International Prospectus 2020

#DUinspire
2 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 3

Contents Find out more

Welcome to Durham University 4-5 Learn more about what

student life is like at Durham
Our location 6-7 University and keep up to
Durham City 8-9 date with University news by
Explore North East England 10 following us on social media.
Discover Durham City 11
Take a look at our film for
Study at Durham University 12-13 international students at
Undergraduate study 12 www.durham.ac.uk/study/ug/
Postgraduate study 13 finance/international

Check out #DUinspire to see

A global university 14-15
what extraordinary things
Careers and employability 16-17 Durham people are making
Postgraduate professional development opportunities 17 happen.

Read our student blogs at

Colleges, accommodation and the student experience 18-21
community.dur.ac.uk/blogs
Student life 22-25 and follow our students on
their own Instagram account
Outstanding facilities 26 at @thedurhamstudent

Supporting your studies 27

Immigration support 27
www.facebook.com/
Subject areas and courses 28-85 durhamuniversity

International Study Centre 86-87 @durham_uni

#DUinspire
Academic writing and communication skills 88-89
www.youtube.com/
Fees and funding 90-91
durhamuniversity
Applying for undergraduate study 92-93
community.dur.ac.uk/
Applying for postgraduate study 94-95 blogs

Further information 96 @thedurhamstudent

Student pledge 97

Ogden Centre for

Fundamental Physics.
4 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 5

Welcome to
Durham University
More than World Top

Durham is a globally outstanding centre of teaching and

150
countries are represented
40
in the QS World
research excellence, a collegiate community of extraordinary here, creating a diverse University Rankings 2019
people, a unique and historic setting – a university like no other. and welcoming for employer reputation.
community.
Located in the beautiful and historic City of Durham, we are
one of the oldest universities in the UK, yet have a modern and
forward-thinking mindset.

With 25 academic departments and schools offering over 200

undergraduate courses as well as postgraduate taught and
research degrees, our teaching is research-informed and led by
dedicated academics, many of whom are world-leading experts
in their field.

Durham is a collegiate university, which means your student

experience will be distinctive and based in one of our 17 college
communities. In fact, our students say that colleges are one of
the best aspects of student life at Durham.

So if you are looking for excellent teaching in outstanding

facilities combined with a unique college experience, then
look no further than Durham University. You are guaranteed
a warm welcome.

Top 10 98%
UK university, ranked 5th of Durham graduates were
in The Guardian University in work or further study
Guide 2019 and 6th in three-and-a-half years after
The Complete University graduation (DLHE 2017).
Guide 2019.

World Top

100
university, ranked
74th in the
QS World University
Rankings 2019.
6 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 7

Our location
Durham University is located in the beautiful
historic City of Durham, in North East England,
17 miles from Newcastle upon Tyne.

Durham is a pedestrian-friendly City, with most people walking

and cycling or taking the bus around the City. Durham train
station is just a short distance from Durham City Centre, and
around a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute bus or taxi ride from the
University campus.

“Durham is a uniquely
With easily accessible transport links to Newcastle, London,
beautiful city. The history,
Edinburgh and Manchester, and with Newcastle International the architecture and the
Airport close by, Durham is also perfectly located for exploring natural environment make a
the rest of the UK and further afield. combination that you never
take for granted. There are not
many places in the UK that can
match Durham for beauty.”

Approximate travel time by train Approximate travel time by air Dan Bird,
PPE student.
Durham to Newcastle Newcastle to London
12 mins 1 hr 20 mins
Durham to London Newcastle to Amsterdam
3 hrs 1 hr 15 mins
Durham to Edinburgh Newcastle to Dubai
1 hr 45 mins 7 hrs 15 mins
Durham to Manchester Newcastle to New York
2 hrs 10 mins 10 hrs Durham is one of
the safest places
to study in the UK.
UK Visa and
Durham average temperature* Want to see more? Immigration
View our online videos, to see Centre (UVIC).
20°C what Durham University has
to offer. The videos provide
15°C a series of short clips and
360° panoramas of academic
10°C departments and colleges, to
give you a feel for student life
5°C at Durham University.

0°C See www.durham.ac.uk/

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec multimedia
*NOAA.

For further information, see

www.durham.ac.uk/study/location
8 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 9

Durham City Aerial map of Durham City.

In Durham City, you are among

Durham University
some of the world’s finest 1.  Maiden Castle
architecture. Durham’s famous Sports Centre
2. Upper Mountjoy
Cathedral and Castle are at Campus
3.  Lower Mountjoy
the heart of the City, forming Campus
4. Hill Colleges
a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 5. Bailey Colleges

Durham City
6. Durham Cathedral
Durham is a compact and friendly city, welcoming students and 7. Durham Castle
visitors to a mix of high street shops and boutiques, excellent 8. Main shopping area
9. Market Place
cafés, bars, restaurants and cultural activities.
10.  Gala Theatre, cinema,
bars and restaurants
There is a huge amount to do in Durham, from walks and boat 11. Bus Station
trips along the River Wear, to street markets and museum visits. 12. Railway Station
13. Riverwalk leisure
complex
Durham City also plays host to the popular Lumiere Festival,
the largest light festival in the UK and the annual
Durham Miners’ Gala.

Durham also offers a huge range of leisure facilities and

attractions, including the:
• Sports Centre, Maiden Castle
• Botanic Garden
• Oriental Museum
• Palace Green Library and Gallery
• Assembly Rooms Theatre
• Gala Theatre and Cinema
• Riverwalk leisure complex.

No matter where you are in

the City, you are never far from
the University’s colleges,
Edinburgh
academic departments
and facilities.
Newcastle
Durham

Manchester

London

For further information, see

www.durham.ac.uk/map
10 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 11

Explore North East England Discover Durham City

You don’t have to travel far Small in size. Big on things to

from Durham City to find see and do; from boat trips along
exciting things to do and the River Wear to shopping,
beautiful places to explore entertainment and museum
across the wider region. visits. All within walking distance!

1. Theatre Royal, Newcastle

3
2. BALTIC Centre for
Contemporary Art,
Gateshead

3. Alnwick Gardens, Alnwick

4. Metrocentre, Gateshead
4
5. Sage Gateshead and the
Millennium Bridge,
Gateshead

6. Surfing at Tynemouth,
Tyne and Wear

7. Bamburgh Castle, For more information 5

Northumberland on the North East, see
www.visitnortheast
8. Saddler Street in Durham england.com
9. Durham Castle, home
to University College

10. Lumiere light festival

11. Riverwalk, shopping

and leisure complex

12. Crook Hall and gardens

13. Rowing boats on the

River Wear To find out more about
14. Prince Bishop River Cruiser life in Durham, see
on the River Wear www.durham.ac.uk/
study/location/durham
15. University Botanic Garden or read our student blogs
at community.dur.ac.uk/
16. View of Prebends Bridge
blogs
in Durham

17. Coffee shops and

restaurants offer high street
names as well as local
independents
12 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 13

Study at Durham University

6th
Becoming a Durham student is the first step on your in The Complete

journey to achieving the extraordinary. There are many University Guide 2019.

different ways you can study at Durham University.

You can undertake a taught degree, conduct your own
research, or pursue practical studies in a specific area.
90%
of our subjects are in
the UK top 10 in The
Complete University
We have a long-established commitment to research. Delivering Academic year Guide 2019.
cutting-edge, research-led education is at the heart of what we do. Durham University has three
This means that our academic staff are more than lecturers simply academic terms, and the
teaching from books; the research they conduct shapes and inspires majority of the teaching takes
the academic structure of our departments and it directly informs place in the first two terms.
our teaching, ensuring that academic course content is right up For further information, see
to date with current developments. You will directly benefit from www.durham.ac.uk/dates Postgraduate study
the world-class research taking place here. As a Durham University
student, you can become an active participant in the creation of
Pathway programme Postgraduate study at Durham provides you with the opportunity Postgraduate
knowledge through group work and research projects.
The International Study to further develop your skills and to specialise. Postgraduate taught courses
Centre, run by Study Group, taught courses (Master’s) are typically one full year and are Postgraduate taught degrees
Russell Group offers pathway programmes delivered via a combination of lectures, seminars and tutorials. blend core and optional
Durham University is a member of the prestigious Russell for international students Postgraduate taught courses offer you a more structured modules in specialist subject
Group of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities. looking to study at Durham framework for your studies. areas with a substantial
For further information, see www.russellgroup.ac.uk and who don’t meet our dissertation or research project.
requirements for direct entry. Postgraduate research courses are offered in a variety of forms
For further information, see for one, two or three years. These courses typically do not include For further information on
www.durhamisc.com classes as part of the degree; instead, you will have a supervisory our taught courses, see the
Undergraduate study team of academic staff to help and support you to undertake department section on
your research project. pages 30-85 or see
Undergraduate degrees are typically three years long, unless you Year abroad
www.durham.ac.uk/courses
also choose to do a year abroad, a placement year or a Master’s Many of our academic
degree, in which case your course will take four years. You will departments offer courses
apply directly to an academic degree, and will start studying your with a year abroad, where Postgraduate research courses “At Durham University there
chosen subject from the first year. you can choose to study in Durham offers a range of research qualifications, including: are so many opportunities
another country for a full for personal development.
• Master’s by research for one year, including MA, MSc and MProf I’ve developed essential
At Durham, learning is delivered through lectures, seminars, year of your degree. team-working and time
laboratory work (if applicable to the course) and tutorials. Tutorials • Master’s by research for two years, including management skills through
are given by the same academic staff who are delivering the lectures, MEd, MJur, MLitt, MMus and MPhil working with other students.”
Placements
so small-group teaching is an important aspect of your learning Soumya Singh,
At Durham, you may have the • Doctoral studies for three years (PhD).
environment. Your learning takes place in the first two terms of the Computer Science student.
opportunity to take a work
year, with exams in the third term. You will do a research project or As well as conventional research degrees, we also offer innovative
placement. Placements are
dissertation in your final year, giving you further opportunities to professional doctorates and PhDs with Integrated Studies, giving
short periods of professional “I think the best thing about
develop your independent learning and research skills. you the opportunity to follow a structured course of taught being a postgraduate student
experience that range from a
modules, before undertaking an extended research thesis. at Durham University in
few weeks to 12 months. They academic terms was the
Study options The current options available are in the School of Education,
may be part of your course, independence, the freedom to
At Durham University, we offer a broad range of courses, including and the Department of Theology and Religion. govern my own research, whilst
may offer you academic credits
always having supervisors
Single Honours degrees, Joint Honours degrees (with two subjects) towards your degree, or may be For further information on our research opportunities, see the in the Department willing to
and Combined Honours degrees in Social Sciences, Liberal Arts and offered outside of term-time. advise and support me.”
department pages from 30-85 or see
Natural Sciences, where you have more flexibility to select multiple Admir Jugo,
For further information, see www.durham.ac.uk/study/pg/studyoptions/research Anthropology PhD graduate.
subjects and electives to study alongside each other.
www.durham.ac.uk/study/ug/
studyoptions
14 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 15
1

Key
2
Examples of international
activities

Examples of partner
universities
Examples of student
exchange agreements

A global university

When you study at Durham,

you are joining an international 3 3
university, where our students 1
are fully immersed in our
world-class research culture.
4

The results of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014

confirm Durham’s international profile in research, with 83% of
Durham’s research being assessed as internationally excellent
quality or world-leading, categorised as 3* or 4*.
2
Areas of exceptional strength include Anthropology, Archaeology,
Chemistry, Classics, Education, English, Law, Music, Physics and
Theology. For research impact, Chemistry and Education were
top among their respective subjects in the country.

Modules studied by students are developed as a result of this

4
world-class research being conducted, and postgraduate research
students work in collaboration with academics to push forward the
boundaries of their subject. Durham University provides a place
where students at every stage of their academic career will find
a supportive environment to develop themselves and their ideas.

Our academics collaborate with research partners worldwide, 1. Working to fight malaria 2. Fieldwork in South Africa 3. Research in Nepal 4. Tackling environmental
providing answers to global questions. Durham University is a Durham University’s School of Anthropology students Amélie “Working in Nepal gave me issues in the Antarctic
member of the Russell Group of research-intensive UK universities Biosciences is involved in the Pralle and Charlotte Edwards the opportunity to gain a The research interests of
and the Matariki Network of Universities. Durham is also a fight against malaria, a disease (pictured) assisted Philip Faure much better understanding Professor Mike Bentley from
member of the University of the Arctic – a cooperative network which the World Health in running an environmental of global development the Department of Geography
of universities, colleges, research institutes and other Organization estimates kills education game at a rural issues, and research-led focus on the history of the
organisations concerned with education and research in one child every minute. One school as part of their field education means learning Antarctic environment. A
and about the circumpolar North. recent study, led by the London course. Philip is the Community at the forefront of the subject, number of his current research
School of Hygiene and Tropical Engagement Officer who travelling to far-flung places, themes feed directly into
Our global reach does not stop with our research. Durham Medicine in partnership with works with Durham University’s and ultimately gaining a his Antarctic Environments
University has exchange agreements with over 270 different Durham University and the Professor Russell Hill on his deeper understanding of module, enabling his students
universities. We also run joint programmes with institutions around University of California in San Primate and Predator project the challenges that face to benefit from his cutting-
the world and we are highly active within the European Union’s Francisco, found that housing at the Anthropology Field the world around us.” edge research.
Erasmus programme. Approximately 400 Durham students improvements could reduce Station in the Soutpansberg
annually take advantage of our study abroad opportunities. malaria cases by half in Mountains, South Africa. The Charlie Jefferson, Image courtesy of Professor Mike Bentley.
Geography student.
This provides valuable international experience, strengthens some settings. project aims to reduce human–
our global reach and promotes intercultural learning. wildlife conflict in the region.
16 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 17

Careers and employability Durham Inspired

Durham University inspires the extraordinary. We do this first and

We believe that inspiring our people to do foremost through our degrees. But we don’t stop there. We ensure
outstanding things at Durham enables Durham that Durham students have the edge they need when they graduate.
We enable participation and we promote leadership. And we are
people to do outstanding things in the world. encouraging all of our undergraduates to take the new Durham “I am now working as Director
Inspired programme. A ‘Degree plus Inspired Award’ from Durham of Business Development in
is an unbeatable combination to take into employment. Codifer Technologies, New
Delhi, India. Entrepreneurship
is beyond books and journals.
Our graduate success rate at finding employment is high. Our For further information, see www.durham.ac.uk/inspired-programme The support from various

graduates have found work in a range of job roles in a variety World professors at Durham was
amazing. The initiatives such as
of national and international organisations, including not only
established names within consulting, finance, technology, media,
Top 100 Postgraduate professional
Engineer and Business School
Meet, Startgrid, Blueprint
Competition and the Kickstart
health and government, but also in start-ups, social enterprises and for the employability Weekend, gave me so many
charities. Our graduates work in a variety of organisations, including
development opportunities opportunities, and best of all I
of our students in the
got to meet real entrepreneurs
IBM, the United Nations, Saatchi & Saatchi, Deloitte, the NHS, EDF QS World University and alumni.”
Energy, the BBC, The Times and the Civil Service. At Durham University, we recognise the importance of continued
Rankings 2019.
professional development for early career researchers. The Durham Raja Singh,
MSc Management
Centre for Academic Development provides an extensive range Entrepreneurship graduate.
Careers and Enterprise Centre of opportunities for postgraduate researchers to develop their
The Careers and Enterprise Centre will support you in pursuing knowledge and skills, including the Durham Researcher Development
your career or entrepreneurial ambitions. Our graduates continually Programme, and the Durham University Excellence in Learning
demonstrate that, throughout their time at Durham University, they and Teaching Award.
build the skills that are highly valued by a range of employers.

You can make the most of services we offer, including:

• Receiving expert advice: with CVs, applications and Durham Researcher Development Programme
interview preparation The Researcher Development Programme offers around 150
face-to-face workshops each year for postgraduate research
• Meeting employers on campus: career fairs with access to “My degree has been the
students, and is complemented by a wide range of high-quality primary driver in helping me
recruiting employers from a range of industries, sector-specific
online courses. The programme is designed to equip you with all achieve my goals. The solid
forums with graduate recruiters and alumni, and employer foundation I was given in first
the skills that are needed by a professional researcher, working
networking events year, enabled me to complete
in both academic and non-academic environments. a summer internship at J.P.
• Developing your skills: such as communication, problem-solving
Morgan. Without the support
and teamwork of my academic adviser,
• Online vacancy service: featuring graduate opportunities, I never would have received
Durham University Excellence in Learning and a scholarship from Adobe
internships and part-time jobs Research. In my second
Teaching Award (DELTA)
• Exploring enterprise and entrepreneurship. year, I completed a summer
DELTA provides research students with an opportunity to develop internship in San Francisco,
and enhance their practice in learning and teaching. Successful and subsequently published a
paper. I really do attribute a lot
Durham International Student Employability Programme (DISEP) completion of the programme leads to this University award and also of what I have achieved today
DISEP is a range of sessions designed to help international students to Associate Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy, the UK to the quality of education

navigate the graduate recruitment process. Courses include: writing professional body for teaching and learning in higher education. and the opportunities that
I received while at Durham.”
CVs and cover letters, interview skills, graduate scheme applications For further information, see www.durham.ac.uk/dcad
Sara Chen,
and presentation skills. Computer Science graduate;
DevOps Consultant for Amazon
Our inspirational graduates Web Services.

