FAQs
Q. Does St Mary's offer a diverse community?
A. Yes. Durham University attracts people from all over the UK and indeed the world, as well as people from different socio-economic backgrounds and faith communities and ethnic groups. St Mary’s is particularly proud of being a diverse community, and you will make friends from all over the place, and these friendships are the ones that will stay with you for life.
Q. What are the advantages of the College System?
A. You will study your subject and be taught by the appropriate department, and so your College gives you an opportunity to belong to a smaller community where you can make friends across different subjects and with students from different years. From the moment you arrive you will feel a sense of belonging, and most students become passionately loyal to their College.
Q. Is there single sex accommodation available?
A. St Mary’s College already accepts both male and female applicants. In its early years St Mary's pioneered University Education for women, and the ethos of the College is a commitment to seeing each human being as an individual with potential, and not in terms of their gender or indeed any other criteria. St Mary’s students find this atmosphere energizing and empowering. For some women (in particular Muslim women) and men the College continues to offer single sex accommodation and strives to meet the needs of those who prefer to make this choice.
Q. What is there to do other than study?
A. It really depends on what you are interested in – there is so much to do, and most new students are overwhelmed by the choice. All sports and all extra-curricular activities happen at College and University levels so it is possible to become involved in either or both. At St Mary’s we have a strong rowing team, as well as hockey, netball, tennis, football, rugby and basketball teams. Also the College prides itself on its drama society and musical events, and puts on some of the best productions in the University.
Q. Do people have jobs in Durham during term time?
A. Some students do have paid work, and there is a “job shop” in the Students' Union to help students find jobs in the city. However, there is a lot to do both on the academic side and the social side, so it can be hard to juggle everything during term time, and some students prefer to work only during vacations.
Q. What about financial help?
A. There is university financial support and there are College funds too. Remember that when you “live in” all your food and utilities are included.
Q. Are there computers in the College for me to use?
A. We have two computer rooms in St Mary’s and there are other rooms throughout the University, in departments, teaching blocks and in the University Library. If you bring your own computer, all our study bedrooms now have 24 hour internet access.