27 June – 11 July 2026

CQC Summer School

Two weeks of academic discovery, cultural adventure, and career inspiration in one of the UK's most vibrant cities. An experience that could shape your future.

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14
Days
20
Places
2
Research Centres
Summer School students at Queen's University Belfast
27 June – 11 July 2026

Your Belfast Adventure Awaits

Join us for a dynamic two-week summer school experience crafted specifically for CQC Level 1 and Level 2 undergraduate students. This is your chance to immerse yourself in world-class academic research, explore Northern Ireland's stunning landscapes, and take your first steps toward a future postgraduate career at Queen's.

From hands-on laboratory sessions at the School of Pharmacy and the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, to cultural excursions along the dramatic Northern Irish coastline, every day offers something new.

Lab Experience Hands-on research at two centres
Career Workshops CV clinics and industry visits
Cultural Tours Belfast and beyond
Community Connect with current students
Programme

Your Two-Week Journey

Click on any day to discover what's in store. From lab work to coastal walks, every day is packed with opportunity.

Saturday • 27 June
Arrival Day
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Arrive on campus, settle into your accommodation, and meet the programme coordinators who will be with you throughout your stay. Explore the immediate surroundings and get to know your fellow participants.
Monday
Welcome & Campus Orientation
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Begin with a warm welcome and an introduction to the university and its support services. Enjoy a guided tour of key buildings, including the library, graduate school, and learning spaces. Meet the Students' Union and connect with student ambassadors.
Tuesday
School of Pharmacy: Academic & Student Life
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Participate in short academic taster sessions and seminars. Discover postgraduate pathways and research culture at the School of Pharmacy. Engage in peer activities with current students for a genuine campus experience.
Wednesday
Hands-on Lab Visits at School of Pharmacy
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Participate in practical lab demonstrations, collaborate with staff and peers, and engage in small-group challenges. Q&A sessions promote active participation throughout the day.
Thursday
Hands-on Lab Visits at School of Pharmacy
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Continue with hands-on experiments and demonstrations to further develop practical skills and teamwork in the pharmacy labs.
Friday
Employability & Industry Visit
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Participate in a CV and career workshop focused on opportunities within the United Kingdom. Explore industry connections through the School of Pharmacy and visit a local company to observe real-world applications of your studies.
Saturday
Belfast and Beyond: Culture & History
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Enjoy a cultural excursion including a historical overview of Belfast. Extend your visit to a regional heritage site or coastal location to explore Northern Ireland's rich cultural and natural landscape.
Sunday
Relax & Recharge
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Take a well-earned break. Spend the day exploring Belfast at your leisure, catching up with friends, or simply unwinding in preparation for the upcoming week.
Monday
WWIEM: Academic & Student Life
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Attend brief academic taster sessions and seminars at the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine. Explore research culture and postgraduate opportunities. Connect with current students through peer activities.
Tuesday
Hands-on Lab Visits at WWIEM
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Engage in practical laboratory sessions, collaborate on experiments, and participate in Q&A sessions and group challenges for an immersive learning experience.
Wednesday
Skills, Innovation & Career Pathways
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Interactive workshops on innovation, entrepreneurship, and translational research. Explore postgraduate study options, diverse career pathways, and develop transferable skills. The day concludes with reflection and preparation for student presentations.
Thursday
Student Integration & Reflection
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Collaborate with QUB students and ambassadors in joint activities. Present on cultural differences, learning outcomes, and future aspirations. Take part in a programme evaluation and feedback session.
Friday
Chinese Community Engagement
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Explore Belfast's local Chinese community through a cultural exchange. Share experiences via student-led presentations and discussions focusing on international student life, transition challenges, and support networks. Enjoy a shared meal or informal social activity.
Saturday
Departure
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Depart campus, taking with you new friendships, skills, and inspiration. This is just the beginning of your journey with Queen's University Belfast.
How to Apply

Ready to Join Us?

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Statement of Interest

Submit approximately 300 words outlining your academic background, motivation, and what you hope to gain.

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Academic Transcript

Provide your current transcript reflecting your level of study (Level 1 or Level 2).

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What's Covered

Accommodation and local expenses are provided by the faculty. Students are responsible for covering their own flights and visa costs.

Places are limited to 20 students — 10 from Level 1 and 10 from Level 2 — selected through a transparent, competitive process.

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Where You'll Stay

Your Accommodation

14 nights in modern, comfortable student accommodation just 15 minutes' walk from campus.

Elms BT9 Student Village

Summer School accommodation will be provided for 14 nights in Elms BT9, a purpose-built student village offering modern, comfortable, and secure accommodation just 15 minutes' walk from Queen's campus.

The village includes the Treehouse — the main social space for all students — featuring a coffee bar, snooker and pool tables, table tennis, a TV lounge with 85-inch screens, a games and karaoke room, bookable kitchen spaces, an outdoor BBQ area, computers, and high-speed internet.

You will have your own ensuite bedroom and share a kitchen and communal living area with your other Summer School participants. There is also a self-service laundry facility with washing machines, dryers, irons, and ironing boards.

Explore Elms BT9 →

Your Booking Includes

  • 14 nights at Queen's student accommodation (Check in: Sat 27 June; Check out: Sat 11 July)
  • Private room
  • Private ensuite bathroom
  • WiFi internet
  • Bed linen and towels
  • Communal kitchen and common room with TV and kitchen equipment
  • 24-hour safety staff
  • Reception (8am – 8pm, 7 days a week)
Rewarding Achievement

Future-Ready Award

Recognised for Your Development

Participation in the CQC Summer School is recognised as an activity under the Future-Ready Award at Queen's University Belfast, supporting students in developing transferable skills and enhancing their employability.

Learn more about the Future-Ready Award →