durham college visit

Relive Your College Days: Plan an Adventure on a North Carolina Campus

Look beyond the classroom during these college visits to plan a vacation filled with stops at gardens, galleries, sporting events and restaurants.

Experience college in a brand-new way by rediscovering these North Carolina campuses that extend invites to all. Admire the dedication to education, commitment to beauty and enthusiasm for fun as you take a trip full of nostalgia.

Colleges you'll find in this article: Davidson College | Duke University | Elon University  |  North Carolina A&T NC Central University |  NC State University  | Shaw University |  UNC Chapel Hill UNC Charlotte  | UNC Greensboro |  Wake Forest University | Winston-Salem State University  

1 Davidson College

This small liberal arts school’s buildings are woven throughout town, offering numerous opportunities for inspiration. As a National Arboretum , the setting is perfect for paths that showcase more than 3,000 trees and shrubs. Along with Mother Nature’s works of art, sculptures by artists Magdalena Abakanowicz, Auguste Rodin and Yinka Shonibare are also admired all across campus. Three galleries with a full schedule of exhibitions can be found at the Visual Arts Center. Just up the road is The Farm at Davidson , which grows produce for the college’s dining services. To caffeinate like you're preparing for an all-nighter, swing by the original Summit Coffee on Main Street; the co-owners are Davidson alumni.

2 Duke University

Any visitor to Durham can find inspiration in the unique activities found on Duke’s campus. The Sarah P. Duke Gardens draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year thanks to 55 acres of Italian-style terrace gardens, a rose garden and a koi pond topped with water lilies. For a one-of-a-kind stop, book a tour at the Duke Lemur Center , a world leader in the study, care and protection of the endangered mammals. And for sports lovers, the Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed Duke University Golf Club is recognized as one of the Southeast's best, while the Duke Basketball Museum brings the storied program to life on a daily basis.

3 Elon University

A designated botanical garden, Elon’s 656-acre campus is a nature lover’s haven. Follow the campus tree map to find 125 trees along a 1.25-mile walk through campus, visit the community garden and schedule a tour of the school’s 15-acre solar farm, part of the Environmental Center at Loy Farm . Then head downtown to The Oak House for a beverage and a bite and check out some local shops, or grab a pastry to go and picnic at the nearby Beth Schmidt Park , which has beautiful walking trails, a playground and garden. Treat yourself to a cup or cone at Smitty’s Homemade Ice Cream before calling it a day. Staying the night? The Inn at Elon is the choice: All profits from the inn are dedicated to funding student scholarships.

4 North Carolina A&T

NC A&T is the nation’s largest HBCU. The university played a central role in the Civil Rights Movement when four students led a sit-in at Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro in 1960, and the location now operates as the International Civil Rights Center & Museum . After the museum tour, head to the Dudley Building on campus to see the A&T Four Monument, which honors the freshmen who led the sit-in. Visit in fall and catch a football game to see the famous Blue and Gold Marching Machine, whose high-energy performances have been getting fans on their feet for years.

5 North Carolina Central University

The NCCU campus is included in the National Register of Historic Places for good reason – it’s been a key piece of Durham history for more than 100 years. As you walk among the historic buildings throughout campus, be sure to check out a newer addition, the Centennial Chapel and Garden, built in 2010 to celebrate the university’s centennial. It’s a great place to pull out picnic supplies from Durham Co-op Market before exploring more of downtown. Start with West Parrish Street, often referred to as Black Wall Street because of its role as a hub for Black-owned businesses and economic growth in the early 1900s. Then visit the Museum of Durham History or any of the History Groves – groupings of native trees planted to honor those who shaped the community. Speaking of community, the ties are strong at the Hayti Heritage Center , which hosts events, programs and festivals.

6 North Carolina State University

NC State is the ideal mix of city and rural life. On the Centennial Campus, Lake Raleigh Woods is designated a “hallowed place,” meaning its past helps forge the future of research and education. The 96-acre forest welcomes researchers as well as bird-watchers and those looking for a peaceful stroll. Down the road from main campus is the JC Raulston Arboretum and butterfly garden, where the collection of plants has attracted about 60 species of butterflies and moths over the years. If you’re looking for a place to reunite with old friends from school, the Lonnie Poole Golf Course – the only collegiate course in the world designed by Arnold Palmer – is the perfect spot.

