Battle of the Universities: Glasgow University vs Strathclyde University
The city of Glasgow is perhaps best known for its celebration of culture, including music and architecture. Of course, there is also the well-known rivalry between its two major football teams, Celtic and Rangers. It is one of the friendliest cities in the world and, with the largest population of inhabitants in Scotland, the slogan ‘people make Glasgow’ is very fitting.
Glasgow is also famed for its focus on education and has aims to become a world class learning city. Consequently, there are plenty of universities to choose from for those seeking to study here. This blog will compare two of the most popular: the University of Glasgow (UofG) and the University of Strathclyde (UofS), to see if either would be a perfect fit for you.
Academic reputation:
Established in 1451, the University of Glasgow is one of the oldest in the world. As a global university, it is proud to be a founding member of many international networks. Extremely environmentally conscious, it was also the first European university to declare it would cease using fossil fuels by 2024. The university is very highly ranked, finishing 82nd in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023 and 11th in the Guardian UK University Guide 2023.
The University of Strathclyde finished 18th in the same Guardian survey. Not to be outdone, it was also ranked as the University of the Year in the Times Higher Education Awards in 2012 and 2019. Its focus is centred on being a socially progressive university which unites people of all backgrounds. It believes that big ideas can change the world and is at the heart of the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland – an international centre to drive innovation and skills development.
Courses on offer:
Both universities have plenty of courses on offer. The University of Strathclyde has a huge Business School and is renowned for its degrees in Accounting and Finance. In addition, it houses large Engineering and Science faculties. It is also possible to study Humanities and Social Sciences, such as Law, Education and Social Work.
The University of Glasgow offers around 700 undergraduate degrees so there really is something for everyone! It ranks particularly highly for Medicine, English and Geography. However, being a Russell Group University, any degree from UofG will be highly respected by employers.
Life on campus:
Designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott, the University of Glasgow is arguably one of the most picturesque in the world and is said to be the inspiration behind Hogwarts. As a campus university located in the West End of Glasgow, it is within easy reach of the city centre via bus or subway. There are several free museums within the campus, including The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and The Hunterian. Shops, cafés, bars, supermarkets and a cinema can all be found in the local area.
The University of Strathclyde is also a campus university, with the added bonus of being much closer to the city centre. On site can be found the beautiful Andersonian Library - home to around one million books. Other practical facilities include a laundrette, nursery and lots of places where you can grab a quick snack to keep you going. Those studying here are only a ten-minute walk from the centre of Glasgow, and have easy access to Buchanan Street Galleries and Bus Station as well as Glasgow Central and Glasgow Queen Street train stations.
Social life:
The size of both universities means students are never short of activities to do in their free time. The University of Strathclyde has around 200 societies to choose from. It also possesses one of the biggest and most diverse student sport communities in Scotland.
The University of Glasgow also has a large variety of societies, some of which are very niche. If you’re feeling bored, you can always pop along to the Hat Society or the Juggling Society! It also has good sporting facilities, although the cost of membership is much more expensive than at the University of Strathclyde.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, both universities would be a good choice for those wishing to study in Glasgow. For students wishing to live close to the city centre, the University of Strathclyde could be a perfect choice. On the other hand, the University of Glasgow is ideal for those who want to be part of a large student community. Either university would allow you to be a part of ground-breaking research and huge ideas which will undoubtedly shape the future of education and beyond.
For great student accommodation in Glasgow search Accommodation for Students today. Check out our Battle of the Universities: Edinburgh edition.
