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Durham University, Durham

Durham, England | Estd in 1832 | Government University

THE Rank : 174 | QS Rank : 78

Updated onJun 4, 2024 04:30 AM IST
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About Durham University

Durham University is a public university that was founded in 1832 by an Act of Parliament and became a collegiate public research university in Durham, England, in 1837. Durham University acceptance rate is 41%. It means that Durham University’s admission committee is quite selective. Also, Durham University’s GPA requirement also varies from one academic programme to another. Generally, a minimum score of 2.75 is required to enter Durham University’s courses.

Durham University's Latest Updates

All undergraduate applicants looking for Durham University admission are required to apply through UCAS application for Durham University undergraduate courses. Candidates are required to fill out the application and submit it by January 31 of every year. The postgraduate courses are accepted throughout the year.

Durham University’s tuition fee for Indian students ranges from Rs 22,77,000 to Rs 1,28,00,000 annually. The university is among the most costly universities present in England, the UK. Durham University’s popular courses include Arts and Humanities, Business and Social Sciences, Engineering and Science, and Health and Social Care.

Durham University is one of the leading public universities in the United Kingdom. There is no such As Durham University’s entrance exam requirements. Hence, one may or may not submit the scores from standardised tests such as the GRE or GMAT for postgraduate courses and the SAT or ACT for undergraduate courses.

There is a nominal charge which is to be paid by international students to apply for undergraduate courses and it is levied by UCAS. The non-refundable Durham University application fee is GBP 60 for Durham's postgraduate courses.

As per Durham University’s enrollment report, the university is home to more than 20, 645 total students. There are around 16,115 undergraduate and 4,530 graduate students who are pursuing one of Durham University’s courses. Durham University's male-to-female ratio is 46:54.

There are two of Durham University's main campuses located in the city of Durham. One is located in city of Durham, located in the North East of the UK and other one is Queen’s Campus situated in Stockton-on-Tees.

Notable Alumni of Durham University

Durham University has produced a wide list of great personalities over the years and has an alumni community across the country. A few of Durham University's notable alumni are:

Durham University Notable Alumni

Alumni

Profession

Charlotte Riley

Writer, actor, playwright

Timothy Laurence

Military officer

Graham Hancock

Journalist, writer, documentary participant

Gabby Logan

Sports commentator, TV presenter, journalist

Nick Mohammed

Screenwriter, film actor, comedian

Durham University Highlights

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Year of Establishment1832
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Institute TypeUniversity
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OwnershipPublic/Government
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Number Of Students20645
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Faculty Count4780
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Acceptance Rate41%
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Fee Range₹23.62 L - ₹79.12 L/yr
Bachelors vs Masters
Gender Ratio
Male: 46%Female: 54%
Male: 46%Female: 54%
Student Demographic
  • Asian:   4170
  • European union:   915
  • Others:   525
  • North American:   385
  • Indian:   190

Durham University Ranking and Stats

Durham University is one of the top public universities in the nation. Durham University QS rankings worldwide are impressively at 78th place under the measure ‘World University Rankings’ in 2024. On the other hand, Durham University’s THE ranking is at 174th place in 2024. 

On observation, it is seen that Durham University’s QS rankings as well as Durham University’s THE rankings have been really inconsistent over the past few years. Moreover, the university is one place before Korea University of South Korea at 79th place.

As per US News, Durham University's rankings for 2024 are exceptionally high at 26th place in ‘Best Global Universities in the United Kingdom’, 114th position in ‘Best Global Universities in Europe’, and 277th position in ‘‘Best Global Universities’.

Some of the Durham University’s courses are ranked by US News in 2024. Durham University’s rankings subject-wise in 2024 are tabulated below:

Durham University subject-wise rankings:

Courses

Rankings 2024

Arts and Humanities

57

Economics and Business

121

Geosciences

86

Engineering

651

Ranking Body
THE
Subject
Overall

Parametric Score and Ranking 2024

Overall Score60.6
University rank174
Parameter Ranking
Citations
83.5
Industry Outcome
65.6
International Outlook
95.8
Research
44.5
Teaching
43.5

Ranking by year

Ranking

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Durham University Courses

Durham University courses are available in more than 300 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in a variety of fields. Durham University is especially well-known for its expertise in the social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities. There are several top research institutions in the world located at Durham University. 

