This course addresses key questions around human need, welfare, inequality and sociological concepts and debates.
In an increasingly uncertain and fast-changing world, questions around human need, welfare, inequality and wealth distribution are to the fore of public discourse and affect all our lives. These debates are at the heart of social policy. In studying this degree, students will explore how concerns such as new social risks and precarity are experienced by individuals and communities and addressed by policy. These significant challenges require students to critically engage with historical perspectives and contrasting conceptual approaches. Students will also be expected to develop their understanding of the complexities of policy making and governance at regional, national and international levels.
Graduates have high employment rates, pursuing careers in the public sector, working in local or central government, helping to formulate policy, or manage key services. Some build careers in the voluntary sector and in campaigning organisations with a focus on social issues; others pursue a career in social research methods, as a research assistant or research officer, working as part of a team.
Graduates are well equipped with the skills to work in other areas such as management and research consultancy. Some proceed to further study, pursuing a PhD or one of a range of MSc degrees including Social Policy, Criminology and Health Promotion. This degree may give exemption from some aspects of study for those seeking professional qualifications in housing and health service management, and is a popular route into the fast-track social work qualification.
The major social policy component (two-thirds of the degree) will be enhanced by the minor sociology component (one-third of the course). Sociology as a discipline has a long and respected history and you will study a range of sociological theories and problems from classical and contemporary sociology and sociological theorists.
We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.
Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:
For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.
For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.
We look forward to hearing from you.
In this section
The course critically analyses how and why social policies are formed and implemented in the UK and internationally: how key issues and problems of poverty, inequality and social need are impacted by the theories, politics, governance and delivery of welfare. The course maintains a strong focus on employability and provides a robust combination of theoretical and applied knowledge and understanding, practical social research skills and a range of soft skills, necessary for employment in the public, private and voluntary sectors. Two-thirds of the course is social policy and one-third of the course is sociology.
Course duration, part-time mode, is typically five years.
The full-time social policy degrees comprise 18 modules: six at year 1 (level 4), six at year 2 (level 5), and 6 at year 3 (level 6).
Part-time studentsare required to complete a minimum of one module per semester but can choose to study a maximum of two modules per semester if they prefer. In one academic year, the minimum is 2 modules and the maximum is 4 modules. The Course Director will work with you at the beginning of your studies to discuss and agree an appropriate choice and sequence of modules, based on how many modules you wish to complete per year.
Opting to study this degree programme on a part-time basis affords flexibility both in the speed at which you wish to learn and in being able to juggle paid work and other activities alongside your part-time study.
The overall aim of the undergraduate provision is to produce policy-literate citizens, as well as graduates with a range of intellectual, professional and transferable skills appropriate to the personal and employability demands of a competitive labour market. These aims of the provision are all in line with the QAA Social Policy Benchmark Statement (2016).
A variety of teaching and learning methods are used on the degree including lectures, seminars, supervised group-work sessions, directed reading, blended learning using Blackboard Learn, case study work, directed electronic information retrieval, independent learning, and a work-based-learning opportunity to impart knowledge and understanding of the subject. In addition, a broad range of assessment methods are utilised to measure knowledge and understanding of the subject, including academic essays; report writing; policy analysis/policy brief-writing; directed seminar discussions, small-group project work; writing and delivering seminar papers; presentations; online tests; the dissertation, e-portfolios, blogs and unseen examinations.
The content for each course is summarised on the relevant course page, along with an overview of the modules that make up the course.
Each course is approved by the University and meets the expectations of:
As part of your course induction, you will be provided with details of the organisation and management of the course, including attendance and assessment requirements - usually in the form of a timetable. For full-time courses, the precise timetable for each semester is not confirmed until close to the start date and may be subject to some change in the early weeks as all courses settle into their planned patterns. For part-time courses which require attendance on particular days and times, an expectation of the days and periods of attendance will be included in the letter of offer. A course handbook is also made available.
