Queen's University Belfast Logo Queen's University Belfast

Address: Queen's University Belfast, University Road, Belfast BT7 1NN, Northern Ireland, UK
Phone: +44 (0)28 9024 5133
Email: info@qub.ac.uk
Website: www.qub.ac.uk


Queen's University Belfast (QUB) has specific English language requirements for international students to ensure they can engage effectively with their studies. Here’s an overview of the typical language requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programs:

1. Undergraduate Programs

For undergraduate programs, the general English language requirements are:

  • IELTS (Academic):

    • Overall score of 6.0 with no individual component below 5.5.

  • TOEFL iBT:

    • Overall score of 80, with a minimum of 19 in each section.

  • PTE Academic:

    • Overall score of 54, with no less than 51 in each component.

  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE):

    • Overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in each component.

2. Postgraduate Programs

For postgraduate programs, the English language requirements are generally higher:

  • IELTS (Academic):

    • Overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.

  • TOEFL iBT:

    • Overall score of 90, with a minimum of 21 in each section.

  • PTE Academic:

    • Overall score of 62, with no less than 59 in each section.

  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE):

    • Overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in each component.

3. Program-Specific Requirements

Some programs may have specific language requirements that exceed the general requirements, so it’s advisable for applicants to check the specific program page for detailed information.

4. Pre-sessional English Courses

Queen's University offers pre-sessional English courses for students who do not meet the required English language scores. These courses aim to improve language skills before starting degree programs.

5. Exemptions

Students from certain English-speaking countries (like the UK, Ireland, the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) or those who have completed their previous education in English may be exempt from providing English language test scores.

Queen's University Belfast offers a diverse range of specialized courses across various disciplines. Here are some notable course specialties:

1. Health and Life Sciences

  • Medicine: The Queen's University Belfast School of Medicine is highly regarded for its MBBS program, which includes extensive clinical training.
  • Pharmacy: Known for its comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for careers in pharmaceutical science and practice.
  • Nursing and Midwifery: Offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs focusing on practical training and patient care.
  • Biomedical Science: Focuses on the scientific study of diseases and health, including laboratory and clinical research.

2. Engineering and Physical Sciences

  • Civil Engineering: Specializes in structural engineering, geotechnics, and environmental engineering.
  • Mechanical Engineering: Covers areas such as energy systems, materials, and design engineering.
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering: Focuses on electronics, control systems, and telecommunications.

3. Humanities and Social Sciences

  • Law: The Queen's University Belfast School of Law offers LLB programs and postgraduate courses in various areas of law, including international and human rights law.
  • Politics and International Relations: Examines political systems, international relations, and global issues.
  • Sociology: Explores social structures, relationships, and contemporary societal issues.

4. Business and Management

  • Business Administration: Offers undergraduate and MBA programs with specializations in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
  • Economics: Focuses on microeconomics, macroeconomics, and applied economics.
  • Accounting: Prepares students for careers in accounting and finance, with a strong emphasis on practical skills.

5. Media and Communication

  • Journalism: Provides training in multimedia journalism, news writing, and broadcast journalism.
  • Media Studies: Explores media theory, production, and the impact of media on society.

6. Arts and Creative Studies

  • Music: Offers programs in music performance, composition, and musicology.
  • Drama: Focuses on performance, theater production, and critical studies.
  • Visual Arts: Includes courses in fine art, photography, and design.

7. Education

  • Education Studies: Covers educational theory, policy, and practice, including teacher training programs (PGCE).

8. Environmental Studies

  • Environmental Science: Examines ecological processes, sustainability, and environmental policy.
  • Geography: Focuses on human and physical geography, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), and environmental management.

Queen's University Belfast (QUB) offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Here’s a detailed overview of the main programs available:

Undergraduate Programs

  1. Health and Life Sciences

    • Medicine (MBBS)
    • Pharmacy
    • Nursing
    • Biomedical Science
    • Physiotherapy
    • Occupational Therapy
    • Public Health

  2. Engineering and Physical Sciences

    • Civil Engineering
    • Mechanical Engineering
    • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
    • Software Engineering
    • Chemical Engineering
    • Physics
    • Mathematics

  3. Humanities and Social Sciences

    • Law (LLB)
    • Politics and International Relations
    • Sociology
    • History
    • Philosophy
    • Social Policy

  4. Business and Management

    • Business Management
    • Accounting and Finance
    • Marketing
    • Economics
    • Human Resource Management
    • International Business

  5. Media and Communication

    • Journalism
    • Media Studies
    • Film Studies
    • Communication Studies
    • Advertising

  6. Arts and Creative Studies

    • Music
    • Drama
    • Fine Art
    • Graphic Design
    • Architecture

  7. Education

    • Education Studies
    • Primary Education (BA)
    • Secondary Education (PGCE)