If you decide to join Durham University, you’ll be in good company.

Many of our graduates have gone on to do great things in the fields
of government, law, science, academia, business, arts, journalism and
athletics. Our alumni community is active and an excellent resource
for your future.
Connect with other alumni via www.dunelm.org.uk
18 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 19

Colleges, accommodation and the student experience

At Durham, you’ll be warmly welcomed into the supportive
world of college life. You’ll discover a rich extracurricular
culture of music, drama, sports and more; whatever your
interests, there’s a society or club for you.

Our colleges

One of our greatest assets at Durham University is our colleges. What do colleges provide?
Our college communities will be the very core of your life at • An international community:
Durham, providing experiences, challenges and opportunities that a small and friendly college
make your time here about much more than just getting a degree. community, with students
from around the world.
Nearly every student agrees that college is one of the best aspects • Accommodation: a variety of
of life at Durham University. Our colleges are small enough for you room and catering options.
to experience university life on a smaller and more human scale
• A multidisciplinary, scholarly
that is both manageable and familiar – your home away from home.
community: inspiring
Our colleges are safe, supportive and inclusive, where everyone
intellectual debate both
enjoys a sense of belonging, and builds lifelong friendships.
informally and formally.

Each college has students from all academic departments. • Support: a comprehensive
support system, helping
This section only contains a brief summary of our collegiate system. you settle into university life
For more detailed information please see our College Guide: and providing the first point
www.durham.ac.uk/study/prospectus of contact for issues as they How do I become a member of a college?
arise, with referral to more As a Durham University student, you become a member of a college.
specialist help if needed. You will have the opportunity to express a college preference during
What is the accommodation like? • Extracurricular opportunities: the application process. For undergraduates, you can express your
The rooms and bathrooms may differ depending on the college, a range of activities, college preference on your UCAS application. For postgraduates,
but all of our bedrooms are equipped with: including sports, societies you can express your college preference within the Online Applicant
Portal once you have accepted your postgraduate offer. “For me, the colleges attracted
• A bed, desk, chair, wardrobe and drawers and voluntary work, that
me to Durham. I saw the
will enhance your personal collegiate system as one that
• High-speed internet access
development, complementing We want to ensure that all colleges remain academically would promote and champion
• Full catering or self-catering facilities like a shared your department’s diverse communities, and we aim to allocate you to your
diversity as well as provide
opportunities to try new things
pantry or kitchen academic provision. college preference where possible however, we are unable to such as sports. I was able to
• En suite or shared bathroom facilities. • Leadership opportunities: guarantee this. All of our colleges offer events, traditions, take part in College rowing,
basketball and football, which
with roles and responsibilities support and facilities, so even if you do not get your first choice are sports I had never really
to fully engage with your in college allocation, you will still be part of a close-knit college played before.”

college. community that will make your experience at Durham unique. Seun Onalaja,
Accounting and Finance
• Excellent facilities: for student, Stephenson College.
You can find out more about our colleges and their individual
academic study, socialising,
atmospheres and culture on their dedicated web pages.
sport/fitness, music, drama
You can also use the table on the next page to compare
and arts performance.
some of the basic details of each college.
• Events: regular college and
student-led events, including For further information, see www.durham.ac.uk/experience/colleges
seminars, lecture series, balls,
concerts, theatre productions Our College Guide: www.durham.ac.uk/study/prospectus
and more.
20 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 21

Undergraduate accommodation
We guarantee college accommodation to all first year
undergraduate students. In Years 2 and 3 (and Year 4 if applicable)
you can choose between college accommodation or moving out to
privately rented accommodation in Durham City. The University’s
Accommodation and Allocations Office offers help and advice to
students looking for private accommodation.

For further information, see www.durham.ac.uk/experience/colleges

St Mary’s College.
Postgraduate accommodation
Around one third of postgraduate students live in college
accommodation. Full-time postgraduate students beginning their
Artist’s impression of South College,
studies in September/October entry and who confirm acceptance of which will be opening in 2020.
their offer, express a consideration for college accommodation and
make a £250 booking fee payment by 1 June 2020 are guaranteed
a single study bedroom in University-managed accommodation.

Collingwood College

St Cuthbert’s Society

Stephenson College

Van Mildert College

You can apply for college membership only, or accommodation plus

John Snow College

St Aidan’s College

University College
Trevelyan College
St Chad’s College

St Mary’s College
St John’s College
St Hild & St Bede
membership of a college, after you have accepted your

Hatfield College

Ustinov College
Butler College

South College
Grey College
academic offer from the University.
Our

Josephine

(PG only)
For further information, see www.durham.ac.uk/experience/colleges colleges
Ustinov College. at a glance*

Accommodation for couples and families Year of 1858

1972 1959 1846 2001 2006 2020 1947 1904 1839 1909 1899 2001 1966 1832 1965 1965
foundation /88
Ustinov College manages a limited number of furnished,
Self-catered (S),
self-contained, one-bedroom, two-bedroom or three-bedroom catered (C) or
postgraduate flats for couples and families. Couple and family part-catered (P) C SC C S S S C C SCP C C C S C SC C S
(undergraduate
accommodation is only availble to postgraduate students.
only)

For further information, see www.durham.ac.uk/ustinov.college/ Gowned formal

No Yes Yes Yes Yes TBC No Yes No No Yes Yes No Yes Yes No No
dinners**
college_life/accommodation/family “If I had to pick one thing that
makes Durham University Total
so great, it would be the number of
1406 1139 1066 705 1169 TBC 920 409 1232 1123 505 759 771 783 889 1265 0
collegiate system. The sense undergraduate
Non-university accommodation of belonging that it creates students
If you would prefer to live in private accommodation as an individual made me feel comfortable Total
from day one. My College now number of
or family, there is a wide range of rental accommodation available in feels like my home-from-home 18 36 126 0 0 0 102 90 64 0 16 0 0 20 62 0 0
undergraduate
Durham City and surrounding areas, with some properties offering and the friends I’ve made like shared rooms
a fully furnished place. The Accommodation and Allocations family. It also makes it easier
to get involved in sports and Total
Office can help to provide guidance for your non-University societies, especially because number of
150 159 175 0 143 TBC 263 151 171 206 108 133 67 111 424 155 1208
accommodation search. we’re able to initiate one if it postgraduate
does not yet exist.” students

For further information, see Charlotte Wedekind, Total number

Marketing with Business of postgraduate 33 44 47 71 50 TBC 60 54 40 45 26 35 45 36 125 60 410
www.durham.ac.uk/accommodation.office rooms
Placement student.
Total number TBC
1556 1298 1241 705 1312 1183 560 1403 1329 613 892 838 894 1313 1420 1208
of students ****
Renting properties as an international student
While we appreciate the difficulty of being able to view a property Chapel/
No Yes Yes No Yes TBC Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes No No
in person before you arrive in Durham, securing non-University Multifaith room
accommodation is made simpler with the use of photographs in UCAS code*** 1 G 2 7 9 TBC A 3 4 5 J M 8 T U V N/A
adverts of properties to help you get a real idea of what a property
is like. There are however important points to consider before *Please note: These figures will be ***You do not have to specify a college ****South College will be established in
subject to annual change. preference on your UCAS form, if you 2020 with a reduced number of students,
signing any contract. For more details on the regulations and **All colleges have special dinner events prefer not to. Instead, you can make with the intention of growing by 2022 to
throughout the year called ‘Formals’. an ‘open’ application. its full size of 1200 students.
options for international students who want to rent, see Some colleges practise the long-
www.durham.ac.uk/accommodation.office/ established tradition of wearing gowns
at these events. Others are less formal
helpandadvice/internationalstudents and do not wear gowns to dine in.
22 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 23

No. 1
Over

85%
of our students are
Team Sport University
BUCS rankings since 2013.
involved in sport, music,
theatre and volunteering.

Student
life
2,000 £2.4
Whatever your interests,
whatever new experiences
active student volunteers.
million
investment in the new
you’re looking for, you’ll Assembly Rooms Theatre.
find your place here.

84
music societies – 26 Music
Durham, eight chapel choirs
and another 50 music
societies in our colleges.

Over Over

700 84 200
student societies
college sports teams local, national
to join.
across 18 sports. and international
volunteering projects.
24 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 25

Sport: A huge range of Music: For those with a passion

sporting opportunities are for music, Durham University is
available to our students. the perfect place.
Whether you are looking to keep fit or be part of a team, Investment in sports facilities We have chapel choirs, orchestras, bands, world music ensembles, Find out more about music at
you will have the chance to join in and give it a go. Many of Investment in our sports a cappella, barbershop, chamber groups and much more for you to www.durham.ac.uk/
our students discover sporting abilities they never knew they facilities will allow us to join. Student musicians are encouraged to play in ensembles as well experience/music
had, simply through joining a college team, often progressing compete at the highest levels as being part of our many exciting solo and chamber opportunities,
to play at University level and beyond. Regardless of why you of British university sport and masterclasses and outreach work.
take part or what sport you want to join, you can be sure that will also encourage student,
there is a place for you here. staff and local community
participation in sport and
College sport at Durham is larger than any other university sport physical activity. Our new
Durham Students’ Union is the
programme in the UK. It provides an opportunity for students to sports complex will include champion of every Durham student.
compete on a weekly basis, in 18 sports across more than 700 state-of-the-art indoor
different teams. This not only helps to keep you active facilities, sports laboratories, a We care about the things that
and healthy, but it also provides a sense of belonging. new rubber crumb sports pitch,
upgraded hockey pitches and
matter to you, stand up for your
Find out more about sport at www.durham.ac.uk/experience/sport two beach volleyball courts. rights, and bring you together.

We are students who:

Volunteering: Try something new. • Run and participate in over 250 student groups, doing everything
from stand-up comedy to Quidditch
Give back to the local community, • Campaign, lobby and advocate for student issues and student rights
and improve your skills. Make a • Actively shape our education, by making sure the University
hears our voices.
positive impact.
Durham Students’ Union also has a dedicated advice service for free,
confidential and impartial guidance, because life as a student isn’t
Our Volunteering and Outreach programmes are student led
always straightforward. We’re working to make sure that students
and community focused, offering unique opportunities that
Find out more about have the power and opportunity to transform their time at Durham.
are open to all students. We run 80+ projects to suit all
interests, supporting: social inclusion, complex needs, volunteering at
And that’s not all. We also have:
education, sport and physical activity, the environment www.durham.ac.uk/ For more information, see
• Our own student newspaper, Palatinate, and radio station,
and global citizenship. We currently have 2,000 active experience/volunteering www.durhamsu.com
Purple Radio
student volunteers.
• University Challenge and debates
• A student seminar and speaker series.

Theatre: Durham has one of the

largest and most successful student Student fundraising
theatre scenes in the country.
DUCK (Durham University Charities Committee) is Durham’s version
of what other students’ unions call ‘raise and give’ societies.
Durham Student Theatre (DST) coordinates 27 theatre companies We are here to support all students and staff to fundraise hundreds
and is brimming with creative individuals, who come together to of thousands of pounds for local, national and international charities.
perform a diverse range of shows. DST performs over 100 shows a We offer something for everyone: through our events, such as the
year, has 600 active members and provides over 900 opportunities Santa fun run or cathedral sleepout, our expeditions to countries
For more information, For further information, see
for students to act, as well as write, direct and produce. We are also such as Cambodia or Nepal, or running the London marathon.
visit www.durham.ac.uk/ www.durhamduck.org
investing £2.4 million for a renovation of the Assembly Rooms, our All this, while raising funds for amazing causes! In 2017/18 we
very own theatre, in the City Centre. experience/theatre raised over £150,000 for charity.
26 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 27

Outstanding facilities Supporting your studies

Immigration Health
Surcharge
When you join Durham University, you will find excellent As a Durham student, you’ll find an All students applying for
a Tier 4 (General) visa
facilities to complement, enhance and support your studies. extensive and helpful support network. to come to or stay in the
We provide an environment where you can be truly inspired. UK for longer than six
Disability support months, are required to pay
Our Disability Support service provides support for you, if you have a an Immigration Health
disability, a medical or mental health condition, or a specific learning Surcharge (IHS) starting at
difficulty that may affect your studies. It is important to let us know your £300 per year (the actual
requirements when you apply, so we can ensure that we are able to amount depending on
deliver appropriate support prior to the start of your academic course. length of visa) in addition
to the cost of the visa
Counselling application. This will entitle
The Counselling Service is available to all students, and our team of the Tier 4 (General) visa
trained and experienced practitioners help to manage difficulties that holder to use the NHS
impact on successful engagement with studies and University life. without charge during their
stay in the UK (though
some services will still
Childcare and schools require payment). You will
At our day nursery we aim to provide high-quality childcare in a safe, pay the IHS during your Tier
secure and stimulating environment for children aged 0 to 5 years. 4 (General) visa online
For a list of local primary and secondary schools and information on application process.
applying for a place for your child, see www.durham.gov.uk/schools Students who are not
required to pay the Health
Chaplaincy and faith provision Surcharge, should take
As a multi-cultural, multi-faith community, the University provides out comprehensive Health
opportunities for individuals to maintain and explore their religion Insurance to ensure that
and beliefs. The Network of University Chaplains is committed adequate cover is in place
to welcoming and supporting students of all faiths and none. before travelling to the UK.
We provide a number of facilities for our main religious
communities, such as prayer rooms, events and societies, single-
sex accommodation in some colleges and kosher and halal dining. National Health Service
We are happy to discuss individual needs, if you have special (NHS)
IT facilities Teaching and Learning Centre requirements linked to your faith. As a full-time student in the
As a Durham student, you will benefit from a comprehensive Our new Centre (pictured UK, you will qualify for free
range of IT services, including: Durham University Online above bottom right) will offer NHS hospital treatment on
(duo) – a virtual learning environment; Encore – lecture capture cutting-edge facilities and the Health and wellbeing the same basis as anyone
latest digital technologies as Our Student Wellbeing and Community Engagement Office delivers who is ordinarily resident
technology that allows you to replay lectures at your own pace,
well as a range of new learning a proactive student wellbeing programme incorporating activities that in the UK, after you pay
to help with understanding and revision; a free Microsoft Office
environments, including encourage students to maintain healthy lifestyles and wellbeing. the Immigration Health
365 account; and wireless coverage across our campus. lecture theatres, education Surcharge (see above)
laboratories and classrooms For more information, see www.durham.ac.uk/experience/support
To find out more, see www.durham.ac.uk/it during the visa application
that will allow students to
process. This also applies to
share courses in real time with Immigration support your spouse or civil partner
their peers around the world.
Library facilities (not unmarried partner)
Our libraries, such as the Bill Bryson library (pictured top left), Our dedicated team of Immigration Advisers can offer visa and and any children with you
offer an excellent range of resources and study spaces to support New state-of-the-art immigration advice before and during your studies. Students who in the UK, providing any
your studies and research. We have in excess of 1.6 million printed building for computing and require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK will need to get a Confirmation dependants have each
books and more than 400,000 online resources, which include mathematics of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number from the University paid the immigration
This £40 million project Admissions team. Students must be able to fulfil ALL Tier 4 Health Surcharge.
e-books, e-journals and databases for tracing journal articles,
(pictured top right) will provide requirements on the date the Tier 4 application is made.
conference papers and research papers.
cutting-edge learning, teaching
Follow the step-by step guidance that the Immigration Team offers to For further information,
To find out more, see www.durham.ac.uk/libraries and study spaces for students
confirm deadlines and details required throughout the visa process. see www.durham.ac.uk/
and staff from the departments
For frequently asked questions on the Tier 4 visa process refer to the immigration
of Mathematical Sciences
and Computer Science. following guidance: www.durham.ac.uk/immigration/faq
28 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 29

What is the TEF?

The Teaching Excellence and
Student Outcomes Framework
(TEF) was introduced by
the UK government and is a
national review of universities.
It measures the things
students care about: teaching,
learning and what students
go on to do afterwards.
The TEF results are ranked
in gold, silver and bronze.
Durham has a gold rating
for delivering consistently
outstanding teaching,
learning and outcomes for our
students. It’s of the highest
quality found in the UK.

