Scottish television personality and broadcaster Jean Johansson has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate at University of the West of Scotland’s summer graduations.   

Known for hosting hit Channel 4 show A Place in the Sun, Jean was celebrated today during a ceremony at Paisley Abbey for her remarkable career in television and radio, where she has become one of Scotland's most recognisable and respected broadcasters. 

Jean is an alumna of the University, graduating in 2010 with a degree in broadcast journalism. Known for presenting a range of popular programmes, Jean has built a reputation for engaging storytelling, professionalism, and connecting with audiences across the UK.

Beyond her broadcasting career, Jean has been a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion, and representation within the media industry. Through her platform, she has consistently encouraged greater visibility and opportunity for underrepresented voices while supporting charitable initiatives and community causes.

Discussing being awarded an Honorary Doctorate from UWS, Jean said: “When I walked into an open audition at BBC Scotland back in 1999 as a wide-eyed teenager, I never dreamed I’d get that job let alone still be working as a TV presenter all these years later. It’s such an honour to receive this accolade from a university that played a big part in the direction of my career. My family and I are delighted.”

It’s such an honour to receive this accolade from a university that played a big part in the direction of my career. My family and I are delighted.

Jean Johansson

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West of Scotland, said: “Graduation is a proud milestone for both our students and the University. It celebrates the dedication, resilience and achievements of those graduating, while recognising the unwavering support of families, friends and the wider UWS community who have shared in their journey.

"We are delighted to confer an Honorary Doctorate upon Jean Johansson in recognition of her outstanding contribution to broadcasting and her role as one of Scotland's most respected and recognisable television presenters.

“As a proud alumna of UWS, Jean's journey from student to national television success story exemplifies the transformative power of education, ambition and determination. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated professionalism, authenticity and a commitment to connecting with audiences, making her a wonderful ambassador for both the creative industries and our university community.

“Jean's achievements serve as an inspiration to our students and graduates, showing that talent, hard work and resilience can open doors to remarkable opportunities. We are proud to welcome her into our distinguished community of honorary graduates and celebrate all that she has accomplished."

Throughout her career, Jean has demonstrated professionalism, authenticity and a commitment to connecting with audiences, making her a wonderful ambassador for both the creative industries and our university community.

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS

Jean’s work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5, Gender Equality, Goal 10, Reduced Inequalities and Goal 17, Partnerships for the Goals.