Semester in Stirling
University of Stirling
Explore the natural beauty of Scotland.
Head to Stirling to live in one of the most historic spots in the UK, where many battles were fought for Scottish independence. You’ll learn at University of Stirling, located on an 18th-century estate with a central lake, castle, and even a 9-hole golf course. Get involved in the campus community, join a club or society, and benefit from the school’s holistic health and wellness focus. It may sound quite charming, but there are plenty of opportunities to learn and grow!
What to Expect:
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Language: English
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Average Courseload: 3 courses (12 - 15 US credits)
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GPA Requirement: 2.8
Highlights:
- An academically rigorous university
- Great athletic facilities and intramural sports including American football teams and an Olympic-length pool
- Strong support from the Stirling Study Abroad Office
- Wheelchair accessible
- Extensive outdoor hiking trails on campus
- A campus on the estate of an 18th-century castle
Program Details
University of Stirling
Always dreamt of studying in a castle in Scotland? The University of Stirling is your chance! Located just outside the town of Stirling, the modern campus is often described as one of the most beautiful in Europe. Actually, it recently got ranked 1st in Scotland and the UK for best campus environment! This research-intensive University was built on the 360-acre estate of the 18th-century Airthrey Castle. The original castle and a large, man-made loch are at the center of campus, which is surrounded by the Ochil Hills.
Choose from a wide array of courses to fit your needs and meet your academic goals. It’s easy to get involved on campus by joining some of the many social activities, clubs, and sports teams. While the castle might feel ancient, the University of Stirling is one of Scotland’s more modern, diverse universities. More than 11,000 students from 80 different countries study on this innovative, technologically advanced campus. You’ll notice quality teaching in an outstanding academic environment. The University is renowned for their research, and it aspires to remain one of the top institutions in the UK.
Founded in 1967, the University of Stirling is recognized by the Privy Council and is a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) and the European University Association (EUA). The university ranks 1st in Scotland for good teachers, quality lecturers performance feedback, and sports facilities
Accreditation(s): Recognized by the Privy Council and a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU and the European University Association (EUA)
Areas of study with 3 to 7 classes available
- Art & Design
Don't see your major listed here? There may still be courses available. Browse our programs by major.
Areas of study with 8 or more classes available
- Business
- Communications
- Natural & Applied Sciences
- Health
- Humanities
- World Languages
Don't see your major listed here? There may still be courses available. Browse our programs by major.
As a Semester in Stirling student, you will take three “modules,” or classes, while abroad at the University of Stirling. We encourage all students to select and approve six to eight modules with their academic advisors during the application process, as the timetable for when classes at Stirling will be held is not finalized until shortly before students arrive onsite. Having plenty of backups approved by your school early on in the process will help you avoid stress later on!
Please click here to view the Undergraduate Modules (Incoming Study Abroad) list. You will see that there are multiple faculty lists from which you can select modules. You may take classes across disciplines.
As you check out the course descriptions, here are some tips!
- Make sure you are looking for classes in the correct term– both Autumn and Spring modules will be mixed together!
- Make sure that you take note of the level of the class. This will be stated in the module description. Level 8 modules are introductory level. Level 9 modules are intermediate, and Level 10 modules are advanced. Level 10 modules likely have pre-requisites.
Please note that unless you are in your Freshman year in college, you may take only one Level 8 (First Year) module during your semester at Stirling!
Why Life in Stirling
Stirling is a quaint, picturesque city that is dripping with history. The narrow cobblestone streets and large fortress will take you back in time. Stirling is also known as the Gateway to the Highlands, and it’s where William Wallace, Scotland’s national hero, famously defeated the English at the Battle of Stirling Bridge. Stirling is the country’s capital for government and higher education, making it an ideal place to study abroad.
Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes will truly amaze you—enjoy day trips to the surrounding regions or try to spot the elusive Loch Ness monster in the Scottish Highlands. Don’t be spooked, but Stirling is home to the famous Stirling Castle, which is rumored to be haunted!
