Queen's University Belfast
United Kingdom
Queen's University Belfast
Belfast, United Kingdom
Founded
1845
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
25,000+
QS World Ranking
#199 (2026)
Discover Queen's University Belfast: A Russell Group Institution Since 1845
Discover Queen's University Belfast: A Russell Group Institution Since 1845
Queen's University Belfast is a public research university located in the heart of Belfast, Northern Ireland. Founded by Royal Charter in 1845 by Queen Victoria as part of the Queen's University of Ireland, it became an independent university in 1908 under the Irish Universities Act. As a proud member of the Russell Group of 24 leading UK research-intensive universities, Queen's combines academic excellence with a student-centred ethos.
The university is home to over 25,000 students from more than 90 countries and offers approximately 300 academic degree programmes across three faculties. Its iconic Lanyon Building, designed by architect Sir Charles Lanyon and modelled on Magdalen College Oxford, remains the centrepiece of a campus that now includes over 300 buildings, many listed for their architectural importance.
Queen's has produced distinguished alumni including Nobel Prize winners Seamus Heaney (Literature) and David Trimble (Peace), former President of Ireland Mary McAleese, and pioneering physicist John Stewart Bell. The university has an estimated annual economic impact of over GBP 3 billion on the UK economy and continues to shape Northern Ireland's social and economic development.
Key Milestones
- 1845: Founded by Royal Charter of Queen Victoria as Queen's College Belfast, one of three Queen's Colleges in Ireland alongside Cork and Galway.
- 1908: Became an independent institution as The Queen's University of Belfast under the Irish Universities Act, with autonomy over governance and appointments.
- 1995: Alumnus Seamus Heaney won the Nobel Prize for Literature, bringing global recognition to the university's literary tradition.
- 2025: Celebrated 180th anniversary and broke into the top 200 in both the QS and THE World University Rankings, ranking 199th and 198th respectively.
Academic Structure and Faculties at Queen's University Belfast
Academic Structure and Faculties at Queen's University Belfast
Queen's University Belfast organises its academic programmes across three main faculties encompassing fifteen schools. The university offers over 300 degree programmes at undergraduate, postgraduate taught, and postgraduate research levels, providing students with a broad range of disciplines and specialisations.
Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
This faculty brings together schools covering arts, law, social sciences, history, and languages. It is home to the Seamus Heaney Centre for Poetry and the Institute of Irish Studies, offering rich academic programmes rooted in culture and society.
- English Language and Literature
- Law (LLB)
- Politics, Philosophy and Economics
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
This faculty houses schools of chemistry, mathematics, physics, electronics, and engineering. It includes the Institute of Electronics, Communications and Information Technology (ECIT) and features innovative engineering hubs and cutting-edge research facilities.
- Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
- Computer Science
- Mathematics and Physics
Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences
Covering medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, biological sciences, and psychology, this faculty is at the forefront of health research. It includes the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine and the School of Pharmacy, which ranks among the top globally.
- Medicine (MB BCh BAO)
- Pharmacy (MPharm)
- Nursing Science
Queen's Management School
Part of the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Queen's Management School offers AMBA-accredited MBA and business programmes. It features the William J. Clinton Leadership Institute and a financial Trading Room with Bloomberg terminals.
- Business Management
- MBA (AMBA Accredited)
- Accounting and Finance
School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work
This school delivers programmes in sociology, social policy, criminology, education, and social work. It has strong community engagement links and contributes to policy development across Northern Ireland and beyond.
- Social Policy and Administration
- Education Studies
- Criminology and Social Work
School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics
This interdisciplinary school brings together history, anthropology, philosophy, and politics under one roof. It offers programmes that explore global societies, conflict resolution, and cultural heritage, areas in which Queen's has a strong research tradition.
- History
- International Relations and Conflict Studies
- Anthropology
Admission Requirements for Queen's University Belfast
Admission Requirements for Queen's University Belfast
Undergraduate Admission
- A-LevelsABB to AAA depending on programme (or equivalent qualifications)
- International Baccalaureate30 to 36 points depending on the programme
- English Language (IELTS)6.5 overall (no band below 5.5); Medicine requires 7.5
- TOEFL iBT90 overall (Medicine: 105 overall)
- Application RouteVia UCAS for all undergraduate programmes
Postgraduate Admission
- Degree ClassificationUK upper second-class (2:1) honours degree or international equivalent
- English Language (IELTS)6.5 overall (no band below 5.5); some programmes require higher
- TOEFL iBT90 overall minimum
- Supporting DocumentsOfficial transcripts, degree certificates, references, and personal statement
- Decision TimelineTypically within 2 weeks of receiving all required documents
Deadline for undergraduate applications to receive equal consideration through UCAS.
UCAS deadline for applications to Medicine and Dentistry programmes.
Final deadline for undergraduate applications through UCAS for most programmes with available places.
