Why Study at Queens University Belfast
Queens University has invested heavily in making international students welcome. As one of the oldest universities in the United Kingdom with a long history of excellence it has become a firm favourite with Chinese students.
Every year international students start their study abroad journey by exploring a host of options looking for the university that best suits and fulfills their personal and academic aspirations. International students often look for the best university for their desired discipline, the tuition and living costs in the country/city in which the university is located as well as after-graduation employability, among many other criteria. This article sheds light on reasons why international students choose Queen’s University Belfast as their university of choice pursuing their education abroad.
Academic Reputation & Faculty Quality
As the 9th oldest university in the UK, Queen’s University Belfast has been providing top education since 1845. With world-renowned faculty members, Queen’s University Belfast is able to provide students with top-class undergraduate as well as graduate education in many different disciplines. The university has a wide reputation as a leading research university in the UK. It is a member of the prestigious Russell Group of the UK’s 24 leading research-intensive universities and has been ranked as first in the UK for research intensity in disciplines like Biological Sciences, Dentistry and Mathematics. Its research ranking received as high as first in the UK for Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Food Science and Agriculture and Forestry making it one of the most popular study destinations for foreign students.
Degree Programs & Disciplines
Queen’s University Belfast is known to provide a wide spectrum of undergraduate as well as graduate degree programs. Its programs cover a host of disciplines; from Accounting and Economics to Medicine, Computer Engineering and Architecture. Its population of 3000 International students from more than 80 countries around the world are not only attracted by the highly-ranked disciplines, but they also choose to study at Queen’s University Belfast for the variety of specializations as well as its academic excellence; 96% of current international students are satisfied with the subject area expertise of their lecturers while 93% of current international students at are satisfied with the teaching ability of their lecturers.
Top Ranked University
Queen’s University Belfast is amongst the top ranked universities in the world and in UK. The University has been ranked 209 in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2021 and 200 in the world in the Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2021. The University also has 15 subjects with ranking in the top 200 in the world in the QS World Rankings by subject 2020; amongst which are subjects like English Language and Literature (51-100), Pharmacy and Pharmacology (51-100), Nursing (51-100) and Medicine (151-200).
Not only does Queen’s University Belfast enjoy such a high ranking amongst the world’s top universities, it also holds such high ranking amongst UK universities. It is ranked 27th in the UK with 24 subjects in the UK top 20 and 10 subjects in the top 10. Subjects like Electrical and Electronic Engineering ranks 9th in the UK while Accounting and Finance ranks 6th, Chemical Engineering ranks 16th, and Mechanical Engineering ranks 20th.
Employability
Queen’s University Belfast is ranked in the top 140 in the world for graduate prospects (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020). The University prepares and encourages its students to take advantage of a student exchange program or an international work placement program as part of their degree. Students will have a chance to utilize the European Erasmus Programme, through which, students will have a chance to study abroad for one year at a partner university in Australia, Canada, China, India, New Zealand or the USA. Students can also gain some work experience through a work placement program with an employer. Every year over 800 Queen’s students take the opportunity to go outside of Northern Ireland to study or gain work-related experience. This will enhance students’ employability, broaden cultural awareness and boost self-confidence and resilience. It’s worth noting that 96% OF Queen’s graduates are in employment or further study six months after graduation. *
*(HESA Destination of Leavers from Higher Education Survey 2016/17)
Scholarships
Amongst the top criteria international students take into consideration when deciding on a university to study abroad is the availability of scholarships. Queen’s University Belfast is considered to be one of the top universities to provide foreign students with scholarships and grants; Queen’s University Belfast avails £1.5M in scholarships to talented, fee-paying international students each year making it one of the most attractive study destinations for international students. The International Office Undergraduate Scholarship awards international undergraduate students enrolling in full-time undergraduate programs up to £3000 for one year. The Vice-Chancellor’s International Attainment Scholarship awards international students enrolled in full-time undergraduate program up to 50% discount on tuition fees paid for all years; students can apply for the scholarship by filling out this application.
International Student Friendliness
Belfast, generally, is a modern, beautiful capital city that is welcoming to its visitors and quite easy to get around while being an affordable place in which to live and study. The city features a beautiful contrast of old and modern architecture. Being one of the most affordable cities to live and study within the UK has made Belfast a top destination for international students. Particularly, Queen’s University Belfast is a top choice for international students for its friendliness and welcoming to visiting students. The university takes into account the stress international students may fall under while being away from home thus has over 200 clubs and societies to suit everyone, including sports, gaming, creative, cultural and academic societies.
