St Mary's University College Belfast

• Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland,
• Year of foundation: 1900,
• Number of students: approximately 1015,
• Language of instruction: English,
• Type of education: mixed.

St Mary's University College Belfast — a college belonging to Queen’s University Belfast. It offers bachelor's and master's programs, with the main academic focus being teaching — it trains future teachers and lecturers.

The history of the college began in 1900: it opened its doors to 100 first-year students, immediately acquiring its current name and location where classes are held today. The changes introduced throughout the college's existence have only affected the academic component: since the 1950s, four-year teacher educational courses for primary school teachers have become available at St Mary's University College Belfast, and both women and men have been studying here since that period. Today, the college offers high-quality higher education programs, primarily focused on future educators and researchers.

St Mary's University College Belfast focuses not only on quality education but also on effective research. Throughout the year, students and qualified staff from scientific departments work to improve the field of education both in Ireland and internationally.

The college includes administrative offices that provide additional support in various aspects of student life: from assistance with finding accommodation and medical care to internships, career counseling, employment assistance, and improving the educational experience.

The educational institution is actively involved in research activities, collaborating with Dublin City University, Trinity College and Ulster University. Today, projects such as the following are being implemented:

• Integration of mathematics into STEM education curricula in Irish and English schools,
• Research and development of a system for teaching the Irish language in primary school,
• Education on the border: space, memory, reflections on transculturality,
• English as an additional language in teacher educational programs in Ireland,
• Children's literature in early reading policy.

The college offers international students four residences, some of which are owned by the institution itself, while others — partner organizations.

• The Edge — a new residential building located a 10-minute drive from campus and offering single or double rooms with shared or private bathrooms. The building houses self-study classrooms, a gym, laundry facilities, a dining hall and many other common areas;
• LIV Belfast — a residence opened in 2021 and located on the outskirts of Cathedral Quarter. Students can stay in apartments with multiple single bedrooms or studios — all living spaces include private rooms, a shared lounge, kitchen and bathroom for several residents;
• Stranhalls — a residence for students of St Mary's University College Belfast and Stranmillis University College, where 411 single bedrooms are prepared with full furnishings, access to shared bathrooms, kitchens, living areas;
• Student Crowd — a housing organization offering a wide selection of rooms in local residences: from luxury amenities and private bathrooms to fully equipped apartments with their own kitchen.

A large dining hall operates on the college grounds, offering a variety of dishes according to international recipes: here students can find snacks, drinks, healthy pastries.

Students actively participate in extracurricular activities managed by the Student Union: it includes students who want to develop leadership qualities and make college life diverse, dynamic and useful. Under the guidance of the Union — thematic communities uniting students based on their interests, nationality and religion, goals and hobbies: a choir ensemble, history of arts, a volunteer group and others. Sports communities organize regular educational sessions in team and paired sports, including football, athletics, basketball.

Throughout the year, large-scale collective events are held on campus, usually timed to national and international holidays: students gather together to celebrate New Year, Christmas and Easter, welcome freshmen during orientation week and see off graduates at graduation night.

• Accredited higher education programs,
• Implementation of exchange programs with foreign institutions,
• Active research activities in the field of education,
• Personalized approach to each student,
• Excellent conditions for gaining knowledge, living and developing individual interests.

The St Mary's University College Belfast campus is located in Belfast, close to city attractions, restaurants and shops. The educational area is a small plot of land with several buildings — the college is small but distinctly modern and comfortable. Its infrastructure is designed to create an optimal environment for learning, relaxation and communication with classmates. In addition to standard lecture halls, self-study rooms, and common areas on campus you can find:

• A new library offering access to printed and online resources in reading and conference room;
• The Student Services Centre providing additional support in any aspect of student life;
• A large dining hall with a cafe in the courtyard.

Most programs are taught according to a unified academic calendar, which includes two semesters:

• Autumn: September-December,
• Spring: January-May.

In June, master's students complete the academic year, and in July-August all students have a vacation. Breaks are also provided on weekends and holidays.

Approximate list of additional expenses:

• Registration and administrative fees,
• Accommodation and meals,
• Medical insurance,
• Some extracurricular activities,
• Fee for using infrastructure and technologies,
• Books, stationery,
• Personal expenses.

Foreign applicants can apply through international exchange programs: fill out the registration form, pay the fees and provide the required documents, after which they will meet with the admissions committee and undergo an interview. Selected candidates receive an official admission letter, after which they can arrive on campus.

The college is distinguished by its excellent programs in teaching and liberal arts, which enable graduates to quickly find employment or continue their academic path at leading institutions across the country.

Foreign applicants should have a passport, health insurance and financial statements, a visa or residence permit to study in the UK. To apply, they need to submit documents including academic diplomas from previous educational institutions, language test results, and letters of recommendation. The requirements for applicants may vary depending on the chosen program.

As St Mary's University College Belfast is a private institution, the college offers a limited number of scholarships and financial aid. Both forms of education funding are based on need and specific preferential criteria.

Students can apply for government assistance in the form of grants, loans, and academic credits.

• Guardianship services during the studies
• Student supervision