Postgraduate taught and research programmes accept applications on a rolling basis. Apply early for the best chance of securing a place.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Queen's University Belfast
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Queen's University Belfast
Queen's University Belfast offers competitive tuition fees compared to many similarly ranked UK universities. Northern Ireland has the lowest student living costs in the UK, making Queen's an affordable choice for international students seeking a high-quality education.
| Fee Category | Home (NI/ROI) Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (Classroom-based) | GBP 4,750 per year | GBP 22,400 per year |
| Undergraduate (Lab/Workshop-based) | GBP 4,750 per year | GBP 25,800 per year |
| Postgraduate Taught | GBP 6,500 - 8,500 per year | GBP 23,000 - 28,000 per year |
| Medicine (Clinical) | GBP 4,750 per year | GBP 47,000 per year |
| Total | Contact university for current totals | GBP 22,400 - 47,000 per year (varies by programme) |
International Office Scholarships
Queen's offers a range of scholarships for international students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including country-specific awards and merit-based fee reductions.
- UG Scholarship Value: GBP 3,500 - 4,000
- PG Scholarship Value: GBP 2,000 - 6,000
- Eligibility: International fee-paying students with strong academic records
Queen's Excellence Award
A merit-based award available to high-achieving international students, providing a tuition fee reduction to support outstanding academic talent across all disciplines.
- Award Value: Up to GBP 3,000 per year
- Duration: Renewable annually subject to academic performance
- Application: Automatic consideration upon admission; no separate application required
Campus and Facilities at Queen's University Belfast
Campus and Facilities at Queen's University Belfast
Queen's is a city-based campus university situated in the vibrant Queen's Quarter of south Belfast, just minutes from the city centre. The university has invested over GBP 350 million in recent years to provide modern facilities, and the campus features over 300 buildings, many of which are listed for their architectural significance.
The iconic centrepiece of campus, designed by Sir Charles Lanyon in 1849 and modelled on Magdalen College Oxford. It serves as the main entrance and ceremonial heart of the university.
The award-winning McClay Library, opened in 2009, houses over 1.2 million volumes and provides extensive study spaces, digital resources, and collaborative learning areas for students.
The brand new student centre at the heart of campus, offering social spaces, event venues, and support services. Queen's Students' Union is ranked number one in the UK.
Housing and Dining
Student Accommodation
Queen's offers a variety of student accommodation options, including a student village near campus and city centre residences with fully furnished rooms and high-speed internet.
- Elms BT1 and BT2 city centre residences
- Elms BT9 student village near campus
- Standard, en-suite, and studio room options available
Dining and Campus Life
The campus and surrounding Queen's Quarter offer numerous dining options, cafes, and restaurants. Belfast's affordable cost of living makes eating out accessible for students.
- Multiple campus cafes and food outlets
- Botanic Avenue restaurants and bars nearby
- Queen's Quarter cultural and dining district
Student Life at Queen's University Belfast
Student Life at Queen's University Belfast
Student life at Queen's is vibrant and diverse, centred around the award-winning Students' Union, which is ranked number one in the UK. With over 200 clubs and societies, a thriving arts scene, and a welcoming multicultural community of students from over 90 countries, there is something for everyone at Queen's.
Life in Belfast: A Vibrant Capital City
Life in Belfast: A Vibrant Capital City
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast is a compact, friendly, and affordable capital city with a passion for progress and innovation. It has the lowest student living costs in the UK and is ranked among the safest regions. The city is a hub for global technology companies and has been recognised in Time Out's 50 Best Cities in the World.
Lowest Living Costs in the UK
Northern Ireland consistently ranks as having the lowest student living costs in the UK, making Belfast one of the most affordable student cities in Britain.
Thriving Tech and Innovation Hub
Belfast is ranked in the top 10 fastest growing tech cities in the UK, with almost 900 international companies located in Northern Ireland and strong links to the global digital economy.
Rich Cultural Heritage
From the Titanic Quarter and Belfast Castle to the Cathedral Quarter's vibrant nightlife and arts scene, the city offers a wealth of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment.
Gateway to Stunning Landscapes
Northern Ireland offers the Giant's Causeway, Mourne Mountains, Game of Thrones filming locations, and 31 blue flag beaches, all easily accessible from Belfast for weekend adventures.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Notable Employers and Connections
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
Queen's provides a dedicated Immigration Support Service offering specialist advice on visa applications, Student Route visas, and immigration queries throughout your studies in the UK.
The INTO centre on campus provides foundation year programmes and academic English courses for international students who need to meet entry requirements before starting their degree.
Comprehensive support services including orientation programmes, buddy schemes, wellbeing services, and dedicated advisers to help international students settle into life in Belfast.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Queen's University Belfast: Worldwide University Rankings
Queen's University Belfast: Worldwide University Rankings
Queen's University Belfast has achieved significant progress in global rankings, breaking into the top 200 in both the QS and Times Higher Education World University Rankings in 2026. The university is recognised for its research quality, international outlook, and commitment to sustainability, with five subjects ranked in the world top 100.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy and Pharmacology | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 100 |
| Nursing | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 100 |
| English Language and Literature | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 100 |
| Performing Arts | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 100 |
Features
Queen’s University Belfast is a public Russell Group research university with a diverse international community (~43% overseas students). It is highly regarded for its academic excellence and innovation, reflected in top‑200 global rankings, 13th in UK research intensity, and world-leading impact in sustainability and equality. With over 25,000 students, strong career outcomes (94–96% employed or in further study), and modern facilities on a historic campus in Belfast, Queen’s provides both global reputation and local relevance.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
October - January
Location
University Rd, Belfast BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
Map not found.
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