7 Shaw University

The first HBCU in the South and among the oldest in the nation, Shaw sits in the heart of the historic district downtown – and its ties to history remain strong, from the stunning memorial garden on campus to its multiple historic landmark buildings. Head to Estey Hall – built in 1874, it’s the oldest surviving Shaw building and the first structure built for the higher education of African American women. Because of Shaw’s central location, walk or drive from campus to many nearby favorites. Refuel Southern-style at Big Ed’s and then keep the fun going – kids of all ages love Pullen Park's amusement rides, paddle boats and swimming. Families can enjoy awesome time indoors at the nearby Marbles Kids Museum or NC Museum of Natural Sciences . If your kids are of the four-legged variety, Dorothea Dix Park has an area just for dogs (and plenty of open-air activities for humans too).

8 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Visit the country’s first public university for a few firsts of your own. For basketball fans, Carolina Basketball Museum is a must, where names like Dean Smith and Michael Jordan might ring a bell. The Ackland Art Museum hosts a permanent collection of more than 19,000 works of art, while the Morehead Planetarium offers shows like “Carolina Skies,” a live star show that takes you on a journey through the nighttime sky. Most alumni will tell you a stroll along Franklin Street is a necessary intro to Chapel Hill life. For lunch, few things are better than a hot dog and old-fashioned soda at the legendary Sutton’s Drug Store . It’s been feeding hungry Tar Heels since 1923.

9 University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Just 15 minutes northeast of Uptown, UNC Charlotte boasts a 1,000-acre campus that’s still close to Charlotte’s vibrant NoDa, Plaza Midwood and South End neighborhoods. Start your visit with a walk through the botanical gardens , home to three different gardens with 16 collections. Over in the art department, check out three exhibition spaces in the Rowe Arts Building , which displays the work of students, faculty and visiting artists. For a good meal, students rave about Passage to India .

10 University of North Carolina at Greensboro

A stroll through this campus brings tons of visual intrigue, with architectural diversity, historic buildings and storied landmarks – like the 9-foot bronze statue of Minerva by artist James Barnhill, and The Rawk, a boulder painted and repainted with well wishes and announcements nearly every day. Speaking of art, make sure you head to Weatherspoon Art Museum in the heart of campus. Admission is free to its six galleries and sculpture courtyard, and coffee and baked goods are offered most weekdays. Find more inspiration at any of Greensboro’s outdoor oases, from the 17-acre Greensboro Arboretum to Gateway Gardens , a whimsical entryway to the city integrating elements of history, movement and play.

11 Wake Forest University

Recreate carefree college days at Davis Field by swinging under the towering trees or taking time for a picnic. For a learning opportunity, visit the only museum in North Carolina dedicated to the study of global cultures at the Museum of Anthropology . Catch up on a little botany 101 at the 134-acre Reynolda Gardens with beautiful woodlands, wetlands and a greenhouse. Don’t miss out on getting a unique souvenir at the Reynolda Village shops right next door. For your finale, enjoy a pitcher of beer at Shorty’s .

12 Winston-Salem State University

Wander through campus and admire public art sculptures, as well as massive murals by artist and North Carolina native John Biggers in the C.G. O’Kelly Library. The Diggs Gallery also operates as a cultural center with exhibitions and programs focused on African American and regional art (recognized by The Smithsonian as one of the nation’s best). If you’re looking for action: Every Saturday in spring and summer, Bowman Gray Stadium fills up the stands for short-track racing at NASCAR’S longest running weekly track. The whole family will love seeing multiple races at “The Madhouse.”

Shayla Martin

Shayla Martin is a Durham-based travel and food writer. She has contributed to The Wall Street Journal , New York Magazine , Atlanta Journal-Constitution , Fodors Travel and more.

