It may be a small country with only two universities, but Northern Ireland is a magical place to study. Lonely Planet named the country the top destination in the world in 2018. Northern Ireland is full of scenic landscapes, has an intriguing heritage, and offers exciting adventures. It’s also considered one of the safest places in the UK. Whether you’re a Game of Thrones fan, into Celtic culture or simply looking for an excellent education, Northern Ireland offers a truly unique experience.
What is Northern Ireland like?
Location and demographics
Northern Ireland sits above the Republic of Ireland on the northeast of the island of Ireland. It is also part of the United Kingdom, economically and politically. People in Northern Ireland enjoy similar benefits to those in the UK and the Republic of Ireland. The country has a population of 1.9 million people. As it’s quite a small country, you’re always less than two hours from the coast.
Culture and history
Northern Irish history has Irish, British, and religious influence. The country began in 1921 when the island of Ireland was partitioned into two separately governed regions. Over history, there have been long periods of upheaval, but for almost 25 years, the country has experienced peace.
Most people in Northern Ireland identify as either Roman Catholic or Protestant, and the culture is shaped significantly around religious beliefs and traditions. However, locals are warm and friendly, and the country is welcoming to both tourists and students alike.
There is a strong sense of national identity, yet it is shared with others in the British Isles. Northern Ireland sometimes competes in international sports games with Ireland, Great Britain, or as a separate entity.
Notable landmarks include Dunluce Castle, Giant’s Causeway, the Linen Museum and Glenarm Castle. You may recognise famous Northern Irish people such as singer Van Morrison, footballer George Best, actor Liam Neeson, and author C. S. Lewis.
Want to find out more about famous alumni who studied at UK universities?
What cities are in Northern Ireland?
The capital city of Northern Ireland is Belfast. Both of Northern Ireland’s main universities are based in the buzzing city, which was named a top 20 global sustainable destination in 2021 (Global Destination Sustainability Index).
Belfast is jam-packed with exciting history, gigs, events, festivals, restaurants, shops and more. It was built on culture and industry, providing a broad spectrum of entertainment for everyone to enjoy, from the Cathedral Quarter to the original home of the Titanic.
Other popular cities in Northern Ireland include Armagh, Lisburn, Londonderry, and Newry. You can also discover more about student cities in the UK.
How much does it cost to live in Northern Ireland?
The country is well-known to be one of the more affordable areas of the UK. Belfast is cheaper to live in than London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and many other English cities. It was even ranked as having the lowest cost of living in the UK in 2021 (Mercer Cost of Living City Ranking).
The average monthly living cost (not including rent) is GBP 572 per person. Accommodation is usually around GBP 300 per month, before bills. Lower living costs mean you’ll have more money to spend on the fun social activities you want to do.
The two universities also offer support for international students. For example, Queen’s University Belfast has country-specific scholarships for eligible learners. You can also explore more about the cost of living in the UK.
What services are there in Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland is a small country that’s easy to get around. The easiest way to explore beyond Belfast is by car, but there are also efficient trains, buses, trams, and taxis. The Republic of Ireland is easily accessible too.
Regular flights go from Belfast International and George Best Belfast City airports, taking you to the UK, Europe and further. You can also travel off the island by sea ferry crossing. As well as the exciting cultural happenings in Belfast, the city has top-quality sports facilities. This includes the GBP 20 million Jordanstown centre and the Odyssey Complex in the Titanic Quarter.
Are you interested in studying in the UK? Get information on how to apply.
What are the post-study options in Northern Ireland?
The country’s universities offer excellent graduate prospects. 94 per cent of students from Ulster University find work or further study within six months of graduating. Queen’s University also strongly focuses on employability, where students can benefit from an extensive global industry network.
You should be in luck if you’re keen to stay put after studying and find a job. Northern Ireland is one of the leading regions in the UK for attracting investment. Belfast is even one of the world’s top global cyber security hubs.
Get more information on how to apply for a post-study work visa in the UK.
What universities are in Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland has two globally esteemed universities that provide pioneering teaching experiences.
Ulster University
The second-largest university on the island of Ireland, Ulster has several campuses across the country that inspire and innovate. It was shortlisted as the University of the Year in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 and is ranked in the top 650 universities worldwide by the QS World University Rankings 2023.
Queen’s University Belfast
This Russell Group university is based in Belfast and is a research-intensive institution. The institution was placed 85th in the world in the 2022 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. These rankings measure universities' performance against the United Nation’s Sustainability Goals. Queen’s University is also ranked in the top 250 universities on the planet on the QS World University Rankings 2023.
A range of other educational colleges also offers various academic and vocational courses. Our guide to the top universities in the UK may also help with your research.
What are the main attractions in Northern Ireland?
From the beautiful natural scenery to the bustling city experience, this country has plenty of wonderful things to see and do. Many features have been included in lists and recommendations by Lonely Planet.
In the great outdoors, you can go hiking, biking, coasteering, ziplining, go-karting or one of the numerous other fun activities available. In the cities, you can be in awe of the cobbled streets, delicious food options, inspiring music and arts events, and countless traditional pubs.
What must you see in Northern Ireland?
If you can get out into rural Northern Ireland, places to visit include the UNESCO World Heritage Site in County Antrim, and Giant’s Causeway. It’s a stunning rock formation that was created after a volcanic eruption. Or you can go to the Moure Mountains, which is where C. S. Lewis was inspired when writing the famous Chronicles of Narnia stories.
The country is also a treasure trove for those who love Game of Thrones. A large portion of the global TV phenomenon was filmed in the country because of the stunning, rugged landscape. You can visit the filming locations and go on thrilling sightseeing tours to immerse yourself in the fantasy world.
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