More students than ever before at Ulster University Magee Campus: Archibald
Date published:
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald, has confirmed that the number of students currently enrolled for 2025/2026 on the Ulster University Derry~Londonderry Campus has now reached 6,505.
The Minister said: “This figure is ahead of the projected and ambitious figure of 6,286 students which the Magee Taskforce set a year ago; and it represents a 60% increase in enrolments, from 4,060 in 2021.
“This marks a significant milestone for Ulster University’s Magee Campus, for the Magee Taskforce, and indeed for the City of Derry and the wider North-West.”
Expansion of the Magee Campus is an Executive commitment, contained within both the New Decade New Approach agreement, and the current Programme for Government.
The Minister added: “I am delighted with the progress being made to deliver on the commitment to Magee, and to Derry. There is a tangible momentum building here and I am pleased that my Department is playing such a key role.
“The work being driven forward by Ulster University and the wider Taskforce is to be commended. The total student figure for this year exceeds expectation, which is a clear sign that people want to live, learn and build lives in this part of the north. However, there remains much more to do, and continued growth will require significant investment in teaching and student accommodation.
“The expansion of Magee is a key building block in my regional balance agenda, and I look forward to seeing more progress in the New Year.”
Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University said: “We are pleased to be growing the Derry~Londonderry campus ahead of projected timelines, despite facing a challenging financial context. This growth is thanks to sustained investment from both the University and the Department, with the support of the Expansion Taskforce.
“Ulster University Derry~Londonderry is a thriving and bustling campus, it is home to students and staff across all four faculties who enjoy living, studying and working in and contributing to, this vibrant city.
"We remain committed to working together to enact expansion and stimulate further economic, social, cultural and civic growth in the North West, in line with our strategic commitment for better regional balance.”
Notes to editors:
1. PHOTO: Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald is pictured with Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University
2. The figure of 6,505 was confirmed through Ulster University’s December Census Point.
3. The Department for the Economy has committed over £12m to increase funded student places over three academic years from 2024/25 to 2026/27.
4. From September 2025, the Department also enabled Graduate Entry Medical School students to apply for tuition fee loans.
5. Promotional activities funded by the Department, in partnership with Ulster University have delivered positive impacts, showcasing the Magee campus, Derry~Londonderry, and the North West as a great place to study and live.
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