For interested students, the institution offers other choices such as Durham University online courses, certifications, distance learning, and short courses. 

Here are some of Durham University's most popular courses include Arts and Humanities, Business and Social Sciences, Engineering and Science, and Health and Social Care. 

All the courses at Durham University are accredited by various organisations such as EFMD, EQUIS, the Association of MBAs (AMBA), and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

Durham University tuition costs for international students are payable for every year of the student’s course and are subject to annual change depending on any increments determined by the government.

Durham University tuition fee for Indian students ranges from Rs 23,84,000 to Rs 1,07,00,000 per year for undergraduate courses and from Rs 21,81,000 to Rs 1,20,00,000 per year for Durham University postgraduate courses for the year 2023-2024. 

However, the tuition fee ranges vary depending on the level of study and Durham University course selection. For more information, international students can visit the official website of Durham University. 

Accreditations
EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS)
Association of MBAs (AMBA)
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Education Level
Select
Stream
Select
Mode
Select
LevelPG
MajorLaw
Duration12 Months
Fees28.49 L/yr
Exams AcceptedIELTS,TOEFL,PTE Academic
LevelUG
MajorArchaeology
Duration36 Months
Fees27.27 L/yr
Exams AcceptedIELTS,TOEFL,PTE Academic
LevelUG
Duration36 Months
Fees33.10 L/yr
Exams AcceptedIELTS,TOEFL,PTE Academic
LevelUG
Duration36 Months
Fees33.10 L/yr
Exams AcceptedIELTS,TOEFL,PTE Academic
LevelUG
Duration36 Months
Fees33.10 L/yr
Exams AcceptedIELTS,TOEFL,PTE Academic
LevelUG
MajorGeography
Duration36 Months
Fees29.92 L/yr
Exams AcceptedIELTS,TOEFL,PTE Academic

Durham University Fees

CoursesDurationInternational StudentLocal Student
B.A.(62 courses)3 years-4 years₹26.22 L - ₹29.92 L/yr₹9.80 L/yr
M.Sc.(53 courses)1 year-2 years₹27.01 L - ₹37.07 L/yr₹11.76 L - ₹37.07 L/yr
M.A.(42 courses)1 year-3 years₹23.83 L - ₹79.12 L/yr₹11.02 L - ₹29.39 L/yr
B.Sc.(26 courses)3 years-4 years₹26.48 L - ₹34.42 L/yr₹9.80 L/yr
L.L.M(8 courses)1 year₹28.49 L/yr₹13.50 L/yr

Durham University Cost Of Living

Is it expensive to study at Durham University?

Yes, Durham University is an expensive university if the comparison is observed among the Durham University tuition fees with the national average tuition fees for international students in the UK. However, the cost of living in Durham, England, is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the United Kingdom.

Durham University Cost of living for international students

Expense List

Expenses per month (GBP)

Accommodation

215-225 per week

StudyCare Insurance (up to 12 months)

450 (£8.65 per week)

Food 

200-300 per month

Transportation 

50-100 per month

Course materials

100-200 per month

Laundry

20-30 per month

Durham University Admission and Application

Applicants looking for Durham University admission are required to apply online by filling out a Durham University application form available on the official website of the university. A detailed procedure for undergraduate and postgraduate students is mentioned below.

How to apply at Durham University

Durham University application procedure for undergraduate students:

  • Visit the college website of Durham University.

  • Click on the study option present on the main homepage, followed by the international, and finally click on “How to apply” under application guidance.

  • Browse the preferred courses and select the mode of study.

  • Then, on the UCAS portal, register for a new application.

  • Enter the necessary details and the required documents must be attached to the new application.

  • Click on submit after entering all the required information.

Durham University application procedure for postgraduate students:

  • For postgraduates, finalize the format of the course: research or taught.

  • And the method of teaching, full-time or part-time, online or offline.

  • Students must look out for the scholarships available and the visa procedures to follow.

  • They must also check the requirements regarding the English proficiency examinations. (IELTS, and TOEFL).

Durham University’s entry requirements per course differ, and some courses may require previous study in certain subjects such as medical courses for Durham University admission. Students are required to check the Durham University course webpage for details and exact requirements. The general Durham University eligibility criteria are:

For Durham University undergraduate degree-seeking students, Indian students must follow the following:

  • Students must have passed high school and present all academic records from previous courses of study. 

