Established in 1897, University of the West of Scotland is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Paisley (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Scotland. This institution also has branch campuses in the following locations: Ayr, Dumfries, Hamilton, London. Officially recognized/chartered by the Privy Council, University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is a large coeducational UK higher education institution. University of the West of Scotland (UWS) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 124 years old UK higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic record and grades. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. UWS also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.