Eight Reasons to Choose Ulster University

Ulster University is a prominent multi-campus public research university in Northern Ireland. Often referred to as Ulster or UU, it is the largest university in Northern Ireland and is known for its strong research output, diverse course offerings, and industry connections, Ulster University provides a high-quality education and excellent student support across its campuses.

Learn more about studying in Ulster below. If you would like to apply, or have any questions answered about studying overseas, arrange a free consultation today.

Why Choose Ulster University?

1. Rankings and Reputation

Ulster University is Northern Ireland’s largest university and one of the UK's most prominent universities. In the Guardian University Guide 2024, it is ranked 28th. Here is Ulster's subject-wise performance in GUG top 10 subject rankings:

• Ist for nutrition and food science
• 2nd for hospitality, event management and tourism
• 2nd for biomedical science
• 2nd for pharmacy and pharmacology
• 5th for agriculture
• 6th for psychology
• 10th for anatomy and physiology

2. Wide-ranging Courses

One of the region's most renowned centres of education, Ulster University offers an extensive array of courses across multiple disciplines, catering to diverse academic interests and career aspirations. From undergraduate to postgraduate to doctoral programmes, Ulster has courses in diverse fields, including business, engineering, medicine, social sciences, arts, and biology. 

Industry professionals design these courses and cover both practical and theoretical modules.

3. International Scholarship Options

Ulster University offers many scholarships, making it an attractive option for students seeking financial support. These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden and reward academic excellence across various disciplines. Some of these are:

• Law and Criminology Scholarship: Offers a £2,200 discount on tuition fees and a £2,000 international postgraduate scholarship.
• Creative Industries and Communication Scholarship: This scholarship provides a £2,200 discount on tuition fees and a £2,000 international postgraduate scholarship.
• TESOL Scholarship: Grants a £2,200 discount on tuition fees, plus a £2,000 international postgraduate scholarship.
• International Undergraduate Scholarship: Reduces the annual tuition fee by £2,000.
• International Postgraduate Scholarship: Applies a £2,000 discount on tuition fees.

These scholarships make studying at Ulster University more affordable, allowing students to focus on their academic and professional development.

4. Campus Facilities

Ulster University offers state-of-the-art campus facilities that enhance students' academic and extracurricular experiences. The university's libraries are well-stocked with extensive collections of books and provide quiet study areas, collaborative spaces, and access to digital resources. Advanced research centres such as the Biomedical Sciences Research Institute and the Intelligent Systems Research Centre support cutting-edge research and innovation.

Modern lecture theatres, computer labs, and multimedia rooms are designed to encourage interactive learning. The university's sports facilities are exceptional, featuring fitness centres, sports halls, and outdoor fields catering to various activities. Social spaces like cafes and student unions also provide vibrant relaxation and community-building environments.

5. Research Excellence

Ulster University is prominent for its world-leading research, with 87% of its research judged to be either world-leading or internationally excellent. Key highlights from Ulster’s 2021 submission include:

• A 44% increase in the 4* overall research profile.
• A 53% increase in 4* research outputs.
• A 48% increase in the 4* research environment.

This research excellence positions Ulster University in the top 10% of UK universities for research impact, with 97% of its research rated as having ‘outstanding’ or ‘very considerable’ impacts in terms of reach and significance. In addition, 97% of Ulster's research environment is conducive to producing high-quality research, promoting world-leading and internationally excellent outputs. 80.1% of Ulster’s research outputs have been assessed as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, underlining the university's significant contributions to global research advancements.

6. Lower Cost of Living

Ulster University offers a cost-effective living environment, particularly in Belfast, which is significantly more affordable than London. According to Numbeo.com 2023, consumer prices, including rent, are 43.1% cheaper in Belfast, restaurant prices are 12.7% lower, and grocery prices are 21.4% less compared to London.

Northern Ireland has the UK's lowest student cost of living, as per the National Student Money Survey 2023. International students at Ulster University can expect to spend between £5,500 and £7,500 annually on living expenses. University accommodation is competitively priced, starting at £133 per week for a single room with a private ensuite bathroom at the Belfast campus and as low as £95 per week at the Derry~Londonderry campus.

With lower costs for essentials like food, utilities, and transportation, studying at Ulster University ensures students can manage their finances effectively while enjoying a high standard of living.

7. Fantastic Employability Prospects

Ulster University is highly committed to enhancing the employability of its graduates. The university’s career services and industry connections ensure students are well-prepared to enter the job market and succeed in their chosen careers.

The university offers career advice services, including placement fairs, study abroad opportunities, internship options, and networking opportunities. These services help students to identify their career goals, develop their skills, and connect with potential employers. In addition, Ulster’s courses are designed by industry experts to match the growing skill demands worldwide.

8. Great Accommodation

Ulster University’s Belfast campus offers high-quality student accommodation in the heart of the city’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter. This prime location provides students immediate access to the university's cutting-edge learning, teaching, and research facilities, ensuring an ideal mix of academic and city life. The accommodation is situated amidst historical buildings, trendy art galleries, and popular eateries, making it an exciting place to live.

Accommodation options include:

• 123 York Street: Just a 2-minute walk from the Belfast campus, 123 York Street offers modern amenities, including superfast free Wi-Fi and regular events, creating a lively and supportive student community.
• LIV Student: This new and affordable purpose-built accommodation in the City Centre ensures comfort and convenience for students.
• Jordanstown Sports Village: For those preferring a more serene environment, Jordanstown, located seven miles from Belfast City Centre, offers a village-like setting with lush lawns, beach walks, and outdoor activities.

Study at Ulster University

To begin your overseas study adventure, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK today.

FAQ

What is Ulster University best known for?

Ulster University is best known for its excellence in research, particularly in fields like biomedical sciences, social sciences, and engineering. The university is also recognised for its strong industry connections, employability-focused programmes, and extensive student support services.

What are Ulster University's most attractive features and achievements?

Ulster University's most attractive features and achievements include:

• A significant increase in world-leading research outputs.
• High rankings in national and international university guides.
• State-of-the-art campus facilities and modern learning environments.
• Several scholarships and financial aid options.
• A strong employability rate with career support

How much is the CAS deposit for Ulster University?

The CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) deposit for Ulster University is £4,000. 

What is the employability rate at Ulster University?

Ulster University has a strong employability rate: 94% of graduates are in employment or further study within six months of graduation. 

What are the facilities of the Ulster University in the UK?

Ulster University offers a variety of modern facilities, including:

• Libraries with extensive digital and physical resources.
• Advanced research centres such as the Biomedical Sciences Research Institute.
• Modern lecture theatres and multimedia rooms.
• Sports facilities, including fitness centres and sports halls.
• Social spaces like cafes, student unions, and communal study areas.

What is the acceptance rate for Ulster University?

Ulster University's acceptance rate is approximately 81%.