  • It is to be noted that Standard XII from CBSE or CISCE Boards are acceptable at the university and some State Boards only are accepted for entry. State Boards are considered on a case-by-case basis.

  • The minimum score needed to be accepted in a degree programme varies from one Durham University course to another as per Durham University’s GPA requirements.

  • The minimum score in Standard XII with an average score of 83% (best of 4 academic subjects) and any prerequisite subjects at 85% or higher is required as a basic requirement.

  • Evidence of English language for applicants whose first language isn’t English is required. 

For Durham University graduate degree-seeking students, Indian students must follow the following:

  • Students must hold a 3, 4 or 5-year bachelor's degree from an approved Indian university is needed to be eligible for Durham University’s admission into postgraduate courses

  • A minimum score of 60%-70% is required as per the selected course of study at the postgraduate level as of Durham University GPA requirements.

  • There may be additional requirements which may vary as per the course of study selected by the students.

  • English tests scores as per the selected course must be presented via IELTS, TOEFL, DET, etc.

Documents Required For Admission to  Durham University

Students must submit documents to support their Durham University application. To be considered for Durham University admission, candidates must present a specific set of documents as mentioned below. 

  • Academic certificates and transcripts.

  • Copies of any previous visas and/or visa refusal letters.

  • SOPs

  • English language qualifications and the scores of the tests (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL)

  • LORs

  • UK student visa

  • Passport

  • Copies of the financial documents

  • Scholarship documentation.

  • Research proposal (PG research students)

  • Certified translations (If required)

Durham University Application Deadlines

For Durham University undergraduate applications, the applicants are required to meet with the deadlines provided by UCAS as undergraduate applications are only accepted via the UCAS website. Generally, the Durham University application deadline is January 31.

Applications to postgraduate courses are normally accepted throughout the year and open in October of the year preceding the start of your course. It is highly recommended to apply as soon as possible.

Durham University Application Fee

The non-refundable Durham University application fee amounts to GBP 60 for all postgraduate students seeking a degree at the institution. However, all undergraduate course applications are accepted through UCAS and consequently, the Durham University application fee for undergraduate students is equivalent to the nominal fee charged by UCAS for application submission.

Durham University Acceptance Rate

Durham University's acceptance rate is approximately 41%, which means that almost 1 out of every 2 students are admitted to the university every year. Moreover, a good profile with excellent academic records, standardised test scores and a high GPA can simply secure Durham University admission.

Durham University Scholarship

Durham University scholarships are also available for international students; however are limited in number. There are a variety of Durham University scholarships for international students to undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses. These awards are based on academic merit, financial need, or other factors. 

There are many undergraduate and postgraduate Durham University’s scholarships for Indian students available at Durham University, including International Scholarships, North East Scholarships, Subject Specific Scholarships, Postgraduate Scholarships, and Durham Doctoral Scholarships. 

Students can apply for these scholarships by filling out an online application form along with supporting documentation, such as their academic transcripts and personal statement.

Durham University Eligibility

Durham University English language requirements 

If an applicant who is seeking Durham University admission is not a native-English speaker, they are required to demonstrate their English proficiency via one of the acceptable English tests such as IELTS, PTE, DET, CAE, TOEFL, and many more. The Durham University English requirements vary as per the chosen Durham University course and field department. Some of the minimum required English level for a few popular Durham University courses:

  • Engineering: All undergraduate and postgraduate taught courses require English Band E

  • Law School: All undergraduate courses require an English Band B, all postgraduate taught courses require Band B+, and all postgraduate research programmes require at least Band A.

  • Computer Science:  All undergraduate and postgraduate taught, and postgraduate research courses require an English Band E.

  • MBA: All programmes require an English Band C.

Durham University Campus Facilities

Hostel

Boys Hostel

Durham University offers accommodation in UK to all and has over 7,500-bed spaces and around 20,000 students. The accommodation is available in the university colleges or in purpose-built private student accommodation. Durham University has different types of rooms available for students like standard, en suite, and studio flats. The prices of the accommodation are

Catered accommodation costs for UG are above £2407 per week,
and Catered accommodation costs for PG are above £2656 per week.