Courses comprise modules for which the notional effort involved is indicated by its credit rating. Each credit point represents 10 hours of student effort. Undergraduate courses typically contain 10, 20, or 40 credit modules (more usually 20) and postgraduate courses typically 15 or 30 credit modules.
The normal study load expectation for an undergraduate full-time course of study in the standard academic year is 120 credit points. This amounts to around 36-42 hours of expected teaching and learning per week, inclusive of attendance requirements for lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical work, fieldwork or other scheduled classes, private study, and assessment. Teaching and learning activities will be in-person and/or online depending on the nature of the course. Part-time study load is the same as full-time pro-rata, with each credit point representing 10 hours of student effort.
Postgraduate Master’s courses typically comprise 180 credits, taken in three semesters when studied full-time. A Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) comprises 60 credits and can usually be completed on a part-time basis in one year. A 120-credit Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) can usually be completed on a part-time basis in two years.
Class contact times vary by course and type of module. Typically, for a module predominantly delivered through lectures you can expect at least 3 contact hours per week (lectures/seminars/tutorials). Laboratory classes often require a greater intensity of attendance in blocks. Some modules may combine lecture and laboratory. The precise model will depend on the course you apply for and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. Prospective students will be consulted about any significant changes.
Assessment methods vary and are defined explicitly in each module. Assessment can be a combination of examination and coursework but may also be only one of these methods. Assessment is designed to assess your achievement of the module’s stated learning outcomes. You can expect to receive timely feedback on all coursework assessments. This feedback may be issued individually and/or issued to the group and you will be encouraged to act on this feedback for your own development.
Coursework can take many forms, for example: essay, report, seminar paper, test, presentation, dissertation, design, artefacts, portfolio, journal, group work. The precise form and combination of assessment will depend on the course you apply for and the module. Details will be made available in advance through induction, the course handbook, the module specification, the assessment timetable and the assessment brief. The details are subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes.
Normally, a module will have 4 learning outcomes, and no more than 2 items of assessment. An item of assessment can comprise more than one task. The notional workload and the equivalence across types of assessment is standardised. The module pass mark for undergraduate courses is 40%. The module pass mark for postgraduate courses is 50%.
The class of Honours awarded in Bachelor’s degrees is usually determined by calculation of an aggregate mark based on performance across the modules at Levels 5 and 6, (which correspond to the second and third year of full-time attendance).
Level 6 modules contribute 70% of the aggregate mark and Level 5 contributes 30% to the calculation of the class of the award. Classification of integrated Master’s degrees with Honours include a Level 7 component. The calculation in this case is: 50% Level 7, 30% Level 6, 20% Level 5. At least half the Level 5 modules must be studied at the University for Level 5 to be included in the calculation of the class.
All other qualifications have an overall grade determined by results in modules from the final level of study.
In Masters degrees of more than 200 credit points the final 120 points usually determine the overall grading.
Figures from the academic year 2022-2023.
The University employs over 1,000 suitably qualified and experienced academic staff - 60% have PhDs in their subject field and many have professional body recognition.
Courses are taught by staff who are Professors (19%), Readers, Senior Lecturers (22%) or Lecturers (57%).
We require most academic staff to be qualified to teach in higher education: 82% hold either Postgraduate Certificates in Higher Education Practice or higher. Most academic and learning support staff (85%) are recognised as fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) by Advance HE - the university sector professional body for teaching and learning. Many academic and technical staff hold other professional body designations related to their subject or scholarly practice.
The profiles of many academic staff can be found on the University’s departmental websites and give a detailed insight into the range of staffing and expertise. The precise staffing for a course will depend on the department(s) involved and the availability and management of staff. This is subject to change annually and is confirmed in the timetable issued at the start of the course.
Occasionally, teaching may be supplemented by suitably qualified part-time staff (usually qualified researchers) and specialist guest lecturers. In these cases, all staff are inducted, mostly through our staff development programme ‘First Steps to Teaching’. In some cases, usually for provision in one of our out-centres, Recognised University Teachers are involved, supported by the University in suitable professional development for teaching.
Figures from the academic year 2022-2023.
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Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.
Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
Year: 1
Status: C
This module provides a general introduction to the main themes and perspectives within sociology. It explores the relationship between social theory, methods and research in sociology, and shows how sociological concepts can be used in the analysis of social processes and social institutions in contemporary society.
Year: 1
Status: C
This module introduces students to key Social Policy concepts. They are also introduced to a number of contemporary issues in Social Policy and key debates on topics including the welfares state, demographic change, globalisation, technological advancements, and the financing of welfare.
Year: 1
Status: C
This module introduces students to the nature of politics and governance and delivery in the UK. They will develop a deeper understanding of how policy issues are identified (or not) and the role of actors involved in policy networks. They will also be introduced to issues relating to multi-level governance and contemporary principles and agendas influencing the delivery of welfare. The system of devolved government in Northern Ireland is also explained with some reference to Scotland and Wales, and also governance in the Republic of Ireland. The context of constitutional, political and economic factors is also described.
Year: 1
Status: C
This module introduces students to key issues and themes in Social Policy. They are introduced to contemporary issues and debates in Social Policy that impact upon individuals and communities and discuss the effectiveness of policy in tackling these issues.
Year: 2
Status: C
The aim of this module is to enable students to understand current issues in health and illness from a sociological perspective. On completion of the course, students will be able to identify significant social, cultural, economic and political issues associated with various aspects of health and illness. Students are encouraged to reflect upon their own health interests by exploring a range of issues related to health, illness and health care.
Year: 2
Status: C
This module will introduce students to essential features of qualitative research through: conceptualizing research, constructing appropriate and effective data collection instruments, interpreting research findings and presenting significant research conclusions.
Year: 2
Status: C
This module examines some of the key concepts, ideas and theories relating to social policy in the UK and other countries. It provides the theoretical foundation necessary to understand the basis of policy and practice and contemporary debates about them.
Year: 3
Status: C
This module gives students the opportunity to develop their understanding of Sociological theory through the examination of the writings of central classical theorists. The module focuses on the writings of Marx, Weber, Durkheim, Parsons and Shimmel and aims to develop the students' ability to compare and evaluate the positions of these writers and to apply their ideas in the explanation of the origins and nature of modern societies.
Year: 3
Status: C
This module provides an introduction to the study of Irish society North and South. It aims to increase awareness and provide the means for better analysis of the socioeconomic system of contemporary Ireland.
Year: 3
Status: C
This module will seek to provide students with knowledge and skills of social survey research methods designing surveys and analysing data sets. This will include the stages of research design from problem definition through to the concept development of a research instrument, piloting, fieldwork, data processing, analysis and writing up.
Year: 3
Status: C
The contemporary policy-making environment requires an understanding of how policies are formulated and consulted. This module helps students apply the theoretical knowledge they have in social policy to the actual policy-making process. They will learn more about how theories and concepts are used, distorted and discarded in the course of policy-making . They will also learn about the evidence-base in research that informs that policy-making and impact assessments.
Year: 3
Status: C
This module introduces students the main contemporary concerns of social policy in relation to poverty and social security. They will learn about the History, Concepts and Context of today's social security system ? charting the development of the European Social Model and the British welfare state; the impact of different ideologies on the welfare state; and dimensions of poverty, inequality and social exclusion through the life-cycle stages.
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to gain structured and professional work experience, in a work-based learning environment, as part of their planned programme of study. This experience allows students to develop, refine and reflect on their key personal and professional skills. The placement should significantly support the development of the student's employability skills, preparation for final year and enhance their employability journey.
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module provides an opportunity to undertake an extended period of study outside the UK and Republic of Ireland. Students will develop an enhanced understanding of the academic discipline whilst generating educational and cultural networks.
Year: 5
Status: C
The aims of this module are to further develop and consolidate the students' knowledge of Sociological theory through the examination of a number of Schools of Contemporary Sociological theory. The module will examine the application of such theories in explaining central features of the modern/post modern world.
