Robert Gordon University

Robert Gordon University, commonly known as RGU, is a public university in Aberdeen, Scotland, notable for accepting HND certificates and Third Class degrees for its master’s programmes, alongside considering applicants with non-standard qualifications or relevant work experience.

Institution size

Mid-sized

Min. CGPA floor

2:2 (Lower Second)

Tuition / yr

£16k–£19k

Type

Public university

Key Facts

Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants

• Standard postgraduate entry generally around 2:2 (Lower Second) honours degree
• HND certificates and Third Class degrees accepted for its master’s programmes
• Non-standard qualifications and relevant work experience considered as part of the review process

Tuition and Fees

Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.

Programmes Offered

• Business and Management
• Engineering
• Health and Life Sciences
• Computing
• Law
• Pharmacy
• Architecture
• Nursing

This list covers the primary subject areas available; it is not the full course catalogue. Confirm the complete, current list of programmes directly on the university’s official course finder.

Degree Levels Offered

• Diploma / Certificate: Offered
• Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
• Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
• Doctorate (PhD): Offered
• Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Offered
• Short Courses: Offered

Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.

Scholarships and Funding

• International merit scholarships available on a competitive basis
• Confirm current award terms directly with RGU’s international admissions office

Application Process

1. Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
2. Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
3. Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
4. Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
5. Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
6. Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation

Admission Outlook

RGU’s explicit acceptance of HND and Third Class qualifications, combined with its willingness to weigh non-standard qualifications and work experience, makes it one of the more genuinely flexible UK universities for applicants outside the standard academic pathway.

Campus Life

Aberdeen, Scotland offers a moderate cost of living with strong regional ties to the energy and engineering sectors.

International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.

Other Essential Information

Official Resources

• University homepage: rgu.ac.uk

Compare Robert Gordon University against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.