Articles for Queen's University of Belfast

Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) stands as a beacon of academic excellence and historical significance in the heart of Northern Ireland. Established by Royal Charter in 1845 by Queen Victoria, it is the ninth oldest university in the United Kingdom. As a member of the prestigious Russell Group, Queen’s is part of an elite network of 24 research-intensive universities dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of research and education. For nearly two centuries, the university has shaped the cultural and economic landscape of Belfast and beyond. Today, it is a global top 200 institution, attracting over 25,000 students from more than 80 countries. Whether you are an aspiring undergraduate, a professional seeking executive education, or a researcher looking to solve global challenges, Queen’s provides a world-class platform for growth. The Heritage and Evolution of QUB The architectural soul of the university is the iconic Lanyon Building, a red-brick masterpiece that has become a symbol of Belfast. However, Queen’s is far more than its historic facade. Since its founding, the university has evolved into a modern powerhouse. A Legacy of Innovation From the development of the portable defibrillator to pioneering work in green chemistry, Queen’s has a long-standing history of "research with impact." This legacy is carried forward by a dedicated staff of over 4,000 employees who work across three main faculties: Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences Engineering & Physical Sciences Medicine, Health & Life Sciences World-Class Research and Specializations Queen’s University Belfast is renowned for its research intensity, recently ranked 13th in the UK by the Complete University Guide. An impressive 99% of its research environment was assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent in the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF). 1. Global Peace, Security, and Justice The Senator George J. Mitchell Institute is a flagship for the university. Named after the primary architect of the Good Friday Agreement, the institute focuses on how societies emerging from conflict can establish lasting peace. It is a unique place to study international relations, given Belfast’s own transformative history. 2. Cyber Security (CSIT) The Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT) is the UK’s largest Innovation and Knowledge Centre for cyber security. It sits at the forefront of protecting digital infrastructure, working with global partners like Intel, Cisco, and BAE Systems. 3. Life Sciences and Green Chemistry From tackling global food security to developing sustainable chemical processes, QUB researchers are addressing the climate crisis and public health challenges with cutting-edge technology and interdisciplinary collaboration. Academic Excellence: Over 200 Degree Programs Queen’s offers a comprehensive portfolio of programs designed to prepare students for the global job market. Undergraduate Degrees: From Law and Medicine to Aerospace Engineering and Creative Arts. Postgraduate Taught & Research: Specialized Master's programs and PhD opportunities that benefit from the university’s massive research funding. Professional Development: Executive education through the Queen's Business School, which holds the prestigious AACSB accreditation. Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP): Bridging the gap between academia and industry to drive business innovation. Campus Life and Amenities The student experience at Queen’s is centered around a vibrant urban campus located near the scenic Botanic Gardens and the Ulster Museum. The McClay Library A £50 million investment, the McClay Library is one of the finest in the UK, combining traditional library services with 21st-century technology. It offers 2,000 reader seats and specialized zones for quiet study and collaborative work. One Elmwood: The Student Hub Opened in 2022, One Elmwood is the new home of the Students' Union and the Student Guidance Centre. It is a one-stop-shop for student support, offering everything from career advice and financial guidance to a vibrant social space with bars, cafes, and the Mandela Hall music venue. Physical Education Centre (PEC) For those interested in sports, the PEC is a state-of-the-art facility featuring swimming pools, fitness suites, and climbing walls. The university’s "Gameplan" initiative ensures that sport is accessible to everyone, from elite athletes to casual gym-goers. Living in Belfast: Affordable and Welcoming Belfast is consistently ranked as one of the most affordable student cities in the UK. International students often find that their money goes much further here compared to cities like London or Manchester. Accommodation Options Queen’s offers a range of high-quality, university-managed accommodation: Elms BT9: A purpose-built student village offering a social atmosphere. Elms BT1 & BT2: Modern, city-center apartments just a short walk from the main campus. Willow Walk: Quiet, mature living ideal for postgraduate and international students. Admissions and Global Reach Queen’s University Belfast is a truly international institution. The university provides extensive support for international applicants, including: Scholarships: Various awards ranging from £2,500 to 50% tuition fee waivers for high-achieving students. English Language Support: Dedicated programs to help non-native speakers excel in their studies. Admissions Helpdesk: Reachable at admissions@qub.ac.uk for any queries regarding the application process. Why Choose Queen's University Belfast? Choosing a university is about more than just a degree; it’s about the environment you grow in. Queen’s offers: A Prestigious Network: Being part of the Russell Group opens doors to global employers. Tangible Impact: Your education is informed by research that is changing the world. A Thriving Community: A diverse, inclusive, and supportive campus in one of the UK's most historic cities. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is Queen’s University Belfast part of the Russell Group? Yes, Queen’s is a proud member of the Russell Group, which represents 24 of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities. 2. What are the most popular subjects at QUB? Some of the most highly-regarded subjects include Cyber Security, Global Peace & Security, Pharmacy, Architecture, and Creative Arts. 3. Is Belfast an expensive city for students? No, Belfast is known for having some of the lowest student living costs in the UK, particularly regarding rent and household bills. 4. What is the McClay Library? The McClay Library is the university’s main library, offering world-class study facilities, extensive digital resources, and 24/7 computing access. 5. How do I apply for a scholarship at Queen's? Many international scholarships are awarded automatically based on academic merit upon enrolment, while others (like the Vice-Chancellor's Excellence Award) require a separate application. 6. Does the university offer accommodation for international students? Yes, Queen's offers a range of accommodation options, including city-center apartments and student villages, with support specifically for international arrivals. 7. Who founded Queen’s University Belfast? The university was founded by Queen Victoria in 1845 via a Royal Charter. 8. What is the "One Elmwood" building? One Elmwood is the university's new student hub, housing both the Students' Union and all major student support services in a single modern facility. 9. Can I work while studying at Queen’s? Most international students on a student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time, though you should always check your specific visa conditions. 10. What amenities are available for sports and fitness? The Physical Education Centre (PEC) offers world-class facilities, including a 25m swimming pool, multiple gyms, and outdoor pitches at Upper Malone. Business Contact Information Address: University Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT7 1NN, United Kingdom Phone: +44 (0)28 9024 5133 Helpdesk: +44 (0)28 9097 3004 Email: admissions@qub.ac.uk Website: www.qub.ac.uk