Year: 5
Status: C
This module will engage students in the study of social policy in an international context. It will explore rationale for the welfare state in an international perspective, and its instruments. It provides the foundations of the comparative method. The course will also cover substantive policy areas relevant for international social policy, such as income security, education, health, environment, and language policy.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
The module aims to ensure that students have an in-depth and critical understanding of the highly contested nature of global development. It will equip students with knowledge and deep understanding of the historical roots and interconnections between societies in the global North and South. The module applies a range of theories, comparative data and case studies to critically explore contemporary development issues and global inequalities.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
The module introduces a range of debates and theoretical positions, which help students to conceptualise gender relationships to social policy and provision. It uses particular examples, such as reproductive rights, family relationships, and community care, to enable students to identify the implications social policy has on gender.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
Voluntary organizations have become to play a central role in current policies to modernise the delivery of welfare services and are at the centre of key debates on the future of welfare, the obligations of citizenship and government hopes for civic renewal. This module will enable students to gain an understanding for the reasons why voluntary agencies have come to play such an important role in these debates and an insight into some of the dilemmas and contradictions that these changes have given rise to. It draws on contemporary research in a rapidly changing field.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
This module introduces students to a range of debates related to migration, racism and ethnicity with a focus on the United Kingdom and Ireland. Historical developments are reviewed but the focus is in current policy debates and perspectives. This includes international and national governance of migration flows and citizenship processes. Key policy areas covered include: immigration, refugee and asylum processes, equality and human rights.
Year: 6
Status: C
This module provides students with the opportunity to 'showcase' their knowledge, understanding, intellectual, practical and transferable skills acquired throughout levels 4 and 5 of the course. As the largest and most substantial piece of work in the degree course, the dissertation is designed to require maximum student input and to foster independent working and self-directed learning, towards demonstrating the ability to plan, design, complete and report a theoretical and/or applied investigation into a well-focused social policy topic of the student's choosing, in a systematic and coherent manner.
Status: O
Year: 6
This module is optional
This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to study in depth a major and influential institution in contemporary society, the mass media. It focuses on the relevance of sociological theories and concepts to a critical understanding of the mass media. The module provides a critical assessment of mass media representations of a range of key social issues and problems, including war, structural violence, social stratification and conflict.
Status: O
Year: 6
This module is optional
This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to study a major and influential institution in contemporary society, the education system. It focuses on the relevance of sociological theories and concepts to a critical understanding of education as a socialising agent in our lives. The module provides a critical assessment of education in relation to a range of key social issues and problems, including social stratification and conflict.
Status: O
Year: 6
This module is optional
This module introduces students to the main theories, concepts, issues and debates in the sociology of sport. There will be an emphasis on developing students' sociological imagination by encouraging students to think critically about the role of sport in contemporary society. Students will be exposed to the key classical and contemporary theoretical perspectives that underpin the sociological study of sport and they will apply these to a variety of sports-related issues and controversies.
Status: O
Year: 6
This module is optional
This module gives students the opportunity to explore the major themes and issues in disability and social policy and how they have been changing. The study of disability will afford the opportunity to understand how social problems are socially constructed and how assumptions about the nature of social needs will affect policy responses. It aims to build on prior learning to enable students to reach a deeper and more analytical understanding of disability as a complex political and social issue.
Status: O
Year: 6
This module is optional
This module seeks to develop critical understanding of ageing and old age with particular reference to policy and practice in relation to older people in the United Kingdom. The aim of this module is to equip students with conceptual, analytical and reflective tools to examine the lives of older people in society. A holistic view of older people is presented in relation to the realities and possibilities of the older years.
Status: O
Year: 6
This module is optional
No other health condition matches mental ill-health in the combined effect of prevalence and impact across individual, social, economic and mortality measures. This module aims to show how our knowledge and understanding of mental illness have changed over time, as well as indicate the problematic nature of the definition of mental illness. Students will also study the social patterning of mental health and illness and consider variations according to age, gender and social class. Particular attention is paid to the role and influence of user groups in the development of policy and strategy.
We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.
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Applicants should satisfy the University General Requirements e.g.
Provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English (GCSE English Language grades A-C/ 4-9 or equivalent); and Provide evidence of passes in five subjects, two of which must be at A level (grades A-E) and three at GCSE level* (grades A-C/4-9); or Provide evidence of passes in four subjects, three of which must be at A level (grades A-E) and one at GCSE level* (grades A- C/4-9); or Provide evidence of an approved qualification at an equivalent level such as a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma or Access to Higher Education qualification or equivalent; or Provide evidence, for a process of formal accreditation by the University, of learning you have gained through work or other experience. The Subject Committee will consider a range of qualifications, experience and other evidence of ability to complete the course satisfactorily when considering applications for part-time study.
* GCSE English Language (grades A-C/4-9) may be used as part of the GCSE requirement.
You must satisfy the General Entrance Requirements for admission to a first degree course and hold a GCSE pass in English Language at grade C or above (or equivalent).
English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
If you reach the required standard in a relevant Diploma course in Further Education, you may apply to enter the second year of the programme. Those who have reached an approved standard in a relevant Dip HE or Foundation or Associate Bachelors degree programme may be permitted to enter the final year. We also welcome students through the APEL route and grant exemptions accordingly.
In this section
Graduates from this course are now working for:
With this degree you could become:
Our Social Policy courses will provide you with a knowledge and understanding of contemporary social policy, a training in social research methods, the ability to apply theoretical perspectives and concepts to real-life problems, and an appreciation of the complexity and diversity of social problems and society. The degree equips graduates for employment in a range of careers in the statutory, voluntary and private sectors.
You will gain the skills and ability to carry out independent research, to assess the merits of competing theories and explanations, to work as part of a team, and to effectively engage in policy debate with sensitivity to the views of others – all transferable and 'soft' skills that are highly attractive to employers.
Social Policy graduates have high employment rates, pursuing careers in the public sector, working in local or central government helping to formulate policy or manage key services. Some build careers in the voluntary sector and in campaigning organisations with a focus on social issues, and are also equipped with the skills to work in other areas such as management or research consultancy. Our graduates also proceed to post-graduate studies at PhD level or to a range of Masters degrees including Social Policy, Criminology and Health Promotion. Social Policy is a very relevant qualification for admission to postgraduate fast-track Social Work training, and may give exemption from some aspects of study for those seeking professional qualifications in housing and health service management.
Work-based Learning: A valuable, highly-praised and long-standing feature of the Social Policy Single Honours degree programme is a full-time 6-week ‘placement’ in semester 3 of Year 2, taken by both part-time and full-time students, in either a voluntary or statutory agency based in Northern Ireland. An excellent ‘employability’ component of the course, the work-based learning period offers students the opportunity to apply (and reflect on) their knowledge and transferable skills in the workplace and to gain new ‘soft’ skills and valuable practical experience in the field.
Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP): Students may also take a one year paid and accredited internship/placement in an approved organisation.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Full-time Social Policy (and modular) students may also apply for a scholarship to study at a university in the USA for their third academic year, attaining a Diploma in International Academic Studies, before completing their final year back at Ulster. Committed to producing global citizens, we actively encourage you to internationalise your degree. Direct Exchange allows students to spend a semester (or year) abroad at one of our non-European institutions in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, USA or Venezuela; Short Programmes are also available in the USA, India, China and Thailand. These exciting study opportunities broaden your horizons and cultural understanding, enhance your personal development and give you a competitive edge by boosting your employment prospects.
The price of your overall programme will be determined by the number of credit points that you initiate in the relevant academic year.
For modules commenced in the academic year 2024/25, the following fees apply:
| Credit Points | NI/ROI Cost | GB Cost | International Cost* |
|---|---|---|---|
120 | £4,750 | £9,250 | £16,320 |
60 | £2,375 | £4,625 | £8,160 |
30 | £1,187 | £2,312 | £4,080 |
20 | £792 | £1,542 | £2,720 |
NB: A standard full-time undergraduate degree is equivalent to 120 credit points per year.