Ends: 6/15/2024

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Visiting Duke & Durham

*  COVID-19 Update : All visitors must comply with Duke's  COVID-19 guidelines  while on campus, including social distancing and masking where required. Visitors are also expected to monitor their health, particularly the symptoms of COVID-19, and stay home when they exhibit any symptoms, feel ill, or may have been exposed to others and need to self-isolate. For more details, please visit the  Duke United webpage . Thank you for your support.

In addition to coming to Duke to spend time with your student, we encourage you to experience the many wonderful dining, retail, and historical attractions that Durham and the surrounding Triangle area have to offer.

Below you will find details on some of these great local activities, shops, and events, in addition to many area hotel and motel chains. For more information on how to experience the sights and sounds of Durham, also be sure to  visit Discover Durham’s website .

Duke is home to some of the South's best events, local places to eat and shop, concerts, and more. Here are some of our favorites...

9th Street 9th Street is known for its variety of restaurant offerings at reasonable prices that Duke students and Durham locals frequent and enjoy. From upscale bar food to the best brunch in the city, 9th Street is the place for anyone seeking to find great local food and shops.

American Tobacco Campus www.americantobaccohistoricdistrict.com 324 Blackwell St. The American Tobacco Campus features Durham Bulls Baseball, the Durham Performing Arts Center, Music On the Lawn outdoor concerts, art exhibits, restaurants and so much more. It is also a registered historic site with roots in the American Tobacco Factory established in the 1800s.

Brightleaf Square (off of East Campus) historicbrightleaf.com 905 West Main St. Brightleaf features an eclectic mix of restaurants and shops in the historic warehouse district of downtown Durham.

The Streets at Southpoint streetsatsouthpoint.com 6910 Fayetteville Rd. At Southpoint, shoppers can explore an exquisite two story, indoor and outdoor mall with a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.

Duke Performances dukeperformances.duke.edu Duke Performances hosts a wide variety of events and musical performances in many Duke and Durham community venues. Selections include classical and chamber music, jazz, pop, theater, dance, comedy shows, and more.

Duke Athletics goduke.com Check out one of Duke's many nationally recognized Divison 1 athletic teams! From Coach K's Men's Basketball team inside Cameron Indoor Stadium to Kerstin Kimel's Women's Lacrosse squad, Duke features award-winning scholar-athletes. To purchase tickets,  you can go online  or call the Duke Athletic Ticket Office at 1-877-375-DUKE (3853) toll-free or (919) 681-BLUE (2583). If you live locally, you may also visit the ticket office located in the south lobby of Cameron Indoor Stadium. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For more upcoming events,  visit the Events@Duke calendar . The site offers a comprehensive listing of Duke events, including lectures, conferences, performing arts, exhibitions, cultural activities and more. Users can search by date, event category, or organization/group, and can download event details to most personal calendar clients.

Durham Performing Arts Center dpacnc.com 123 Vivian St. The Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) is the largest performing arts center in both North Carolina and South Carolina. From Broadway to concerts, comedy to family shows...there’s something for everyone at DPAC.

Nasher Museum of Art nasher.duke.edu 2001 Campus Dr. The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University serves as the center for the visual arts on campus. The museum promotes engagement with the visual arts among a broad community including Duke students, faculty, and staff, the greater Durham community, the Triangle region, and the national and international art community. The museum presents an ambitious schedule of exhibitions that travel to major institutions around the world, and has a growing collection of international contemporary art.

Duke Gardens gardens.duke.edu 420 Anderson St. Enjoy the natural beauty of campus with a visit to Duke Gardens. This 55-acre botanic garden is one of the top 10 public gardens in the United States. The grounds are open from 8:00 a.m. to dusk 365 days a year.

We'd love to have you on campus! But, when visiting your student on campus, it’s important to keep in mind that Duke has become, on many levels, home. Students have a degree of autonomy and range of relationships that were not part of their lives before arriving on campus. It’s important to allow your student to develop relationships, decision-making skills, and techniques for organization and time management. It’s okay to offer suggestions, but it’s also important to allow your student to experience the challenges and growth opportunities that college provides.

