Combined Studies

UCAS Code: CFG0students studying in a cafe at HW

Why Combined Studies?

Combined Studies gives you the opportunity to define their own interests within the framework of an unusually broad educational experience. 

A Combined Studies degree is your chance to 'write' your own degree structure. With guidance from your Director of Studies, you may select subjects from the full range available at Heriot-Watt. You can pursue a Combined Studies course to Ordinary or Honours levels, on a full-time, part-time or 'mixed mode' basis.

Subject Choice

While students on Combined Studies programmes may range across a number of fields, they are assigned to a Director of Studies who provides the advice and guidance needed to help them build their own modular programmes into a coherent degree course.

The Combined Studies programme is based on the principle of credit accumulation. Credits are obtained from modules across the full range of degree courses offered by the University. Modules are taken in common with students from other degree courses, and within the normal timetable. Modules approved for the Combined Studies programme are identified as to their level, and certain modules may be identified as prerequisites for subsequent study.

Combined Studies students must cover three subjects at least 30 credits (2 modules) each to obtain a Combined Studies degree.

There is also the option of part-time study to allow students to fit in studies around employment, childcare, etc. The only requirement is that the degree is finished in 10 years maximum.

Teaching and Assessment

Most courses require 3-4 hours attendance a week at lectures and tutorials. Assessment varies but typically is based on 75% examination and 25% coursework. Depending on the subject, coursework might include laboratory reports, essays and projects.

Quality and Ranking

Heriot-Watt was voted Scottish university of the year 2 years running in 2012 and 2013.

How to apply

For more information, or to apply,  see Combined Studies prospectus pages.