The announcement was made during a visit by Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald, at one of the University’s annual Open Days. The Minister heard how Ulster University’s focused recruitment and marketing activity, alongside support from the Department for the Economy, has contributed to a strong rise in applications to the campus.
Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University, said:
“I’m pleased to welcome the Economy Minister to Derry~Londonderry to take in the incredible Open Day experience we offer to prospective students. Through sustained and concentrated recruitment efforts and investment, we are delighted that the popularity of this campus has risen significantly and that prospective students are recognising that this vibrant and bustling campus of Ulster University is a great place to study.”
Minister Archibald said:
"My Department is proud to support Ulster University’s initiatives that promote Derry and encourage young people to see the Magee campus as a prime destination. Those initiatives, and the positivity that has been generated around the Magee expansion, have delivered a 21% rise in applications for the 2025/26 academic year.
"This increase in applications demonstrates Derry's ability to attract more students and reach the 10,000 target. In parallel, a significant programme of work is underway to build teaching blocks and ensure that Derry has the capacity to accomodate 10,000 students. This will be done in close consultation with the local community so that the expansion is as seamless and successful as possible."
The Magee Expansion Taskforce’s final report and action plan to expand Ulster University’s Derry~Londonderry campus to 10,000 students highlighted that marketing and recruitment activities are central to the success of the growth ambitions. Ulster University has been working closely with the Department for the Economy to fund and deliver these initiatives.
