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Durham University

Durham

  • Location: City

Student life

Durham's Student Experience
At Durham, academic success is only half the story.  Our transformative wider student experience will also help you develop as a person and our collegiate system - with every student a proud member of a college - makes Durham exceptional. 

When you come to Durham you are entering a community, not just embarking on a course of study, and like all communities we create, perform, play and support, as well as work.

Whatever you love doing, whatever you might like to try, you will find support and inspiration.  Broad and unique opportunities can be found across all parts of the University including our academic departments, our unique and vibrant colleges, and the 1000+ student-led clubs and societies.

All this, and we're also located in the beautiful city of Durham, in the north-east of England.  This historic city is compact yet varied, easy to get around and offers a wide range of cultural and sporting pursuits, as well as places to eat, drink and make friends.

What's it like to live in North East?
Check out our region guide

The North East, and its main cities Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Middlesbrough, and Sunderland, are nestled between far-reaching coastlines and adventure-filled national parks. You'll find architectural delights from Newcastle’s Grey Street – one of the finest in the country – to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Durham Cathedral. The Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens are must visits, while beaches like Embleton Bay and Bamburgh are definitely worth a road-trip.

Learn more

What's it like to live in Durham?
Check out our city guide

With a whole city centre considered an area of special architectural or historic interest, Durham is an inspiring study location.

Learn more

Campus and facilities

No matter where you are in the City, you’ll never be far from one of our colleges, academic departments, or facilities. The historic city also offers a huge range of attractions, places to visit and activities, including:

  • Sports and Wellbeing Park
  • Botanic Garden
  • Oriental Museum
  • Bill Bryson Library
  • Palace Green Library and Gallery
  • Archaeology Museum
  • Assembly Rooms Theatre
  • Gala Theatre and Cinema
  • The Riverwalk Leisure complex

Durham is a friendly and welcoming city, with the famous Cathedral and Castle at its heart. In the ancient, cobbled streets, you’ll find shops and boutiques, cafés, bars and restaurants, and plenty of culture. There's no shortage of things to do from walks and boat trips along the River Wear to street markets and museum visits!

Just 17 miles from Newcastle upon Tyne in North East England, it’s also easy to hop on a train to London, Edinburgh, or Manchester.
Newcastle International Airport is also close by if you want to explore the rest of the UK and beyond.

Course locations

Durham University

South Road, Durham, DH1 3LG

Durham University Business School

Mill Hill Lane, Durham, DH1 3LB

Durham City

Palatine Centre, Durham, DH1 3HP

Cranmer Hall

St John's College, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3RJ

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  • Bradley

    Durham University
    MPhys Physics and Astronomy (FF3N)
    I am a current Physics student at Durham University, originally from the Manchester area, who studied Maths, Physics and Computer Science at A-level. I have a keen interest in Astrophysics and Nuclear Energy in particular, and my future career aim is to have a role in either of these areas that involves programming and/or data analysis. I am a big football (Man United) fan, and I have also developed an interest in Formula One over the past few years.

  • Audrey

    Durham University
    BA English Literature (Q300)
    Hi! I'm Audrey, a year 2 English Literature student from Hong Kong. My college is St. Mary's, and I highly recommend it - most of the friends I've made here are from Mary's as well, the community is very nice in general (I'm currently involved in the Book Club, but there are so many more societies!), and the cherry blossoms are beautiful in the spring. I'm open to discussing anything about Durham, from adjusting to the teaching and learning methods from a non-A-levels background, to the collegiate system, to food and weather (it actually rains less than you think). I'm also one of the student representatives for the English Department, so feel free to approach me with any questions about the degree!

  • Charlotte

    Durham University
    MChem Chemistry (Industrial Project) (F111)
    Hi everyone! I'm Charlotte, a third year MChem student from Durham University. I'm interested in organic and medicinal chemistry, transition metal catalysis and drug development. I am hoping to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry after I have graduated. I have worked as a tutor and student mentor for the University so feel free to ask me anything related to chemistry, admissions to university, the collegiate system at Durham or any other questions you may have! 😊

  • Dara

    Durham University
    LLB Law (M101)
    Hi, I'm Dara and I am a law student at Durham aspiring to be a future lawyer but also studies finance and would not mind to have a career in that as-well. Feel free to ask me any questions!!!

  • Bella

    Durham University
    LLB Law (M101)
    I'm Bella - an undergraduate Law student who moved from Vietnam to Durham to start the next chapter of my life :). I'm both an international and home student (because both Vietnam and the UK are my homes) and spend most of my time exploring ways to contribute to things that I feel are greater causes! Feel free to ask me any Durham / course related questions :)

  • Ellie

    Durham University
    BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) (VL52)
    Hey, I'm Ellie! I'm originally from Bournemouth, Dorset and I'm currently an enthusiastic PPE student at St. Aidan's College. At A Level, I studied Politics, Biology, and Maths (I like to keep my options open!). After uni, I'm interested in working in the political sector. However, as I'm studying such a varied degree, I'd like to explore many possible avenues. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions about my course, colleges or uni life!

  • Carmen

    Durham University
    LLB Law (M101)
    Hey there! I'm Carmen, a second-year law student at Grey College (one of the best ones!). I'm originally from Malaysia, but I've fallen for Durham's charm and history. As a welfare officer at my college, I'm always here to lend an ear and create a safe space for everyone. I also juggle a part-time job at the uni, so I'd love to chat about balancing work and studies. Being an international student, I understand the challenges of adapting to a new culture. I also identify as disabled and queer, and I'm always open to sharing my experiences or offering support if needed. If you're up for a chat about life at Durham or uni life in general, I'd love to get to know you!

  • Emily

    Durham University
    LLB Law (M101)
    Hi! I’m a first-year student studying Law here at Durham University. I’m from Preston, Lancashire and I am a liver in at Stephenson College. I am a member of the Women in Law Society, the Horrible Histories Society and the DU Judo club. In my spare time, I love watching old 90s and 2000s Tv shows as well as cheesy romantic comedies with my flatmates! I’m really passionate about martial arts, especially Japanese Ju Jitsu which I have a brown belt in and I’m currently working towards my black belt with my club back home. My favourite thing about Durham University is the college system which is how I met my friends and course mates! After Durham, I’m hoping to become a solicitor in employment or family law.

  • Alexandra

    Durham University
    BA Philosophy and Theology (VV56)
    Hi! I'm Alex and I'm in St Aidan's College studying philosophy and theology! I love all things musical theatre, reading, dance and cheer (alongside my academic interests of course)! I also have a huge passion ethics and plan to go into ethical advising when I leave University!

  • Crystal

    Durham University
    LLB Law (M101)
    Hiya, my name is Crystal and I am a third year law student at John Snow College! I am an aspiring barrister who loves debate and politics! Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have about Law at Durham or any wider student experience queries :)

  • Divya

    Durham University
    LLB Law (M101)
    Law student aspiring to be a solicitor-advocate at a full-service law firm, with a special interest in commercial law and legal services for individuals. International student born in India and brought up in Zambia. I have done in-depth research into Durham University when developing the 'Transition into Higher Education Course' that every first year receives. I aim to provide support for incoming students on any matters!

  • Emmanuel

    Durham University
    BSc Psychology (C800)
    Hi there! I'm Emmanuel, a lively 1st year at Stephenson College studying Psychological and Behavioural Sciences. Outside of the lecture hall, I love going to Christian Union and partaking in Enactus activities. You can always find me at Durham's Concert Band or Gospel Choir showcase too! I have really enjoyed my time at Durham so far and I am keen to answer any queries you may have!
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