International Study Centre
Student smiling outside campus

ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL STUDY CENTRE

The first step to your degree

Durham University International Study Centre is the first step to gaining a degree from a world-leading university that is one of the oldest in the UK.

Two location journey

Your journey begins at Queen’s Campus in Stockton-on-Tees, where you will receive a high level of support and will find it easier to settle in to UK life. We will help you all throughout the admissions process by providing expert guidance and support. After completing your studies here, you will have the confidence, skills and academic knowledge to study a degree at Durham University, located in Durham City. 

Queen's Campus in Stockton-on-Tees

Durham University International Study Centre is a dedicated centre for international students located on Queen's Campus in Stockton. The campus is small and welcoming with everything you need close by.  

Extremely supportive and very international, Queen's Campus means you will find it easy to make friends, focus on your studies and get used to your new surroundings.

Queen's Campus, Durham

Queen's Campus

A modern, friendly campus in Stockton-on-Tees.

Durham campus common room

Social spaces

Find common areas on campus for group working, relaxing and reading.

Degree preparation

At the International Study Centre we help you to develop the skills you need for your chosen degree at Durham University. Our programmes prepare you for undergraduate or postgraduate study and lead to more than 100 different degrees at the University.

Your programme prepares you for your chosen degree with subject-specific academic modules. You will also improve your English language skills and we will introduce you to Durham University’s teaching style.

If your English skills don’t meet the entry requirements for your pathway programme, you can enrol on an English Language course first.

Wide-ranging support

Our staff are experts in supporting international students. As soon as you enrol with us, we are here to help with you with everything from practical matters like visas to adapting to life in the UK. We will also introduce you to the full range of opportunities at Durham University, so your experience here is as positive as possible. We are based at Queen’s Campus, so you will always know where to find us.

Academic support

We know that studying for a degree can be challenging, particularly at one of the highest ranked universities in the UK. As courses are competitive and entry requirements are high, the University will expect its students to focus on achieving their best. Our teachers are here to make sure you have the skills you need to succeed, both during your time at the International Study Centre and at the University.

Our small class sizes have no more than 25 students, and you will receive individual attention from highly qualified tutors. We will support you throughout your studies, monitor your progress and help you to achieve the grades you need.

We support you with:

  • Academic guidance to help you meet the grades
  • Tailored study plans to keep you on track
  • Inspiring visits, guest speakers and events with the University
  • Courses designed to prepare you for your chosen degree.
  • Motivation to learn, both in lessons and individually
  • Enthusiasm to join in with student life and make the most of your time here
  • Ask for help if you need it. Courses designed to prepare you for your chosen degree.

Career support

CareerAhead is an important part of our pathway programmes. This helps you to plan for your future career and develops the skills you need to succeed. For more information see Careers.

Personal welfare support

We provide full support as soon as you arrive at the International Study Centre. Experienced teachers, a team of support staff and organised activities will help you settle in and make friends. We have a Welfare Officer who will listen to any problems and look after your wellbeing and safety. Our Student Support Coordinator can help with practical matters such as your visa.

Your transition from the International Study Centre to Durham University

We are here to help you with your move to Durham University, once you have completed the programme and achieved required grades. Our expert staff are always available to make your progression as easy as possible.

During your time at the International Study Centre we will support you to ensure you benefit from the wider student experience available so that you are ready to join the University.

Our dedicated Progression Support team are here to keep you on track to your goal of studying your chosen degree at Durham University. The support they provide includes:

  • Faculty and departmental welcome talks
  • Taster lectures
  • Student progress monitoring
  • Visit days to Durham University

Durham has 17 colleges, each with its own character and values. During your time at the International Study Centre, you will be guided through your options and everything you need to know, before you are asked for your preference. Find out more about Durham's colleges.

Students leaning against a wall and talking on campus

SKILLS FOR SUCCESS

Prepare for your future and develop the skills you need for success while you study at the International Study Centre.

BUILD CAREER SKILLS
Barbara Gill Head of Subject

What our teachers say...

The advice I’d offer to students is to not worry about coming here, as we are all very friendly. There's a lot of support and if you have any issues you can speak to any of us and we'll try and help you resolve any problems.

Barbara Gill
Head of Subject (Business, Economics, Accounting and Finance)
Durham University International Study Centre