Quality education and World-class facilities
Belfast offers an excellent standard of education, with world-renowned unis providing high-quality teaching. Both Ulster University and Queen’s University Belfast ranked in the top 50 UK unis according to Complete University Guide’s 2024 league tables. With state-of-the-art research centers and top-notch sporting facilities, Belfast is well equipped to support student life and learning. You’ll find well-equipped libraries, plenty of study spaces and plenty of other excellent student facilities to benefit from during your studies.
Affordable living
The city’s cost of living is relatively low compared to other UK cities, making it a great option for those on a budget. You’ll find a range of accommodation to suit different budgets, and the average price of a pint shouldn’t stretch your bank account too far. Having fun in Belfast doesn’t have to cost the earth, there are plenty of free things to do throughout the city The cost of living in Belfast for a single individual on a monthly basis in late 2022 not including rent, is around £660.50 for regular monthly expenses.
Employment opportunities
With several multinational companies based here, students can easily find part-time jobs or internships while studying in Belfast. There’s lots of options for traditional part-time student jobs as well as internship and work experience options specific to the area thanks to the businesses based in the city.
Scenic Beauty and Ireland at your fingertips
Belfast is located on the north east coast of Northern Ireland. Being a coastal city, it’s easy to access golden beaches, as well as beautiful forests and countryside throughout the island. Head north along the Antrim coast and you’ll reach Giant’s Causeway, an area of incredible basalt rock formations that you can explore for free. There’s plenty more to see in the area – surf the famous West Strand in Portrush or cross the infamous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. South of Belfast are the stunning Mourne Mountains, where you can scale Northern Ireland’s tallest peak, Slieve Donard, or follow the C.S. Lewis trail. Author of ‘The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe’, C.S. Lewis was born in Belfast, and its surrounding area was the inspiration for the magical world of Narnia. It’s also easy to visit Dublin, the capital of the Ireland, with eight trains a day to the city.
Rich culture and history
Learn about Northern Irish history at Ulster Museum, conveniently located near Queen’s University campus. Step back in time at the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, where you can explore thatched cottages, farms and schools that show what life was like 100 years ago. Don’t miss discovering the history of the Titanic, the famous ship built in Belfast that sunk in 1912. Visit the Titanic Belfast to learn about this fascinating event, and explore the famous slipway, where the Titanic was first launched into the water. You don’t need to enter a museum to explore Belfast’s art and history – the city is full of street art and graffiti. Walk around the Cathedral Quarter and you’ll see curated street art spaces and urban galleries, while a tour around West Belfast offers a look at the city’s troubled history.
