where is Heriot-Watt University and what’s the setting like?

Heriot-Watt’s campuses in Edinburgh, Scottish Borders and Orkney each offer bespoke facilities and a distinctive learning environment.

The Edinburgh campus is situated on 380 acres of beautiful parkland just outside of the city centre. Voted 3rd best city in the world (Time Out 2026) and top 2 in the UK for students (QS Best Student Cities 2025), Edinburgh is one of Europe’s most internationally connected cities.

• Top 10 in the UK for, Building, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics, and Town and Country Planning (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2026)
• Top 2 in Scotland for Economics, Mechanical Engineering, Construction, Surveying & Planning and Economics (Guardian University Guide, 2026)

What are the standout course offerings at Heriot-Watt University?

Heriot-Watt offers a wide range of courses across full time, part time and online study models.

Their international, industry-connected faculty are leaders in STEM, business and design, and know exactly what employers are looking for in their graduates.

• Top 10 in the UK for, Building, Chemical Engineering, Mathematics, and Town and Country Planning (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2026)
• Top 2 in Scotland for Mechanical Engineering, Construction, Surveying & Planning and Economics (Guardian University Guide, 2026)

What are the entry requirements and fees?

Entry requirements vary by programme and typically include a relevant undergraduate degree and English language proficiency at postgraduate level. Tuition fees depend on the programme and residency status. Scholarships are available for both UK and international students.

For more information on funding, visit our funding page.

For specific programme entry requirements, please review the entry information on the programme page on the website.

What is student life like at Heriot-Watt University?

Students enjoy a rich campus life with access to clubs, societies, and wellbeing services. Students are supported on-campus with the counselling service, which provides safe spaces to talk and Student Success Advisors, all recent Heriot-Watt graduates, are there to listen and provide guidance. Additionally, the SafeGuarding team is available 24/7 with trained mental health first aiders visible across campus.

Safe, modern accommodation is available for all postgraduate students. See accommodation for more information.

What facilities does Heriot-Watt University offer?

The Edinburgh campus features a £7M Postgraduate Centre that combines excellent facilities and networking opportunities with postgraduate students from across the University. Heriot-Watt is also home to the UK’s leading innovation hub in robotics and artificial intelligence – The National Robotarium, and Scotland’s national sports performance centre Oriam.

How does Heriot-Watt University support your career?

The award-winning Careers Service offers lifelong support from day one. Graduates benefit from access to career guidance, CV checks, and mentoring throughout their studies and beyond.

What do students say about Heriot-Watt University?

"I would recommend studying at Heriot-Watt University because of its strong academic foundation, global perspective, and supportive environment. The teaching staff are incredibly knowledgeable and approachable, and the university fosters both independent thinking and collaboration. My time there gave me not only a solid academic background but also practical skills and international exposure that have been essential in building my career."

- Levina Mary Binu, MSc International Business Management with Industry placement

How do you apply to Heriot-Watt University?

Applications are submitted via the university’s online portal. Deadlines vary by programme.

What else should you know about Heriot-Watt University?

The university hosts regular open days and events. At the Postgraduate Events, you can chat with academics, hear about your funding options and ask current students about their experiences.

Postgraduate webinars will run from May 4 – May 8 with the series focusing on useful postgraduate topics like funding, admissions and visa support.