With a population of 35,000, Stirling offers city comforts in a small, safe environment. You’ll find a theater, pubs, restaurants, and clubs. You can easily access the city center from campus by regular bus service, or by walking or biking. The bustling and vibrant cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow are 45 and 30 minutes away by train, respectively. Or, you can snag inexpensive flights to other European destinations.
Live The Local Life
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Farmer Markets and Food Festivals
You’ll find weekly local markets with fresh local produce, and regular food and drink festivals countrywide.
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Sports; both as a spectator and participant
Football (soccer) is a national sport and popular throughout the country. One of Glasgow’s teams have made the Champions league and will host such famous opponents as Barcelona and Manchester City! Rugby is also popular as well as Shinty; played with sticks and a ball, mainly in the Scottish Highlands.
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Skiing and snowboarding
Scotland’s five ski centres offer a very different experience to mainstream Europe.
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Hiking
A popular weekend pursuit with 283 separate mountains (now known as the Munros) reaching over 3000 feet.
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Live music
Music sessions pop up regularly in most bars and clubs. Some traditional sessions go back years.
Standard University of Stirling Residence Halls
Location
Live in a private room in a shared flat (apartment) with a shared bathroom, kitchen, and living area. There are multiple laundry facilities where you can do laundry for a small fee.
The University of Stirling campus is considered one of the most scenic campuses in Europe. On Semester in Stirling, most of the housing overlooks the University’s own loch. Living on or near campus is the best way to integrate yourself into university life and take advantage of all that your new home has to offer!
Meals
Meals are not included in housing. However, students will be able to eat on campus or can shop at supermarkets and prepare their own meals in their apartment kitchen.
Inclusions and Amenities
- BathroomEnsuite
- Bed linens
- CommuteWalking
- Desk
- Kitchenette
- LaundryOn-site
- Private Room
- Study Areas
Upgrade to Premium Housing at the University of Stirling
Location
For an additional cost you can enjoy a single room with an ensuite bathroom in one of the campus’s newest dorms. You’ll be living apartment-style, sharing a kitchen and living area with your flatmates. There are multiple laundry facilities where you can do laundry for a small fee.
The University of Stirling campus is considered one of the most scenic campuses in Europe. Living on or near campus is the best way to integrate yourself into university life and take advantage of all that your new home has to offer! Most of the housing CIS Abroad students stay in overlooks the University’s own loch.
Meals
Meals are not included in housing. However, students will be able to eat on campus or can shop at supermarkets and prepare their own meals in their accommodation kitchens.
Inclusions and Amenities
- EnsuiteBathroom
- Bed linens
- CommuteWalking
- Desk
- Kitchen Equipment
- LaundryOn-site
- Private Room
- Study Areas
Off-Campus Housing
Location
The University of Stirling prioritizes accommodation for all incoming Study Abroad students who apply by the deadline dates. Accommodation will be in either University-owned or managed housing which is located both on- and off-campus. Off-campus accommodation is nearby in Stirling city center, with easy access to University bus routes. Information about applying for accommodation will be sent after students are accepted to their course of study.
What's Included
Inclusions
Program fees are in U.S. dollars and include the following:
- Full-time tuition and fees
- Housing
- Medical and accident insurance
- Academic advising
- Financial aid counseling
- Pre-departure orientation
- Assistance with travel arrangements
- CIS Abroad support services before, during, and after the program
- Airport pickup
- On-site orientation
- Student Union fees
- Stirling University official transcript
- The Local Life cultural program
Welcome & Orientation
Upon arrival, you’ll be picked up the airport (nothing like a friendly face after a long flight!) and checked in at your accommodation. In the first few days, take part in both the University and CIS Abroad orientation program, where you’ll learn practical tips for living in Scotland like where to go out, how to stay safe, where to shop. Then, it’s off to explore the capital, Edinburgh, and enjoy a welcome meal.
Farewell & Re-Entry Program
Many alumni stay in touch, and some revisit Scotland with friends and family. Going back home after being abroad and the personal growth during that time can be a shock to your system. Your Site Director will walk you through some of the things to expect, and reflect on your experiences abroad so that you can remember the highlights. We never say goodbye in Scotland, so before you go, we share a “haste ye back” meal to celebrate your time here and make sure you know the “Scottish welcome is always open.”
