Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh

This week, results from the National Student Survey (NSS), one of the largest student surveys in the world, showed that QMU is top amongst all five Edinburgh-based higher education institutions for overall student satisfaction.

Also, QMU’s Students’ Union has, for the second year running, been ranked first in Scotland.

If you're interested in finding out more about QMU's results, visit https://ow.ly/TSe650WogqF

QMU lecturer and co-founder of the Toy Box Diversity Lab, Dr Siân Jones, has provided expert commentary to multinational broadcaster, CNN on the development of the new Barbie doll with Type 1 diabetes.

Siân, who is disabled herself, emphasised how inclusive toys do more than inspire - they help “children build empathy, awareness, and inclusivity,” providing both mirrors for those living with chronic conditions and windows into others’ experiences.

Her expert insights highlight the powerful role that representation plays in shaping understanding from an early age. It’s great to see that Siân’s impactful research into anti-ableism (especially within education) is helping to influence conversations on disability and accessibility on a global stage.

Read the story on CNN -

Hundreds of thousands of children have type 1 diabetes. Now, there’s a Barbie who has it, too | CNN The latest Barbie slays in a chic blue polka-dot crop top, ruffled miniskirt, chunky high-top heels and an insulin pump. She is the brand’s first doll with type 1 diabetes.

Today, Ashley Jensen, Scottish actress and narrator; Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne, Director of Genius Foods; and Shona McCarthy, former Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Fringe Society, were awarded honorary degrees from Queen Margaret University.

Ashley Jensen, who is best known for her leading role as DI Ruth Calder in the hit BBC TV drama, ‘Shetland,’ receives an honorary degree in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the arts, while Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne receives her degree in recognition of her outstanding contribution to food development and innovation. Shona McCarthy, who for nine years has led the world’s largest arts festival, has been recognised for her visionary leadership and her profound impact on the cultural landscape.

These three inspirational women joined the newly installed Chancellor of QMU, Patrick Grant – designer, entrepreneur and judge on BBC’s ‘The Great British Sewing Bee’ – to celebrate the achievements of hundreds of new QMU graduates.

Find out more – https://ow.ly/LzUV50WmkJs

Patrick Grant, the designer, entrepreneur and judge on BBC’s ‘The Great British Sewing Bee’ has been officially installed as Chancellor of Queen Margaret University.

A prominent figure in the British fashion industry and founder of the social enterprise Community Clothing, Patrick Grant is an advocate for sustainability. Brought up in Edinburgh, he has developed an international reputation as a champion of UK textile manufacturing - working with global brands including Cartier and Rolls-Royce. He revitalised Savile Row tailor Norton & Sons, relaunched men’s tailoring brand E. Tautz - winning Menswear Designer of the Year at the British Fashion Awards - and led Debenhams’ most successful designer collaboration with Hammond & Co. His book ‘Less’, published in 2024 and a Sunday Times Bestseller, details his commitment to reducing consumption and embracing circular, regenerative fashion.

Sir Paul Grice, Principal of QMU, said: “Patrick’s work resonates with the University’s strong social justice ethos, and our commitment to building strong communities and acting as a force for good. His passion for combining entrepreneurialism, skill and people-focused thinking to create thriving communities aligns with QMU’s purpose of shaping a better society through teaching and research.”

Patrick’s installation took place today at the first of QMU’s graduation ceremonies this year at the Usher Hall.

Today, QMU awards Carol Rogers - Scotland’s leading forensic scientist – with an honorary degree in recognition of her work in advancing the field of forensic science and her unwavering commitment to justice.

As National Lead Forensic Scientist for Sexual Offences with the Scottish Police Authority’s Forensic Services, Carol Rogers is one of the most respected experts in her field, bringing justice to countless victims of sexual offences. Recently, her work was highlighted on the BBC Scotland crime documentary ‘The Hunt for Peter Tobin’ where she discussed the painstaking investigation of the serial killer’s crime scene – work which led to the killer’s successful conviction. Working in major crime, she has led forensic investigations in numerous major cases, including murders and serious sexual offences.

Carol is awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of the University, Honoris Causa from QMU. She celebrated her success with Patrick Grant, the new Chancellor of Queen Margaret University, and hundreds of new graduates and their families at the first of QMU’s graduation ceremonies held in Edinburgh’s Usher Hall this year.

Read more about Carol’s impressive career to see why she is such a worthy recipient of this honorary award - https://ow.ly/4vUi50WlARW

A business student from QMU has been crowned a sustainability champion in the 2025 Sustainability World Cup.

Student Aravind Rajendran delivered a winning performance when he took part in a simulation exercise which challenges participants to deliver sustainable solutions, taking home gold for the Judges’ Award for Best Green Market Strategy.

The Sustainability World Cup is an online course and competition which involves participants playing a simulation exercise where they can learn about sustainability and lead their virtual company to become the best force for good in the world.

The enthusiastic student from QMU fully embraced the exercise. He was commended for his performance, delivering one of the most impressive marketing strategies in the game with the potential to drive environmental and social growth for the business.

Find out more -

QMU student takes gold in Sustainability World Cup | News | Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh A business student from Queen Margaret University has been crowned a sustainability champion in the 2025 Sustainability World Cup. 

Reminder for Continuing SAAS Students Using DSA Funding 💰

If you received Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) funding through SAAS in 2024/25, don’t forget to submit your application for 2025/26.

Apply now to make sure your support is in place for the start of the new academic year.

You can download the 2025/26 DSA application form from the SAAS website👇
https://www.saas.gov.uk/

For more details, check the guidelines on Student Central or contact us at [email protected] with any questions.

🎓 Class of 2025 🎓

Celebrate your time at QMU in style with our official graduation merch!

QMU merchandise is available in customisable, embroidered or printed styles, designed for a quality finish and a fit you’ll love.

We also have a limited stock of our fan favourite QMU teddy bears!

👉 Order now via link in bio/ shop.qmu.ac.uk for:
✅ Free delivery on orders over £60
✅ International shipping for our global grads
✅ Customisable options
✅ Online support, 7 days a week

🎉 Whether you're heading off on new adventures or just want something to remember QMU by, don’t miss out on our graduation range!

🎓 Class of 2025 🎓

Make sure you grab your graduation merch before the celebrations begin!

Our official QMU graduation range comes in a range of customisable colours and styles – whether you prefer embroidered or printed designs, there's something for everyone.

We also have a limited stock of our fan favourite QMU teddy bears!

👉 Order now at shop.qmu.ac.uk or via the link in bio to get:
✅ Free delivery on orders over £60
✅ International shipping
✅ Customisable options
✅ Online support, 7 days a week

🎁 Don’t miss out on the perfect memento from your time at QMU – available while stocks last.