Location
Queen’s University Belfast is located in south central Belfast and as such is close to both Northern Ireland’s main motorways, connecting it easily with the rest of Ireland. The university is also a five-minute walk to Botanic Train Station making it easily connected to Dublin and the rest of the United Kingdom. Belfast could also easily be reached by plain; Belfast’s 2 airports, George Best Belfast City Airport and Belfast International Airport, seamlessly connect it to other major cities within the UK with less-than-an-hour flights that are reasonably priced. Its 2 airports serve 74 direct flight from Belfast to UK, Europe and the USA.
Lower Cost of Living
Belfast is generally is considered one of the most affordable cities to live and study in within the United Kingdom making it an attractive study destination for international students. Average monthly living expenses certainly varies depending on individual spending habits but generally speaking, the average living cost in Belfast is considered to be a lot less than the living costs in mainland Britain. Average monthly rent ranges from £400-£550 per month for a 1-bedroom apartment, a single movie ticket costs about £7 and a fast-food combo meal would cost around £6. It is estimated that the average total expense is £950 per month.
Network of Support
Moving to a new country can be an intimidating experience for young international students. The Student Guidance Center at Queen’s University Belfast is the first place students visit when looking for information, support or advice. The center provides students with support services that look after their health, wellbeing, education needs, study needs, financial security and future career. The dedicated International Support Services team can provide students with specialist advice in relation to visa and immigration matters including applying for visa to come to the UK and assisting with any queries they may have during their time here.
Quality Accommodation
With accommodations costs varying between £85-£175 per week, Queen’s University Belfast provides one of the most affordable accommodations options in Belfast. The University has added 1,237 rooms across two brand new city center sites in 2018 that provide students with modern accommodation. Queen’s University Belfast offers its students different types of accommodations; students can choose to live in a twin, standard or en suite accommodation. Additionally, students who wish to live in a single-sex, quiet-living and alcohol-free accommodation have to indicate that in their application. Students who are looking for a more economic accommodation option can certainly look for private housing where they can share an apartment with other fellow students.
Cost of Tuition
Queen’s University is considered one of the most affordable universities for international students to study abroad in the UK. Its yearly tuition fees amounting to £17,400 for classroom-based level of study and £ 21,400 for laboratory-based level of study while Pre-clinical Based / Clinical level of study costs £32,200 per year. While, as mentioned earlier, Queen’s University Belfast avails £1.5M in scholarships to talented, fee-paying international students each year, international students have a great opportunity to make use of scholarships and lowering tuition fees
Local Chinese Community Support
We know how difficult moving away from home and travelling round the world to embark on challenging studied in another language. All those things we miss about home from friends and family to food and fun. While the excitement and rewards of such a move are huge there will always be a time of adjustment and home sickness. Therefore the Chinese Welfare Association which is located practically on campus provides a wide range of events and courses which will help Chinese and other international students feel right at home. A safe space where they can meet each other and enjoy friendship and food as well as a way of exploring Belfast and Northern Ireland.
Queen's University Graduation Ceremony on Weibo
Queen's University Graduation Ceremony · Weibo Online Watching Ceremony
05/07/2021
In order to facilitate the viewing ceremony, the Weibo online virtual graduation ceremony will broadcast the whole process. Welcome to watch it.
At that time, you can invite relatives and friends to watch the ceremony on Weibo and share this exciting moment.
Click this link or scan the QR code below to follow the Weibo account of @Queen's University of the United Kingdom to watch the ceremony.
I wish the students a happy graduation and enjoyable ceremony!
Queen's University · Graduation Ceremony Team
英国女王大学毕业典礼·微博线上观礼
英国女王大学毕业典礼·微博线上观礼
05/07/2021
为方便观礼，微博线上虚拟毕业典礼将直播仪式全程，欢迎大家观看。
届时，大家可邀请亲朋好友上微博观看典礼仪式，共享这激动人心的时刻。
点击此链接或扫描下方二维码，关注@英国女王大学 微博账号，即可观礼。
祝同学们毕业快乐，乐享典礼！
英国女王大学·毕业典礼团队
Study Here - Queens University
Stay and Study Here
Your Gateway to a World Class Education
The Chinese Welfare Association has a track record in supporting students and promoting education within our community as well as welcoming students from overseas to our local universities. Let us help you stay and study here and find the right place for you.
Stay and Study
Introducing Our Local Universities
Education is the key to the future and we have been working with both main universities in Northern Ireland to help them reach out to students from China. They have both been engaged in strong outreach programmes, with information and help in Chinese. The Chinese Welfare Association is based in the University Quarter of Belfast practically on the Queens University campus.
