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Ulster University Discovery Academy
Launched in September 2020, the Ulster University Discovery Academy is an award-winning (2023 Responsible Technology Innovation Award) fully inclusive Virtual Learning Environment designed to inspire curiosity, demystify Higher Education, and support informed decision-making for school pupils and Further Education students.
Co-designed by Educational Outreach Officers and Academic Staff across all four Ulster University faculties, the Discovery Academy harnesses Ulster University’s teaching, research and professional expertise to deliver meaningful content for school pupils from Year 8 - 14 and Further Education students.
Courses span the full breadth of Ulster University’s academic offer:
- Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
- Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Built Environment
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences
- Ulster University Business School
From Biomedical Science to Sustainable Tourism, Criminology to Entrepreneurship, pupils can explore subjects that align with their interests, future aspirations, and relate to the school curriculum.
- Completely free to access
- No specialist technology required, just a web browser
- Mobile and tablet friendly
- Self-paced learning, available 24/7
- Fully accessible and inclusive
The Discovery Academy enables Ulster University to reach a wider audience, create lasting impact, and deliver sustainable outreach by reducing travel and our carbon footprint.
- 60+ courses live
- 17,000+ pupils registered
- 31,000+ course enrolments
- 140+ schools involved
- Strong engagement across Northern Ireland
- Proven driver of curiosity and progression to Ulster University undergraduate study
Introduction Video
Supporting Learning and Progression
All courses are designed to:
- Complement and enhance GCSE, A Level and BTEC curricula
- Provide insight into degree pathways and careers
- Build confidence through HE-recognised learning
Each course concludes with a short quiz. On successful completion, pupils receive an Ulster University Course Completion Certificate, with further recognition available through the Discovery Academy Scholar Pin. Pupils are required to email schools@ulster.ac.uk to request their Scholar Pin.