To help plan your visit, here are a few more helpful resources:

• Campus Maps:  https://maps.duke.edu
• Visitor Parking:  https://parking.duke.edu/visitor
• Campus Tours and Information Sessions:  https://admissions.duke.edu/setting/plantrip
• Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU):  http://rdu.com

Please note that as of July 1, 2020, Duke is a tobacco-free campus. We ask that you support our efforts and don't use any tobacco products anywhere on campus, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, and chewing tobacco. For more info:  https://healthy.duke.edu/tobaccofree/ .

Here are some addresses for key university landmarks:

Bryan Center Visitor Parking Garage: 120 Science Drive Durham, NC 27708

Duke University Chapel (West Campus): 401 Chapel Drive Durham, NC 27708

East Campus Union (Marketplace): 1324 Campus Drive Durham, NC 27708

For your convenience, we have compiled a list below of the many major hotel and motel chains represented in the Durham and Triangle area.

*JB Duke Hotel (919) 660.6400 230 Science Drive www.jbdukehotel.com On Campus

*Washington Duke Inn (919) 490.0999 3001 Cameron Boulevard (NC 751/Cameron) www.washingtondukeinn.com Distance from East Campus: 1.3 miles Across the Street from West Campus 

*The Lodge at Duke Medical Center (919) 313.2165 2306 Elba Street https://www.lodgeatdumc.com/ Distance from Campus: 0.7 miles

Aloft (919) 402.5656 345 Blackwell Street  http://www.aloftdurhamdowntown.com/ Distance from Campus: 2.4 miles 

The Durham Hotel (919) 768.8830 315 E. Chapel Hill Street thedurham.com Distance from Campus: 1.7 miles

University Inn (919) 286.4421 502 Elf Street www.universityinnduke.com Distance from Campus: 0.7 miles

21C Museum Hotel (919) 956.6700 111 North Corcoran Street http://www.21cmuseumhotels.com/durham/ Distance from Campus: 1 mile

Residence Inn Marriott (919) 680.4440 1108 West Main Street  www.marriott.com Distance from Campus: 1.3 miles (100 yards from East Campus)

Millennium Hotel (919) 383.8575 2800 Campus Walk Avenue www.millenniumhotels.com Distance from Campus: 1.3 miles

Durham Marriott at The Civic Center 1.(800) 909.8375 201 Foster Street http://marriott.com/hotels/travel/rducv-durham-marriott-at-the-civic-center/ Distance from Campus: 1.8 miles

Unscripted Hotel 1.(800) 909.8375 202 N. Corcoran Street https://www.unscriptedhotels.com   Distance from Campus: 1.8 miles

Courtyard Durham Near Duke University/Downtown (919) 309.1500 1815 Front Street marriott.com/hotels/travel/rdufs-courtyard-durham-near-duke-university-downtown/ Distance from Campus: 2.8 miles

Extended Stay America (919) 489.8444 3105 Tower Boulevard www.extendedstayhotels.com  Distance from Campus: 2.9 miles

LaQuinta Inns & Suites (919) 401.9660 4414 Durham Chapel Hill Blvd www.laquintadurhamchapelhill.com/ Distance from Campus: 3.7 miles

Quality Inn & Suites (919) 382.3388 3710 Hillsborough Road www.duke85.com Distance from Campus: 4.0 miles

Durham Hilton (919) 383.8033 3800 Hillsborough Road www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/north.../hilton-durham-near.../index.html Distance from Campus: 4.1 miles

Home2 Suites by Hilton Durham/Chapel Hill (919) 680.9000 3305 Watkins Road https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/rduhtht-home2-suites-durham-chapel-hill/ Distance from Campus: 4.9 miles  * Complimentary shuttle services to/from Duke *Ask for "Duke University" rate

Homewood Suites by Hilton Durham/Chapel Hill (919) 401.0610 3600 Mt. Moriah Road https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/rduhwhw-homewood-suites-durham-chapel-hill-i-40/ Distance from Campus: 5.2 miles  * Complimentary shuttle services to/from Duke *Ask for "Duke University" rate

Holiday Inn Express (919) 313.3244 2516 Guess Road www.hiexpress.com/hotels/us/en/durham/rduhm/hoteldetail Distance from Campus: 5.2 miles

