Even as Anderson’s Institution in the 18th century, Strathclyde concentrated on “useful learning”.

Some Glaswegians still refer to it as “the tech”.

The nickname does less than justice to the current portfolio of courses, but the university has never shrunk from its technological and vocational emphasis.

Strathclyde aims to offer courses that are both innovatory and relevant to industry and commerce – hence product design and innovation, or international business with modern languages.

Traditional science degrees have continued to prosper, however, with a series of top ratings.

Ratings

All but two of the 26 subjects assessed under Scotland’s original system of grading teaching quality were considered Excellent or Highly Satisfactory.

Its careers service is also rated among the best, having four times won a Government charter mark for customer service. No department reached the top grade of the last research assessments, but ten of the 33 subject areas reached the next rung of the ladder, accounting for 90 per cent of those entered.

Strathclyde’s main strength, however, is in the top-rated business school, which is one of the largest in Europe and the only one in Scotland to be accredited by the European Quality Improvement System.

Business

Business studies students follow an “integrative studies” programme, which is designed to place them in a realistic business environment from day one and involves work with a range of major companies. The scheme is now being piloted in other faculties.

The engineering faculty is also the largest in Scotland, and has linked with Glasgow University to provide a joint department of naval architecture and marine engineering. European focus is evident throughout the university, which has encouraged all departments to adapt their courses to the needs of the single market.

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