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What we do
Ulster University’s Strategy “People, Place and Partnership” sets out the ambition and priorities for the University which aim unlock our collective potential to deliver Sustainable Futures for All.
Our regional model is as unique as Northern Ireland itself; deeply rooted in local communities, whilst making a sustained impact on the global stage.
We shape and drive economic growth, health and wellbeing, equality, diversity and inclusion, sustainability and cultural and community development across all parts of the region and beyond.
Reaching out from our centres of excellence in Derry~Londonderry, Coleraine, Belfast and Ulster University Sports Village, through our many collaborative partnerships with communities, business, partners and stakeholders Ulster University is making a difference every day and is having a lasting impact for individuals and communities alike.
We are a platform for the entire region to succeed.
Our Principles
Our engagement will always align with our strategic priorities and values.
Where appropriate, we work collaboratively to develop and clarify the purpose and value of our partnerships and initiatives.
We welcome the participation of those people and organisations who contribute to, influence, or are affected by our work, and actively identify relevant stakeholders.
We are committed to ensuring that engagement with Ulster University is a purposeful and mutually positive experience.
Timely
We work with partners and stakeholders as early as possible, seeking to agree on the nature and purpose of our engagement and establishing clear expectation and processes, (including meeting schedules, and response times for information requests or feedback).
We act with integrity in all of our engagements.
We are open and honest and seek to set clear expectations. We will provide information so partners and stakeholders can participate in a meaningful way and will promote and foster a culture of sharing ideas.
We recognise that each of our partners and stakeholders have their own expertise, perspective, and needs.
We understand that partnership and engagement are two-way processes and welcome the benefits of mutual learning.
Our priorities
With over 27,000 students and 2,700 staff dispersed across our campuses, Ulster University plays a special role in the cultural, societal and economic advancement of Northern Ireland.
We engage across 4 key areas to foster collaboration, communication, improvement and participation.
- Government & Political
- Industry & Employment
- Teaching & Research
- Community & Civic
As a University with a regional presence and global reach, our engagement in these areas spans from our local communities to regional, All island, UK and Global.
The team
Connected to the community campaign
Explore the award winning Connect to the Community Campaign in Derry~Londonderry.
Now in Partnering with Department for the Economy, it celebrates the city and region as a destination city with a destination campus.
Recognised as Sector Leading
Ulster University continues to set the benchmark for excellence in community and business engagement, earning Gold Awards at the Heist Awards in both 2023 and 2025.
Heist Awards 2025 - Gold Award Winner
Winner of Best Community/ Business Engagement campaign or initiative.
The Heist Awards judges said...
"This was a truly meaningful, socially driven and ambitious project.The university demonstrated a strong commitment to the community, fostering cultural engagement and creating a lasting impact. The campaign showcased transformative initiatives - backed by insight - leading to a focused delivery."
Heist Awards 2023 - Gold Award Winner
Winner of Best Community/ Business Engagement campaign or initiative.
The Heist Awards judges said...
"An outstanding example of higher education at its best. In tune with the community and delivering results through multiple communication channels – congratulations, Ulster University.“