Hampton Inn (919) 471.6100 1542 North Gregson Street http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/north-carolina/hampton-inn-and-suites-durham-north-i-85-RDUNOHX/index.html Distance from Campus: 6.8 miles

Residence Inn Durham Research Triangle Park (919) 361.1266 201 Residence Inn Blvd. http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/rdudr-residence-inn-durham-research-triangle-park/ Distance from Campus: 8.6 miles

Sonesta Select Durham Research Triangle Park (919) 484.2900 301 Residence Inn Blvd https://www.sonesta.com/us/north-carolina/durham/sonesta-select-durham-research-triangle-park Distance from Campus: 8.9 miles

Hilton Garden Inn Durham Southpoint (919) 544.6000 7007 Fayetteville Road www.durhamsouthpoint.stayhgi.com Distance from Campus: 9.3 miles

Hilton Garden Inn Raleigh-Durham Research Triangle Park (919) 941.6066 4620 South Miami Blvd. hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/north-carolina/hilton-garden-inn-raleigh-durham-research-triangle-park-RDUGIGI/index.html Distance from Campus: 10.5 miles

SpringHill Suites Durham Chapel Hill

5310 McFarland Dr.

Durham, NC 27707

919-403-1111

www.marriott.com/rdurl                    

(Here is also the link for Duke University Discounted Rate)

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

RDU Airport | Brier Creek

10040 Sellona St. Raleigh, NC  27617

919-246-0107

www.marriott.com/rdube

Hyatt House® Raleigh/RDU/Brier Creek

10030 Sellona Street Raleigh, NC 27617

919-405-7001 

www.HyattHouseBrierCreek.com

Westin Raleigh-Durham Airport

3931 Macaw St, Raleigh, NC 27617

919-224-1400

www.marriott.com/rduwr

Bed & Breakfasts in Durham

Duke is lucky to have many local Bed & Breakfast options for visitors to campus. If interested, learn more about the various options available at the  innsofdurham.com  and  bedandbreakfast.com . 

Chapel Hill

Sheraton Chapel Hill (919) 968.4900 1 Europa Drive http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1124 Distance from Campus: 7.6 miles

Aloft Chapel Hill (919) 932.7772 1001 South Hamilton Road https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/rducl-aloft-chapel-hill/rooms/ Distance from Campus: 7.2 miles

Residence Inn by Marriott (919) 933.4848 101 Erwin Road www.residenceinnchapelhill.com Distance from Campus: 8.5 miles

The Siena Hotel 1-800-223.7379 1505 East Franklin Street www.sienahotel.com/ Distance from Campus: 8.8 miles

Raleigh-Cary

The Umstead Hotel and Spa (919) 447.4000 100 Woodland Pond Drive www.theumstead.com Distance from Campus: 18.4 miles

Residence Inn Raleigh (919) 472.1005 www.marriott.com/rduac Distance from Campus: 12 miles

Courtyard Raleigh (919) 471.1000 www.marriott.com/rduab Distance from Campus: 12 miles

EXPERIENCE DUKE

In- person  events.

Campus Tours Led by a student tour guide, our outdoor walking tours allow you to see campus highlights, ask questions, and hear why we love our vibrant community. In the event of severe weather or campus closures, tours could be canceled or delayed. 90 minutes; Reservations required. We do not have a waitlist.  Information Session + Campus Tour This two-part event introduces you to the Duke experience. Led by an admissions officer, our 30-minute information session includes an overview of our academic opportunities and student life. You'll also have a chance to ask questions and hear why we love our vibrant community. A 90-minute, student-led campus walking tour will follow.  Reservations required. Engineering Tours Student-led tours of Duke's Pratt School of Engineering are available Monday-Friday. Tours depart from the Nello L. Teer Engineering Building. Reservations required. Self-Guided Walking Tour  When campus tours are full or if you plan to visit campus on your own, we encourage you to take a self-guided walking tour of Duke University's campus. Download the  Duke Admissions Tour  app, which is available for  iPhone  and  Android  users. You may also stop by the Undergraduate Admissions Office to pick up a campus ma p from our outside information box and explore campus at your own pace. Large groups are also encouraged to use the mobile tour app. Duke Kunshan Admissions Visits Those wishing to learn more about Duke's joint-venture university in China may request an add-on visit to the DKU Admissions House while at Duke or attend one of DKU's weekly information sessions .  You can stay updated on the latest policies on Duke's  visitor page Holidays + Breaks Last Day of Classes:  April 24 Reading Period:  April 25 - 28 Final Exams:  April 29 - May 4 Commencement:  May 10 - 12 Memorial Day:  May 27 Juneteenth: June 19 Independence Day:  July 4 Labor Day:  September 2 Thanksgiving Holiday:  November 28 - 29 Christmas Holiday:  December 24 - 25 New Year's Eve:  December 31 Please click the event title located next to the pink box to register.

