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Queen Margaret University

Musselburgh, United Kingdom

  • Cost of Living£ 18,192
  • Tuition Fee From£ 7,000
  • Country Rank#120
  • Batch Strength3,884
  • Global Diversity17.7%
  • Gender Ratio21 : 78

Overview

About

Queen Margaret University is a public university located in Edinburgh, Scotland. 

Initially, it was founded by Christian Guthrie Wright and Louisa Stevenson as the Edinburgh School of Cookery. Later, the institution started to be known as Queen Margaret University in the year 1999. The university's current mission is to support a learning environment that enables students to successfully complete their academic goals and make valuable contributions to society. 

 

The college provides students with a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees to choose from. Business management, acting and performance, costume design and construction, drama, education studies, and film and media are just a few of the topics covered in Bachelor's level courses. Those who want to attend the university for a postgraduate degree can apply for admission in fields such as accounting and finance, art therapy, dietetics, and gastronomy. The university's Effective Learning Service aids learners in improving their research and academic writing abilities.

 

The diverse student body at this university hails from over 60 countries. There are approximately 5,000 students studying here with 4,604 students at the undergraduate level and 1,361 students at its postgraduate courses. QMU is known for its innovative approach to teaching and learning, and it has been awarded the highest rating possible for teaching quality by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA).

 

In terms of research, QMU has a number of research centres and institutes that focus on a wide range of issues, including health and social care, business and management, and performing arts. Over 30,000 graduates from Queen Margaret University are connected through a global network that spans about 90 nations. Tam Dean Burn (Actor), Sally Gray (TV Host), Simon Neil (Singer), Craig Hill (Comedian) and Jeanie Drynan (Actress) are just a few of the notable alumni in its network.

Ranking

Queen Margaret University, a public institution in Musselburgh, Scotland, has shown varied performance in recent rankings. In the 2025 QS World University Rankings, it placed 951st globally, a decline from its 801st position in both 2024 and 2023. However, The Complete University Guide for 2025 saw QMU rise to 87th among UK universities, improving from 102nd in 2024 and 93rd in 2023. The Guardian University Guide for 2024 highlighted a significant improvement, ranking QMU 63rd, a substantial jump from 89th in 2023 and 85th in 2022. Founded in 1875 and granted university status in 2007, QMU is renowned for its vocational focus, particularly in health sciences, social sciences, and performing arts. Popular programmes include Nursing, Physiotherapy, Business Management, and Drama and Performance. Despite fluctuations in global rankings, QMU's improved national standings reflect its commitment to providing specialised, career-oriented education in a modern campus setting near Edinburgh.

 

Queen Margaret University - QS Ranking 2025

In the QS World University Rankings for 2025, Queen Margaret University is ranked 951st globally, which represents a slight decrease from its position at 801st in 2024 and 801st in 2023. 

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Europe

-

341

-

World University

801

801

951

 

Queen Margaret University - The Guardian Ranking 2024

In The Guardian University Guide Ranking for 2024, Queen Margaret University achieved a notable improvement, ranking 63rd among UK universities, a significant rise from 89th in 2023 and 85th in 2022. This upward trend reflects the university's dedication to enhancing its academic offerings, student experience, and research contributions. 

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

University

85

89

63

 

Queen Margaret University - The Complete University Guide Ranking 2025

In The Complete University Guide Ranking for 2025, Queen Margaret University has improved to 87th among UK universities, marking a positive shift from its position of 102nd in 2024 and 93rd in 2023. This upward trajectory highlights the university's continuous efforts to enhance its academic offerings and student support services.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

UK University

93

102

87

 

Learn More About: Queen Margaret University Admissions

 

Queen Margaret University - The Guardian Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Business and Management

64

98

66

Media and Film Studies

67

70

69

Sociology and Social Policy

20

57

68

 

Queen Margaret University - The Complete University Guide Ranking 2025

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Business and Management Studies UK

104

81

74

Communication and Media Studies

53

81

74

Nursing

43

57

42

Psychology

61

98

85

Sociology

78

94

93

 

Course Ranking

 

B.A.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy

20

57

68

The Complete University Guide - Sociology

-

78

94

 

B.J.M.C.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Media and Film Studies

67

70

69

The Complete University Guide - Communication and Media Studies

-

53

81

 

Learn More About: Queen Margaret University Courses

 

B.Sc.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

The Complete University Guide - Psychology

61

98

85

 

BBA

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Business and Management

64

98

66

The Complete University Guide - Business and Management Studies UK

-

104

81

 

BSN

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

The Complete University Guide - Nursing

43

57

42

 

Business & Management Studies

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Business and Management

64

98

66

The Complete University Guide - Business and Management Studies UK

-

104

81

 

Humanities & Social Sciences

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Complete University Guide - Psychology

-

61

98

The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy

20

57

68

The Complete University Guide - Sociology

-

78

94

 

Mass Communication & Media

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Media and Film Studies

67

70

69

The Complete University Guide - Communication and Media Studies

-

53

81

 

Nursing

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

The Complete University Guide - Nursing

43

57

42

 

Psychology

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

The Complete University Guide - Psychology

61

98

85

 

Sociology

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy

20

57

68

The Complete University Guide - Sociology

-

78

94

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2023

-

-

2022

#801 - 1000

-

2021

#801 - 1000

-

Facilities

The university has modern and well-equipped facilities, including a library, computer labs, a sports centre, and a range of accommodation options. The campus also features a range of art and design facilities, including drama and music studios, photography labs and art studios.