Subject areas and courses

We offer one of the broadest course ranges of any UK
Top 50
Our Arts and Humanities,
83%
of our research is rated
university. Over the following pages, you’ll find information Social Sciences and Law internationally excellent
subjects are all in the top or world leading
on our subject areas, the undergraduate and postgraduate (3* or 4*).
50 in the 2019 Times
courses that we provide and our research areas. You’ll also Higher Education (THE) (REF 2014)
hear from students and graduates about academic life at World University Rankings
by Subject.
Durham, and discover what sort of career your degree
could lead to.

92%
World Top

of our students
achieve a 2:1
100
18 of our subjects are
or above.
ranked in the World
Top 100 in the QS World
University Rankings
by Subject 2019.
30 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 31

Accounting and Finance

Our degrees in Accounting and Finance will provide you 87%
of our Accounting and
with the knowledge and skills you need to build secure Finance graduates were
foundations for successful future careers or further study. in paid employment
or further study
six months after
graduation
(DLHE 2017).

Areas of study in accounting may include financial and

management accounting, the legal, regulatory and social
context within which accounting operates and the influence
4th Undergraduate
Typical Typical
in the UK (joint) for A level IB diploma UCAS
of AI and big data on the world of accounting. Degrees Year(s) offer score code
graduate prospects
in The Complete BSc (Hons) Accounting* 3 AAB 36 -
Areas of study in finance will include corporate finance, University Guide 2019. BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance 3 AAB 36 NN43
investments, financial institutions and the vast array of
sophisticated financial products traded in today’s global BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance with Placement Year 4 AAB 36 -
financial markets. What’s more, depending upon on the BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance with Study Abroad 4 AAB 36 N304
programme and modules chosen, you will gain exemption
BA (Hons) Accounting and Management 3 AAB 36 NN42
from some of the ACA, ACCA and CIMA examinations, once
you’ve completed your degree. Just another small step that BA (Hons) Accounting and Management
4 AAB 36 N204
with Placement Year
will help make your way up the career ladder a little easier.
BA (Hons) Accounting and Management
Find out more at 4 AAB 36 N206
with Study Abroad
durham.ac.uk/study
BSc (Hons) Finance 3 AAB 36 N305

BSc (Hons) Finance with Placement Year 4 AAB 36 -

Departmental highlight
BSc (Hons) Finance with Study Abroad 4 AAB 36 N307
Starting in 2020, we will offer a single honours accounting
degree*, combining maximum exemptions from key professional
accounting bodies with a rigorous academic programme and There are more course options with this subject in: Combined Honours and Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
an opportunity to engage with the world of practice, through a
one-year placement. Graduates from this degree will be sought
after by employers, graduating not only with a Durham degree Postgraduate
in Accounting, but also with very few steps to complete before “Thanks to my degree I was accepted
onto a one-year internship at the United Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
becoming a fully professionally qualified accountant.
Nations Office for Project Service in PhD Accounting 3
MSc Accounting 1
Copenhagen, Denmark. Without my
qualification, I would never have been MSc Finance 1 PhD Finance 3
selected, because it is so competitive.
All credit goes to the staff here, who MSc Finance (Accounting and Finance) 1 PhD Islamic Finance 3
Key research area have guided me along my academic
MSc Finance (Corporate and International
• Accounting. and career paths. I am now pursuing 1
Finance)
my Master’s degree in Management
at Ivey Business School of Western MSc Finance (Economics and Finance) 1
University, Ontario.”
MSc Finance (Finance and Investment) 1
GuanYu Yue,
Careers and employability Accounting and Finance with MSc Finance (International Banking and
1
Finance)
Previous undergraduates have progressed to work for Study Abroad graduate.
global innovators and leaders in their sector, such as: MSc Finance (International Money, Finance
1
and Investment)
MSc Islamic Finance 1

MSc Islamic Finance and Management 1

32 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 33

Anthropology
Anthropology is the study of all aspects of humanity, from our 78%
evolutionary origins to our extraordinary social and cultural of our Anthropology
graduates were in paid
diversity. At Durham, we pride ourselves on the breadth of our employment or further
research, learning and teaching, encompassing all aspects of study six months
after graduation
anthropology, and influencing the wider world through research (2017 Unistats).
that has global significance.

Founded in 1965, the Department of Anthropology at

Durham University is now one of the largest integrated
anthropology departments in the UK, carrying out cutting-
Joint 1st
in the UK for
edge research across social anthropology, evolutionary
internationally
anthropology, and the anthropology of health. excellent and world-
leading research
impact (REF 2014).
Departmental highlight
Anthropology students have access to dedicated workspaces and
high-profile research laboratories such as the: Top 10
• Bioinformatics Laboratory in The Complete
• Parent-Infant Sleep Lab University Guide 2019.

• Physical Activity Lab.

Undergraduate
The Parent-Infant Sleep Lab was awarded the Queen’s Typical Typical
Anniversary Prize for Higher Education – the highest accolade for A level IB diploma UCAS
Degrees Year(s) offer score code
any academic institution and part of the national honours system
in the UK – for ‘leading influential research on parent-infant sleep BA (Hons) Anthropology 3 AAB 36 L602
with a widely-used public information service’.
BSc (Hons) Anthropology 3 AAB 36 L601

Find out more at BA (Hons) Anthropology and Archaeology 3 AAB 36 LF64

Key research areas durham.ac.uk/study
BA (Hons) Anthropology and Sociology 3 AAB 36 LL36
• Cultural Evolution • Political Anthropology
• Energy and Sustainability • Primate Behaviour BSc (Hons) Health and Human Sciences 3 AAB 36 B991

• Evolutionary Medicine and Conservation

and Health • Studies of Science There are more course options with this subject in: Combined Honours and Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
• Global and Public Health and Biotechnology.

Postgraduate
Careers and employability Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
The value of an anthropology degree is increasingly
MSc Energy and Society 1 MA Anthropology by Research 1
recognised by employers, and the broad training provided at
Durham University makes our graduates highly sought after. MSc Medical Anthropology 1 MSc Biological Anthropology
Our graduates progress into a diverse range of careers, 1
by Research
including research and development, advertising, management MA Research Methods (Anthropology) 1
consultancy, education, and the civil and diplomatic services. MA Socio-cultural Anthropology
“The diversity of the Anthropology 1
MA Socio-cultural Anthropology 1 by Research
Department at Durham University was
certainly the main reason why I chose
MSc Sustainability, Culture PhD Anthropology 3
to apply for a PhD position here. This 1
and Development
Department benefits from a variety
PhD Biological Anthropology 3
of professionals and experts in all
sub-disciplines within Anthropology.”
PhD Socio-cultural Anthropology 3
Elena Burgos-Martinez,
Socio-cultural Anthropology PhD student.
34 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 35

Archaeology
Archaeology helps us to address some of the most 86%
fundamental questions about who we are. of our Archaeology
graduates were in paid
employment or further
study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).

From the Palaeolithic to the post-medieval, from Iceland

to India, from architecture to ancient DNA – broad and
dynamic, archaeology changes constantly with new
2nd
in The Complete
discoveries and innovative research. Combine hands-on
University Guide 2019.
work with traditional academic study.

Learn from expert staff; take part in fieldwork, real 4th

excavations and finds; study historic buildings, scientific
in The Times and Sunday
methods, archaeological theory and computer techniques;
Times Good University
and find out how they all help us to understand the past. Guide 2019.

Departmental highlight
Our internationally respected research expertise will provide
you with some of the best resources available for archaeological Undergraduate
Typical Typical
research. We have one of only three commercial archaeology units A level IB diploma UCAS
in the UK based in a university department here at Durham. Degrees Year(s) offer score code
You will be able to work with experts in the field and will have BA (Hons) Archaeology 3 AAB 36 F400
access to state-of-the-art laboratories and specialised facilities.
Find out more at BSc (Hons) Archaeology 3 AAB 36 F402
durham.ac.uk/study
BA (Hons) Archaeology and Ancient Civilisations 3 AAB 36 VQ48
Key research areas
BA (Hons) Archaeology of the Historic World 3 AAB 36 F406
• Arabian Archaeology • Material and Visual Culture
• Bioarchaeology and • Medieval Archaeology BA (Hons) Ancient History and Archaeology 3 AAB 36 VF14
Biomolecular Archaeology • North East England BA (Hons) Anthropology and Archaeology 3 AAB 36 LF64
• Egypt, Near East and • Ritual, Religion, Belief
South Asia and Place
• European Prehistory There are more course options with this subject in: Combined Honours (pages 44-45).
• Roman Archaeology. “Coming from Japan with a background
• Landscapes of Complex in contemporary art theory, I wanted
to specialise in prehistoric art. Durham
Societies stood out because of its prominent Postgraduate
international reputation in archaeology.
Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
I came to study the MA and stayed to
Careers and employability research for the PhD. The Department’s MA Archaeology 1 MRes Archaeology by Research 1
We have professional links with many notable historic leading researchers and vibrant
organisations and our graduates are highly employable in the postgraduate community provide a MSc Bioarchaeology 1 MPhil Archaeology 2
archaeology sector and elsewhere. Our graduates progress into fertile ground for my own intellectual
development, and its friendly academic MA Conservation of Archaeological PhD Archaeology 3
a diverse range of careers including as archaeologists, surveyors 2
community goes a great way to help and Museum Objects
and teachers, going on to postgraduate research positions or overseas students with living abroad.”
MA International Cultural Heritage
working in academia. 1
Takashi Sakamoto, Management
Archaeology PhD student.
MA Museum and Artefact Studies 1

MSc Human Bioarchaeology

1
and Palaeopathology
36 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 37

Biosciences
Bioscience is the fundamental science of life, and recent key 82%
developments make the twenty-first century a most exciting era, of our Biosciences
graduates were in paid
in which important biological challenges will be met and resolved. employment or further
Our bioscientists are tackling challenges that include climate change study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).
and biodiversity conservation, developing new technologies for
human healthcare, and feeding an increasing human population.

As a Durham student, you will have access to state-of-the art

technology for a range of techniques, including imaging using
electron and confocal laser scanning microscopy, transgenic
8th
studies, genomics, DNA analysis and proteomics, bioinformatics, in the UK for world-
leading research
remote sensing, ecological field sampling and computer modelling.
impact (REF 2014).
The interests of academic staff include all types of living organisms,
from bacteria, plants and animals to human health. Our research 5th
addresses major global problems, including food security, climate
in The Complete
change, healthy ageing and control of disease. Our academics University Guide 2019.
underpin these areas with expertise in: biotic and abiotic stress;
signalling and environmental adaptation; cell structure, function
and development; and human health and disease. 8th
in The Guardian Undergraduate
Departmental highlight University Guide 2019. Typical Typical
We have two Doctoral Training programmes offering competitive A level IB diploma UCAS
studentships, one associated with the Natural Environment Degrees Year(s) offer score code
Research Council and the other with the Biotechnology and Find out more at BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences 3 AAA 37 C103
Biological Sciences Research Council. durham.ac.uk/study
MBiol (Hons) Biosciences 4 AAA 37 C107
Our staff are extensively involved in national and international
expert panels, consortia, government review panels, international
There are more course options with this subject in: Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
commissions, and other influential organisations. Our research
and collaborations take place all over the world.

Postgraduate
Key research areas
Research Degrees Year(s)
• Agritechnology • Ecology, Evolution and “Carrying out my PhD at Durham
Environment MSc Biological Sciences 1
• Animal Cells and Systems University has been a fantastic
experience so far. I am part of the
• Biological Chemistry • In Vitro Animal Cell PhD Biological Sciences 3–4
Newcastle, Liverpool, Durham doctoral
Technologies training partnership, which has given
• Biomolecular Interactions
• Molecular Plant Science. me many great opportunities, such
• Biotechnology as attending conferences and going
to writing retreats. There are ample
opportunities for networking, which
has led me to start pursuing a future
Careers and employability
career in science communication.
Our graduates progress into a diverse range of careers and I also really enjoy getting involved
sectors. Many of our graduates go on to academia at universities in activities run within the
across the UK and overseas or take up graduate entry to Medicine Department, such as the Science
courses, while others work in the biosciences sector, the NHS or into Schools festival and
the pharmaceutical industry. Biosciences Society events.”
Paige Panter,
Biological Sciences PhD
(Plant Molecular Biology) student.
38 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 39

Business, Marketing and Management

As one of an elite group of business schools worldwide to carry
84%
of our Business graduates
triple accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate were in paid employment
Schools of Business (AACSB), the Association of MBAs (AMBA) or further study
six months after
and the European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS), we graduation
recruit students from around the world onto our programmes. (DLHE 2017).

Our students take part in live business projects, internships

and placements as part of their studies, enabling them 7th Undergraduate
Typical
A level
Typical
IB diploma UCAS
to apply their knowledge to practical challenges in the
in The Complete Degrees Year(s) offer score code
most forward-thinking companies.
University Guide 2019. BA (Hons) Business and Management 3 AAB 36 N201

Durham University Business School has an active

6th in the UK
BA (Hons) Business and Management
4 AAB 36 -
alumni network of more than 25,000 graduates in with Placement Year

over 150 countries. BA (Hons) Business and Management with Study Abroad 4 AAB 36 N207
13th in Europe BA (Hons) Marketing and Management 3 AAB 36 N509

Key research area 43rd in the world BA (Hons) Marketing and Management
with Placement Year
4 AAB 36 -

• Management. (Full-time MBA,

BA (Hons) Marketing and Management
Financial Times Global 4 AAB 36 N511
with Study Abroad
MBA Ranking 2019).

There are more course options with this subject in: Combined Honours and Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
Employment Find out more at
Previous undergraduates have progressed to work for durham.ac.uk/study
global innovators and leaders in their sector, such as: Postgraduate
Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)

MBA Business Administration 1 PhD Management 3

MBA Business Administration 15 mths PhD Marketing 3

(Business Development) FT
DBA Doctor of Business Administration 4–6 PT
MBA Business Administration Online / Blended 2 PT
“A friend highly recommended the Durham DBA at Fudan 4–6 PT
Business School to me, partly related MBA - The Durham-EBS Executive 18 mths
to the collegiate system, the people, Master of Business Administration PT Global DBA: Durham-emlyon (GDBA) 4-6 PT
the structure and the overall student
experience. I really enjoyed my time MSc Business Analytics 1
at Durham, finding a good group of
friends here, all working towards the
MSc Human Resource Management 1
same goal. The programme really MSc Management 1
challenged me, but I pushed through
to receive the award for the Best MSc Management (Entrepreneurship) 1
Performance on the MSc Management
(Supply Chain Logistics) programme.” MSc Management (Finance) 1
Jan Beisheim, MSc Management (International Business) 1
Management (Supply
Chain Logistics) MSc graduate. MSc Management (Supply Chain Logistics) 1

MSc Marketing 1
40 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 41

Chemistry
Our Department of Chemistry is a vibrant, research-led department 80%
with an international reputation for its cutting-edge science. We have of our Chemistry
graduates were in paid
very close research links with many industrial partners and other employment or further
universities in the UK and abroad, with leading scientists from around study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).
the world visiting and collaborating with us. You will be taught by
internationally renowned academics with a wide range of expertise.

Our degrees cover the latest developments in chemistry,

giving you relevant and cutting-edge knowledge, supported 1st
by detailed scientific understanding. in the UK for world-
leading research
There are 42 chemistry research groups at Durham, with impact (REF 2014).
projects spanning organic, physical, inorganic, bioactive and
computational chemistry, through to catalysis, nanoscience 3rd
and materials. in The Complete
University Guide 2019.

