Having secured a domestic double with the Blues last season, the central midfielder earned personal recognition away from the football pitch this week and was amongst almost 2,000 students graduating at Paisley Abbey in her native Scotland.

Cuthbert joined Chelsea from Glasgow City in 2016 and has enjoyed various successes during her time in blue. On the international stage, she has earned 58 caps for Scotland and was named Scottish Women’s Football International Player of the Year in 2018, 2019 and 2022.

Speaking on her Honorary Doctorate, Cuthbert said: ‘It’s a great honour for me to be awarded an Honorary Doctorate at such a prestigious Institution like the University of the West of Scotland – back to where it all started for me.

‘I look forward to enhancing my learning, continuing my work in driving women’s sport forward in Scotland, and partaking in several off-field initiatives that are close to my heart.’

At the ceremony, Stephanie Pitticas, Vice-Principal (Internationalisation) highlighted Cuthbert’s achievements, saying: ‘Erin’s remarkable journey to date on the field is a true inspiration to young fans around the world and her impact extends far beyond the confines of the pitch.

‘Erin is an emblem of perseverance and a living testament to the power of dreaming big. She has become a powerful advocate for change, not just on the pitch, but with the work that she does with the Chelsea Foundation, and various other charities.

‘Erin has recognised the significance of visibility and representation in the game, especially for young girls and the importance of being a role model. I extend a huge, heartfelt congratulations to Erin for being recognised with such a well-deserved Honorary Doctorate from UWS.’

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, who was also in attendance at the ceremony said: 'Graduation is always the highlight of the University calendar; celebrating the amazing achievements of our students as they move on to the next chapter of their life.

‘As well as our students, it is fantastic to recognise the achievements of our Honorary Doctorate, Erin Cuthbert. Erin is a truly inspirational role model; who, through her outstanding contributions to the world of sport, has made significant impacts – both in sport and within the communities she is part of.’

From everyone at Chelsea, congratulations Erin!