The University of the West Scotland is one of Scotland's most vocational higher education institutions, having close ties to industry and business. As part of many degrees, students can choose a year of paid work experience. Computing is a significant competency, as evidenced by a good teaching evaluation. The university also houses Scotland's largest health, nursing, and midwifery school. In recent examinations, accounting and finance research was rated world-class, the highest of any topic at a contemporary Scottish institution.
- International students in the United Kingdom can apply for scholarships and bursaries at the University of the West of Scotland. Bursaries are given out based on financial need, whereas scholarships are given out based on academic merit.
- The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme is a partnership between the Department for International Development and the University of the West of Scotland to provide scholarships to students from Commonwealth nations. Saltire Scholarships of 8,000 GBP (760296.92 INR) are available for postgraduate master's students participating in a one-year full-time programme in Science, Technology, Creative Industries, Healthcare & Medical Sciences, Renewable & Clean Energy in Scotland.