NI Students 'Most Satisfied'

The 2013 National Student Survey (NSS), released today, has revealed that Northern Irish students at higher education institutions (HEI) are more satisfied with the university experience than at any time since the NSS was launched, nine years ago.

The UK-wide survey shows student satisfaction at NI HEIs is ranked above the UK benchmark for similar HEIs.

The Northern Ireland average for overall satisfaction is 89%; a 2% increase on 2012 and higher than the overall UK average of 85%.

Overall satisfaction rates indicate 90% for Queen's University, 94% for St Mary's teacher college in Belfast, 88% for Stranmillis College and 88% for the University of Ulster.

Employment and Learning Minister, Dr Stephen Farry, said: "I commend Queen’s University Belfast, University of Ulster, St Mary’s University College and Stranmillis University College on exceeding the benchmark student satisfaction figure for their specific institutions.

"With Northern Ireland exceeding the UK average these results are an excellent indicator of the quality and standards of the student experience currently available at all Northern Ireland Higher Education Institutions.

"The results are testament to the hard work and commitment of the teaching and support staff at our Institutions. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge these excellent results and add my encouragement to improving this result year on year."

(IT/CD)