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Reason #1: Career Focused Courses and Student Satisfaction
Queen Margaret University delivers relevant degrees to prepare you for a successful and rewarding career. Offering the perfect blend of both theory and practice, our courses have a strong emphasis on employablity, applied learning, work experience and professional accreditation. In the National Student Survey (NSS) 2026, QMU is ranked top amongst all five Edinburgh-based higher education institutions for Teaching On My Course and in the top 4 universities in Scotland overall in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards for 2026.
Reason #2: Successful Career Outcomes
In Graduate Outcomes Survey data published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency in 2026, 76.5% of QMU respondents were in high-skilled work 15 months after they graduated, placing us above the UK higher education sector average of 74.4% and above all other modern Scottish universities on this measure. 86% of respondents said their current activity is meaningful, placing us above the UK average of 83%.
In the Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCA) 2024, 2025 and 2026, which are based on student reviews, we ranked top in Scotland for Career Prospects three years running, while our Employer Mentoring Scheme for students was shortlisted in the Herald Higher Education Awards 2025.
Our 'Careers for Life' service means that as a QMU graduate, you will continue to be able to call on our Careers team for advice throughout your life. With QMU, you can go far.
Reason #3: First Class Learning Facilities
Located in beautiful landscaped grounds just 6 minutes away from the centre of Edinburgh, our modern campus has everything you need for a fulfilling and fun student experience. Our purpose-built facilities, ranked top 4 in Scotland in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2026, boast innovative spaces for teaching and learning.
Meanwhile our on-campus student accommodation offers a secure and comfortable living space just a moment’s walk away from your classes.
And don’t forget the students’ union and state-of-the-art sports facilities, all within easy reach in one vibrant academic village. In the 2026 Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2026, QMU ranked in the top 4 in Scotland for Students' Union.
Reason #4: Learn from Supportive and Approachable Experts
Our staff are renowned in their field and are actively involved in research activities, ensuring that our courses are up to date and relevant. In the 2026 Whatuni Student Choice Awards, QMU ranked 2nd in Scotland for its expert lecturers and high-quality teaching standards. Queen Margaret University is home to strategic research that informs policy and practice which impacts everyday life.
Reason #5: Friendly Campus Community
Thanks to our size, you will never get lost in the crowd at QMU. There is a strong sense of community at our campus, and you will quickly get to know our staff and your fellow students. Plus, our broad range of societies and clubs mean you will have plenty of opportunities to make lifelong friends. As the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025 puts it:
QMU’s campus “bubble” so close to the buzz of Edinburgh’s rich culture and nightlife is a persuasive combination.
In the 2026 Whatuni Student Choice Awards, QMU also ranked 1st in Scotland for its modern on-campus accommodation and 11th in the overall UK rankings.
Reason #6: Ideal Location
Our green campus is perfectly situated with both a breathtaking coastline and the centre of Scotland’s capital within easy reach. Fewer than six minutes by train from Edinburgh city centre, we are within walking distance of Musselburgh town centre and have easy access to East Lothian's beautiful coast and countryside. Want to explore further? Rent out one of our affordable bikes, available right on campus.
Reason #7: Innovative Teaching Methods
As a student at Queen Margaret University, you will benefit from a range of teaching methods to enable you to make the most of your chosen course, including work-based learning and an online virtual learning environment.
We have award-winning innovative learning spaces, including our recently refurbished Learning Resource Centre and our Outdoor Learning Hub.
Reason #8: Our commitment to creating a better society
With social justice central to our values, we focus on courses which will produce graduates ready to make a difference in the world. With us, you can make a better tomorrow.
We are renowned for relevant research and knowledge exchange work which makes a positive impact on society, Plus, our campus is regarded as one of Scotland’s most sustainable, earning a BREEAM (Building Research Establishment's Environmental Assessment Method) rating of “excellent”.
Reason #9: Extracurricular Opportunities
We offer an impressive range of career-enhancing extracurricular opportunities including awards, scholarships, internships and overseas travel. You will also find a Business Gateway and Startup Studio on campus to meet the needs of entrepreneurial students and graduates.
Reason #10: Feel Supported
As part of our comprehensive range of student support services, every student is assigned a Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) who will help guide you through your studies. Your PAT will normally be your main source of advice and guidance relating to your academic studies and can also refer you to other support services if needed.
In the 2026 Whatuni Student Choice Awards, QMU ranked 3rd in Scotland for its exceptional student support services which aim to help students make the most of their time at University, and support their learning, wellbeing and personal development.
In the Times and Sunday Times University League Table 2026, we are are ranked in the top three of Scottish higher education institutions for social inclusion.
Reason #11: QMUEmpower
At QMU, we aim to enable you to thrive, grow and become your best self in your time with us, and to give you the confidence to make your mark when you start your career and throughout your professional life. The QMUEmpower is a package of services empowering you to become your best you.
Reason #12: Looking for more reasons to study at QMU?
Check out our student and graduate testimonials for an insight into student life at QMU and find out more about our accolades on our facts and figures page. QMU student stories QMU facts and figures
