Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, is fast becoming one of the most attractive destinations for students seeking world-class education in a welcoming and affordable city. Home to some of the UK’s top-ranked universities and colleges, Belfast combines academic excellence with rich history, modern living, and a thriving student community. Whether you’re looking to study engineering, literature, healthcare, or education, Belfast has a range of higher education institutions that cater to diverse academic interests.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about universities in Belfast, including courses, rankings, entry requirements, tuition, lifestyle, and more. If you’re considering studying in Northern Ireland, Belfast should be high on your list.
Why Study in Belfast? The High Point Of Belfast
Choosing Belfast as your study destination means enjoying a high-quality education at a relatively low cost. Compared to other UK cities like London or Edinburgh, Belfast offers a significantly lower cost of living, which includes more affordable rent, transportation, and daily expenses. This makes it especially appealing for international students who are budget-conscious but still want a rich academic and cultural experience.
Belfast is also known for its safety, friendly locals, and strong support for international students. The city is compact, walkable, and packed with historical sites, lively pubs, cafes, art venues, and green spaces. With institutions like Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University making global strides in research and innovation, you’ll have access to internationally recognized degrees, modern facilities, and outstanding career support.
Overview of Higher Education in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland, as part of the UK, follows the British higher education system, which is renowned for its academic rigor and global reputation. Belfast hosts both research-intensive universities and specialist colleges, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and vocational courses. Degrees earned here are internationally recognized and valued by employers and academic institutions around the world.
Higher education in Northern Ireland includes both universities and further education colleges that offer university-level programs. There are also flexible learning options through part-time, distance learning, and online courses, many of which are designed with working professionals or international students in mind.
Top Universities in Belfast
Belfast is home to several prestigious institutions that offer a diverse range of programs across various disciplines. Whether you’re interested in academic research, creative industries, education, or cutting-edge technology, the universities in Belfast cater to a broad spectrum of academic and professional aspirations.
Queen’s University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) is a member of the prestigious Russell Group, representing the UK’s leading research-intensive universities. Established in 1845, Queen’s is one of the oldest universities in the UK and is consistently ranked among the top 250 universities in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025).
Queen’s offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in subjects such as engineering, medicine, law, business, and the humanities. The university is particularly well-known for its research excellence in health, cybersecurity, food science, and English literature.
Location
The main campus is located in the heart of Belfast, within the historic Queen’s Quarter. It’s surrounded by beautiful Victorian architecture, cafes, bookstores, and the Botanic Gardens. The location gives students access to both a peaceful academic environment and the vibrant life of the city.
Facilities
Queen’s University boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including the McClay Library, cutting-edge labs, innovation centers, and the award-winning Students’ Union. It also has a strong career development program and links with employers across Europe and beyond, making it an excellent choice for students focused on employability.
Ulster University (Belfast Campus)
Ulster University is another prominent institution with a strong reputation in creative arts, business, computing, health sciences, and social policy. Its Belfast campus, located in the Cathedral Quarter, is known for its innovative, city-based learning environment.
Ulster University is especially appealing to students seeking practical, career-focused programs that align closely with industry needs. The university places a strong emphasis on employability and enterprise.
Location
The Belfast campus is situated in the heart of the city’s cultural and creative district. It’s within walking distance of public transport, galleries, startup spaces, and some of the best food and entertainment options in the city.
Facilities
The campus is equipped with modern studios, digital labs, design workshops, and performance spaces. Ulster also offers strong support services, including career coaching, counseling, and dedicated international student advisors.
Stranmillis University College
Stranmillis University College is a specialist institution focused on teacher education, early childhood studies, and health and wellbeing programs. It is an affiliate of Queen’s University Belfast, meaning degrees are awarded by Queen’s, while students benefit from a close-knit, community-focused learning environment.
Location
Stranmillis is located in a green, peaceful area just south of the city center, near the River Lagan and Botanic Gardens. It offers a more relaxed, campus-style experience while remaining easily accessible from central Belfast.
Facilities
Students at Stranmillis enjoy modern teaching spaces, student residences, a fitness suite, and strong placement programs with local schools and health organizations. The college also has a welcoming, family-like campus culture that’s ideal for students who prefer smaller class sizes and personalized support.
Other Recognized Institutions in Belfast
In addition to the major universities, Belfast also hosts several other respected institutions that contribute to Northern Ireland’s diverse higher education landscape. These colleges offer a wide range of qualifications, including undergraduate degrees, vocational training, and continuing education options.
The Open University (Northern Ireland)
The Open University offers flexible, distance-learning courses, making it ideal for part-time students, working professionals, and international learners who need flexibility. Though it does not have a traditional campus in Belfast, it provides strong regional support and offers recognized UK qualifications that can be pursued entirely online.
