Abertay University, a European leader in game design education, is noted for its strong academic offerings and supportive learning environment, despite a recent decline in its overall ranking due to graduate employment figures. Last year, the Princeton Review ranked Abertay eighth globally and first in Europe for games design, underscoring its long-standing reputation in the field. The university was instrumental in pioneering the first degrees in video and computer games education, with a curriculum that now includes nine computing-related undergraduate degrees.
Beyond its celebrated games design programs, Abertay offers degrees in accounting, business management, food, psychology, and sport and fitness. The university has recently enhanced its facilities with a new sports therapy laboratory equipped with industry-standard tools for hands-on skill development. Additionally, the Cylera and Cisco Command Centre bolsters the university's capabilities in digital infrastructure and cybersecurity, providing students with practical experience.
Abertay has achieved consistent success in the National Student Survey, placing in the UK top 40 for teaching excellence, student support, and student experience. As one of the UK's smaller universities with under 3,500 full-time undergraduates, it cultivates a supportive atmosphere. However, a significant drop in its overall ranking is attributed to less than 60% of its graduates securing high-skilled jobs, positioning Abertay among the bottom 20 universities in the UK for this metric.
Financial support is available through approximately 30 scholarships, varying in eligibility and conditions. For students from the UK, additional bursaries can help offset the cost of four-year degree programs common in Scotland. Those with household incomes under £17,000 can receive up to £1,750 annually, with reduced amounts for higher income bands. A £1,000 annual scholarship is also offered to UK students in computing/gaming/cyber degrees, regardless of income. Students pursuing other degrees may have their fourth year's fees waived and receive an additional £1,000 scholarship each year.
Accommodation is not university-owned, with students residing in privately supplied halls or houses within Dundee, which is noted as one of Scotland's more affordable cities for living expenses. Many local students opt to live at home, further reducing costs.
Student support at Abertay begins with a personalized first-year curriculum and MySuccess micro-credential modules designed to build essential skills. The university provides comprehensive support services, including academic assistance, pastoral care, and access to mental health professionals. Learner analytics and an app called Study Goal help monitor student progress and identify those at risk. Abertay's commitment to social mobility is evident in its admissions process, with about 20% of students admitted via contextual offers, which consider the applicant's background when evaluating grades. The university also offers a credit-bearing module, 'Wellbeing Tricks and Tools,' to connect students with campus resources.