Life at GSA
"Plenty of cities boast world-class food, beautiful scenery and popping nightlife. Only one is full of Glaswegians. Glasgow’s identity and sense of community are infused into its soul, and spare no newcomer. Expect to be welcomed with open arms as you explore a world of unique museums and indie bookshops… in a place that was recently named the best uk city break for architecture, simply walking around becomes an event in itself. Plus, culture is taken seriously. It’s no surprise Glasgow has produced most of Scotland’s best bands and actors...” - Time Out 50 Best Cities in the World, 2024.
Glasgow is a vibrant, hospitable and creative city. No matter where you are, it’s always easy to get to good bars, cafes, galleries, shops, restaurants and creative spaces. With its great public transport, it is easy to get around Glasgow and to access different spaces and events in the city.
The Glasgow School of Art has its own guide to the city, which you can access here
In this guide, we introduce you to the city’s key districts, suggest some different venues and places to explore, and give you some tips on transport and exploring beyond the city. If you are not familiar with Glasgow, you can check out the GSA’s Live Map of the city which features loads of creative projects and spaces in the city with a connection to the GSA, as well as a guide for students featuring some of the most popular places to eat, shop and visit compiled by our Students’ Association. These Google Maps can help give you an insight into the city, especially some of the areas outside the City Centre and the West End that you may not be so familiar with.
Checkout our Vimeo channel to watch our Welcome to Glasgow: A GSA Guide.
Although Glasgow is still very much the heart of the GSA, in recent years we have established bases in the Highlands, where we have an idyllic campus, and China, where we have a representative office.
We also maintain connections with institutions across Europe and the rest of the world, offering exchange opportunities and collaborating on projects with international students, tutors and practitioners. The GSA is also present in the footprints of our graduates, many of whom choose to stay in Glasgow, but who are scattered throughout the world, engaging in diverse creative work and unexpected careers alike.
GSASA
The Glasgow School of Art Students’ Association is a charity and independent Students’ Association which advocates for the interests of its student members at the GSA.
The Students’ Association is committed to widening access to education and the arts. They believe in offering space and support to all students regardless of their resources and experience. The Association is committed to programming and working with organisers who reflect the GSA's student communities and their values, concerns and interests. They are particularly committed to offering opportunities to their student members, dedicated to their personal and professional development during their time at the GSA. They are located in the Assembly Building at the top of Scott Street in the Garnethill Campus. The Building includes several project spaces and a large multi-functional Assembly Hall, as well as The Vic Bar (currently closed).
