Durham University
Durham, United Kingdom • Founded 1832 • QS 2027 #85
Updated Sep 2026
Overview
Durham University is a public research university in Durham, North East England, with an additional campus in Stockton-on-Tees.
Founded in 1832, it operates a collegiate structure of 17 colleges that shape student life and community alongside its academic departments. The university offers more than 330 undergraduate and postgraduate courses across a broad range of disciplines, combining teaching with an active research programme.
Its setting spans a historic city centre alongside modern facilities, and it is regularly placed among the world's leading universities in international league tables. Durham supports students through college-based accommodation, pastoral care, and a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities, reflecting its identity as a close-knit collegiate community distinct from many other UK institutions.
Location & Contact
Durham University's address, phone, email, and social presence. Department-level scholarship enquiries route faster through the specific faculty rather than central admissions.
Academic Details
Enrolment scale, staff balance, and accreditation context for Durham University are below. Female student percentage signals admissions reach and shapes the student-life environment.
Academic Structures
The departmental layout below shows how Durham University groups subjects, faculties, and teaching units. Subject grouping reflects institutional priorities, research strengths, and historical evolution.
Unit 3 items
- Faculty of Arts and Humanities
- Faculty of Science
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Health
Faculties & Divisions
All faculties operate under Privy Council.
Arts and Humanities (Faculty) 17 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Ancient Civilizations
- Anthropology
- Arabic
- Arts and Humanities
- East Asian Studies
- Eastern European Studies
- Educational Sciences
- French
- History
- Italian
- Linguistics
- Middle Eastern Studies
- Music
- Philosophy
- Russian
- Spanish
- Theology
Common Career Paths
- Researcher
- Editor
- Cultural Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Science (Faculty) 11 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Astronomy and Space Science
- Biological and Life Sciences
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Earth Sciences
- Engineering
- Geology
- Mathematics
- Natural Sciences
- Physical Therapy
- Psychology
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Social Sciences and Health (Faculty) 15 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Anthropology
- Archaeology
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Education
- Finance
- Geography
- Government
- Health Sciences
- Islamic Studies
- Law
- Medicine
- Middle Eastern Studies
- Social Policy
- Sociology
Common Career Paths
- Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Social Worker
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Programs Offered
Durham University's programme catalogue is grouped by level below — use the filter to narrow your shortlist. Programme entry windows and admissions criteria typically appear on each programme's dedicated page.
272 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United Kingdom
Honours Degree 81 programmes
Showing 10 of 81.
Master of Business Administration 3 programmes
Master of Philosophy 1 programme
Master's Degree 151 programmes
Showing 10 of 151.
Doctorate 14 programmes
Showing 10 of 14.
Professional Doctorate 1 programme
Postgraduate Certificate 17 programmes
Showing 10 of 17.
Postgraduate Diploma 4 programmes
Scholarships in United Kingdom
Funding options available to students studying in the United Kingdom — useful to weigh alongside Durham University's costs. Some scholarships apply institution-wide; others target specific subjects or student profiles.
How to apply to Durham University
A practical five-step guide to applying to Durham University, from programme research through submission and follow-up.
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1
Identify the right programme
Durham University's catalogue includes 272 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
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2
Check entry requirements
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Durham University's admissions process.
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3
Prepare your application documents
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
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4
Submit via UCAS or the institution
For undergraduate study, apply centrally through UCAS (ucas.com), listing Durham University as one of your choices. For postgraduate study, apply directly through Durham University's own admissions portal at www.durham.ac.uk.
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5
Get in touch with admissions
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +44 (191) 334 2000. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about Durham University
Below are the key facts most prospective students ask about Durham University, drawn directly from institutional records.
How old is Durham University?
The institution opened in 1832 (approximately 194 years ago).
In which city is Durham University?
Durham University is based in Durham, United Kingdom.
Is Durham University a public or private institution?
Durham University operates as a public institution.
How many students study at Durham University?
Durham University has approximately 21,150 students.
Where does Durham University stand in university rankings?
Durham University holds rank QS 2027 #85.
What programmes are available at Durham University?
Durham University offers bachelor's, master's and doctoral programmes.
What is Durham University's academic structure?
Durham University has 3 academic units.
Who recognises Durham University?
Durham University is accredited by Privy Council.
Where can I learn more about Durham University?
The institution's website is www.durham.ac.uk.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United Kingdom
Looking for the strongest names in the United Kingdom? These are the highest-ranked institutions nationally — useful context for benchmarking Durham University against the country's most established universities. National benchmarks also signal the upper bound of academic prestige in the United Kingdom.
Members of European University Association (EUA)
Durham University and the universities below are both members of European University Association (EUA).
Faculties at nearby universities
Also in Durham: universities located close to Durham University.
Where Else to Study Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Below: other the United Kingdom universities that offer Natural Sciences & Mathematics programmes.
Universities Compared with Durham University
Comparable universities to Durham University are listed below.
Studying in United Kingdom: guides and resources
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