VIRTUAL EVENTS

Not seeing Duke in person doesn’t mean you can’t experience everything that makes Duke an amazing place to learn, explore, live, and connect. We hope you’ll join us for some or all of our virtual programs. Recording of any Undergraduate Admissions session is prohibited. The University owns the copyright to infor mational materials prepared by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.  

•    Admission and Financial Aid at Duke:  April 23 & May 23 •   Blue Devil Student Chat:  April 15 •   Campus Tour:  April 14 •   Information Session:  May 7 •   Pratt Tour:  April 2 - April 16; offered Tuesdays

Please select a date and click the event title located next to the orange box to register.

Visit Options + Help

Visit options, follow the lemurs.

Ready to get to know Duke? No matter where you are in the college search process, we can help you decide if Duke might be the right place for you. Here’s a guide to navigating our extensive array of virtual and in-person options.

Just for fun, we’ve named the various levels of getting to know Duke after the residents of the Duke Lemur Center , a world leader in the study, care, and protection of lemurs—Earth’s most threatened group of mammals.

Choose one of the following:

I’m just starting my college search.

You’re at the Ring-tailed lemur level! We’re happy to introduce you to Duke and give you a taste of our connected, collaborative, and creative community.

We recommend attending a Live Virtual Information Session* and Live Virtual Tour . Interested in engineering? Join us for a Live Virtual Pratt School of Engineering Tour . If you can’t attend live, watch one of our recordings of live sessions .

*Duke también ofrece una sesión de información virtual en vivo en español.

I already know a bit about Duke but want to know more.

We’re glad to hear that Duke has piqued your interest. You’ve reached Coquerel’s Sifaka level. It’s time to find out more about how Duke might match your interests and goals.

If you haven’t already done so, attend a Live Virtual Information Session and Live Virtual Tour . If you can’t attend live, watch one of our recordings of live sessions .

Next, join us for one of our Live Virtual Duke Community Panels and other events with student ambassadors.

If you’re able to visit Duke in person and you’re a senior, register for a Student-Led Walking Tour . All students can take themselves on the Duke Mobile Tour , and consider a Pratt School of Engineering Tour . If you’d like to set your own pace for a virtual visit, you can take a Virtual Reality Tour , or tune in for a video tour of Duke’s East Campus or Duke’s West Campus .

I’m ready to apply but I have questions.

By now you’ve probably attended some of our virtual or in-person programs and know a lot about Duke, but you’d like to hear about the admissions process and financial aid from the experts. You’re ready for Red-ruffed Lemur level!

Tune in to one of our Live Virtual Guide to Applying sessions, led by Duke admissions officers, and to our Live Virtual Financial Support at Duke, led by Duke financial aid officers. If you can’t attend live, watch one of our recordings of live sessions . If you still have questions, join us for Q&A with Admissions Officers .

You can also sign up for a Live Webinar focused on admissions and financial aid topics.

Want to know more about Durham? Check out more about the Bull City here .

Finally, we encourage you to reach out to faculty and staff in the academic departments and programs that excite you most. You can find information about majors/programs in Trinity College of Arts and Sciences here , and the Pratt School of Engineering here .

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Admission Process

Selection criteria can be based on a combination of the following:

• Review of academic record
• Review of required additional documentation including volunteer/work experience, reference letters, etc.
• Test or questionnaire results
• Portfolio review

Selection is based on the entrance requirements listed under individual  program  descriptions. All applications, and official supporting documents, received by  ontariocolleges.ca  on or before February 1 for a fall start or October 1 for a winter start, and February 1 for a spring start will be considered equally. Early application is encouraged. Programs that have more individuals apply than seats available by the Equal Consideration Deadline (ECD) will be deemed highly competitive and ranked in order. The most qualified applicants will be offered seats or placed on a waiting list.