Queen’s University is the ninth oldest university in the UK and a member of the excellent Russell University Group. Welcome to join the ranks of 1200 Chinese students studying at Queen’s University to win the opportunity for yourself in the global job market.
英国女王大学是英国第九古老的大学，也是优秀的罗素大学集团的成员之一。欢迎各位加入英国女王大学1200位在读中国留学生的队伍，为自己在全球就业市场赢得先机。
Speak to Someone
CWA Introducing You
Introducing Catherine Li, Senior International Officer/Senior Business Development Manager
Welcome to your country’s information page. Here, you’ll find relevant information for your country to help you make an application to one of our degree programmes, including entry requirements, Queens’s events near you and even contact information for our local representatives in your country. I’m here to help you with any questions you may have about studying at Queens University. Why not check if we’re visiting your country soon for an event, or feel free to contact me via the channels below.
Virtual Tour
Virtually Visit Today
Why not have a look around before you make your decision. The virtual tours of the campus and the city of Belfast will give you a real feel for the beautiful historic surroundings and the atmosphere you will be studying in. So have a look today and explore the online student experience with a range of interactive features, information videos and downloads.
CWA continues to work with local universities and schools to support students from China who have decided to live and learn here.
Virtual Visit
Get a feel for studying here with a virtual visit today and learn more.
Queens University Reaches Out to China
The education Team at CWA would be glad to help you with any query about studying here in Northern Ireland or you can speak directly to the University
The Queens University website in Chinese is a great first point of contact for all students and have a wealth of information and insights into life here.
Email china@qub.ac.uk
- Sina Weibo
- 新浪微博
- WeChat (service)
- QueenUBelfast
- WeChat (subscription)
- QueensUniBelfast
Important Contact Information
Immigration Support Service (ISS) – Visa and Immigration Enquiries
https://www.qub.ac.uk/sites/iss/
Admissions and Access Service - Admissions Enquiries
intl.student@qub.ac.uk
www.qub.ac.uk/ado
International Office - International Generic Enquiries
international@qub.ac.uk
www.qub.ac.uk/International/
International Scholarships - International Scholarships Enquiries
internationalscholarships@qub.ac.ukhttps://www.qub.ac.uk/International/International-students/International-scholarships/
Partnerships – Current and Prospective Partner and Partner Student Enquiries
Student Finance Office - Tuition Fee Payments
studentfinance@qub.ac.uk
www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/finance/
INTO Queen's University Belfast - English Language Courses and Pathway Programmes
into@qub.ac.uk
www.intohigher.com/queens
The Graduate School - Postgraduate Funding Enquiries
graduateschool@qub.ac.uk
www.qub.ac.uk/sites/graduateschool/PostgraduateFunding/
Student Services and Systems - Enrolment and Registration
s.records@qub.ac.uk
www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/srecords/
Queen's Accommodation and Hospitality
accommodation@qub.ac.uk
http://www.qub.ac.uk/accommodation/
Faculties
Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences askahss@qub.ac.uk
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences askeps@qub.ac.uk
Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences askmhls@qub.ac.uk
Local Schools and Universities
Plan Your Studies
Northern Ireland has a world class education system and some of the finest schools and universities in the United Kingdom. So whether it is to improve your English or complete your studies we have a place for you.
Search Our Site for More Information on Local Education
Boarding Schools
Begin your studies in Northern Ireland at a local Boarding School
Maps and Tours
Maps and Information to Help you Plan Your Stay and Studies
Universities
Have a look at our world class universities and plan to stay and study here.
Study Here – Queens University
Come here to study at Queens University, Belfast and join thousands of international students.
Study Here – Ulster University
Ulster University offers a range of courses and campuses with city and life at the north coast an option.
British Council Study in China Programme
This programme is not running for the 2020/21 academic year.
Please check back later for any updates and details of available scholarships for the 2021/22 academic year.
You can also email us to find out more about studying in China and for information on other scholarship opportunities.
We would also encourage you to sign up to our newsletter to stay up to date with the latest opportunities in China.
About the scholarships
Academic scholarships can be used at any mainland Chinese institution approved by the Ministry of Education to accept foreign students. You can decide where you want to be based and which subjects (at a non-degree level) you wish to study. The majority of students choose to study in Beijing.
All scholarships cover tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly living allowance to help with day-to-day expenses.
Am I eligible?
Generation UK academic scholarships are available to anyone who is:
- aged 18 and above
- a British passport holder (or a British or Irish passport holder if you are domiciled in Northern Ireland).
- a full-time student enrolled at a UK university or a recent graduate (applying within one year of your graduation date)
- on track to receive or have achieved a 2:1 grade at university.
