Durham University

Durham University provides comprehensive services to support students throughout their academic journey. For international students, Durham offers a free coach transfer service from Newcastle Airport at the beginning of each term, with a dedicated welcome team to guide students upon arrival. Before term starts, the International Office hosts a thorough induction programme, covering essential topics such as study skills, orientation, and English language support, ensuring students are well-prepared for university life.

Durham's Employability & Careers team is highly regarded. It helps students develop valuable transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and leadership. The university is ranked in the top 100 in the world for Employer Reputation by QS rankings, highlighting the strong career prospects available to its graduates. Students can also access career counselling, job placement services, and internship opportunities. Additionally, Durham offers a wide range of support services, including financial assistance, the Durham University Service for Students with Disabilities, and an on-campus nursery. The university's libraries are open seven days a week and provide extensive resources for study. The Information Technology Service offers over 1,200 computers across both campuses to ensure students have access to networked services.

For those requiring academic preparation, the Durham University International Study Centre offers International Foundation Year and Pre-Masters programmes at Queen's Campus, helping students transition smoothly into their chosen degrees.

Durham University consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK and globally. In the Times University Guide 2025, Durham is ranked 5th and holds the 6th position in the Guardian University Guide 2025, showcasing its academic excellence and reputation. Internationally, Durham is ranked 89th in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and 174th in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2024.

Durham's research output is world-renowned, with over 99% of its research rated international quality in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021. An impressive 90% of this research was classified as world-leading or internationally excellent, emphasising Durham's strength in producing impactful and high-quality work. Six subject areas are particularly notable for their outstanding research quality, including Geography (ranked 1st in the UK), Archaeology (2nd), Education (2nd), Classics and Ancient History (4th), Theology and Religion (8th), and Sport and Exercise Sciences (10th).

These rankings underscore Durham University's commitment to academic rigour and research excellence and its status as one of the world's leading educational institutions.

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Student life at Durham University is vibrant, diverse, and deeply connected to its collegiate system. With 17 colleges, each offering a unique community and culture, students enjoy a supportive environment that combines academic excellence with opportunities for social engagement, sports, arts, and leadership. Whether attending formal dinners, joining sports teams, or participating in college events, students quickly become part of a close-knit community.

The university offers more than 200 clubs and societies, ensuring something for every interest, from sports and performing arts to academic and cultural groups. Durham is renowned for its sports teams, particularly rowing and rugby, with opportunities for students of all skill levels to get involved.

The historic city of Durham, with its UNESCO World Heritage Site, mediaeval streets, and vibrant social scene, adds another layer to student life. Students can explore local cafes, restaurants, and cultural events, while the nearby city of Newcastle offers additional entertainment options.

Durham's Students' Union actively organises events, supports student-led initiatives, fosters a dynamic and inclusive campus life, and enriches the university experience.

Durham University's collegiate system offers a variety of accommodation options for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Each of Durham's colleges provides housing and a rich community experience, with activities and facilities for study, sports, arts, socialising, and student welfare. Typically, students live in their college during their first year, often moving into private accommodation in their second year and having the option to return to college halls in their final year.

All undergraduate students are guaranteed accommodation in their first year, either in their college or society. Most colleges offer fully catered accommodation, ensuring students have access to meals, study areas, social spaces, and exercise facilities. The intimate environment of living within a college fosters a strong sense of community, providing students with a close-knit support system.

Beyond accommodation, college life offers ample opportunities for students to take part in events, manage responsibilities, and engage with the broader university community, making it a vital part of the Durham University experience.