St Mary’s University College
St Mary’s is a Catholic teacher training college affiliated with Queen’s University Belfast. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in education, liberal arts, and Irish language studies. The college has a strong focus on community, tradition, and values-based education, making it a distinctive option for students seeking a faith-based academic environment.
Further Education Colleges
Several further education (FE) colleges in Belfast offer higher-level qualifications such as foundation degrees, Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), and certificates. These include Belfast Metropolitan College, which is known for practical, career-oriented courses that can serve as stepping stones into university programs or directly into the workforce.
University Rankings & Recognition
Universities in Belfast, particularly Queen’s University and Ulster University, enjoy strong international recognition for their academic quality, research output, and graduate employability. Here’s a look at how they perform in recent rankings:
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Queen’s University Belfast is ranked among the top 250 universities worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2025, and among the top 10 UK universities for research intensity. It also ranks highly in subject-specific areas like Pharmacy, Law, English, and Food Science.
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Ulster University has been praised for its teaching quality and innovation, especially in areas like Art & Design, Nursing, and Biomedical Sciences. It has climbed steadily in UK university rankings and is known for its modern campuses and commitment to student employability.
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Stranmillis University College and St Mary’s University College may not appear in global rankings due to their niche focus, but both are respected within the UK and Ireland for teacher education and offer degrees accredited by Queen’s University.
These rankings reflect not just academic excellence, but also each institution’s ability to prepare students for life beyond the classroom—whether in continued research, further education, or professional careers.
Courses and Subjects in Demand
Belfast’s universities offer a wide range of academic programs, from traditional disciplines to emerging fields tailored to modern industries. Whether you’re planning to study at the undergraduate or postgraduate level, you’ll find courses aligned with both local and global job markets.
Popular Courses at Queen’s University Belfast
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Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy
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Law and Politics
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Engineering and Computer Science
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English, History, and Creative Writing
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Business and Management
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Biological and Environmental Sciences
Top Courses at Ulster University (Belfast Campus)
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Art & Design
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Architecture
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Communication, Media & Journalism
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Business and Marketing
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Computing & Information Technology
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Psychology and Social Sciences
Specialist Courses at Stranmillis and St Mary’s Colleges
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Primary and Post-primary Teacher Education
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Early Childhood Studies
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Irish Language and Liberal Arts
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Youth and Community Work
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Education & Health-related degrees
Courses in tech, healthcare, and creative sectors are especially popular due to Belfast’s growing industries in those areas. With active partnerships between universities and employers, students often gain hands-on experience and access to internships or placements.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements vary depending on the course, university, and level of study (undergraduate vs postgraduate). However, all universities in Belfast follow UK-wide admission standards, while also considering international qualifications.
Undergraduate Requirements
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UK students typically apply through UCAS and must meet A-level or equivalent qualifications.
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International students can submit equivalent secondary school qualifications such as IB, WAEC, CBSE, or national diplomas.
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Most undergraduate programs require IELTS scores of 6.0–6.5, or an equivalent English language test.
Postgraduate Requirements
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A recognized undergraduate degree (usually with a 2:1 or 2:2 classification).
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For certain programs, work experience or a portfolio (e.g., for creative courses) may be required.
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English language proficiency is essential, with IELTS scores around 6.5–7.0, depending on the program.
Application Deadlines
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UCAS deadlines for undergraduate entry typically fall in January each year.
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Direct or postgraduate applications are accepted through university portals, often with rolling deadlines, though early application is advised.
Additional Support
Universities offer foundation and pre-sessional English courses for students who need extra preparation. Dedicated international offices also provide guidance throughout the application and visa process.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Studying in Belfast is generally more affordable than other major UK cities, but tuition fees can still be a significant part of your decision-making process. Thankfully, both Queen’s University and Ulster University offer a variety of scholarships and funding options for local, EU, and international students.
Average Tuition Fees (2025)
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UK & Ireland Students: £4,710 – £9,250 per year (depending on course and institution)
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International Students: £14,000 – £23,000 per year for most undergraduate and taught postgraduate programs
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Medical & Engineering programs tend to be on the higher end of the fee range
Scholarships and Financial Aid
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Queen’s University Belfast offers the Vice-Chancellor’s International Attainment Scholarship, Early Bird Reward, and country-specific awards.
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Ulster University provides International Undergraduate Scholarships, Academic Excellence Awards, and Alumni Scholarships for returning students.
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Government-sponsored funding such as Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships are also accepted by both institutions.
Students are encouraged to apply early, as many scholarships are limited in number and highly competitive.
Living in Belfast
Belfast offers one of the most affordable student lifestyles in the UK. From housing and food to transport and entertainment, students find it easy to live well on a moderate budget while enjoying all the city has to offer.
Accommodation Options
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University-owned halls: Secure, community-focused living near campus, with prices ranging from £100 to £180 per week.
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Private housing: Shared flats and studios are available citywide, often starting from £300–£450/month (excluding bills).