3rd
Interdisciplinary research in The Times and
We have a long tradition of interdisciplinary research that covers Sunday Times Good
a wide scientific spectrum – from the development of chemical University Guide 2019.
tests for cancer through to the theory and computational study Undergraduate
Typical Typical
of molecular interactions. A level IB diploma UCAS
Degrees Year(s) offer score code
Dissertations and research projects are aligned with our research
BSc (Hons) Chemistry 3 A*AA 38 F100
groupings, and you will study the design and synthesis of societally
and technologically important substances – from functional MChem (Hons) Chemistry 4 A*AA 38 F105
surfaces as used in water-repellent smartphones to graphene.
MChem/Ind (Hons) Chemistry 4 A*AA 38 F111
Find out more at
durham.ac.uk/study MChem/Int (Hons) Chemistry (with Overseas Project) 4 A*AA 38 F102

Key research areas

There are more course options with this subject in: Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
• Bioactive Chemistry and • Functional Molecules
Synthesis and Materials
• Catalysis and Sustainable • Physical Organic and Postgraduate
Chemical Processes Assembly
Research Degrees Year(s)
• Computational and Dynamics • Soft Matter and Interfaces.
MSc Chemistry 1
“The quality of research was the main
reason I chose Durham. The lectures are PhD Chemistry 3–4
taught by world-leading academics who
are experts in their field, and they often
Careers and employability discuss the applications of the lecture
Many of our graduates hold academic, industrial and commercial course material to their own research.
positions throughout the world and follow careers in academic The research and latest developments
from the academics is embedded and
and industrial R&D, chemical process development and production
integrated into the lecture content,
management, commerce, administration and teaching. making them up to date and current. The
highlights for me at Durham have been
the undergraduate labs. The quality of
teaching and the facilities available have
significantly enhanced my lab skills.”
Neshat Rozatian,
Chemistry BSc (Hons) student.
42 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 43

Classics and Ancient History

The Department of Classics and Ancient History 86%
is one of the largest Classics departments in the UK of our Classics and
Ancient History
and is consistently ranked among the top Classics graduates were in paid
departments in the country. employment or further
study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).

Our staff are engaged in international-level research in core

disciplines, such as the study of ancient literature and its
reception, philosophy, history and epigraphy. They work in a
Joint 2nd
truly interdisciplinary way and specialise in a wide range of in the UK for internationally
artistic, historical, literary, linguistic, cultural and philosophical excellent and world-
aspects of the Graeco-Roman world. leading research impact
(REF 2014).
This wealth of expertise has allowed us to develop some major
interdisciplinary research groupings along distinctive lines,
including the areas in which we host research centres: the Centre
2nd
for Classical Reception; the Centre for the Study of the Ancient in The Times and
Sunday Times Good
Mediterranean and the Near East; and the Durham Centre for
University Guide 2019.
Ancient and Medieval Philosophy.

Learn ancient languages

3rd Undergraduate
Typical Typical
A central feature of our undergraduate courses is the opportunity in The Guardian A level IB diploma UCAS
University Guide 2019. Degrees Year(s) offer score code
to study the Greek and Latin languages, either to embark on
them as a beginner or to continue on from what you have BA (Hons) Classics 3 AAA 37 Q801
already learnt.
BA (Hons) Classical Civilisation 3 AAA 37 Q820

BA (Hons) Ancient History 3 AAA 37 V110

Key research areas
BA (Hons) Ancient History and Archaeology 3 AAB 36 VF14
• Ancient History • Classical Reception
• Ancient Literature • The Ancient Mediterranean BA (Hons) Ancient, Medieval and Modern History 3 A*AA 38 V101
(both Greek and Latin) and the Near East Find out more at
• Ancient Philosophy • Topography and durham.ac.uk/study
There are more course options with this subject in: Liberal Arts (pages 44-45).
Architecture.

Postgraduate
Careers and employability “What attracted me about the
Our graduates progress into a diverse range of careers and PhD course in particular was the Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
sectors, including in IT, insurance, journalism, law, accounting, Department’s strong research
reputation, the possibility for MA Ancient Philosophy 1 MA by Thesis Classics and Ancient History 1
public relations, the theatre and the Civil Service. Many former
cross-disciplinary work, and the
students have published their work in prominent journals, and Department’s active research culture. MA Classics 1 MLitt Classics and Ancient History 2
graduates of our taught MA courses have received funded offers One great aspect of this PhD course
to pursue doctoral study at a range of high-profile institutions. is the many opportunities that come MA Greece, Rome and the Near East 1 PhD Classics and Ancient History 3
with it. So far, I have spoken at
Our PhD students have gone on to take up academic positions conferences in Canada and St Andrews
at the University of Edinburgh, the University of St Andrews and attended workshops in Rome and
and the Catholic University in Budapest, among others. Munich. This has all helped towards
creating a more rounded and diverse
experience as a research student.”
Esther Meijer,
Classics and Ancient History
MA and PhD student.
44 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 45

Combined Honours degrees

Studying a Combined Honours degree at Durham can provide 90%
considerable flexibility and choice across Durham University’s of courses are in the UK
Top 10 in The Complete
breadth of world-renowned, research-led education. It allows University Guide 2019.
you to create an academically ambitious degree, suited to
your individual interests, strengths and career plans.

We currently offer Combined Honours degrees across the arts

and humanities, social sciences, and sciences with our Liberal
Arts, Combined Honours in Social Sciences and Natural Sciences
Top 40
courses. These courses provide a flexible, multidisciplinary globally for employer
reputation in the
framework with the opportunity to undertake a year abroad
QS World University,
or a placement year, preparing you for your career ambitions. Rankings 2019.

Liberal Arts
Liberal Arts is a flexible, multidisciplinary degree for those who
Top 100
want to specialise in two or more principal subjects. It offers in the QS World
you the opportunity to construct a distinctive programme University Rankings
of study shaped by your particular interests and aspirations, 2019.
and enables you to make creative connections between your
subjects. In the Liberal Arts course, you can take modules in
almost any subject in the arts, humanities and social sciences. Find out more at Undergraduate
durham.ac.uk/study Typical Typical
Combined Honours in Social Sciences A level IB diploma UCAS
Degrees Year(s) offer score code
Our Combined Honours in Social Sciences degree enables you
to choose modules from two, three or even four subjects across BA (Hons) Combined Honours in Social Sciences 3 A*AA 38 LMV0
the social sciences, arts and humanities, enabling you to
BA (Hons) Liberal Arts 3 A*AA 38 LA01
develop your expertise or to explore new interests.
BSc (Hons) Natural Sciences 3 A*AA 38 CFG0
Natural Sciences
This is a long-standing, challenging and rewarding degree MSci (Hons) Natural Sciences 4 A*AA 38 FGC0
course for science students who wish to study more than
one subject at degree level. We offer the option of 24 BSc and
6 MSci Joint Honours degrees provided by 12 departments.
This gives you the opportunity to design your own BSc or MSci
degree, majoring in at least one science, with a wide choice of
subjects in science, social sciences and philosophy.

Teaching
You design your own programme of study, so depending on
your choices, you will learn through a combination of lectures,
seminars, tutorials, practical classes, fieldwork, excavation,
informal but scheduled one-to-one support, and self-directed
learning, such as research, reading and writing.
“Liberal Arts recognises and values
Careers and employability the range of my interests, and my
Our graduates are highly valued by employers and progress studies have broadened my critical
perspectives. I have greatly enjoyed
into a diverse range of careers and sectors. my experience, through which I have
established a strong foundation for
my life and career after Durham.”
Laura Lau,
Liberal Arts student.
46 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 47

Computer Science
Durham University offers computer science courses that are 95%
challenging and technologically leading, covering topics including of our graduates
leave with excellent
big data, machine learning, computer vision, image analysis, career prospects
the Internet and the mathematical foundations of computing. (The Complete University
Guide Graduate Prospect
Score 2018).

You will have access to extensive and diverse research

facilities, for example a Tier-3 supercomputer, a visualisation
suite, several general-purpose computing on graphics
6th
in The Complete
processing units, clusters and workstations, autonomous
University Guide 2019.
cars, and a team of intelligent robots.

We have internationally recognised research groups in

Find out more at
computer science, ranging from the mathematical analysis of
durham.ac.uk/study
algorithms to the cutting edge of application. The Innovative
Computing Group, for example, explores computer vision,
robotics, bio-informatics and high-performance computing.

All this research gives you a much sought-after, rigorous,

analytical and applied approach, with the opportunity to
Undergraduate
study cutting-edge concepts taught by leading experts in Typical Typical
the field. We strongly believe that you should be part of A level IB diploma UCAS
Degrees Year(s) offer score code
our research culture through research-led education. “I have thoroughly enjoyed studying
Computer Science at Durham. The BSc (Hons) Computer Science 3 A*AA 38 G400
size of the Department allowed me
to really get to know the academics, MEng (Hons) Computer Science 4 A*AA 38 G406
making it possible to easily reach out
Key research areas on my research projects. In particular,
Research in the Algorithms and Complexity Group ranges from I was able to design my own final-year
There are more course options with this subject in: Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
computational complexity to algorithmic graph theory and project in machine learning, facilitated
mathematical logic. by the resources in the Department.
The opportunities available to me have
We also have a strong presence in image processing, ranging equipped me very well for my future.” Postgraduate
from biomedical imaging to computer vision, with additional Alistair Breeze,
Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
links to related activity spanning visualisation, distributed virtual Computer Science graduate.
environments and robotic sensing. MSc Business Analytics 1 MSc Computer Science 1

MSc Scientific Computing and Data Analysis 1 PhD Computer Science 3

High-performance computing research in this area goes beyond
traditional service, such as application-specific number crunching,
code analysis and tuning. Instead, it searches for innovative
algorithms, algorithmic paradigms, patterns and methodologies
to meet the next generation’s supercomputing challenges.

Careers and employability

We have strong links with industrial partners; recent graduates
have become successful entrepreneurs and software developers,
have gained prestigious positions in banking and finance, and
have entered the IT and engineering industries.
48 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 49

Economics
Our economics degrees are an ideal preparation 84%
for employment in all areas of graduate work, and of our Economics
graduates were in paid
our qualifications are highly successful in creating employment or further
job opportunities. study six months
after graduation
(DLHE 2017).

You will be taught at Durham University Business School,

one of the longest established business schools in the UK,
in state-of-the-art facilities.
7th
in The Complete
The School is also one of an elite group of institutions in the University Guide 2019.
UK to be accredited by all three major business accreditation
bodies – the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of
Business (AACSB), the Association of MBAs (AMBA) and the Find out more at
European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS). durham.ac.uk/study

This achievement is testament to the quality of the School

and provides the extra assurance that Durham University
Business School and its courses have been rigorously tested
and proven to be of the high quality demanded by today’s Undergraduate
Typical Typical
professionals. A level IB diploma UCAS
Degrees Year(s) offer score code
BA (Hons) Economics 3 A*AA 38 L100
Key research area
BA (Hons) Economics with Placement Year 4 A*AA 38 -
• Economics.
BA (Hons) Economics with Study Abroad 4 A*AA 38 L109

BA (Hons) Economics with French 4 A*AA 38 L1R1

Careers and employability BA (Hons) Economics with Management 3 A*AA 38 L103

Our graduates progress into a diverse range of careers “I chose Durham as it was ranked
and sectors. Previous graduates have gone on to work as highly for economics. My time during BA (Hons) Economics with Management
4 A*AA 38 -
my Masters was amazing, the people with Placement Year
chartered and certified accountants, financial risk analysts,
were friendly and very supportive.
civil servants, management consultants, economic analysts BA (Hons) Economics with Management
I enjoyed a very challenging 4 A*AA 38 L105
and in retail and general management. with Study Abroad
programme which helped me grow
considerably and gave me a strong BA (Hons) Economics and Politics 3 A*AA 38 LL12
toolkit for research in economics
and microeconomics. I’m now BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) 3 A*AA 38 VL52
continuing my studies as a PhD
student at Durham.”
Artem Nestervov, There are more course options with this subject in: Combined Honours and Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
Experimental Economics MSc graduate.

Postgraduate
Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
MSc Economics 1 PhD Economics 3

MSc Environmental and Natural Resource

1
Economics

MSc Experimental Economics 1

MSc Public Economics 1

50 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 51

Education and Teaching

The School of Education is one of the leading departments of 94%
education in the UK. We are supported by a large number of of our Education
graduates were in paid
partners from schools and colleges. We have strong international employment or further
links, welcoming international students, postdoctoral fellows study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).
and visiting scholars from all over the world.

We are committed to research that engages with, and has

an impact upon, practice and policy, as well as influencing
the wider research community to develop educational
Joint 1st
in the UK for
practice, education policy and future educational research. world-leading research
impact (REF 2014).

Departmental highlight
We lead the way in high-quality research, teaching and
5th
in the field of education
professional education both nationally and internationally. nationally (REF 2014).
Our Initial Teacher Education programmes, including our
BA Primary Education and our PGCE Primary and Secondary
degrees, have been officially accredited as outstanding 3rd
by Ofsted for all aspects of our provision (last inspection in The Guardian
date: April 2013). University Guide 2019
and in The Times and Undergraduate
Typical Typical
Sunday Times Good A level IB diploma UCAS
University Guide 2019. Degrees Year(s) offer score code
Key research areas BA (Hons) Education Studies – Geography 3 AAB 36 X1F8
Our teaching is research-informed. The various research areas
BA (Hons) Education Studies – Psychology 3 AAB 36 X1C8
address a wide range of education-related topics covering early
years, through school key stages, college and higher education. BA (Hons) Education Studies – Sociology 3 AAB 36 XL33
Areas of research expertise include: BA (Hons) Primary Education 3 ABB 34 X101
• Assessment, Evaluation and Effectiveness in Education
• Curriculum and Pedagogy There are more course options with this subject in: Combined Honours and Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
Find out more at
• Educational Psychology durham.ac.uk/study
• Evidence in Education
Postgraduate
• Intercultural Communication and Education
Taught Degrees Year(s) Taught Degrees Year(s)
• Methods and Critical Approaches
MA Education 1 PGCE Secondary Geography 1
• Teaching and Learning in Higher Education.
MA Intercultural Communication PGCE Secondary German 1
1
and Education
PGCE Secondary History 1
MA Research Methods (Education) 1
Careers and employability PGCE Secondary Mathematics 1
“I thought that this MA would add PGCE Education (Primary) 1
Our graduates go into teaching or progress into a diverse range of PGCE Secondary Physical Education 1
to my understanding of sociology of
careers and sectors. Examples of high-profile employers include: education whilst allowing me to gain new PGCE Primary (International) 1
Practical Action Publishing, Segero and the charitable sector. insights from a more applied linguistics
PGCE Secondary Physics 1
PGCE Secondary (International) 1
and cultural studies perspective. I think PGCE Secondary Spanish 1
it’s also made me much more aware PGCE Secondary Biology 1
of alternative pathways to being an
educator and also broadened the PGCE Secondary Chemistry 1 Research Degrees Year(s)
meaning of ‘education’ for me, which
brings about lots of exciting opportunities PGCE Secondary English 1 EdD Doctor of Education 3
and new challenges.”
PGCE Secondary French 1 PhD Doctor of Philosophy 3
Nicole Lam,
Intercultural Communication
and Education MA graduate.
52 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 53

Engineering
Our modern engineers are capable of solving the problems 96%
of the twenty-first century, bridging the traditional of our Engineering
students are in
engineering disciplines – from offshore wind turbines to graduate-level
mechanical devices manufactured on a microchip. employment within
six months of
graduation (The
Guardian University
Guide 2019).

The Department of Engineering offers courses that are

challenging and technologically leading. You will be taught by
expert staff, who are all actively engaged in research at the
Joint 1st
frontiers of modern engineering analysis, design and practice. in the UK for
internationally
You will have access to extensive and diverse facilities to excellent and world-
leading research
support your learning. For example, airflow sensors, made
impact (REF 2014).
using cutting-edge microfabrication techniques in the
Class 1000 Cleanroom, have been tested and characterised
in the Department’s wind tunnel facilities. 5th
in The Complete
Accreditation University Guide 2019
All our established Engineering degrees have accreditation from and The Guardian
the relevant engineering institutions. We hold accreditation University Guide 2019.
Undergraduate
from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, the Institution Typical Typical
of Engineering and Technology, the Joint Board of Moderators A level IB diploma UCAS
Find out more at Degrees Year(s) offer score code
(including the Institution of Civil Engineers and the Institution
of Structural Engineers, among others) and the Royal Aeronautical durham.ac.uk/study BEng (Hons) General Engineering
(Civil Engineering; Electronic Engineering; 3 A*AA 38 H103
Society. This is a key element of the pathway to becoming a
Mechanical Engineering)
professionally registered engineer. Graduates from an accredited
“The lectures are of very high quality,
engineering degree will have achieved part or all of the underpinning MEng (Hons) General Engineering
and given by experts in each subject.
knowledge for later professional registration as Chartered I have been able to use new software
(Aeronautics; Civil Engineering; Electronic 4 A*AA 38 H100
Engineer (CEng). We are currently seeking accreditation of Engineering; Mechanical Engineering;
and solve real-life problems in the
New and Renewable Energy)
our newer MSc courses (Civil Engineering, Electrical and field of renewable energy generation
Electronic Engineering and Advanced Mechanical Engineering). and integration, as well as developing
projects in the same way an engineer
would. As part of my research and
Key research areas development project, I have visited Postgraduate
the National Renewable Energy Centre,
The Department’s research • Future Energy Systems a place to see all the theory I have learnt Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
covers a wide range of topics, • Next Generation Materials being put into practice and a great way
which are divided into three to build a bridge between a student MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering 1 MSc Engineering 1
and Microsystems
challenge areas: and a worldwide leader in the
• Sustainable Infrastructure. renewable energy business.” MSc Civil Engineering 1 PhD Engineering 3.5
Sebastian Sanchez Perez-Moreno,
MSc Electronic and Electrical Engineering 1
Careers and employability New and Renewable Energy MSc
graduate.
We have strong links with industrial partners. Recent graduates MSc New and Renewable Energy 1
have become highly successful engineers in civil, mechanical,
electronic, electrical, manufacturing, design, aeronautics and
systems engineering. They are working as consultants, technology
analysts, and software developers and entrepreneurs, and have
also gained prestigious positions in banking and finance.
54 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 55

English Language Teaching and Teacher Education

The Durham Centre for Academic Development provides
high-quality English language teaching and language teacher
training and development expertise. It caters for students at all
levels: pre-university entry, undergraduate and postgraduate.

