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Celebrations get underway today (Fri 16 June) with the return of Heriot-Watt’s summer graduation programme for 2023 as the University ranks top in Scotland for employability.
More than 2000 students from around the world will collect their academic scrolls in the coming week at Heriot-Watt’s Edinburgh campus and in Galashiels having successfully overcome years of study and the unique challenges brought on by the pandemic.
Many of our students are already in employment in business, technology and governmental roles and others will soon enter employment, some for the first time.
The ceremonies come as Heriot-Watt was ranked top university in Scotland and fourth in the UK for the employability of its graduates.
In the largest annual social survey conducted by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), it has been revealed that an impressive 85.4% of Heriot-Watt graduates secure full-time employment or pursue further study within just 15 months of graduation. This statistic underscores the remarkable success and employability of Heriot-Watt graduates, highlighting their ability to seamlessly transition into meaningful careers or continue their educational journey.
Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor at Heriot-Watt University, said: “During our graduation programme, we celebrate not only the academic achievements of our students but also their own personal sense of purpose to impact our future world.
“Our undergraduates, research doctoral and postgraduates are equipped to lead out and address the opportunities and challenges ahead with conviction, compassion, and with the spirit of continuous learning.
“Many of our students are already in employment in business, technology and governmental roles and others will soon enter employment, some for the first time.
“While they may leave the University today as graduates, they will forever be connected to Heriot-Watt through The Watt Club, joining around 152,000 members in 190 countries.”
A total of 14 graduation ceremonies are lined-up, beginning at the Old Parish & St Paul’s Church in Galashiels on Friday 16 June where students belonging to the School of Textiles and Design will receive their academic qualifications. Ceremonies will continue at the University’s Edinburgh campus throughout next week for students from the School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure & Society; the School of Engineering & Physical Sciences; the School of Social Sciences; and the School of Mathematical & Computer Sciences.
Sir Geoff Palmer, Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, added his congratulations, saying: “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each student and their friends and family. Graduations are a highlight of the year at this University and it is truly an honour to share in the joy of graduates as they leave Heriot-Watt with their new academic qualifications and towards a bright future.”
As part of this year’s graduation programme, the University will welcome three new honorary graduates, representing medicine, mathematics, and music. Further information on each will be released on the University’s website and social media accounts.
Graduation ceremonies are also planned for Heriot-Watt’s Dubai campus on July 4-5 and at the Malaysia campus on 9-10 July.