 

Library: The LRC has a collection of books, journals, and other resources to support students' learning and research. It also provides access to online databases and e-books. The library is open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week for all students, staff and faculty. Although when it comes to internal rooms like the group rooms, they are closed post 9 pm.

 

Accommodation: Queen Margaret University provides accommodation for students, including self-catered and catered options. Their Student Village, which is located in manicured parkland, can house 800 undergraduate students in regular or premium accommodations. The rooms are organised into independent flats with communal kitchen areas. All of their rooms are ensuite. Their accommodation for postgrads is the same, although they have the option of premium rooms.

 

Cafeteria: Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh has a range of food options available for students on campus. The main dining area is called Maggie’s Bar and Cafe and it offers hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and cakes. The deli serves hot and cold sandwiches, paninis, and salads. The university also has other cafeterias serving a variety of food like Starbucks Coffee Pod, 1875 Restaurant, The Nook and Vending services.

Notable Alumni

Ashley Jensen
Ashley Jensen
Actress
Matt Baker
Matt Baker
British Television Presenter
Shirley-Anne Somerville
Shirley-Anne Somerville
Member of the Scottish Parliament

Courses

Admission

Queen Margaret University Acceptance Rate

Queen Margaret University's acceptance rate is 40% - 50% making it an averagely selective institution. The diverse student body at this university hails from over 60 countries. There are approximately 5,000 students studying here with 4,604 students at the undergraduate level and 1,361 students at its postgraduate courses. QMU is known for its innovative approach to teaching and learning, and it has been awarded the highest rating possible for teaching quality by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA).

 

Queen Margaret University Entry Requirements

Although, there are other things to keep in mind whilst applying to this university. The admission committee at this university considers a variety of factors when evaluating applicants for admission like extracurricular activities and volunteering projects at Non-Profits. Queen Margaret University’s entry requirements are quite formative, some of the key factors that are typically considered include:  

 

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

  • Official Academic Transcripts of High School
  • Letter (s) of recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Proof of financial support
  • Passport
  • Two passport-sized photographs

 

Graduate Admission Requirements

  • Official Academic Transcripts of College
  • Letter (s) of recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Proof of financial support
  • Passport
  • Two passport-sized photographs
  • CAS statement
  • Test scores or GRE/ GMAT if asked by the university
  • Resume or CV showing work experience 


 

English Language Requirements 

Queen Margaret University (QMU) requires international students to demonstrate English language proficiency as part of their admission criteria. Typically, applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through recognised tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. The specific score requirements may vary depending on the level of study and program applied for.

 

English Exam

Undergraduate

Postgraduate

IELTS

6.0

6.5

 

Queen Margaret University Fees

Queen Margaret University fees structure for its multidisciplinary undergraduate and postgraduate courses are given below 

  • BBA - £ 7,896
  • B.Sc. - £ 14,117 
  • B.J.M.C. - £ 12,703
  • MIM - £ 13,551
  • BHM - £ 12,703

Scholarship

Regardless of the programme you are studying, there are several scholarship opportunities provided by Queen Margaret University as well as other organisations. With so many scholarships available now, overseas students can greatly lower the financial burden of studying in a new country. You can apply for scholarships to study at QMU through UniScholars. You can find the following types of scholarships based on your academic performance and financial situation:

 

  • Merit-based scholarships
  • Need-based scholarships
  • Country-specific scholarships
  • College-specific scholarships
  • Student-specific scholarships

Finances

Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds in order to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the university. For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!

Accommodation

There are several student accommodations in Edinburgh near Anglia Ruskin University that are fully equipped for your needs. Student accommodation near Queen Margaret University offers a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, ensuites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.

UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from an array of available student accommodations near the university, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are inexpensive and fully furnished with 24/7 staff support.

Cost of Living

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and the second-most populous city in the country. It is located in the southeastern part of Scotland, along the southern shore of the Firth of Forth. Edinburgh is known for its rich history, culture, and architecture, including Edinburgh Castle, the Old Town and the New Town, which are both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Edinburgh has the oldest student union in the whole country, called the Teviot Row House. It gives a great way to socialise especially after lecture hours. There are also several clubs to choose from, ‘WhyNot’ remains a favourite of students studying here. Moreover, Edinburgh remains home to some of the largest art festivals. Edinburgh Fringe Festival spans around 25 days and in all you will be guaranteed an experience of a lifetime studying in this city. 
 

Particulars

Cost (Monthly)

Off-Campus Accommodation 

£ 780

On-Campus Accommodation

£ 915

Transportation

£ 62

Food Cost

£ 420

Entertainment

£ 40

Groceries

£ 128

Clothes

£ 86

Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation 

£ 1516

Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation 

£ 1651

Annual Cost of Living

£ 18192

 

The above data is sourced from Cost of Living in Edinburgh on UniAcco.

 

FAQs