The Centre’s strong provision and expertise in English language Find out more at
teaching, teacher education and academic skills development durham.ac.uk/study
plays a central role in supporting teaching and learning and
enhancing the experience of both UK/EU and international
students at Durham. With a large variety of tailor-made
programmes to suit the needs of students at all levels, English
language teaching, academic development and teacher education
courses have a significant role in the University and, increasingly,
help to support the University’s internationalisation agenda.

The Centre offers two key courses at postgraduate level: the MA “Studying MA TESOL at Durham
TESOL caters for pre-service (inexperienced) teachers who are University has had a profound
influence on my career after
looking to start a career in teaching English as a foreign or graduation. It not only equipped me
second language; and the MA Applied Linguistics for TESOL with the most advanced classroom
provides in-service (experienced) teachers with professional teaching methodology, but also
development opportunities to hone their skills and update their critical thinking skills and a constant
drive to always seek and innovate
knowledge of the field. for better ways for Chinese students
to become better and more driven
The Centre provides you with a range of up-to-date resources, language learners.”
including a subscription to key ELT journals and resources that Diwei Chen,
support practitioner-related research and skills development. TESOL MA graduate.
The courses offer an academic and practitioner-focused
curriculum, drawing on both theory and practice, aiming to
provide you with ample opportunities to apply your knowledge
throughout the year. You can enjoy studying in a stimulating and
supportive environment that will enable you to succeed and to
compete on a global platform.

Postgraduate
International graduates in demand
As the demand for English grows globally, so does the demand Taught Degrees Year(s)
for English language teaching professionals. Our students come
MA Applied Linguistics for TESOL 1
from all over the world, and our graduates go on to teach and
work internationally in a variety of diverse contexts. For example, MA TESOL 1
some of the countries our previous students have come from
include Algeria, Chile, China, Egypt, Germany, Japan, Kuwait,
Malaysia, Poland, South Korea, Spain, USA and others. Not only
do we welcome a diverse range of students from across the
world but, because we understand the competitive global nature
of the market, we also offer you the chance to differentiate your
degree in specialisms such as Teaching English for Academic
Purposes, Young Learners and English for Specific Purposes.
The professional skills that our graduates possess enable them
to find employment internationally, as teachers and managers
in language schools, colleges of further education, universities
or organisations such as the British Council.
56 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 57

English Studies
The Department of English Studies provides a studious, dynamic 90%
and supportive environment and offers the most up-to-date training of our English
graduates were in paid
in methods and skills. Students can choose specialised topics across employment or further
the whole range of the subject area – from the Anglo-Saxon period study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).
to the present day. Our academic staff produce research of the
highest international calibre.

The Department’s work ethos is that teaching and research

should complement one another at all levels of academic
enquiry. We strive to connect with both the local community
3rd
in the UK for internationally
and a global network of students, scholars, artists and excellent and world-leading
professionals. English is a very popular and highly regarded research (REF 2014).
subject, and the linguistic, critical and analytical skills that it
teaches are highly transferable. Joint 1st
for research environment
(REF 2014).
Departmental highlight
You will have the opportunity to study English language literature
in a variety of non-British contexts, such as Ireland, Canada,
1st
Australia and the USA; and/or to study some of the languages in the Complete University
used in Medieval England, such as Old Norse, Old French and Guide 2019 and The
Undergraduate
Old English. Guardian University Typical Typical
Guide 2019. A level IB diploma UCAS
Degrees Year(s) offer score code
BA (Hons) English Literature 3 A*AA 38 Q300

Key research areas BA (Hons) English Literature and History 3 A*AA 38 QV21
• Eighteenth-Century Literature • Renaissance and
Seventeenth- BA (Hons) English Literature and Philosophy 3 A*AA 38 QV35
• Literary and Critical Theory
Century Literature
• Medieval Literature
• Romantic Literature There are more course options with this subject in: Liberal Arts (pages 44-45).
• Modern Literature
• Victorian Literature. Find out more at
durham.ac.uk/study
Postgraduate

Careers and employability Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)

Our graduates are highly valued by employers. They progress MA Creative Writing 1 MA English Studies 1
into a diverse range of careers and sectors, including arts and
theatre management, broadcasting, publishing and journalism, MA English Literary Studies 1 MLitt English Studies 2
business, accounting, marketing and advertising, teaching,
MA Medieval and Renaissance PhD English Studies 3
higher education, law, third sector and government positions. Literary Studies
1
“The best part of my PhD has been
the research opportunities available; MA Romantic and Victorian
1
good supervision, a range of useful Literary Studies
academic resources, opportunities
and funding to attend and present MA Studies in Poetry 1
at conferences, and the collaborative
learning environment provided by the MA Twentieth and Twenty-First
1
departmental lectures and seminars.” Century Literary Studies
Ayesha Siddiqa,
English Studies PhD graduate.
58 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 59

Geography
Climate change, environmental governance, landslides, natural 89%
hazards, geopolitical conflict and territorial dispute, migration, of our Geography
graduates were in paid
sea-level rise, energy poverty, flooding, debt, austerity, employment or further
urbanisation: these are just a few of the significant challenges study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).
that are confronting us today, and few departments are better
placed than Durham Geography to study them.

Our Department of Geography is one of the leading centres of

geographical scholarship in the world. Drawing on a breadth
of internationally recognised expertise, we deliver degrees
World
that enable you to study human activity and the physical Top 10
environment as well as the interactions between them. We for seven consecutive years
teach and research across the discipline – from Antarctica in the QS World University
to Bangladesh, from spatial theory to flood modelling, and Subject Rankings.
from GIS to urbanisation and sustainable development. We
endeavour to enthuse and stimulate you from the seminar 1st
room to the fieldsite, stretching you to realise your intellectual in The Times and Sunday
Field trip to Norway
potential. Our aim is to sustain a world-class research, teaching Times Good University ©Johanne Brun.
and learning environment with high-quality laboratories and IT Guide 2019.
facilities in a supportive and collegiate atmosphere.

Undergraduate
Departmental highlight Typical Typical
We provide you with a high-quality research environment, and A level IB diploma UCAS
Degrees Year(s) offer score code
first class facilities supported by dedicated technical staff. We
have computing facilities for modelling and remote sensing; an BA (Hons) Geography 3 A*AA 38 L702
extensive suite of equipment for field research; and cutting-edge
BSc (Hons) Geography 3 AAA or A*AB 37 F800
laboratories for water and sediment analysis, geotechnical studies,
geomorphology and palaeoenvironmental reconstruction. Find out more at
durham.ac.uk/study There are more course options with this subject in: Education and Teaching (pages 50-51), and Combined
Honours and Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).

Key research areas

• Cities and Space • Migration, Asylum and Postgraduate
• Climate Change Citizenship Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
• Economy and Culture • Past and Future Sea-level Rise
MA Geography (Research Methods) 1 MA by Research Human Geography 1
• Geographies of Identity • Physical and Human
• Geographies of the Body and Dimensions of Hazards MA Risk MSc by Research Physical Geography 1
• Politics, Power and Space “I chose to study at Durham due to (Environmental Hazards and Resilience;
Corporeality Climate Risk and Society; Security
1
the expertise of my supervisors. The PhD Human Geography 3
• Interactions and Feedbacks • The Dynamic Response of Geography Department houses some and Politics).
between Geomorphology, Ice Sheets to External and of the world-leading scientists in coastal PhD Physical Geography 3
Internal Forces. MSc Risk
Hydrology, Vegetation, and geomorphology (the underlying theme
(Environmental Hazards and Resilience;
of my PhD), most of whom are heavily
1
Water Chemistry in Hillslope Climate Risk and Society).
cited. Working closely with experts
and River Systems
in my field is important for validating
and refining my research, and it gives
Careers and employability me the opportunity to learn from
people who have already established
Our graduates are highly valued by employers and progress
themselves in the field, which is
into a diverse range of careers and sectors. very important for continuing my
professional development.”
Avidesh Seenath,
Geography PhD student.
60 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 61

Geology and Earth Sciences

The Department of Earth Sciences conducts internationally leading 95%
research across a wide range of Earth science disciplines. Earth of our Earth Sciences
graduates were in paid
science draws upon elements of physics, chemistry, mathematics, employment or further
biology and physical geography. It embraces the entire planet from study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).
the surface to the core, and also contributes to our understanding
of other planets in our solar system and beyond.

You will study the present state of the Earth to develop an

understanding of the geological past. You will look at climate Joint 7th
change, the formation of the oceans, mass extinctions, in the UK for world-
the nature of rocks and minerals, and the structure and leading research
impact (REF 2014).
chemistry of the Earth.

We are supported by major research centres, including the 5th

Durham Geochemistry Centre, the Centre for Resources in The Complete
and Earth Energy Systems, the Durham Energy Institute, University Guide 2019.
and the Institute of Hazard, Risk and Resilience.
7th
in The Times and
A vibrant community Sunday Times Good
University Guide 2019.
The Department of Earth Sciences is part of two major Natural
Environment Research Council funded postgraduate networks: Undergraduate
Typical Typical
the IAPETUS Doctoral Training Partnership; and the Oil and A level IB diploma UCAS
Gas Centre for Doctoral Training. We provide a wide range of Degrees Year(s) offer score code
undergraduate and postgraduate training courses, including BSc (Hons) Environmental Geoscience 3 AAB 36 F630
several field courses and a course in numerical modelling.
BSc (Hons) Geology 3 AAB 36 F600

BSc (Hons) Geophysics with Geology 3 AAB 36 F662

Find out more at
durham.ac.uk/study BSc (Hons) Geoscience 3 AAB 36 F643

MSci (Hons) Earth Sciences 4 AAA 37 F644

Key research areas “I chose Durham University because I
wanted to join a great research group
• Environmental Geosciences • Geo-energy, Petroleum There are more course options with this subject in: Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
with well-equipped laboratories and
and Climate Change Geosciences, Hydrogeology world-class facilities. My department
• Geochemistry, and Carbon Capture and is one of the best in the UK, and my
Geochronology, Volcanology Storage supervisors are renowned experts in Postgraduate
my field of study. I made an informed
and Petrology • Sedimentology, Stratigraphy decision to come to Durham, based on Research Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
• Geodynamics and and Basin Analysis its reputation, research scopes and the
strategic location in the North East. MSc Geological Sciences 1 MSc Geophysics 1
Geophysics • Tectonics and Structural My study experience has been
Geology. absolutely fascinating; the amount of MPhil Geological Sciences 2 MPhil Geophysics 2
support and encouragement I get from
my supervisors is impeccable. They PhD Geological Sciences 3 PhD Geophysics 3
nurture you to become a good scientist,
Careers and employability and encourage you to publish papers MSc Geology 1 MSc Volcanology 1
Our graduates are highly valued by employers and progress in reputable journals, and to share your
research findings in both local and
into a diverse range of careers and sectors, including MPhil Geology 2
international conferences.”
environmental management, water management, energy
Munira Raji, PhD Geology 3
and engineering geology. Geological Sciences PhD graduate.
62 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 63

History
Durham University has one of the most highly regarded 88%
history departments in the UK. This reputation is the product of of our History
graduates were in paid
the quality and commitment of our staff, and the breadth of our employment or further
teaching, which reflects the research interests of a Department study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).
with an international outlook.

Our expertise extends from the early Middle Ages to the

present and encompasses many parts of the world: Chinese,
Japanese, African and US history are all taught, alongside
2nd
British and other European history. Our courses reflect the in The Complete
rich variety of modern historical writing, including cultural, University Guide 2019
gender, environmental, social and economic history as well as and The Guardian
University Guide 2019.
political, religious, transnational history, the history of science
and the history of the book. Postgraduates also benefit from
interdisciplinary research conversations through research 3rd
institutes and centres, such as the Institute for Medieval and
in The Times and
Early Modern Studies, the Centre for Nineteenth Century Sunday Times Good
Studies and the Centre for Visual Arts and Cultures. University Guide 2019.

Departmental highlight Undergraduate

We believe that students should be part of our research culture Typical Typical
through research-led education. You will work with staff on a rich A level IB diploma UCAS
Degrees Year(s) offer score code
array of primary sources, taking advantage of Durham’s unique
BA (Hons) History 3 A*AA 38 V100
archive and museum collections. We encourage you to develop
an understanding of what is meant by ‘history’, its complexities, BA (Hons) Ancient, Medieval and Modern History 3 A*AA 38 V101
strengths and limitations, and to challenge assumptions about
Find out more at BA (Hons) English Literature and History 3 A*AA 38 QV21
and misuses of the past.
durham.ac.uk/study
BA (Hons) Modern European Languages and History
4 AAA 37 RV92
Key research areas with Year Abroad
Chronological: Thematic:
• Medieval • Political Cultures There are more course options with this subject in: Liberal Arts (pages 44-45).
• Early Modern • Science and Medicine
• Modern. • Visual and Material Culture
Geographical: Postgraduate
• Gender and Sexuality
• Britain and Continental • Transnational Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
“I have enjoyed studying societies
Europe • Landscape and Memory from all round the world and across MA History MA by Research History
1 1
• United States • Theology and Religion human history, engaging with areas of
• Africa history that I had never before had the MA Social and Economic History PhD History 3
• Economic and Social. opportunity to look at. I found staff to be (Research Methods)
1
• East Asia. attentive and helpful, and I consider it a
privilege to have been able to work with
academics who are experts and
Careers and employability
leaders in their fields of research.”
Our graduates are highly valued by employers and progress
Luke Elton,
into a diverse range of careers and sectors. Previous graduates
History graduate.
have gone on to work in teaching at school and university
level, in museums and galleries, in law, finance, banking and
accountancy, the Civil Service and the charity sector.
64 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 65

Languages, Cultures, and Visual Arts

In an environment of increasing cultural and economic globalisation, 90%
our distinctive research-led courses in modern languages, cultures of our Languages
graduates were in paid
and the global visual arts open up a world of opportunities. employment or further
study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).

As a student of Modern Languages and Cultures at Durham

University, you can specialise in one or two languages and the
cultural worlds associated with them – choose from Arabic,
2nd
Chinese, French, German, Hispanic Studies, Italian, Japanese in The Complete
and Russian. A range of exciting modules in literature, University Guide 2019.
culture and language as well as film and visual studies offers
broad historical scope and extensive geographical reach, all
underpinned by world-class research.
3rd
for all languages we
As a student of Visual Arts and Film at Durham University offer in The Times and
(for which no language qualifications are required), you Sunday Times Good
will study still and moving images, and combine advanced University Guide 2019.
academic inquiry with practical skills development. Spanning
historical periods from classical Rome to the present, and
almost global in scope, the course is supported by Durham Undergraduate
University’s internationally renowned Oriental Museum and Typical Typical
distinguished Western Art collections. A level IB diploma UCAS
Degrees Year(s) offer score code
BA (Hons) Modern European Languages
4 AAA 37 RV92
Departmental highlight and History with Year Abroad
Find out more at
For undergraduate courses, you will participate in a year abroad, durham.ac.uk/study BA (Hons) Modern Languages and Cultures
which will give your language capabilities a crucial boost, as well as with Year Abroad
4 AAA 37 R002
providing you with invaluable experience of working or studying in
different countries. BA (Hons) Chinese Studies with Year Abroad 4 AAB 36 T102

BA (Hons) Japanese Studies with Year Abroad 4 AAB 36 T202

Key research areas
BA (Hons) Visual Arts and Film 3 AAB 36 VA01
• Literary and Cultural History • Medieval and Early Modern
• Visual Arts and Culture Studies BA (Hons) Economics with French 4 A*AA 38 L1R1
• Digital Studies • Performance Studies “Staff at Durham are truly committed
• Film Studies • Postcolonialism to training, mentoring and collaborating
with students. The benefits I gained There are more course options with this subject in: Liberal Arts (pages 44-45).
• Gender and Sexuality • Science and the Humanities from them was not just about writing
• Critical Theory. high-quality papers, but about shaping
both my research and teaching abilities,
and pushing me to become a better Postgraduate
Careers and employability academic. I had access to excellent
experts in different fields, who were Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
Our graduates are highly valued by employers and progress into a
more than happy to explore my ideas,
range of careers and sectors including: media and the arts (broadcast discuss their research, and guide me
MA Languages, Literatures, Cultures 1 MA Research 1
content editors, translation, and arts management); education throughout my own research.
MA Translation Studies 1 PhD Modern Languages and Cultures 3
(teaching English overseas, secondary and primary teaching); As I look around the campus of where
and as business professionals (research, administration, human I now work in the USA, I feel certain
that Durham University helped my MA Visual Culture 1
resources, sales and business development, financial services). ability to compete for top jobs in the
international academic market.”
Dr Adrián Gras-Velázquez,
PhD graduate; Visiting Lecturer
in Spanish, Smith College, USA.
66 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 67

Law
Durham Law School is a world leader in legal education 81%
and research. Our award-winning academic staff produce of our Law graduates
were in paid
ground-breaking research with impact, and we are active employment or further
in public engagement both nationally and internationally. study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).