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Popular student areas include Stranmillis, Botanic, and Lisburn Road — all within walking distance of Queen’s and Ulster campuses.
Cost of Living (Monthly Averages)
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Rent: £350–£500
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Food: £150–£250
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Transport: £30–£50 (student passes available)
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Leisure and entertainment: £50–£100
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Total monthly cost: Around £700–£900 for a modest student lifestyle
Student Support and Lifestyle
Belfast is compact and safe, with a strong student culture. Universities offer well-being support, health services, student unions, and dozens of clubs and societies. International students often say they feel welcomed and supported from the day they arrive.
Transport and Travel in Belfast
Getting around Belfast is easy, affordable, and student-friendly. Whether you’re commuting to campus, heading out to explore the city, or planning a weekend trip to another part of the UK or Europe, Belfast offers excellent local and international transport links.
Getting Around the City
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Walking: Most university campuses and student neighborhoods are within walking distance of each other. Belfast’s compact city center makes walking one of the easiest and healthiest ways to get around.
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Cycling: Belfast is increasingly bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes, secure cycle parking, and a public bike rental scheme called Belfast Bikes. Many students use bikes to travel quickly between classes and city attractions.
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Bus: The city’s Metro bus network is operated by Translink. It offers discounted student travel cards and reliable service across all major routes, including direct lines to Queen’s University, Ulster University, and the city center.
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Train: The NI Railways network connects Belfast with suburbs and other cities in Northern Ireland, such as Derry/Londonderry and Bangor. Train services are useful for day trips or weekend getaways.
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Other: Taxis, ride-hailing apps like Uber, and electric scooters are also widely available for short-distance travel.
International Travel and Flight Times
Belfast has two main airports:
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Belfast International Airport (BFS)
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George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD)
Both airports offer direct flights to the UK, Ireland, and major European destinations. You can fly to London in just over an hour, and there are budget airline options to places like Amsterdam, Paris, and Barcelona—perfect for holiday breaks.
Average flight times:
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London: ~1 hour
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Manchester: ~50 minutes
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Dublin (via train or bus): ~2 hours
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European destinations: 1.5–3 hours
Things to Do in Belfast
Belfast is a cultural hub filled with historical landmarks, world-class dining, vibrant festivals, and natural beauty. Students in Belfast never run out of ways to relax, explore, and connect with others.
Food and Drink
From cozy pubs serving traditional Irish stews to modern cafes and international cuisines, Belfast’s food scene is diverse and growing. Areas like the Cathedral Quarter and Botanic Avenue are especially popular with students.
Arts and Culture
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Visit the Titanic Belfast Museum, an award-winning attraction that tells the story of the city’s most famous ship.
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Explore galleries like the MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre) or catch live performances at the Lyric Theatre and Grand Opera House.
Events and Festivals
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Belfast International Arts Festival
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Culture Night Belfast
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Belfast Film Festival
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Seasonal events like Christmas markets and St. Patrick’s Day parades add to the festive vibe.
Outdoor Activities
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Stroll through Botanic Gardens or hike up Cave Hill for stunning views of the city.
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Take a weekend trip to the Giant’s Causeway or Mourne Mountains — both less than 2 hours from Belfast.
Whether you’re an adventurer, foodie, history buff, or artist, Belfast offers something for everyone
Graduate Opportunities in Belfast
One of the key reasons students choose Belfast is the strong link between education and employability. Universities in Belfast have active partnerships with industries across the UK, Ireland, and beyond, giving graduates a competitive edge in the job market.
Career Support at Universities
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Queen’s University and Ulster University offer award-winning career services, internship programs, employer networking events, and mentorship schemes.
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Many courses include placement years or work-based learning, particularly in engineering, business, and computing.
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International students can take advantage of the UK’s Graduate Route Visa, which allows them to stay and work for up to two years after graduation.
Key Employment Sectors in Belfast
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Tech & Cybersecurity: Belfast is one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the UK, with companies like Allstate, Kainos, and PwC hiring graduates in software, AI, and IT security.
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Financial Services: Major firms like Citi, Deloitte, and FinTrU operate large offices in the city.
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Creative Industries: Opportunities in design, film, media, and digital marketing are rising, with support from innovation hubs like Ormeau Baths.
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Healthcare & Life Sciences: With strong research centers and the NHS presence, graduates in biomedical and health-related fields are in high demand.
Graduates from Belfast universities often stay in the region due to its low cost of living, growing job market, and quality of life.
Conclusion
Belfast is more than just a place to study — it’s a city where academic excellence, affordability, culture, and career opportunities converge. With globally ranked universities, supportive learning environments, and a vibrant student life, it’s no surprise that more international students are choosing Belfast every year.
Whether you’re interested in high-tech innovation, a thriving arts scene, or simply want a warm and welcoming place to grow, Belfast has it all.
