Studying at Queen’s University Belfast has been one of the most rewarding periods of my life. I completed my undergraduate degree here and returned for my PhD in Criminology, so I’ve experienced the university across different stages of my academic journey. What has consistently stood out is the quality of teaching and the genuine commitment of staff. Lecturers, supervisors, and support teams are approachable, knowledgeable, and invested in students’ success. As a mature student, I’ve always felt respected and encouraged, and that has made a huge difference to my confidence and progression. The academic environment at Queen’s is stimulating and supportive. Research opportunities are excellent, and I’ve been able to develop skills that will stay with me long after graduation. The campus itself is beautiful, well‑resourced, and easy to navigate, and the wider student community is friendly and welcoming. I’ve met people from all backgrounds and ages, and that diversity has enriched my experience. If I were to suggest one area for improvement, it would be around inclusivity for mature students within the Students’ Union. While Queen’s is generally welcoming, the SU tends to define “mature student” in a way that doesn’t fully reflect the range of ages and life circumstances of those returning to education. A broader, more flexible understanding and more tailored social or support opportunities, would help mature students feel more represented and integrated into SU life. Many of us balance study with work, parenting, or other responsibilities, and having spaces or initiatives that acknowledge that would make a meaningful difference. Overall, Queen’s is a fantastic place to study. The teaching quality, research culture, and sense of community make it a university I’m proud to be part of. My time here has been transformative, and I would recommend it to anyone considering undergraduate or postgraduate study.

Across both my undergraduate degree and my PhD, the teaching at Queen’s has been consistently strong. Most of my learning has taken place through in‑person teaching, seminars, and supervision meetings, which I’ve found far more engaging than online delivery. Even during periods of blended learning, staff made a real effort to keep sessions interactive and accessible. As a PhD student, the flexibility to meet supervisors both online and on campus has been invaluable, especially when balancing research with other responsibilities. Contact with lecturers and supervisors has always been easy and supportive. Staff are approachable, responsive to emails, and genuinely invested in students’ progress. I’ve never felt like I was left to struggle on my own, whether it was during undergraduate modules or the more independent nature of doctoral research. The structure of the course hours at undergraduate level was manageable and well organised, and at PhD level I’ve appreciated the autonomy to shape my own research while still having reliable guidance when needed. If I were to suggest an improvement, it would be to continue expanding flexible learning options for students with work, caring responsibilities, or those who are returning to education later in life. Occasional hybrid sessions, recorded lectures, or more mature‑student‑focused academic support would make an already strong learning environment even more inclusive.

Belfast is a brilliant city to study in. It’s big enough to have everything you need — cafés, libraries, nightlife, green spaces, museums, and a vibrant arts scene — but small enough to feel safe, friendly, and easy to get around. The cost of living is generally more manageable than many other UK university cities, which makes a real difference for students. Queen’s is located in the Queen’s Quarter, one of the nicest parts of the city, with Botanic Gardens, the Ulster Museum, and plenty of places to eat or study right on the doorstep. Public transport links are good, and the city centre is only a short walk away. Belfast has a strong sense of community, and students are genuinely welcomed here. It’s a city with character, history, and a lot of warmth, and it adds so much to the overall experience of studying at Queen’s. I commute from Craigavon to Belfast for my studies, and the journey has generally been manageable. I use the Translink 24+ Travel Card, which offers a helpful discount for students. While I really appreciate this support, I do think there is room for improvement. Travel costs add up quickly, especially for students who commute daily or who have caring responsibilities alongside their studies. Introducing free or further‑subsidised travel during term time would make a significant difference to accessibility and affordability, and would help ensure that students from outside Belfast are not disadvantaged simply because of where they live.

The online platforms are not very well made! The place is beautiful. Strikes have made classes non-existent. The university should help students and give better pay to TA

It is in person, but we haven’t had much class due to strike actions.

Location is good.