Why study in North East England?

North East England is one of the UK’s most bustling regions offering students a fantastic nightlife, eclectic university experience and picturesque backdrops.

Home to five universities, all of which feature in leading league tables, such as QS World University Rankings and the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023, the North East has traditionally been a centre of academic eminence for centuries, home to sixteen further education colleges, two Russell Group universities, and several modern institutes.

Newcastle is also consistently rated as one of the best student cities in the UK and the world. Learn more below if you are interested in studying in North East of England, or book a free consultation with SI-UK London today to begin your application.

Universities in North East England

Durham University

Durham University is a member of the prestigious Russell Group of Universities, and its collegiate system makes Durham exceptional. There are 17 colleges to choose from, and each offers the full range of facilities you can expect to find at a university.

Durham is a friendly and welcoming city, with the famous Cathedral and Castle at its very heart - together designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site - they dominate the city skyline.

Durham is one of the world's leading universities, as shown by their world Top 100 position in the QS World University Rankings 2023, where they are ranked 92nd.

• UK ranking: 6th
• Durham acceptance rate: 40%

Newcastle University

Newcastle University is a world-class institution with thriving communities dedicated to leading innovation and excellence. The University welcomes more than 28,000 students from 140 countries, ensuring they graduate as highly employable professionals.

The University also offers a wealth of vibrant student life activities, including sports teams, societies, societies and clubs, and a large theatre company run by students in their final year studying Drama Studies at Newcastle University - all staffed by volunteers who help run these activities free of charge!

Newcastle University is a global leader in ageing and health, data, energy, cities, and the creative arts, with many of its 214,000 alums at the forefront of world-changing innovations.

• UK ranking: 33rd
• Newcastle acceptance rate: 87%

Northumbria University

Located in Newcastle upon Tyne, which is regularly voted the Best Student City in the UK, Northumbria University is top 10 in the UK for the number of graduates entering professional employment, and 9 out of 10 are working or studying six months after graduation. 

Northumbria can help you boost your career with work experience, placements, experience-focused teaching and more.

• UK ranking: 51st
• Northumbria acceptance rate: 65%

Teesside University

Teesside University has over 6000 students studying across its three campuses. The main campus is located in Middlesbrough, but there are also satellite campuses at Darlington and Stockton-on-Tees. The University offers courses across various disciplines, including computing, engineering, digital technologies, health sciences and social sciences.

• UK ranking: 88th
• Teesside acceptance rate: 31%

University of Sunderland

The University of Sunderland is committed to widening participation in world-leading research and public and private sector collaborations. The University is focused on ensuring its graduates are left with a wealth of knowledge, skills, confidence, and connections at the end of their study to make a positive difference in the wider world.

• UK ranking: 101st
• Sunderland acceptance rate: 27%

Benefits of Studying in North East England

1. Academic Excellence

England’s North East is home to some of the UK’s best universities, including Durham University, ranked 6th in the UK (Times University Guide 2023) and Newcastle University, ranked 20th in the UK (THE 2023).

Durham, the third oldest English university (established in 1832) is also reputed globally for Arts & Humanities (41st in QS 2022) and English Language & Literature (36th in QS 2022). Other regional popular universities include the University of Sunderland (12th in Teaching Quality in the UK) and Teesside University.

2. Cultural Heritage

If you are an admirer of British history and culture, the North-East region of England is probably the best place to be in. Apart from being home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Durham Castle & Cathedral and Hadrian's Wall, the region is known for its amalgamation of English and Scottish cultures.

Along with continuing their studies, students have the opportunity to explore mediaeval architecture, including Guisborough Priory, Alnwick Castle, and St Mary's Lighthouse.

3. Affordable Education and Accommodation

If you’re looking to get away from the high living costs of England, then the North East might be just what you’re looking for.

With tuition fees, housing and equipment costs to cover, the North East is an excellent choice for those looking for low living costs. For example, you can expect to pay an average of £82 rent each week in Durham. This is considerably less than living in Oxford and Cambridge, where the weekly rent is £111 and £115, respectively.

Study in North East England

If you are interested in studying in North East England, book a free consultation with SI-UK London and begin your application for the upcoming university intake.