HIGHLY COMPETITIVE PROGRAMS

The term highly competitive denotes programs for which there are more qualified Ontario applicants than available seats. As a result, qualified applicants who have submitted applications, and all required supporting documents, no later than February 1 for a fall start, October 1 for a winter start and February 1 for a spring start will undergo a specific selection process.

PRIORITY OF ADMISSION

For highly competitive programs, students are accepted according to the following priorities:

• Permanent resident of Ontario (under review)
• Permanent resident of another province or territory in Canada
• Applicants from other countries

Programs anticipated to be highly competitive:

• Community Integration through Cooperative Education
• Communicative Disorders Assistant
• Dental Hygiene
• Electrical Engineering Technician
• Electrical Techniques
• Occupational Therapist Assistant/Physiotherapist Assistant
• Practical Nursing
• Practical Nursing – Flex

Please note: Admission Services reserves the right to add or delete from this list based on, but not limited to, applicant demand and/or program changes.

SELECTION PROCESS FOR HIGHLY COMPETITIVE PROGRAMS

Selection is based on an average of the four prerequisite senior level subjects (grades 11 or 12 or post-secondary) at the C, M, or U level or equivalent, excluding co-op.

If subjects other than English are required for program entry, they will be used as part of the three other grades in the selection average if marks are available. If marks are not available for the prerequisite subject(s), you must currently be registered in the required subject(s) and your midterm marks must be received no later than February 1 for a fall start, October 1 for a winter start and February 1 for a spring start. Marks for similar past courses will be substituted as follows:

• Grade 11 English substituted for Grade 12 English (C, M, or U)
• Grade 11 mathematics substituted for Grade 12 mathematics (C, M, or U)
• Grade 11 biology substituted for Grade 12 biology (C, M, or U)
• Grade 11 chemistry substituted for Grade 12 chemistry (C, M, or U) or
• Grade 11 physics substituted for Grade 12 physics (C, M, or U)

If multiple subject credit marks are available, the highest mark will be used.

SELECTION PROCESS FOR ALL OTHER PROGRAMS

If subjects other than English are required for program entry, they will be used as part of the three other grades in the selection average if marks are available. If marks are not available for the prerequisite subject(s), you must currently be registered in the required subject(s). This will qualify to receive a “conditional offer”.

MATURE STUDENT STATUS (MSS)

Mature Student Status refers to applicants 19 years and older by the beginning of classes with the admission requirements but who have not completed a high school diploma. You must submit your application and any relevant transcripts to ontariocolleges.ca. For applicants who are missing prerequisite courses, additional studies, testing or upgrading may be necessary to meet admission requirements.

ACADEMIC UPGRADING

Academic upgrading is offered at Durham College to applicants 19 and older who may be missing program admission requirements. For further information please visit  Academic Upgrading . For information about meeting the grade 12 (C or U) English requirement please visit the  English Language Proficiency Requirement  page.

Please note: All transcripts must be received at ontariocolleges.ca by February 1 for a fall start and October 1 for a winter start and February 1 for a spring start to be considered for admission to a highly competitive program at Durham College. Please contact  ontariocolleges.ca  or at 1.888.892.2228 for further information regarding this process.

Program Information Nights

May 7: Oshawa campus May 8: Whitby campus Explore programs starting this September Register Now

Student Good Guide

The best UK online resource for students

The Best Durham Colleges in 2024

Durham University is one of the UK’s oldest and most prestigious universities. With 17 colleges to choose from, it can be challenging to decide which one is the best Durham College for you. 

To help narrow down your options, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best Durham colleges for 2024 based on key factors such as academic standards, student feedback, and facilities. 

Read our guide to find out what are the best Durham Colleges. 