We are proud to deliver some of the best results for student

satisfaction and employability – and our graduates include
some of law’s leading figures, such as current members of
3rd
the UK Supreme Court, members of the Court of Appeal, and for Grade Point
Members of Parliament. Average in the UK
(REF 2014).
Our top-ranked global law courses are very competitive,
with an excellent and diverse student population from across
the world, delivering an innovative, research-led curriculum 7th
with a commitment to small-group teaching through
in The Times and
seminars and tutorials much prized by employers.
Sunday Times Good
Our academic staff are internationally recognised leading University Guide 2019
figures in their fields, drawn from across the world. We proudly and in The Complete
deliver an intellectually stimulating legal education in a diverse University Guide 2019.
and supportive environment. Teaching is informed by our latest Undergraduate
cutting-edge research that does more than explain the law – Typical Typical
we help you understand how to shape it. We inspire you to A level IB diploma UCAS
Degree Year(s) offer score code
succeed, wherever your future career might take you.
LLB (Hons) Law 3 A*AA 38 M101

Departmental highlight
We have modern, purpose-built, state-of-the-art facilities.
Featuring a moot court, the Harvard-style Hogan Lovells lecture Find out more at Postgraduate
theatre, spacious dedicated work suites with superb views of durham.ac.uk/study
Durham Cathedral, attractive social areas, and modern wireless Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
and audio-video enabled research spaces, this is one of the most LLM Corporate Law 1 MJur Law 1
striking and best-equipped law buildings in the UK.
LLM European Trade PhD Law 3
1
and Commercial Law
Key research areas
• Centre for Chinese Law • Durham European Law Institute LLM International Law
1
and Policy • Gender and Law at Durham and Governance
• Centre for Criminal Law • Human Rights Centre LLM International Trade
and Criminal Justice 1
• Institute for Commercial and Commercial Law
• Centre for Ethics and Law and Corporate Law
in the Life Sciences “What encouraged me to study the LLM Master of Laws 1
• Law and Global Justice
LLM at Durham Law School was an
at Durham. opportunity to be taught by world-
leading researchers who are experts
Careers and employability in their field. The modules offered on
the course are of excellent quality and
Our graduates enjoy highly successful careers across a diverse the staff both knowledgeable and
range of sectors as solicitors, barristers, consultants and more. approachable. Studying in Durham is like
Current graduates are on the Supreme Court, and in government, living a dream: learning something new
the Court of Appeal and Parliament. every day, while being surrounded
by friends from different countries.”
Ekaterina Vankova,
International Trade and
Commercial Law LLM graduate.
68 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 69

Mathematical Sciences
The Department of Mathematical Sciences offers a distinct blend of 87%
high-quality teaching and research along with excellent facilities and of our Mathematical
Sciences graduates
a stimulating environment for your studies. Whichever degree you were in paid
choose, you will benefit from research-led education by experts in a employment or further
study six months after
wide variety of fields across pure mathematics, applied mathematics, graduation (DLHE 2017).
statistics and probability.

At Durham you will be taught by some of the top international

leaders in mathematical research and have the opportunity
to see many important areas of cutting-edge mathematical
Joint 1st
thought and application during your degree. in the UK for
internationally
excellent and world-
leading research
New degrees in Mathematics and Statistics
impact (REF 2014).
Starting in 2020, Durham University will offer three- and four-
year Mathematics and Statistics degrees, combining a strong
foundation in core mathematics and statistics with exciting recent
developments in statistics and machine learning. Graduates of
5th
these degrees will be uniquely prepared for our data-driven future. in The Times and
Sunday Times Good
University Guide 2019.

Key research areas Undergraduate

Computational and • Development of Large-scale 6th Typical
A level
Typical
IB diploma UCAS
Applied Mathematics: Degrees Year(s) offer score code
Applications for the Sciences in The Complete
• Dynamical Systems
and Industry University Guide 2019. BSc (Hons) Mathematics 3 A*A*A–A*AA 38 G100
• Fluid Mechanics
• Foundational and
• Mathematical Biology MMath (Hons) Mathematics 4 A*A*A–A*AA 37 G103
Methodological Statistics.
• Magnetohydrodynamics Theoretical Particle Physics: Find out more at
• Numerical Modelling and The Centre for Particle Theory durham.ac.uk/study
There are more course options with this subject in: Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
Analysis is a joint venture between the
• Partial Differential Equations. Department of Mathematical
Sciences and the Department
Pure Mathematics: Postgraduate
of Physics, and has an
• Algebra and Number Theory
international reputation for its Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
• Geometry research into particle physics. MSc Mathematical Sciences 1 MSc Mathematical Sciences 1
• Topology. • Cosmology
Statistics and Probability: • Quantum Field Theory
MSc Particles, Strings and Cosmology 1 PhD Mathematical Sciences 3.5
• Bayesian Statistics and
• Solitons in Field Theory MSc Scientific Computing and Data Analysis 1
Applied Probability
• String Theory and Gravity.
• Complex Stochastic Systems
“I found the course at Durham provides
the essential foundations needed to do
a Maths degree, and then the course
gives you enough freedom to allow you
Careers and employability to go down whichever mathematical
Previous graduates have progressed to work as research scientists, branch you wish to. The fact that the
teachers, statisticians, operational researchers, investment analysts, Mathematics department had a strong
mathematical physics background
actuaries, insurance analysts and accountants, for numerous really appealed to me. To know that
academic institutions and for leaders in their sectors such as: my lecturers were working on current,
relevant and exciting projects, made
Durham even more appealing.”
Henna Bains,
Mathematics student.
70 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 71

Music
The Department is located at the heart of a UNESCO World 94%
Heritage Site in Durham City – an extraordinarily beautiful place. of our Music
graduates were in
But it is the juxtaposition of ancient and cutting-edge that paid employment or
makes Durham so unusual and inspiring; within the old buildings, further study six
months after graduation
we strive to forge fresh interpretations and create exciting (DLHE 2017).
new music, using state-of-the-art technology.

Our courses are well balanced, covering everything from the

music of the great composers to contemporary music and
Indian ragas, studied from the perspectives of history, theory,
Joint 1st
aesthetics and ethnography as well as through composition in the UK for
internationally
and performance.
excellent and world-
leading research
Departmental highlight impact (REF 2014).
There’s an amazing variety of music-making going on at Durham:
four orchestras, an unrivalled range of choral singing opportunities
and theatrical productions, contemporary music ensembles,
1st
gamelan, jazz bands, rock bands, and much more. in the Complete
University Guide 2019,
The Department’s research staff offer a broad spectrum The Times and Sunday
of supervisory expertise in musicology, music analysis, Times University
ethnomusicology, music psychology, performance, and acoustic Guide 2019 and The Undergraduate
Typical Typical
and electroacoustic composition. Guardian University A level IB diploma UCAS
Guide 2019. Degrees Year(s) offer score code
BA (Hons) Music 3 AAB 36 W300
Key research areas
We are internationally recognised Musicology: Find out more at BA (Hons) Music and Philosophy 3 AAB 36 WV53
for our expertise in a range of • Music Theology durham.ac.uk/study
distinctive yet complementary • Nineteeth- and Twentieth-
research areas. Century Music. There are more course options with this subject in: Liberal Arts (pages 44-45).
Composition: Performance:
• Acoustic Composition • Contemporary Performance
• Composition and Artificial Practice Postgraduate
Intelligence • Eighteenth- and Nineteenth-
Taught Degree Year Research Degrees Year(s)
• History and Practice of Century
Electronic Music. MA Music 1 MA Research by Thesis 1
• Keyboard Practice
Ethnomusicology: “I have a passion for music analysis.
• Renaissance Lutenism. MMus Research by Composition 2
This research field has not only
• Hindustani Classical Music Theory and Analysis: equipped me with an enquiring mind
• Korean Music MMus Research by Thesis 2
• Formenlehre and the ability to think outside the
• Music and Ritual box, but has also helped greatly with
• Symphony and Concerto PhD Research by Composition 3
my performance studies: I have found
• Performance Analysis. in the Nineteenth Century that analysing the formal structure and
PhD Research by Thesis 3
Music Psychology: • Theories of Tonality. harmonic make-up of a piece leads to
• Empirical Musicology a more meaningful understanding
and thus, a more informed and
• Music and Science. coherent performance.”
Laura Erel,
Music graduate, Organ Scholar.
Careers and employability
The Durham experience leads to employability – some graduates
proceed to further study; others embark on careers, particularly
in: education, music teaching, arts administration, broadcasting,
production, management, journalism and accountancy.
72 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 73

Philosophy
Philosophy studies profound and important questions that arise 92%
in all areas of human life. We offer a distinctive, research-led of our Philosophy
graduates were in paid
curriculum, taught by internationally renowned experts in the employment or further
field, incorporating variety and choice. study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).

We are one of the UK’s top philosophy departments.

The exceptionally high-quality education you receive here
will equip you with critical abilities that can be put to use
Top 10
in all sorts of ways and which are prized by employers. in The Guardian
University Guide 2019
and The Times and
Sunday Times Good
Departmental highlight University Guide 2019.
The Department of Philosophy has a large and thriving
postgraduate community. We have expertise in an extremely
broad range of areas, including metaphysics, aesthetics, ethics,
feminism, phenomenology, and the history and philosophy of
science and medicine.

Undergraduate
Typical Typical
Key research areas Find out more at A level IB diploma UCAS
• Aesthetics • Moral Philosophy durham.ac.uk/study Degrees Year(s) offer score code

• Environmental Philosophy • Phenomenology and BA (Hons) Philosophy 3 AAA 37 V500

• Feminism Continental Philosophy

“My course has enabled me to try BA (Hons) Philosophy and Politics 3 AAA 37 LV25
• History and Philosophy • Philosophical Logic and the a wide range of approaches to
Philosophy of Language academia. My politics research project BA (Hons) Philosophy and Psychology 3 AAA 37 CV85
of Science and Medicine
was primarily learning how to use data
• History of Philosophy • Philosophy of Mind analysis to support political arguments, BA (Hons) Philosophy and Theology 3 AAA 37 VV56
and Action whereas in philosophy the writing style
• Metaphysics BA (Hons) English Literature and Philosophy 3 A*AA 38 QV35
• Philosophy of Perception. encouraged has been less formal and
based around written arguments and
premises. Overall, the highlight of my BA (Hons) Music and Philosophy 3 AAB 36 WV53
course has been getting to learn from
world-leading academics in lectures BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) 3 A*AA 38 VL52
Careers and employability and getting to freely discuss my ideas
Our graduates proceed to higher-degree study and an academic in discussion groups. I have been
career; or enter a wide range of professions, including law, privileged to have a highly regarded
There are more course options with this subject in: Liberal Arts and Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
the Civil Service and politics, management, public relations, up-and-coming academic as my
teaching, journalism, media and publishing, marketing, retail supervisor and have really enjoyed
discussing my ideas with him.”
and business, IT and financial services.
Babak Sharples, Postgraduate
Philosophy and Politics student.
Former students have also taken up posts at a number of Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
prestigious institutions, including the University of Oxford, the
GDip Philosophy 9 mths MA Philosophy by Research 1
University of Cambridge, the University of London, MIT, Harvard
University, Caltech, Emory University, Cornell University, the MA Philosophy 1 PhD Philosophy 3
University of Notre Dame (USA), Rhodes University (South
Africa), the University of Canterbury (New Zealand) and
Trinity College, Dublin.
74 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 75

Physics
Physics is central to our understanding of natural phenomena, from 80%
the smallest-length scales probed in elementary particle accelerators of our Physics
graduates were in
to the grandest structures of the universe. Physics has enhanced our paid employment or
lives, by underpinning inventions such as mobile communications, further study six months
after graduation
the internet, solar cells and medical scanners. (DLHE 2017).

At Durham University, you can learn about the Big Bang, black
holes, the Higgs boson, high-temperature superconductors, Joint 1st
lasers, cold-atom Bose-Einstein condensates, biophysics and in the UK for internationally
much more, from leading researchers in the field. excellent and world-
leading research
Departmental highlight impact (REF 2014).
The Department of Physics is one of the leading physics and
astronomy departments in the UK. Our research ranges from
fundamental topics such as elementary particle physics and
2nd
in The Guardian
cosmology to applied areas such as material physics and biophysics.
University Guide 2019.
We provide excellent facilities for laboratories and research-led

3rd
projects, including four modern computer-controlled telescopes.
The Department incorporates the Ogden Centre for Fundamental
Physics, home to the Institute for Particle Physics Phenomenology in The Complete
and to the Institute for Computational Cosmology. University Guide 2019. Undergraduate
Typical Typical
A level IB diploma UCAS
Centre for Doctoral Training Degrees Year(s) offer score code
Our Centre for Doctoral Training in Data Intensive Science opened BSc (Hons) Physics 3 A*A*A 38 F300
at Durham University in 2017 and is supported by the Science and
Technology Facilities Council under the UK government’s Industrial MPhys (Hons) Physics 4 A*A*A 38 F301
Strategy Challenge Fund. The Centre comprises the Institute
MPhys (Hons) Physics and Astronomy 4 A*A*A 38 FF3N
for Computational Cosmology, the Institute for Particle Physics
Phenomenology, the Centre for Extragalactic Astronomy, and MPhys (Hons) Theoretical Physics 4 A*A*A 38 F344
Find out more at
the Centre for Advanced Instrumentation, and is supported by
durham.ac.uk/study
industrial partners.
There are more course options with this subject in: Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
Key research areas “Being part of a research-led university
• Advanced Instrumentation Biophysics, conducted in with many world-leading academics
has helped push my work further and Postgraduate
• Astronomy and Astrophysics Collaboration with Culham encouraged me to make connections,
• Atomic and Molecular Physics Centre for Fusion Energy collaborating with other scientists Taught Degree Year Research Degrees Year(s)
• Near-infrared and Gamma Ray around the world. I have also had access
• Condensed Matter Physics to state-of-the-art equipment and have MSc Particles, Strings and Cosmology 1 MSc Physics 1
Astronomical Instrumentation
• Elementary Particle Theory been given the freedom to explore the
• Optical Microscopy research areas that interest me most. PhD Physics 3.5
• Fusion Diagnostics, and
• Remote Sensing. Another big highlight of the PhD has
been the opportunity to travel, either
to conduct research in other scientific
groups, or to give talks and seminars
Careers and employability at international conferences. Having
Our graduates are highly valued by employers and progress the chance to discuss my findings with
senior scientists in my field has been
into a diverse range of careers and sectors, including as positive and has given me a lot
research scientists, graduate engineers, graduate trainee of confidence.”
auditors and trainee clinical scientists. Will Trewby,
Physics PhD student.
76 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 77

Politics and International Relations

Durham’s School of Government and International Affairs (SGIA) 80%
combines a long tradition of expertise in a wide range of fields of our Politics
graduates were in
in politics, political theory, political economy, and international paid employment
relations with a depth of specialisms in regional expertise – or further study six
months after graduation
Europe, East Asia, the Middle East and the wider Muslim world. (DLHE 2017).

The School provides an exceptional environment for learning,

training and research. Our expert staff will help you to develop Joint 1st
a thorough knowledge of the structure and functions of in the UK for internationally
the modern state, the history of ideas about the nature and excellent and world-leading
purpose of politics and the development of particular research impact
regions and their political systems. (REF 2014).

