The Higher Education System in Northern Ireland
Learn about the higher education system in Northern Ireland and how it compares to the rest of the UK. Our guide covers programs, school types, and qualifications.
Northern Ireland requires all people to attend compulsory schooling up to the age of 16. However, most institutions require some form of qualification as a precondition to entry into higher education.
So, the higher education phase effectively begins from the age of 18 after students have attained either their A levels or a vocational qualification equivalent to A levels (such as NVQs - National Vocational Qualifications or BTECs - Business and Technology Education Council qualifications).
Universities and colleges in Northern Ireland
In Northern Ireland, three universities and two university colleges are charged with delivering higher education:
- the Queen’s University Belfast
- Ulster University
- the Open University in Northern Ireland
- St Mary’s University College Belfast
- Stranmillis University College.
These five, as well as six further education colleges and the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) all provide a broad range of vocational and academic qualifications, including certificates, higher national certificates, diplomas, higher national diplomas as well as a variety of foundation, undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate degrees.
Find a program
Why settle for one country when you can get four? Find programs in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales using our search engine.
Generally, the following timeframes apply to higher education studies in Northern Ireland:
| Programme | Duration | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| National Certificates (NC) | 1 year | ||
| Higher National Certificates (HNC) | NC + 1 year | ||
| Diplomas | 2 years | ||
| Higher National Diplomas | HNC + 1 year | ||
| Foundation Degrees | 2 years | ||
| Bachelor’s Degrees | 3 years | ||
| Master’s Degrees | Bachelor’s degree + 12 months | ||
| PhDs | Master’s degree + 3-4 years |
Grading standards in Northern Ireland
Quality standards for Northern Irish universities are among the best in the world and credentials from Northern Irish institutions are well respected internationally. No matter your level of study, studying in Northern Ireland is a surefire way to make a positive step towards your prospective career in any field.
Like the rest of the UK, Northern Irish universities follow a standard grading system for degree classifications based on the overall percentage achieved. The four university grade boundaries are:
| Grade Class | Percentage required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| First-Class Honours (1st) | 70% or above | Exceptional academic performance |
| Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1) | 60-70% | Strong academic performance* |
| Lower Second-Class Honours (2:2) | 50-60% | Satisfactory academic performance** |
| Third-Class Honours (3rd) | 40-50% | Minimum passing grade for an honours degree |
*This is the most common degree class
**Lower Second-Class Honours degrees are widely accepted by employers
Business schools in Northern Ireland
Interested in studying business? MBAs and other business degrees are offered at both colleges and universities in Northern Ireland.
Learn more about studying in Northern Ireland:
Northern Irish Language & Culture
Northern Ireland is a country steeped in heritage. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more!
Tuition Fees In Northern Ireland
Tuition fees for higher education programs in Northern Ireland can vary. Many international and domestic students pay different tuition fees, depending on where they are from. In this section you'll find all the information on how this works in Northern Ireland.
Living Costs In Northern Ireland
No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in Northern Ireland.
Entry Requirements for UK Universities
Learn more about the United Kingdom's national application portal and how it applies in Northern Ireland. This section covers what you'll need to do when applying as an undergraduate and postgraduate.
Scholarships
Don't let international student tuition fees stop you from studying abroad in Northern Ireland. Find out more about some of the scholarships available to international students here!
Student Visas for the UK
Do you need a visa to enter Northern Ireland to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizenship. Don't worry! We've gathered the information you'll need to make it happen.
Programs in Northern Ireland
Ready to browse higher education courses in Northern Ireland? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK today!
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