Students already holding offers from Chinese universities can also apply.
Do I need to speak Mandarin?
There are no language eligibility requirements for this programme.
However, please check the course requirements of the Chinese institution you wish to study in. All language courses are suitable for complete beginners in Mandarin. However, there is the opportunity to be placed in classes for intermediate and advanced learners. In this case, you can expect an informal language test upon arrival to make sure you get put in the right class.
If this is your first experience with the Mandarin language, we strongly recommend that you learn a few of the basics before you go.
Why should I go?
With 1.4 billion speakers worldwide, Chinese truly is a global language. Graduates who speak more than one language are highly sought-after, and with China’s increasing role in the world market, Mandarin is becoming a favourite among employers.
Chinese universities attract many international students for their high-quality teaching and offer various scholarships.
This is an opportunity to experience life in a completely different culture, gain new skills and improve your career prospects.
Which courses are available?
This scholarship can be used for any non-degree study of your own choice, at any mainland Chinese university with a tuition fee allowance up to 30,000 RMB.
The majority of students choose to take an intensive course in Chinese language, with extra modules where possible to learn about Chinese business and culture. There are also many non-degree English-taught programmes now being offered in a range of subjects at Chinese universities.
To find out more about universities in China and which courses are on offer, you can take a look at CUCAS .
How long does it last?
Programmes are flexible and vary, with courses lasting from a single semester (five months) to a whole year. You can choose to start your programme in either September or February, within the same academic year.
How much does it cost?
The scholarship should cover all your basic living needs while you are on the programme. The cost of living in China varies greatly depending on the city you choose to study in and your lifestyle. To get the full experience of all that China has to offer, it would be a good idea to have some extra cash handy to cover any additional costs during your time on the programme, such as travel and leisure activities.
You will receive:
- accommodation at the university
- tuition fee allowance of 30,000 RMB a year or less
- a monthly living stipend of 3,000 RMB
You’ll need to cover the costs of flights (GBP 400-700) and arrange the necessary visas, travel and medical insurance, and vaccinations.
I have a question
If you couldn't find what you were looking for, please email the Generation UK team.
The British Council launched the Generation UK campaign in 2013. By 2020, the campaign aims to help 80,000 students from the UK boost their employability and long-term job prospects, and develop a global mind-set through study and work experience opportunities in China.
Study Here - Ulster University
Stay and Study Here
Your Gateway to a World Class Education
The Chinese Welfare Association has a track record in supporting students and promoting education within our community as well as welcoming students from overseas to our local universities. Let us help you stay and study here and find the right place for you.
Stay and Study
Introducing Our Local Universities
Education is the key to the future and we have been working with both main universities in Northern Ireland to help them reach out to students from China. They have both been engaged in strong outreach programmes, with information and help in Chinese. So why not have a look at what they have to offer and speak to someone today.
Speak to Someone
CWA Introducing You
Introducing Zibo, the Chinese Regional Manager.
Welcome to your country’s information page. Here, you’ll find relevant information for your country to help you make an application to one of our degree programmes, including entry requirements, Ulster University’s events near you and even contact information for our local representatives in your country. I’m here to help you with any questions you may have about studying at Ulster University. Why not check if we’re visiting your country soon for an event, or feel free to contact me via the channels below.
Stay and Study
Belfast - a seat of learning
Working with Belfast City Council to bridge the digital divide we have created a digital bridge between Belfast and China which will help students from both counties make the best choices about their future.
We are one of the top 150 young universities in the world (THE Young Rankings, 2018) yet our history dates back to 1865. Choose to study at Ulster and you will be rewarded with first-class teaching in state-of-the-art facilities supported by outstanding pastoral care. We are proud to welcome international students from more than 100 countries across the globe.
Why Ulster University?
With a newly built Belfast Campus, students will live and study in the heart of the city. Increasing numbers of international students around the globe are choosing Ulster University as their UK study destination. The choice of courses and campuses is one reason from the Magee Campus in vibrant legendary Londonderry to the beautiful north coast and Coleraine students can also enjoy the benefit of city life with the Belfast/Jordanstown campus.
Ulster University (UU) is a multi-campus university in Northern Ireland that was founded in 1984. Comprising six faculties, the university is home to approximately 26,000 students, 2,000 of whom are international from over 80 different countries.
In the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF), UU was ranked within the top five universities in the UK for its research in law, biomedical sciences, nursing, and art and design.
The university also boasts strong links with business and industry and courses are structured to allow students to combines their studies with vocational work placements.
Its main Belfast campus constitutes one of Northern Ireland’s largest urban developments. Situated in Cathedral Quarter, the artistic and cultural area of the city, the campus is currently undergoing a £250 million redevelopment programme to upgrade its teaching and learning facilities.
