University Profile
University of Dundee
University of Dundee campus
Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
About University of Dundee
The University of Dundee, established in 1881 as a federated college of St Andrews before achieving independence in 1967, has developed into Scotland's foremost institution for life sciences, art and design, and medical education. Its reputation for excellence in medicine and dentistry is supported by strong clinical partnerships with NHS Tayside, providing students with exceptional hands-on training.
Dundee's art school — Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design — is renowned globally, particularly for textile design and visual communication. In life sciences, the university is a world leader in cancer research, immunology, and drug development, with the School of Life Sciences consistently ranked among the UK's top five.
Key Highlights
- 1Ranked #1 in UK for biological sciences research intensity
- 2Duncan of Jordanstone College among world's leading art and design schools
- 3Leading cancer research institution with world-class oncology facilities
- 4Top 10 UK for medicine and dentistry with exceptional clinical training
- 5Designated Beacon of Excellence in learning and teaching by UK government
Campus & Student Life
Dundee's compact, integrated campus provides a close-knit community on the banks of the River Tay. The student union and 80+ societies create a vibrant social scene, while the city's reputation as a creative hub means student engagement with local arts and design communities is extensive. The V&A Museum of Design — one of only two outside London — is a five-minute walk from campus.
For North American Students
Min. GPA (indicative)
Not specified
SAT/ACT Accepted
Not typically required
Application Route
Via UCAS
English Requirement
Check university website
Dundee actively recruits North American students for medicine, dentistry, and postgraduate research. The distinctive practical approach and strong industry connections appeal to American and Canadian students. Many NA students are attracted to Dundee's medical programmes, which offer training pathways and clinical experience with NHS Scotland that differ from North American models.
Research Strengths
Notable Alumni
D'Arcy Wentworth Thompson
Mathematical biologist and author of On Growth and Form
Tay Zonday
YouTube personality and cultural figure
Margaret Fairlie
Pioneer of gynaecological medicine in Scotland
Brian Cox
Actor (Succession, Troy) — grew up in Dundee with university connections
Key Facts
- Founded
- 1881
- Total Students
- 17,000+
- International Students
- 25%
- Tuition (Int'l UG)
- £18,000 – £24,500/yr
- Campus Setting
- City campus
📍 About Dundee
Dundee, on Scotland's east coast, is experiencing significant cultural regeneration. The V&A Museum of Design has transformed the waterfront and strengthened the city's reputation as a centre for creative industries. Dundee offers direct access to the Highlands, Perthshire, and St Andrews (20 minutes away). The city combines maritime heritage with contemporary innovation.
Ready to Apply?
UK undergraduate applications are made through UCAS. Postgraduate applications go direct to the university.
Visit University Website →Check UCAS Points →