RGU shortlisted for UK University of the Year

National recognition for a connected approach

RGU's University of the Year submission showcased how teaching, research, innovation and civic engagement work together to deliver benefits for students, employers and communities.

Over the past year, the University has strengthened its research environment through the creation of nine new Research and Innovation Centres focused on areas including artificial intelligence, health, sustainability, culture and future skills.

The University also continues to expand opportunities beyond campus. The RGU Hub programme engaged more than 1,000 senior pupils across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire, while the RGU Startup Accelerator continues to support entrepreneurship and innovation across Scotland.

Preparing students for life beyond graduation

Professor Steve Olivier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of RGU, said: "Being shortlisted for University of the Year is a tremendous achievement and a testament to the talent, dedication and ambition of our students, staff and partners.

"At RGU, we believe higher education should prepare people not just for graduation, but for life and work beyond it. Our work-integrated approach brings together teaching, research, innovation and real-world experience to ensure students develop the skills, confidence and connections they need to thrive.

"This national recognition reflects the impact we are creating together, from widening access to higher education and strengthening our research culture, to supporting innovation, employers and communities across Scotland and beyond."

 A university students can be proud of

Ramadan Ade Adebisi, President (Education and Democracy) of RGU Students' Union, said: "Students come to RGU to gain more than a degree. They want the experience, skills and connections that will help them build successful futures.

"What makes RGU special is that employability doesn't start in the final year. Students are supported to develop professionally from day one through real-world projects, industry connections, volunteering, research and enterprise opportunities.

"This shortlist is recognition of a university that is committed to helping students turn their potential into impact, and that's something the whole student community can be proud of."

 Recognising excellence across higher education

Commenting on this year's shortlist, Chris Havergal, Editor of Times Higher Education, said: "These continue to be challenging times for our higher education sectors, but that makes it only more important to celebrate the contribution of the teams and individuals who continue to transform lives for the better, week in, week out, across the UK and Ireland.

"To have again received more than 500 entries is a sure sign that our sectors' commitment to improving the societies they serve is undimmed, and we offer our sincere congratulations to all the institutions and individuals shortlisted. It is a huge achievement to have reached this stage in another very competitive year.

"Too often the outstanding endeavours of academics and higher education professionals are overlooked in the public narrative about our universities. We hope that our awards ceremony in Birmingham this November will contribute towards changing the conversation about these vital institutions and the people who work in them."

The winners of the Times Higher Education Awards will be announced in November.