Students in cafeteria

DURHAM UNIVERSITY INTERNATIONAL STUDY CENTRE

Why study abroad at Durham University International Study Centre? 

You can begin your journey to one of the world’s top 100 universities with us at Durham University International Study Centre. We provide ambitious international students like you with the skills to thrive on your degree at Durham.

Our high-level of support helps you adjust to life in the UK, and our study programmes prepare you for the challenges of degree-level study. The International Study Centre is operated by Study Group - a global leader in providing pathway programmes for international students. We’re the first step on your journey to success.

Two campuses, two experiences

You will begin your journey with us on the University’s Queen’s Campus, located in Stockton-on-Tees. Here you will receive a high level of support and will find it easier to settle in to UK life. After completing your studies here, you will have the confidence, skills and academic knowledge to progress to Durham University, located in Durham City.

By beginning your studies at Queen’s Campus, you will benefit from a dedicated centre for international students – small and welcoming with everything you need close by.   

Preparation for your degree 

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. 

Support when you need it 

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. Our courses are specially designed to prepare you for your chosen degree.

Career support 

Getting the skills you need for a successful career are 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 visit our careers page

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

Progression support

90% of students who completed their International Study Centre programme and achieved the required grades were offered a place at Durham University in 2023.

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 

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 – including the application process to Durham’s collegiate system

Your wellbeing matters

We’re committed to supporting your positive wellbeing and mental health both prior to your enrolment and whilst you are studying with us. For that reason, we offer a free Student Assistance Programme (SAP) to help you deal with any personal or student related problems that might be affecting your studies or day-to-day life.

Provided by Health Assured and Endsleigh Insurance, the Student Assistance Programme is designed to help you manage and enhance your mental health and overall wellbeing through two main features including:

Wellbeing connected

A unique counsellor-led service available 24 hours a day. 7 days a week, ready to respond to any need for emotional or practical support from international students.

Health hub

The health hub includes a range of ways to help you keep track of different aspects of your health and fitness such as water intake and sleep. There’s also a range of healthy, easy-to-make recipes to give inspiration as well as access to loads of articles, podcasts and videos.

You will receive more information about how to access this service, once you have confirmed your place. 

International Study Centre location

Barbara Gill Head of Subject

Meet your Tutors

As well as teaching business, I've worked in business and I enjoy applying my knowledge from the industry in the classroom and using my experience to help students understand how business operates. We give students the theory and then apply it to a real company. It’s important that students leave here with a good grasp of business, so I try to use real examples from my past.

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

READY TO JOIN US?

Our student enrolment advisors are here to help with your application and answer any questions you have about studying with us.