13
Subjects ranked in the top 10 in the UK
(Complete University Guide 2026)Impact on Society
How Queen's makes an impact on society
The role of a university goes beyond education and skills; we have a key influence on the economy, through research and innovation, which drives economic growth, creating new and better jobs.
We have a responsibility to society to ensure access to education is fair and flexible, and that we embed key principals such as Sustainable Development Goals into our work. We are invested in adding to a diverse and skilled society, with an excellent global reputation.
Our Annual Report illustrates our achievements and progress in line with the objectives we have set under Strategy 2030.
The London Economics Pulse Update assesses the economic impact of Queen's University Belfast, focusing on the 2022-2023 academic year. Importantly, this study is a ‘pulse’ report, ahead of the next full economic and social impact analysis for the 2025-26 academic year.
Our Strategic Priorities show a commitment to and achievements in:
Education and skills
We provide enhanced wellbeing services and support in our new Student Centre and Students’ Union, #QUBeWell activity across campus delivering wellbeing projects and focus on fair and flexible access to an education through our Widening Participation programme. Our diversity and inclusion programmes include work to support the participation and progression of women in Queen’s, resulting in 15 Athena Swan awards.
9th
In the UK for graduate outcomes
(Complete University Guide 2026)Research and innovation
Our new Postdoctoral Development Centre supports our Postdoc researchers and the new Agility Fund supports a range of research activity.
Find out more about innovation at Queen’s.
99%+
Of our research environment was assessed as world-leading or internationally recognised
(REF 2021)2nd
Queen’s is ranked 2nd in the UK for entrepreneurial impact
(i2i University Spinout Ranking 2024)Global reputation and partnerships
We’re committed to making a meaningful impact on the world, attracting the brightest minds to research the global challenges of our age, enhancing our reputation and global partnerships, and improving our ranking on global league tables.
Top 200
Ranked as one of the Top 200 universities in the world for impact
(Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024)3,800+
Total international students
Social and Civic Responsibility and Economic Prosperity
We lead on innovative projects and adding value to the wider economy. A key element is the progression of the Belfast Region City Deal with Queen’s leading on three innovative projects.
Queen’s has pledged a multimillion pound investment in a Sustainability Action Plan to help play its part in tackling the global climate emergency. And Queen’s continues to have a local impact on our city and region.