*Please note our on campus part-time undergraduate courses are not open to international (non-EU) students.
We actively encourage our students to compete for a number of prizes and awards. The annual 'Dean's List'recognises excellence in years 1 and 2 for students attaining a year average of 70% or above. The 'Extern Annual Award'for Best Placement is awarded at a special pre-graduation ceremony on Graduation Day, as is The 'George Mitchell Memorial Award' for the best final year Dissertation. Many students work closely with the Northern Ireland Science Shop in producing their Dissertation, duly rewarded by certification and a ceremony, including an Annual Science Shop Awardfor the best projects across the University.
This course is a 'regulated and/or care position' within the meaning of the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults (NI) Order 2003 (POCVA) and the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (NI) Order 2007. It may involve access to children and/or vulnerable adults and is therefore subject to an Access NI criminal history check, the fee for which is £33.
It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.
Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.
There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.
See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.
We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.
Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:
For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.
For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Student Case Study - Part-time BSc Hons Social Policy
Name
Joanne Hullock
Course
BSc Hons Social Policy
Campus
Jordanstown
Full-time/Part-time
Part Time
Background
Grosvenor Grammar School was where I gained my GCSE and A-Level qualifications, and my first employer was the Northern Ireland Civil Service in 2002, working in Knockbreda Jobs and Benefits Office. I gained promotion and moved to several different posts within the NICS before resigning and moving to Bournemouth in 2006 to train as an Air Traffic Controller. Several months into the training I felt this was not the career path for me. I moved to Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, met my husband, and worked as an Office Manager for England Athletics, North East branch, mainly responsible for Coach Education. When the North East branch of England Athletics closed, I was made redundant and returned with my husband to Northern Ireland, securing employment with Sport Northern Ireland, where I still work today. I commenced my part-time Social Policy degree just 3 years ago and, during this time, have managed to start a family (two daughters aged 7 months and 2 years), and to continue working full-time.
Why did you choose Ulster?
Having studied previously at QUB, I contacted both Queens and Ulster to enquire about the completion of a previously commenced degree. The encouraging response and helpfulness I received from Ulster and the support I received with my application was overwhelming and instantly attracted me to the university.
How do you think studying at Ulster has prepared you for your future career?
The outstanding support, encouragement and knowledge I have gained while studying the part-time Social Policy degree at Ulster has given me the confidence to re-examine my future career and I certainly intend to put my degree and experience gained to good use in my future endeavours.
Describe the support you have received at Ulster.
The support I have received at Ulster has been overwhelming. I have never encountered the level of dedication, encouragement and genuine friendship from any educational institution or workplace that I have received from the lecturers and staff at Ulster. I have also made many good friends in my Social Policy course; I always find fellow students helpful, friendly and welcoming.
What university facilities or resources do you find most useful and why?
As a part-time student, I find the Student Portal indispensable. It is my lifeline to keeping up-to-date with my course when off campus. The online library facility is a goldmine for accessing a wide range of journals and online literature relevant to my studies. I also make good use of the private study rooms and library.
Why would you recommend Ulster?
The friendly atmosphere, extremely supportive and encouraging culture of the university and all the teaching staff, make this the number one university in Northern Ireland. Having had experience of studying at another university within Northern Ireland, I can genuinely recommend Ulster as a leader in supportive education: a university that genuinely cares for the welfare and education of its students.
Ulster continues to develop and support sustainability initiatives with our staff, students, and external partners across various aspects of teaching, research, professional services operations, and governance.
At Ulster every person, course, research project, and professional service area on every campus either does or can contribute in some way towards the global sustainability and climate change agenda.
We are guided by both our University Strategy People, Place and Partnerships: Delivering Sustainable Futures for All and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Our work in this area is already being recognised globally. Most recently by the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact rating where we were recognised as Joint 5th Globally for Outreach Activities and Joint Top 20 Globally for Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals.
Visit our Sustainability at Ulster destination to learn more about how the University strategy and the activities of Ulster University support each of the Sustainable Development Goals.