Although traditionally associated with Art, the Belfast campus has expanded to include subjects such as architecture, event management, Irish language, photography and digital animation. It also plays host to frequent fashion shows, art exhibitions and other cultural events across its 75,000sqm estate.
The course provision at UU’s Coleraine campus is broad, encompassing biomedical sciences, business, the humanities, computing, film and journalism, among others.
The campus sits on the banks of the river Bann, less than a mile from the centre of Coleraine – the largest and busiest town on the Causeway Coast – offering easy access to the nearby beaches of Portrush and Portstewart, as well as the Giant’s Causeway World Heritage Site. On campus, the Riverside Theatre – the third largest professional theatre in Northern Ireland – is a main attraction.
UU is a leading university for sport in Ireland and the UK, with its Jordanstown campus, located seven miles north of Belfast city centre, providing a home to the Sports Institute of Northern Ireland where leading athletes train.
The Magee campus is another main sports centre comprising a fitness suite and floodlit pitches. The nearby River Foyle and town of Donegal offer a range of outdoor activities including sailing, rowing, canoeing, hill walking and climbing.
A Global University
Ulster University is a young, dynamic and innovative university with a spirit that transforms lives, stretches minds, develops skills and raises ambitions.
International students from over 100 countries worldwide choose Ulster every year for the unique experience studying in Northern Ireland offers them.
HEAR FROM INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Shaping Futures in Northern Ireland
Ulster University welcomes international students telling them
“Let us help you fulfil your potential.
Whatever your personal or professional ambitions, we have an exciting range of courses designed to prepare you for a successful future and a rewarding career.
Experience first class teaching, an inclusive learning environment, outstanding facilities and resources, and ongoing support to help you realise your goals.
From affordable tuition fees and accommodation to high graduate employability, Ulster University offers international students an outstanding UK study experience that prepares international students as leaders in their future careers.
1. We build careers
Our courses are designed with employability in mind. To help ensure you are industry ready, we offer…
· Qualifications and accreditations to get ahead – We work with accrediting bodies to develop degrees that prepare you for future certifications or provide exemptions.
· Real-world experience – We design our courses so that you learn in highly practical environments, seminars, and working project teams that will prepare you for the real world including live industry projects and masterclasses from experts.
· Placements – Most of our courses include the option to complete a paid placement year in industry. You will gain real-world experience and a CV building Diploma in Professional Practice or Diploma in Professional Practice – International.
2. You can choose a campus and lifestyle to suit you
Each of our campus’s has its own distinctive atmosphere and you can be sure that wherever you choose to study, you will have a fantastic student experience.
Belfast/Jordanstown
Located within Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, and with digital and social connectivity at its heart, our Belfast campus has a modern, creative vibe. With a range of sporting facilities at our Jordanstown campus just 15 minutes away, it is the perfect mix of city-centre living with edge-of-town space.
Coleraine – situated on the banks of the River Bann and just three miles from the seaside towns of Portrush and Portstewart, our Coleraine campus is an outdoor lover’s dream.
Magee – located in the heart of Northern Ireland’s second city, Derry~Londonderry and only a short distance from idyllic Co Donegal, Magee offers the best of both worlds – a city campus with a friendly vibe.
3. Get two experiences in one – stay home and go global
You’ll benefit from an excellent on campus experience which is close to home but also the options to see the world through one of our many study partnership programmes and global placement opportunities. We have over 300 institutions available worldwide for student exchange and can connect you with global employers with placement opportunities. Students have gone to Asia, America, New Zealand, Australia and Europe.
4. We’re here to support you
University life is exciting, and we know you will experience a big change with new friends, new studies and new living situations. Our Student Wellbeing Team provide advice and guidance on a range of issues like dealing with stress, academic matters, financial advice and how to adapt to student life. All our students can also access our confidential 24/7 counselling helpline.
5. We are one of the most affordable universities in the UK and Ireland
Northern Ireland has one of the lowest costs of living in the UK. Enjoy low rents, affordable living expenses, and lots of free entertainment.
We receive over 35,000 undergraduate applications every year
Local Chinese Community Support
We know how difficult moving away from home and travelling round the world to embark on challenging studied in another language. All those things we miss about home from friends and family to food and fun. While the excitement and rewards of such a move are huge there will always be a time of adjustment and home sickness. Therefore the Chinese Welfare Association provides a wide range of events and courses which will help Chinese and other international students feel right at home. A safe space where they can meet each other and enjoy friendship and food as well as a way of exploring Belfast and Northern Ireland.