MSc International Political Economy

Queen's University Belfast

QUB has some seriously impressive facilities. The McClay Library is a standout, blending old-school library vibes with modern tech and plenty of study spots. Plus, there's a café for those much-needed coffee breaks. The university also has specialized areas like the FinTrU Trading Room and top-notch labs for health sciences and engineering. The new One Elmwood building is a cool addition, combining student services with the Students' Union in one central spot. And if you're into sports, the fitness hub and various sports clubs are top-tier. Belfast is a gem of a city, packed with history and a buzzing social scene. QUB is right in the Queen’s Quarter, which is full of cafes, bars, and shops. Everything you need is pretty much on your doorstep. Plus, Belfast is more affordable than many other UK cities, which is a big win for students. QUB really looks out for its students. The Student Wellbeing Service offers confidential support for mental health, disability services, and general wellbeing. They also work with external groups like Inspire Wellbeing for extra psychological support. The Careers, Employability and Skills team is there to help you get ready for the job market with workshops, advice, and job placements. The campus is a mix of historic and modern buildings, making it a beautiful place to be. The Lanyon Building is iconic with its Gothic Revival style. Nearby, you’ve got the Botanic Gardens and the Ulster Museum, perfect for a bit of downtime. Everything on campus is within walking distance, which makes life a lot easier. There’s never a dull moment at QUB. With over 215 clubs and societies, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into sports, gaming, or cultural activities. The Students' Union is the heart of student life, organizing events, providing support, and making sure your voice is heard. Plus, Belfast’s social scene is vibrant, with plenty of opportunities to meet new people and have fun. The Queen’s Students' Union (QSU) is a big part of the student experience. They offer all sorts of services and support, from academic advice to social events. The Union also gives you the chance to get involved in leadership and advocacy, making sure students have a say in how things are run. Of course, there’s always room for improvement. Some students feel that the admin processes could be a bit smoother. While there’s a lot of support available, making these services even more accessible and well-known could help. Also, expanding and improving on-campus accommodation to make it more affordable and comfortable would be a big plus. In a nutshell, Queen's University Belfast is a fantastic place to study, with great facilities, a lively location, strong support services, and an active campus life. With a few tweaks here and there, it could be even better!

The facilities are top notch and all fairly close together. It’s in a great area with the botanic gardens and all the places to eat etc. The lecturers are great too.

Queen's has high standards and this is reflected in all of the above elements. I am still finding my feet but have overall settled. I would love to see more events for older students such as over the age of 30. I feel a bit isolated but I there are many clubs and societies to join. I am so far a member of Women in STEM, the Chemistry Society and the Biological Science Society. I would also like to see more awareness and events for neurodiverse students, particularly older ones.