Strathclyde Delivers Record NSS Results, Reinforces Commitment to Student Success

Strathclyde Sees Steady Climb in NSS Rankings, Now Second in Scotland

In an increasingly competitive higher education environment, student satisfaction has emerged as a vital measure of institutional quality and performance. The National Student Survey (NSS) continues to serve as a key benchmark for assessing the student experience across universities in the United Kingdom, offering valuable insights into teaching standards, academic support, and overall engagement.

Within this context, the University of Strathclyde has reportedly secured the second-highest ranking in Scotland for Overall Satisfaction in the 2025 NSS, demonstrating notable year-on-year progress and a sustained commitment to excellence. According to the published survey results, Strathclyde achieved an Overall Satisfaction score of 87% among taught students, an increase of 3.3 percentage points from 2024 and 6.3 points above the Scottish sector average. This achievement reflects the University’s ongoing dedication to enriching the academic journey and well-being of its student body.

Furthermore, Strathclyde attained its highest NSS score since the survey’s revision three years ago, having risen from fifth place in 2023 to second in 2025. It has consistently remained above the upper quartile for seven consecutive years, underscoring its stable performance. In addition, the University’s Overall Satisfaction score exceeded the Office for Students benchmark by 5.3%, reinforcing its reputation for delivering high-quality education and robust student support. Moreover, Strathclyde outperformed the UK sector average in six of the seven NSS theme areas and surpassed the Scottish sector in all seven themes, including Overall Satisfaction, for the second consecutive year. These results collectively highlight the University’s comprehensive approach to enhancing the student experience.

Professor Sir Jim McDonald, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde, reportedly described the NSS outcomes as a strong endorsement of the University’s teaching and learning environment. He expressed pride in the consistently high levels of student satisfaction and reaffirmed Strathclyde’s commitment to supporting students both academically and personally. Although the University of St Andrews secured the highest Overall Satisfaction rate in Scotland, Strathclyde’s continued ascent in the rankings reflects its unwavering focus on student-centred excellence. Strathclyde’s performance in the 2025 NSS stands as a testament to its enduring commitment to quality, inclusion, and student success.

Editor’s Note:

The 2025 National Student Survey results offer a compelling snapshot of how universities are responding to the growing importance of student satisfaction in today’s competitive academic landscape. Among the standout performers, the University of Strathclyde has demonstrated impressive progress, moving steadily up the rankings and now earning the second-highest Overall Satisfaction score in Scotland. This consistent upward trend reflects not only the institution’s academic quality but also its sustained commitment to student wellbeing, inclusion, and support. Strathclyde’s success is notable given the increasing pressures on higher education. The University’s strong performance across nearly all NSS themes, exceeding sector and national benchmarks, indicates a holistic approach to improving the student experience. It's about creating a supportive, engaging, and responsive learning environment, not just high teaching marks.

According to Skoobuzz, while St Andrews leads in satisfaction, Strathclyde's rise indicates healthy competition and a shift towards excellence in Scottish higher education. Prioritizing student voices and support is key to long-term success; UK institutions should learn from Strathclyde's student-centred strategy.