We place great importance on research-led education, which 9th

integrates new and cutting-edge research into the curriculum in The Complete
and introduces you to a variety of research-oriented skills University Guide 2020.
and research-based projects.

Departmental highlight Undergraduate

We have a number of world class researchers working in the areas Typical Typical
A level IB diploma UCAS
of political theory, comparative politics and international relations. Degrees Year(s) offer score code
Our institutes and research centres promote key research agendas BA (Hons) Politics 3 AAA 37 L200
and are focal points for networking and encouraging a diverse
mix of collaborations between leading researchers and courses Find out more at BA (Hons) Politics with Year Abroad 4 AAA 37 L202
taking place across the world. durham.ac.uk/study
BA (Hons) International Relations 3 AAA 37 L250

Our research is also greatly enhanced by the presence of one BA (Hons) Economics and Politics 3 A*AA 38 LL12
of the biggest research student groups in Durham University, BA (Hons) Philosophy and Politics 3 AAA 37 LV25
with a broad cohort of students pursuing research degrees,
representing nearly 50 different nationalities. BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics
3 A*AA 38 VL52
and Economics (PPE)

Key research areas There are more course options with this subject in: Combined Honours (pages 44-45).
• Comparative Politics • Political Economy “The best aspect of the MSc Global
Politics course was that both the core
• International Politics and • Political Theory. modules and the choice of optional
Security modules were incredibly diverse in Postgraduate
terms of scope and content. In the core
Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
modules, while being able to specialise
in the areas of global governance that MSc Arab World Studies 2 MA Middle Eastern Studies 1
Careers and employability I was passionate about, I was also able
Our graduates have gone on to have great success in the political to learn a huge amount on a variety MSc Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding 1 MA Politics 1
arena – with alumni job titles including Chief Operating Officer for of topics concerning the political
the GB Equality and Human Rights Commission, Head of Defence philosophy and political science of MSc Defence, Development and Diplomacy 1 MLitt Middle Eastern Studies 2
global affairs. I also loved the fact that
Inquests and Disclosure in the Ministry of Defence, and Political I could tailor my degree to exactly MSc Global Politics 1 MPhil Politics 2
Officer in the British Embassy Mogadishu, while others hold what I wanted to do. The flexibility of
senior academic and government positions around the world. the course has been a great step in MA International Relations 1 PhD Government and International Affairs 3
my pursuit of a career in research.”
MA Politics and International Relations PhD Middle Eastern Studies 3
Isabel Airas, 1
(Political Theory)
Global Politics MSc. PhD Politics 3
MA Research Methods
1
(Politics, International Relations, Security)
78 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 79

Psychology
Psychology aims to understand and improve how people 80%
perceive, think, act, react and interact. The Department of of our Psychology
graduates were in paid
Psychology provides a world-class teaching and research employment or further
environment for students in biological, cognitive, social, study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).
developmental psychology and neuroscience. Our research
facilities support activity in these domains of psychology.

In a psychology degree at Durham, you will examine all aspects

of behaviour, by investigating the processes underpinning the
thoughts, feelings and motivations behind our actions.
83%
of research in the
You will receive a genuinely research-led education. As well as Department of Psychology
learning the core principles of psychology, you will participate was assessed as
in research through seminars, conferences and research internationally excellent
assistantship schemes. quality or world-leading
(REF 2014).

Departmental highlight Athena SWAN silver

You will also have access to our world-leading clinical and award, underlining our
experimental facilities, including motion capture, eye tracking and commitment to equality
biophysical recording laboratories. Our undergraduate degrees and diversity.
are accredited by the British Psychological Society and the degree
confers eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership
(GBC). We also offer you the opportunity to undertake a 5th Undergraduate
Typical Typical
placement year or study abroad. in The Complete A level IB diploma UCAS
Degrees Year(s) offer score code
University Guide 2019.
BSc (Hons) Behavioural Science 3 AAA 37 C803
Centre for Doctoral Training
BSc (Hons) Psychology 3 AAA 37 C800
We have great opportunities for PhD funding through the
North East and Northern Ireland Doctoral Training Partnership, BA (Hons) Philosophy and Psychology 3 AAA 37 CV85
sponsored by the UK government Economic and Social Research
Council. There are also many University-wide funding schemes for
international students. There are more course options with this subject in: Education and Teaching (pages 50-51)
and Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).

Key research areas Find out more at

durham.ac.uk/study Postgraduate
• Developmental Science • Perception, Action
• Learning, Memory and Awareness Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
and Cognition • Quantitative Social MSc Behavioural Science 1 MSc/MA by Research Psychology 1
Psychology.
MSc Cognitive Neuroscience 1 PhD Psychology 3

MSc Developmental Psychopathology 1

Careers and employability
Career destinations for graduates include consultant, advisor, human MA Research Methods (Developmental
1
resources professional, talent manager, business analyst, market Psychology)
“The facilities and the equipment
researcher, public relations professional, marketeer, administrator, available for students to use, such
manager, civil servant, coach, trainer or teacher. However, the broad as fMRI scanners and EEG equipment,
nature of the curriculum ensures that graduates also qualify for are fantastic. The course content
is fascinating, providing a more
career destinations in clinical and healthcare settings.
holistic understanding of the
mechanisms underlying human
and animal behaviour.”
Liam Myles,
Psychology BSc (Hons) student.
80 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 81

Sociology
Sociology seeks to understand human action in the context of 87%
cultural and institutional systems. The Department of Sociology of our Sociology
graduates were in paid
is committed to an agenda of transformative social change employment or further
underpinned by systematic analysis of social issues and research study six months after
graduation (DLHE 2017).
which looks to inform effective, evidence-based policy and practice.

Our Sociology and Criminology degrees offer an opportunity

to develop a theoretically informed perspective on the
social world, and to apply this understanding to substantive
social issues such as education, health, communities and
interpersonal relations. They also offer opportunities to
develop practical skills in social research, including the
production and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative
Find out more at
data, through taught modules and a research-based durham.ac.uk/study
dissertation project.

Departmental highlight
Our optional Inside-Out module provides a unique opportunity
to learn about criminological issues alongside prison inmates at Undergraduate
Typical Typical
one of the local Durham prisons. Students who study on this
A level IB diploma UCAS
module routinely report their experience of learning from and Degrees Year(s) offer score code
“The MSW is an incredible course,
with inmates as being transformative both academically and which has given me the invaluable BA (Hons) Criminology 3 AAB 36 L370
personally. Our optional Community Placement module also offers opportunity to explore practically
an opportunity to study outside the classroom, by undertaking a the many branches of the tree BA (Hons) Sociology 3 AAB 36 L300
of social sciences. Through a
volunteer work placement with a local community organisation.
combination of seminars and
BA (Hons) Anthropology and Sociology 3 AAB 36 LL36
practice placements, I have furthered
both my theoretical knowledge
and practical understanding of a
Key research areas range of subjects, pertaining to There are more course options with this subject in: Combined Honours (pages 44-45)
the socio-political, environmental and Education and Teaching (pages 50-51).
Research in the Department • Higher education and social and economic factors influencing
is focused around four inequalities individuals, communities and nations
core themes: • Violence and Abuse
across the globe. Furthermore, the
MSW has facilitated my personal and Postgraduate
• Communities and social professional development, equipping
justice me with a multitude of transferable Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
skills and an enhanced insight into my MSc Criminology and Criminal Justice 1 MA Applied Social Sciences 1
• Health and medicine intrinsic abilities. With the support
of dedicated tutors and a diversity
MA Social Research Methods (Criminology) 1 MPhil Applied Social Sciences 2
of colleagues, I have evolved as a
human being, empowered to achieve
Careers and employability my potential and maximise my MA Social Research Methods (Social Policy) 1 PhD Applied Social Sciences 3
Our degrees are an excellent foundation for careers in a wide contributions to humanity.”
MA Social Research Methods (Social Work) 1
range of sectors, including health and welfare, the Civil Service, Lyn Muzulu,
local government, banking and academia. We support students Social Work MSW graduate. MA Social Research Methods (Sociology) 1
in gaining excellent employability skills. As well as pursuing
further study, recent graduates have proceeded to careers MSW Social Work 21 mths
with a range of high-profile employers, including:
82 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 83

Sport and Exercise Sciences

At Durham, you can combine studying on outstanding 85%
sport and exercise degrees with unbeatable opportunities of our Sport and
Exercise Sciences
for participation and excellence in sport. graduates were in paid
employment or further
study six months
after graduation
(DLHE 2017).

Studying in the sport and exercise sciences will allow you

to study a broad range of topics across the spectrum 5th
from grassroots to elite sport, and also across the varied in The Complete
connections between sport and issues such as obesity, University Guide 2019.
crime and inequality.
7th
in The Guardian
Departmental highlight University Guide 2019.
Our Sport in the Community Placement module offers a varied
range of placements each year, enabling you to work with
well-established organisations in the sport industry. Placement Find out more at
opportunities will enable you to gain practical experience durham.ac.uk/study
of planning, delivering and evaluating provision in a school,
community or performance sport setting. Emphasis is placed
on analysing and reviewing your experiences, so that you develop Undergraduate
an evidence-based portfolio that demonstrates effectively your Typical Typical
A level IB diploma UCAS
knowledge and expertise to employers. Degrees Year(s) offer score code
BA (Hons) Sport, Exercise and Physical Activity 3 AAB 36 C603

Key subject and research areas BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Sciences 3 AAB 36 C606
Our degree courses and research • Sport and exercise
span and integrate a range of physiology
disciplinary approaches in the There are more course options with this subject in: Combined Honours and Natural Sciences (pages 44-45).
• Sport and exercise
sport and exercise sciences. psychology
Our courses enable opportunities • Physical Activity, Nutrition Postgraduate
“Choosing to study sport at
to study across the following and Health Durham University was the best
decision I have ever made. I have Research Degrees Year(s)
subject areas: • Sport development and policy
had the most incredible three years Masters by Research Sport and
• Sociology of sport. studying on what I truly believe to be 1
Exercise Sciences
the best sport degree in the country.
The course is incredibly flexible,
MPhil Sport and Exercise Sciences 2
and is constantly evolving so that
Careers and employability the curriculum is up to date and
PhD Sport and Exercise Sciences 3
We have an excellent record for graduate employment, involves the latest research.”
and our past graduates are employed in a wide range of Katie Falkingham,
careers, reflecting the flexibility and range of options on Sport, Exercise and Physical
our degree courses. Activity graduate.

Potential careers include those in: high-performance sport;

teaching and education; exercise and health; sport, media and
marketing; and sport management and development.
84 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 85

Theology and Religion Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial

96%
Church, Berlin.

The Department of Theology and Religion is where ‘belief’ and

‘beliefs’ are taken seriously, respected and studied, whether those of our Theology
graduates were paid in
beliefs are atheistic, humanistic or religious. So if you are interested employment or further
in worldviews – including, for example, atheism, Christianity or study six months after
humanism – then theology and religion is the subject for you. graduation (DLHE 2017).

The Department of Theology and Religion at Durham is a recognised

global leader in the exploration of theology and religion.

Human beings always have had, and always will have,

worldviews and fundamental beliefs about the way the 1st
universe is, and their role in it. This is the part of the human in the UK for internationally
condition that is studied in Theology and Religion at Durham, excellent and world-leading
from a range of methodological and disciplinary perspectives: research (REF 2014).
social scientific/anthropological; textual; historical;
and philosophical/ethical. 2nd
in The Times and
Sunday Times University
Guide 2019.
Departmental highlight
Our degrees offer you enormous flexibility, with a rich variety of
subjects, and the opportunity to engage in serious and exciting
explorations in all areas of the discipline, combining aspects of
philosophy, history, literature and social sciences. This will give Undergraduate
you valuable insights into how people live in today’s world. Typical Typical
A level IB diploma UCAS
Degrees Year(s) offer score code
BA (Hons) Theology and Religion 3 AAB 36 V614
Key research areas Find out more at BA (Hons) Religion, Society and Culture 3 AAB 36 V617
• Anthropology and Sociology • Patristics and durham.ac.uk/study
of Religion the Early Church BA (Hons) Philosophy and Theology 3 AAA 37 VV56
• History and Theology • Religion in the Modern World
of the Anglican Church • Second Temple Judaism There are more course options with this subject in: Liberal Arts (pages 44-45).
• History and Theology • Spirituality, Theology
of the Bible and Health
• History and Theology • Systematic and Philosophical Postgraduate
of the Catholic Church Theology Taught Degrees Year(s) Research Degrees Year(s)
• History and Theology • Theology and Ministry. “The departmental research seminars
are excellent, and often reflect the MA Biblical Studies 1 1 FT /
of the Reformation MA by Research Theology and Religion
2 PT
forefront of new scholarship in a
pre-publication stage. I’ve greatly MA Christian Theology 1
enjoyed the Theology and Ethics MLitt Theology and Religion 2
Seminar and the Catholic Theology MA Christian Theology (Anglican Studies) 1
Research Seminar. However, the best DThM Theology and Ministry 3
Careers and employability aspect of my experience at Durham MA Christian Theology (Catholic Studies) 1
has been my colleagues. All my fellow PhD with Integrated Studies (MA+PhD) 4
Graduates enter a wide range of career areas, including law, doctoral candidates are pursuing MA Religion and Society 1
government, marketing, business and finance, industry, charity research avenues that are fascinating PhD Theology and Religion 3
work, teaching, media, the clergy and journalism. Employers and rigorous. The collegiality, mutual
GDip Theology and Religion 9 mths
include: Linklaters, Kirkland and Ellis, Coltralco Ultrasonics, the support and generosity of spirit among
these talented scholars breathes
Home Office, Durham Police and Jaguar Land Rover. life and wealth into all of us.”
MA Theology and Religion 1

Hanna Lucas,
Theology and Religion PhD student.
86 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 87

Your pathway International Study Centre

to a top-ranking
university. Run by Study Group and located at Queen’s Campus,
Stockton-on-Tees, the International Study Centre provides
academic pathway programmes in a supportive environment
to prepare you for your degree and to help you achieve the
necessary grades for progression to Durham City.

Designed specifically for international students, the International Location

Study Centre offers International Foundation Year and The International Study Centre
Pre-Master’s programmes, for those who don’t meet our is located at Queen’s Campus
requirements for direct entry. Both pathways aim to improve your in Stockton-on-Tees and is
academic knowledge, study and English language skills, and approximately a 40-minute
give you the confidence to take the next step at degree level. drive from Durham City.

You will be supported throughout your studies, so that you can

make the most of the learning and social opportunities. Class sizes
are small, with no more than 25 students per class, so that you
can receive individual attention from our experienced and highly
qualified tutors. You will also have individual support from an
academic personal tutor.

Completing your pathway programme at the International Study “The Foundation Year is really
focused on preparing you
Centre and achieving the required grades means that you can
for what university is like in
progress to your undergraduate or postgraduate degree at England. In classes we’ve had
Durham University. You can choose from a range of subject routes practice doing seminars and
essays that are geared towards
on the pathway programme, which offer progression to a wide university level, so everything
choice of degrees. that we do is good preparation
for what’s going to be ahead
of us.”

Gwen from Singapore,

Undergraduate pathways International Foundation
Our International Foundation Year provides a choice of pathways Year in Humanities, Law
and Social Science.
that prepare you for an undergraduate degree at Durham
University.

Pathways include:
• Business, Economics, Accounting and Finance
• Science and Engineering
• Humanities, Law and Social Science.

Postgraduate pathways
Our Pre-Master’s provides a pathway to a wide range of
postgraduate degrees at Durham University. You can choose from
two routes, depending on whether you are looking for a business,
economics, accounting, finance, science or engineering focused
degree. Once you successfully complete your Pre-Master’s and
achieve the required grades, you can start your Master’s degree
For further information, see Queen’s Campus, at Durham City.
www.durham.ac.uk/isc Stockton-on-Tees.
88 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 89

Academic writing and communication skills

The Durham Centre for Academic Development

supports you in the development of your academic
English language and literacy skills before and
during your academic course of study.

