Glasgow Caledonian University rejoins University Alliance

Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) has rejoined University Alliance, reinforcing its commitment to industry collaboration, widening access and delivering work-ready graduates.

University Alliance brings together universities that work closely with employers, industry and public services to deliver professional and technical education, applied research and the high-level skills needed to support the UK's economy.

The move sees GCU return to the Alliance as its second Scottish member, alongside Robert Gordon University, strengthening its role within a national network of universities committed to driving innovation, supporting regional economic growth and equipping graduates with the skills employers need.

As Scotland's largest post-92 university, GCU has an established reputation for widening participation, social innovation and industry collaboration. The University works with more than 300 industry partners, offers a broad portfolio of professionally accredited programmes and is Scotland's leading provider of Graduate Apprenticeships.

More than 90% of GCU graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating. The University was also the highest-ranked modern university in the UK in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026, while 72% of its research was rated world-leading or internationally excellent in the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF). GCU was also named the UK's University of the Year for Graduate Jobs 2026 in the Daily Mail University Guide.

Widening access remains central to GCU's mission. Through partnerships with schools and colleges, the University supports learners from some of Scotland's most underrepresented communities, helping to build confidence, aspiration and opportunity. According to the latest Scottish Funding Council figures, 23% of GCU's Scottish full-time first-degree entrants come from the country's 20% most disadvantaged communities.

Professor Mairi Watson, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Glasgow Caledonian University, said: "Glasgow Caledonian University is delighted to become a member of University Alliance. As a university with a major focus on industry and business engagement, graduate apprenticeships, widening access, and delivering work-ready graduates, there is clear alignment with the Alliance's mission. We look forward to contributing to the group's valuable work."

Vanessa Wilson, Chief Executive of University Alliance, said: "I'm pleased that Glasgow Caledonian University is once again a member of University Alliance. It is a superb addition to our mission group, and its commitment to social impact, widening participation and industry partnerships aligns perfectly with our collective mission.

"We are thrilled to welcome GCU back and look forward to working together to champion a more inclusive and skills-focused higher education system."