Self-catered accommodation for UG costs £149 per week,
and self-catered accommodation for PG costs £138 per week.

Study Amenities

Library

Durham University students have access to a variety of library resources on-campus and offline. The university has one of the oldest libraries in the UK housing over 1.5 million printed items.

The Durham University facilities at the library include a wide range of electronic resources on its modern main site. The library at the Palace Green site houses extensive special collections including two which have gained designated status: the Sudan Archive and Bishop Cosin's Library. Altogether, there are over 70,000 books printed before the year 1850 and 3,400 meters of archives, 100 medieval manuscripts, 30,000 maps, prints, and over 100,000 photographs. The students also have study spaces for quiet and group study.

Durham University has five library and study space sites for students

  • Bill Bryson- open 24/7 term time
  • Barker Research Library at Palace Green- open from 10 am to 5 pm (Monday to Friday)
  • International Study Centre (ISC) Library-open from 9 am to 5 pm (Monday to Friday)
  • Leazes Road-open from 8:30 am to 6 pm (Monday - Friday)
  • Teaching and Learning Centre- open from 8 am - 10 pm (Monday to Sunday) term time.
Sports

Sports

The University of Durham emphasizes the need for sports for students and how it helps shape the individual and build teamwork. The University of Durham believes that being fit and healthy allows students to make a difference to those around them. 

The university offers sports scholarships and awards to students to encourage them. The team Durham sports has many options ranging from archery, athletics, and cue to futsal, golf, and judo. It also has an indoor fitness area to exercise and community sports programs during holidays. 

Transportation

Transport Facility

The transport is easily accessible for the students. If preferred the students can use public transport majorly consisting of buses, and trains.

Durham University students can travel using a valid Durham University campus card. They can commute within the Durham city area for just £1. This lets students have unlimited travel access in the Durham District ticket zone. The zone for students ends at Newcastle using the X12.

The students at Durham University can commute by train by buying a railcard or passes to reduce the rail fare. Students can also travel on foot or bike as most of the city is compact, which makes it easier to stroll around reaching venues within minutes.

Infrastructure

Cafeteria

Durham University London takes extra care of its students. This can be observed in the efforts the university put into the numerous varieties of food and drink available on campus grounds. There are many cafes and dining areas on the campus for students to eat, socialize and relax. 

They are:

  • Circolo Restaurant
  • Calman Cafe - Starbucks
  • Small Island Coffee
  • Chemistry Cafe
  • Zing Kitchen
  • Cafe and Clubroom @ Maiden Castle
  • Fusion Restaurant
  • Mathematical Sciences & Computer Science Cafe
  • Botanic Garden

Durham University International Office Details

Durham University is a highly-ranked university with a strong reputation for excellence. It is a good choice for students who are looking for a world-class education and who are interested in studying in the United Kingdom. Durham University has more than 20,268 students, among which there are 6,480+ international students. All overseas students can contact the Durham University on the following details:

Address: Durham University, The Palatine Centre, University, Stockton Rd, Durham DH1 3LE, United Kingdom. 

Contact: +44 191 334 2000

Is it hard to get into Durham University?

Durham University’s acceptance rate is around 41%. It is quite low which shows the moderately low selective nature of Durham University’s admission office. Acceptance rates have steadily increased in recent years, rising from 35% in 2015 to 41% in 2023. Students who have excelled academically and participated in extracurricular activities, with letters of recommendation and personal statements have more chances of getting selected for the university.

Durham University Gallery

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FAQ's

Durham University is ranked 78th in the QS World University Rankings 2024 and 174th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024. The university is ranked as one of the top universities in the world by ARWU, which ranks it 301-400th, and by US News & World Report, which ranks Durham 277th globally. 

Durham University is consistently ranked among the top universities in the United Kingdom. According to the latest rankings, Durham University is ranked 8th by Complete University Guide 2023 and 7th by Guardian University Guide 2023.

Durham University has many courses for students, including physics, economics, law, psychology, geography, and more. Durham Uni is also a World Heritage City of Durham. Durham University's Castle and Cathedral have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Yes, Durham University is widely considered to be a prestigious university. It is consistently ranked among the top universities in the United Kingdom and the world. Durham University is considered to be prestigious because of its academic excellence, selective admissions, beautiful campus, and vibrant student life.