Program Excursions
Wallace Monument
This world-famous landmark, standing tall and proud outside the city of Stirling, is visible from campus. You can touch and feel it as you follow the story of Sir William Wallace—patriot, martyr, and guardian of Scotland.
The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site
Wander through the Old Town or explore the majestic terraces of the New Town. You’ll want to bring your camera to capture these UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Mountains and Lochs
Towering mountains, glittering lochs, thick woodlands, and miles upon miles of golden beaches—Scotland’s landscapes really will take your breath away. Tour the rolling hills and lush farmland of the Lowlands and drive through deep glens surrounded by mountains in the Highlands.
Site Director
Travel Tip:
Plan ahead of your program! Do your research and reach out to our Alumni to make the most of your time in Scotland. There are so many free and affordable activities, including public galleries and museums, live music sessions, open-to-roam landscape, and a great range of clubs and societies on and off campus!
Travel Tip:
Plan ahead of your program! Do your research and reach out to our Alumni to make the most of your time in Scotland. There are so many free and affordable activities, including public galleries and museums, live music sessions, open-to-roam landscape, and a great range of clubs and societies on and off campus!
About:
Jeanna was born overlooking Loch Ness and grew up in the Highlands of Scotland. She studied in Edinburgh, and after majoring in science went on to work in local and central government. She believes in lifelong learning and remains a student of life! Jeanna has eight years of experience with CIS Abroad (seven as Site Director) and strongly believes in equity and accessible education for all.
“Learning and education has been a strong influence in my family over generations. Education goes beyond the school. Studying abroad is a life changing experience. It allows you to see the world from a new different perspective and to be better prepared for your future in the increasingly globalised world we live in. My job to help you make the most of the many opportunities studying and living in Scotland affords you, and to ensure you have a successful, fun and memorable experience. I have strong Scottish heritage. My Celtic roots give my family our language, music, fun, compassion and culture which continues to this day. Like many Scots, I enjoy the unspoilt nature and landscape here, from great sailing, (and yes surfing) in the West, off-road motorcycle, hiking and skiing in the Highlands to the diverse cultural and multi cultural activities flourishing in many aspects of daily life here.”
Your Support Staff
Make sure to explore the city that you’re in! Although the beauty of study abroad is you have the chance to travel all over the country and to other countries as well, sometimes people forget how many amazing things there are right there in the city they’re studying in! Make some local friends, participate in holidays and festivals, find that local beloved restaurant. Although I have many travel memories to talk about, some of my fondest or most nostalgic moments I have were the ‘in betweens’ so to speak – going grocery shopping with friends, hanging out in the school courtyard at night when the temperature outside was finally bearable, saying hello to the neighborhood cow (yes, there was in fact a neighborhood cow). Don’t neglect what you have right in front of you!
You’ll be supported every step of the way!
Advising
Our advising team can help match you with a program that fits your academic and personal objectives. It’s not always an easy choice, but you can’t go wrong! Once you’ve decided, we’ll guide to you submit an online application.
Enrollment
Once you’ve submitted your initial application and the fee, you’ll be assigned a Program Enrollment Coordinator. We’ll work closely together to guide you through the enrollment process and prepare you for a life-changing experience!
Dates & Prices
ADVISOR TIP: Please WAIT to book flights until you have received confirmed dates in your acceptance paperwork. Dates posted here are subject to change.
- Application Deadline: Oct 1
- Arrival: January 21
- Departure: May 20
- Price: $17,990 - $19,890
- Application Deadline: Apr 15
- Arrival: September 9
- Departure: December 16
- Price: $18,990 - $20,890
- Application Deadline: Oct 1 (Estimated)
- Arrival: January 20 (Estimated)
- Departure: May 18 (Estimated)
- Price: $18,990 - $20,890 (Estimated)
Lower price is for standard housing and higher price is for premium housing.
As with all study abroad programs, you should count on a few additional expenses.
CIS Abroad reserves the right to alter fees at any time due to currency fluctuations and/or fee changes made by our partner universities.