Based on the Durham City Campus, our pre-sessional courses The College Experience In-sessional academic English programmes All of these in-sessional services
are specifically designed to prepare you for the demands of your Pre-sessional is partnered DCAD offers a range of tailored sessions and short courses are free of charge to registered
academic studies here at Durham. Successful completion of the with Josephine Butler College throughout the academic year to support your success at Durham. Durham students.
relevant pre-sessional will also satisfy your language condition (JB). Pre-sessional students Our provision tends to focus on aspects of academic writing, such
for entry to your Durham degree. You can continue to refine and are automatically a member as text structure, integration of reading, and academic language You can find details about
develop your academic communication skills after your begin of JB and are encouraged to choices, but sessions are also available in areas such as note-taking, in-sessional courses, timetables
your chosen degree course. Our in-sessional workshops, academic choose accommodation in this presentation skills and time management. Some of our discipline- and how to register on our
skills courses and one-to-one writing consultations are designed College for the duration of their specific workshops run within academic departments, and are website: www.dur.ac.uk/dcad/
to help you succeed in your work at Durham. pre-sessional course. During often tied to a particular assessment task. We also offer one-to-one students
the summer when the 10 and 5 consultations, where you can bring along an assignment draft for
week pre-sessional courses run, discussion and development.
Pre-sessional academic English courses JB offers a full social calendar,
The pre-sessional courses are designed by DCAD staff to pastoral advice and support,
prepare students for the expectations of academic study at and access to community
both undergraduate and postgraduate level here at Durham. mentors. This ensures that
Pre-sessional is demanding and rewarding, and will develop Programme Start dates Entry level Costs (2019)
pre-sessional students
both your academic written and spoken performance, as well as become familiar with Durham’s 30 weeks: £13,500
your academic study skills. You will also learn about some of the college system and its See your Durham
Summer January, April, 20 weeks: £9,000
academic expectations of your chosen discipline. Through Pre- wide-ranging benefits. Conditional
Pre-sessional July, August 10 weeks: £4,500
sessional you will become familiar with your campus, University Offer Letter
5 weeks: £2,250
services such as the Library and the Wellbeing team, and Durham’s For further information
College culture, providing you with a solid foundation for further about course content, fees,
Any student
success here. If you have not met the language condition for your frequently asked questions, In-sessional All year studying at Free of charge
chosen degree at Durham, you may be eligible for a pre-sessional accommodation, and links to Durham University
course. Your conditional offer letter from Durham will state which useful sites and resources, see
length of course you can take. Many unconditional students also www.durham.ac.uk/dcad/
apply and join us. prospective To review each department’s English Language requirements,
as well as all of the English qualifications that are accepted, see:
www.durham.ac.uk/learningandteaching.handbook/1/3/3
For further information, see
www.durham.ac.uk/englishlanguage.centre
90 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 91

Fees and funding Undergraduate funding Living costs

Studentships and scholarships You will need to include

We believe in helping you to make the most of the Durham University offers some scholarship support for undergraduate living costs in your budget,
international students, and we also recommend that you explore
opportunities we offer. We understand that to external funding options, such as community groups and organisations.
to cover expenses such as
accommodation and utility
do this, you need full knowledge of the costs The nature and availability of scholarships changes annually. bills, food, clothing and

involved in studying at Durham University and Use our online funding database for an extensive list of funding
opportunities: www.durham.ac.uk/scholarships
entertainment, study costs
(e.g. thesis, field trips, books),
what financial assistance is available. As an international student, it is essential to plan your finances insurance and transport.
carefully for the duration of your studies, as you will not be eligible The following website also
for United Kingdom Tuition Fee Loans or Maintenance Loans. provides useful information on
Tuition fees For further information, see living costs in the UK:
www.durham.ac.uk/study/ug/finance/international www.ukcisa.org.uk
The annual tuition fees vary according to your course and fee status. How to pay your fees
Below, as an indication, are the general tuition fees for the 2019/20 Full-time tuition fees can be
paid in full at the beginning
academic year, but please refer to the website to confirm the fees
of the academic year or on a
Postgraduate funding
for your course, because they may differ from what is listed below.
termly basis. You may pay by a
range of methods, including: Postgraduate taught deposits US federal student aid
Fee per If you are a self-financing international student pursuing a Durham University participates
Type of study fee • Direct debit – this is the
annum taught postgraduate degree, you will be required to pay a tuition in the US Department of
University’s preferred method
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Research fee deposit. The deposit is paid before the University issues a Education Direct Loans
£19,250 of payment
(classroom-based) Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number for your visa. Program. Eligible US students
• Flywire fund transfer system: The CAS will show that the deposit has been paid, and the deposit
dur.flywire.com can access Federal Direct
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Research amount will contribute to your overall tuition fee payment.
£24,300 Subsidized, Unsubsidized and
(laboratory-based) • Payment by cheque on a UK
For further information, see www.durham.ac.uk/immigration PLUS loans to help finance their
bank account or via a
Postgraduate taught (classroom-based) £18,300 studies. Durham University is
banker’s draft
Scholarships and bursaries one of the biggest distributors
Postgraduate taught (laboratory-based) £22,500 • Wire transfer or internet
Durham University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries for of US Federal Student Aid
banking into the University’s
MBA £30,000 bank account current and prospective postgraduate taught and research students. in the UK, and offers
Many are fully funded, covering tuition fees and maintenance guidance to students on
• Debit/credit card.
support, subject to meeting the associated eligibility criteria. the application process.
For tuition fees for each taught course, see individual course For full details of these payment The University has partnerships with Chevening, the Commonwealth Please see
entries on the course database: www.durham.ac.uk/courses methods, see Scholarships Commission, Marshall and Fulbright in addition to www.durham.ac.uk/foreign.
www.durham.ac.uk/treasurer/ numerous internally funded opportunities.
For information on fees for postgraduate research degrees, see students/payingyourinvoice loans or contact
www.durham.ac.uk/study/pg/finance/costs/tuition For further information, see www.durham.ac.uk/scholarships [email protected] or
+44 (0)191 334 6486.
International undergraduate and postgraduate research students Fee status Durham doctoral studentships
will pay the same tuition fee per year for the duration of their course Your tuition fee status as This highly competitive scheme provides a support package for
with no annual increase. The fee is based on your initial year of entry. ‘Home/EU’ or ‘Overseas’ outstanding doctoral research students, including: Postgraduate scholarships
depends on the country where Team Durham also offers a
• Payment of tuition fees (at home or overseas rate, or a
you normally live, and not just range of postgraduate athletic
College residence charges on your nationality. We will
contribution towards these)
and coaching scholarships
determine your fee status based • An annual tax-free maintenance grant at the Research Council’s for exceptional candidates.
Annual college residence charges will vary, depending on the on information you supply in UK national rate (£14,777 for 2018/19). These are some of the most
college, the type of catering, bathroom facilities, and whether it your application, but we may For further information, see competitive and attractive
ask for more information if www.durham.ac.uk/study/pg/finance/funding scholarships of their kind
is a single or shared bedroom. The range of college charges is
we can’t determine your fee available at UK universities
currently £5,233–£8,149pa for undergraduates and £6,176–£9,794pa
status automatically. and are awarded on a case
for postgraduates.
For more information Durham alumni discount by case basis.
For specific fees for a particular college and accommodation regarding fee status, see Durham University is offering a minimum 10% reduction in
For further information, see
type, see: www.ukcisa.org.uk postgraduate tuition fees for all Durham alumni who are self-funding
www.teamdurham.com/
If you have any questions or partially self-funding their postgraduate study and who meet the
• Undergraduate: www.durham.ac.uk/experience/colleges/ug/costs universitysport/scholarships
about your determined eligibility criteria.
• Postgraduate: www.durham.ac.uk/experience/colleges/pg/ fee status, email feestatus. For further information, see www.durham.ac.uk/study/pg/finance/
accommodation/costs [email protected] funding/bursaries/scholarships/alumni
92 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 93

Applying for undergraduate study

Durham University welcomes applications from people

of all backgrounds, and we actively support diversity
and equality in admission to our degrees.

1. Research the requirements for your degree

You will find the details of course entry requirements at

www.durham.ac.uk/courses. Each course includes entry requirements,
including any subject-specific requirements needed for that degree.

Durham accepts a range of qualifications from around the world.

You can view entry requirements per country through the country
information database (www.durham.ac.uk/international/country.
information) as well as the course database per course listing at
www.durham.ac.uk/courses

Please note that the information relating to international qualifications

on our website represents our minimum requirements, and specific
requirements may differ, depending on the degree you apply for.

Students who are not native speakers of English will need to

provide evidence of their English language ability. Please see
www.durham.ac.uk/learningandteaching.handbook/1/3
for permitted evidence of language ability.

3. Track your
2. Apply application 4. Confirm your place

Applicants for a full-time first degree course (BA, BSc, MChem, After you submit your Once you receive all of the replies to your applications:
MEng, MPhys, MSci) apply through UCAS, the Universities and application: • You will need to accept two offers through UCAS Track:
Colleges Admissions Service. You should make your UCAS • Your application is received your firm choice and your insurance choice. UCAS Track
application via the UCAS website at www.ucas.com where you will and considered by one or will prompt you to make this decision and will confirm
submit your personal details, information about your school and more admissions selectors for your decision deadline.
qualifications, a personal statement and a reference. You will select the relevant department. • The offer from Durham will not include confirmation of
which course and which Durham college you wish to apply for. your college (this is the next stage of the process).
• Once the admissions selector
has made a decision on your • You will be allocated to a college. Your college preference
Deadlines
application, the decision is does not impact on the outcome of your academic offer.
You should apply before 15 January, which is the deadline for
then communicated to You will receive notification of your college allocation directly
equal consideration. Although international applicants can apply
UCAS and visable on UCAS from the University College’s Office via email.
until 30 June, courses may close after 15 January, so we advise
you to apply by that date. For further information, see Track. This will be the first • Once you meet all the requirements of your offer, you will
www.durham.ac.uk/study/ug/apply/ucas notification you receive of the need to submit a final confirmation (AS12) on Durham’s
outcome of your application website: www.durham.ac.uk/study/ug/apply/offer/as12
Writing your personal statement and will include the details
The personal statement is an important part of the application, of your offer, if your
and UK universities will be looking for students to express why application is successful.
they are interested in their chosen subject and the skills that they
• Once the decision is
have as a student. It is primarily an academic statement and you
processed to UCAS, we will
must target it very directly towards the subject(s) in which you are
also write to you to explain
interested, although we will also want to know something about
the outcome.
your extracurricular interests. Further guidance can be found at
www.durham.ac.uk/study/ug/apply/ucas/personalstatement
94 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 95

Applying for postgraduate study Entry requirements

Undergraduate courses Foundation and Pre-Master’s

For entry onto our undergraduate courses, we consider school- If you do not meet the
leaving qualifications from many countries. The specific requirement requirements for an
will depend on the course you are applying for. Some courses may undergraduate or postgraduate
also require a score in a specific subject, which will be shown on the taught course, you may be able
course database at www.durham.ac.uk/courses. to apply for a foundation or
Pre-Master’s course through the
The subject noted will refer to A levels, but the subject-specific International Study Centre.
requirement will still be applicable to the qualification that you are
applying for. In general, undergraduate course entry requirements are For more information, see pages
within the range of: 86-87 or www.durham.ac.uk/isc
• A levels: ABB–A*A*A
• IB: 34–38 with higher level requirements of 655–776 English language requirements
1. Choose a degree and check the • A recognised foundation programme. If English is not your first
entry requirements 5. If you are successful language, or if you are not
You can view the list of UK and EU qualification equivalencies at
Postgraduate taught a native English speaker, you
If you receive an offer, reply www.durham.ac.uk/study/ug/apply/entry.
Research your chosen degree. Find details of postgraduate may be required to submit an
with your decision as soon A list of international qualifications is also included at
taught courses at www.durham.ac.uk/courses and check you as possible. English language qualification
www.durham.ac.uk/international/country.information
meet the entry requirements. with your application. The level
If your country is not listed, please contact international.office@
If requested, please also pay the of English required will depend
durham.ac.uk for advice on requirements for your qualifications.
Postgraduate research tuition fee deposit within the on the course that you are
Contact the relevant academic department(s) to discuss your research stated timeframe. applying to.
interests and possible funding. You will need to confirm the suitability Postgraduate taught courses
of facilities and the availability of staff with expertise in your chosen If you receive a conditional offer, You can find department-
contact us to confirm when you For entry onto a postgraduate taught course, Durham requires
field who can supervise you (www.durham.ac.uk/departments). specific requirements at
have met the conditions and the equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree with a 2:1, which is
www.durham.ac.uk/
Research degree applications require a two-page research provide evidence. the second highest honours in an undergraduate degree. This
learningandteaching.
proposal describing the project that you are interested in pursuing. equivalency will vary depending on your country. You can view
handbook/1/3/3
Include a project summary and an outline of your approach and Once your offer becomes international requirements at www.durham.ac.uk/international/
resources. You will need to submit the research proposal before your unconditional, you will receive country.information
communication about your CAS If you do not have the
application, to confirm a supervisor in your academic department.
(Confirmation of Acceptance for If your country is not listed, please contact international.office@ required level of English,
Studies) number, if you require durham.ac.uk for advice on equivalencies for your qualifications. you may be able to do a
2. Apply online a Tier 4 (General) Visa. Some postgraduate taught courses require a background pre-sessional programme
in a particular subject. Please check the course database at with our Durham Centre for
An application requires personal information, details of current
www.durham.ac.uk/courses to confirm entry requirements for Academic Development
and past education and qualifications, two academic referees, 6. Next steps (see pages 88-89).
your course. You can also refer to your academic department,
a personal statement, English language certification (if applicable)
and supporting documents. After accepting your offer, if you have questions about entry for your specific degree.
college allocation and Examples of English language
Postgraduate taught accommodation application requirements include: IELTS 6.5
Most applications can be made at www.durham.ac.uk/study/pg/apply Postgraduate research overall with no component
can begin. Full details can be
For entry onto a postgraduate research degree, Durham typically below 6.0 or TOEFL iBT® 92
found at www.durham.ac.uk/
Postgraduate research requires you to hold a bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree with a
experience/colleges/pg/ overall with no component
Before you apply, visit www.durham.ac.uk/departments to confirm significant research component. In addition to having these academic
allocationprocess below 23.
the entry requirements and deadlines. qualifications, you will also need to write a research proposal about
Academic department contact the project you wish to pursue, and identify an academic supervisor To confirm the specific
3. Application processed details can be found on the you will work with for the duration of your degree. requirement for
department pages 30-85. your department, see
Applications are processed as quickly as possible. You will be We recommend that you contact and confirm your academic www.durham.ac.uk/
For further information on supervisor, before submitting your application. For more information learningandteaching.
contacted if further information is required.
fees and funding, see about requirements for postgraduate research degrees, see handbook/1/3/3
www.durham.ac.uk/study/pg/ www.durham.ac.uk/study/pg/apply
4. Decision made finance

Successful and unsuccessful applicants are notified via email.

96 Durham University International Prospectus 2020 97

Student pledge
Durham University asks all its student members for their
personal commitment to a set of values that underpin life
and study here. The commitment is set out in the Student
Pledge, shown below. This Pledge is not part of the
University’s formal rules, but we see it as vital to supporting
a climate of fairness, cooperation and respectful behaviour
within the University, its colleges and the wider community.

My pledge to myself
I undertake to:

• Hold myself to the highest possible standards

• Conduct myself with integrity and dignity, in all matters

•  Demonstrate high standards of personal conduct in my

interactions with the University and the wider Durham community.

Further information My pledge to others

I undertake to:
We hope that you have found the information in this • Respect diversity and the promotion of equal opportunity for all
prospectus useful.
• Treat other students, staff and members of the wider
If you require further information, our International Office staff community with respect and tolerance, irrespective of their
regularly travel to a number of countries to attend events and meet race, colour, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender
with prospective students. They would be delighted to help you. identity or expression, nationality or disability

•  Promote a culture in which incidents of sexual violence and My pledge to my

Details on our travel schedule and country representatives can
misconduct are not tolerated educational experience
be found at www.durham.ac.uk/international/office/meetus
• Be a good and considerate neighbour while living in College I undertake to:
We also work with a number of overseas representatives that or within the wider Durham community. •  Engage with my academic
can assist students throughout the application process:
studies to the very best
www.durham.ac.uk/international/country.information/agents
of my abilities both as an
independent learner and as
If you have a question relating to undergraduate or taught
part of the community of
postgraduate courses, or our application process, many of the
practice within my academic
answers can be found on our web pages at www.durham.ac.uk
department(s)
which contain a wealth of information. If you cannot find an
answer to your question, you can: •  Conduct myself with
honesty and integrity in
• Consult our list of frequently asked questions or fill out an enquiry
pursuit of my education,
form: www.durham.ac.uk/study/askus
respecting the University’s
• Phone us on: +44 (0)191 334 1000 rules on plagiarism, research
misconduct, and the use of
You can also connect with Durham graduates in your area: IT and Library facilities
www.dunelm.org.uk
•  Respect freedom of
We look forward to welcoming you to Durham. expression.
Contact details
Durham University
The Palatine Centre
Stockton Road
Durham DH1 3LE
UK

Enquiries
T: +44 (0)191 334 1000
W: www.durham.ac.uk/study/askus

www.durham.ac.uk/study

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