  8. Environmental Studies

    • Environmental Science
    • Geography
    • Sustainable Development
    • Ecology and Conservation

Postgraduate Programs

  1. Health and Life Sciences

    • MSc in Public Health
    • MSc in Clinical Psychology
    • MSc in Health Psychology
    • MSc in Nursing (Advanced Practice)

  2. Engineering and Physical Sciences

    • MSc in Renewable Energy and Green Technologies
    • MSc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering
    • MSc in Data Science
    • MSc in Structural Engineering

  3. Humanities and Social Sciences

    • LLM in International Business Law
    • MA in Politics
    • MSc in Social Work
    • MSc in Social Research Methods

  4. Media and Communication

    • MA in Journalism
    • MA in Film Studies
    • MA in Media and Communication

  5. Business and Management

    • MBA (Master of Business Administration)
    • MSc in Marketing
    • MSc in Finance and Management
    • MSc in Business Analytics

  6. Environmental Studies

    • MSc in Environmental Management
    • MSc in Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability

  7. Arts and Creative Studies

    • MA in Music
    • MA in Fine Art
    • MA in Creative Writing
    • MA in Theatre Studies

  8. Education

    • MA in Education
    • MSc in Educational Leadership and Management
    • MSc in Higher Education

Research Programs

Queen's University also offers opportunities for PhD and MPhil research across a variety of disciplines, allowing students to engage in extensive research under the guidance of experienced faculty members.

Queen's University Belfast (QUB) has several esteemed professors who are recognized for their contributions to their respective fields. Here are a few notable faculty members:

1. Sir Peter Gregson

  • Position: Vice-Chancellor and President of Queen's University Belfast
  • Field: Engineering and Applied Sciences
  • Contribution: Sir Peter Gregson has been influential in promoting research and innovation at QUB, enhancing its global reputation. He has a background in engineering and has made significant contributions to the field of engineering education.

2. Professor David McCay

  • Position: Professor of Physics
  • Field: Physics
  • Contribution: An expert in materials science and condensed matter physics, Professor McCay has published extensively and has received recognition for his research in quantum materials and nanotechnology.

3. Professor Karen O’Connor

  • Position: Professor of Education
  • Field: Education
  • Contribution: Her research focuses on educational leadership and policy, with an emphasis on teacher education. She is known for her work in improving educational outcomes and practices.

4. Professor Ruth Barrington

  • Position: Professor of Nursing
  • Field: Nursing and Health Care
  • Contribution: Professor Barrington's research centers on nursing education and practice, particularly in the context of mental health. She has played a pivotal role in advancing nursing education at QUB.

5. Professor Seamus Heaney (Posthumously)

  • Field: Literature
  • Contribution: Though he passed away in 2013, Seamus Heaney was a professor at QUB and is remembered for his Nobel Prize-winning poetry and significant impact on Irish literature. His legacy continues to influence students and writers.

6. Professor Louise McGowan

  • Position: Professor of Finance
  • Field: Business and Finance
  • Contribution: An expert in financial risk management and corporate finance, Professor McGowan has published extensively in high-impact journals and contributes to the field through research and education.

Queen's University Belfast has a notable history of association with prestigious awards, including the Nobel Prize. Here are some highlights:

Nobel Laureates

  1. David Trimble (1998)

    • Field: Peace
    • Contribution: As a leader of the Ulster Unionist Party, David Trimble played a crucial role in the negotiations that led to the Good Friday Agreement, which helped to bring an end to decades of conflict in Northern Ireland. He shared the Nobel Peace Prize with John Hume for their efforts in promoting peace and reconciliation.

  2. Seamus Heaney (1995)

    • Field: Literature
    • Contribution: An acclaimed poet, Heaney was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his outstanding contributions to poetry and his ability to articulate the human experience. Heaney is one of Ireland's most celebrated literary figures and was associated with Queen's University as a lecturer.

Research and Contributions

While not all Nobel laureates are directly affiliated with QUB, the university is known for its strong research output and contributions to various fields, particularly in health, engineering, and social sciences. The presence of Nobel laureates among its faculty and alumni adds to the university's reputation for academic excellence.

About Queen's University Belfast

With a heritage dating back over 175 years, Queen's University Belfast is a member of the Russell Group, combining excellence in research and education with a student-centred ethos.

Today, Queen's is shaping a better world through life-changing education and research alongside civic and social responsibility.

A rich heritage and a renowned history of producing Nobel Laureates, leading global academics and national and international leaders underpins our world-class academic reputation.

We are based in Belfast , a modern capital city known for its welcome, accessibility and affordability. One of the UK's biggest campus universities, and the 9th oldest, Queen's blends heritage with cutting-edge facilities for the best experience of university life.

 

First-class Education

Highly respected across the globe as a centre of teaching excellence and innovative research, Queen's is ranked 202 in the world (QS World University Rankings 2024).

Over 25,000 students live and study at Queen’s and when you join us, you’ll be learning from a community of leading academics and researchers looking for the answers to some of the world’s biggest questions.

A training ground for the professions, a patron of the arts, and a driving force in wealth and job creation, we ensure all our students – the leaders of tomorrow – leave ready to take advantage of all the opportunities life can offer.
 

A Leading Research Centre

Queen’s University Belfast is part of the prestigious Russell Group of 24 leading UK research intensive universities, globally connected and networked with leading universities across the world. 

Our world-class researchers carry out internationally leading research, with Queen’s is ranked 24th in the UK for Research Power (REF 2021).

Building on our disciplinary excellence, our four flagship Global Research Institutes bring leading academics together to tackle some of the greatest global challenges of our time.
 

Tuition fees and scholarships for international students

Queen's offers lower tuition fees and living expenses than many other similarly well-regarded universities in the United Kingdom. The fees you will pay will vary depending on the course you choose and the level of study.

For new international students registering in 2023/24, undergraduate course fees range between £18,800 (US$23,776) and £34,450 (US$43,571) a year depending on your course. Postgraduate courses cost between £19,100 (US$24,157) and £24,300 (US$30,732) a year.

There are a number of country-specific and broader scholarships available to international students.

For new undergraduate applicants we offer the  International Office Undergraduate Scholarship .

Applicants who have previously completed a Study Abroad or exchange programme can apply for the  Queen's Loyalty Scholarship .

If your parents, grandparents or siblings are currently studying or completed a full degree programme at the Belfast campus you can apply for the  Queen's Family Scholarship .

The  Vice Chancellor's International Attainment Scholarship   offers four awards for undergraduate applicants. 

Where eligible, the  Early Confirmation Award  can be combined with another International Office administered scholarship to increase the value of your award.

 

Campus Life
 

Queen's is a city-based campus university at the heart of Belfast . We're proud to be part of a bustling, cosmopolitan city boasting a vibrant social life and rich cultural heritage, described by Lonely Planet as a ‘must-see visitor destination’.

Belfast is more affordable than every other major student city in the UK. It is in the safest region in the UK (UK Crime Surveys 2021/22) and the happiest (Lloyds Bank Happiness Index, 2020) too.

 

Over the past ten years, the University has invested significantly to provide world-class facilities for its students and staff. This includes our state-of-the-art Graduate School; the award-winning McClay Library; Computer Science Building; School of Law; and the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine.

The University has also invested in sporting facilities, new purpose-built student accommodation in Belfast City Centre. Our new Student Centre and Students’ Union opened in 2023, catering for the 25,000+ students to provide you with an amazing student experience.

Queen's University Belfast (QUB) is renowned for several key attributes that contribute to its prestigious reputation. Here are some reasons why it is famous:

1. Research Excellence

  • Queen's University is a member of the Russell Group, which includes 24 leading UK universities recognized for their research impact and quality. The university is known for its strong research output across various disciplines, particularly in health, engineering, and social sciences.

2. Strong Academic Programs

  • QUB offers a diverse range of academic programs, particularly recognized for its strengths in areas such as Medicine, Engineering, Law, Business, and Arts and Humanities. The Queen's University Belfast School of Medicine is particularly noted for its research and training.

3. Historical Significance

  • Founded in 1845, QUB has a rich history and has been integral to the development of higher education in Northern Ireland. Its historic campus features impressive architecture, including the iconic Lanyon Building.

4. Cultural and Political Engagement

  • Located in Belfast, the university plays a crucial role in the cultural and political landscape of Northern Ireland. It is involved in community outreach and research that addresses social issues, contributing to peace and reconciliation efforts in the region.

5. Notable Alumni

  • The university has produced numerous influential alumni, including politicians, scientists, authors, and business leaders. Notable figures include David Trimble, former First Minister of Northern Ireland and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and Seamus Heaney, a celebrated poet and also a Nobel laureate.

6. International Outlook

  • Queen's University has a diverse international student body, with students from over 80 countries. It actively engages in global partnerships and offers various study-abroad opportunities.

7. Innovative Research Centers

  • QUB is home to several research centers and institutes, such as the Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology and the Institute of Cognition and Culture, which focus on cutting-edge research and innovation.

8. Commitment to Sustainability

  • The university is committed to sustainability and has implemented various initiatives to promote environmental responsibility on campus.

9. Vibrant Campus Life

  • The university offers a rich campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and sports activities, fostering a vibrant community for students.