If you consider seriously Durham, read also our guides:

• How To Apply To Durham University
• Is Durham University good?
• Durham University Acceptance Rate
• How To Choose Durham College
• Durham Colleges Pros And Cons

How to Choose The Best Durham College

Choosing the best Durham college is an important decision for your UCAS application . A college community is a vibrant and diverse group of individuals who are not limited to those who reside within the college campus. 

This includes undergraduate and postgraduate students who may choose to live off-campus, faculty staff and alumni who have previously been a part of the college. 

Together, they form a dynamic and inclusive network of people who are connected by their shared experiences and affiliation with the Durham colleges and universities .

As you are set to spend a minimum of three years at Durham College, making the right decision is crucial. During this period, you will be immersed in campus life, establish new friendships, build partnerships, and acquire knowledge. 

Your choice will undoubtedly have a significant impact on your student life and overall experience at the University of Durham. 

Therefore, it is essential to carefully weigh your options and make a sound decision that aligns with your academic and personal goals.

When it comes to choosing a college at Durham University , there are several critical factors to take into account. 

Here is a full guide:

• How To Choose Durham College In 2023

Firstly, the course you intend to study should be a primary consideration since different colleges specialise in particular subjects. Secondly, the location of the college is important as it can impact your daily commute and access to various amenities. 

Accommodation is another essential aspect to consider, with many colleges offering a range of options from catered to self-catered. 

Also, the size of the college should be taken into consideration, as smaller colleges can offer a more intimate and close-knit community. In contrast, larger colleges can provide a broader range of facilities and activities. 

The facilities offered by the college should also be evaluated, such as the availability of study spaces, libraries, and IT resources. 

Formal dinners are also something to consider as they can be a unique experience at the college. Durham Colleges are famous for Formal dinners where all students and member staff are in the old dining room (the inspiration for Harry Poter’s formal dinner at Hogvorts is from Durham). However, not all colleges have Formal dinners, so make sure to check this if it’s important for you. 

Maybe last but not less important are sports and extracurricular activities. Sports and extracurricular activities can play a vital role in enhancing your overall experience, so it is important to explore the various opportunities available at each college. 

Taking the time to consider each of these factors will help ensure that you select the best Durham college that is suited to your needs and interests. 

???? Pro Tip: Talk with Alumni and visit Open Days to make a better decision. 

How many colleges are at Durham Uni?

Durham’s vibrant student life revolves around its 17 colleges, which offer an incredible array of student-led activities. 

There are 17 colleges at Durham University, each with its unique character and identity.

Whether you’re into sports, theatre, or music, or you want to explore new interests through volunteering or event organising, your College provides the platform to unleash your potential and gain valuable life skills.

Durham Colleges List

Here is a complete list of the 17 colleges at Durham University :

• Collingwood College
• Grey College

Hatfield College

• John Snow College
• Josephine Butler College
• South College
• St Aidan’s College

St Chad’s College

• St Cuthbert’s Society
• College of St Hild & St Bede

St John’s College

St mary’s college.

• Stephenson College
• Trevelyan College

University College (Castle)

• Van Mildert College
• Ustinov College (Postgraduate only)

Durham Colleges Ranking in 2024

Undergraduate Durham Colleges rankings are always a contentious issue since they don’t have popular ranking tables like Norrington or Tompkins . Palatinate, an official student newspaper at Durham, developed Palatinate’s Evans Table. You can check rankings here.

However, we provide you with a Durham college ranking table based on the number of applicants and popularity, according to the official statistics report .

Here are Durham Colleges ranked in 2024.

Evans Score Table Rankings 2023

Palatinate’s Evans Table is a ranking of Durham colleges by academic performance. It was developed and introduced for the first time in 2022. 

The Evans scoring system for Durham college rankings awards nine points for a first-class degree, four points for a 2:1, one point for a 2:2, and zero points for a Third or lower. The total score is then divided by the maximum possible score to determine a college’s annual – ‘Evans score. The rankings are based on the degrees awarded at the end of the academic year.

The Evans Score is named in honour of Sir Harold Evans, the former Sunday Times editor who passed away. Sir Harold was a renowned journalist and Durham University College graduate who was committed to promoting excellence in education and journalism.

Durham Colleges Acceptance Rate

The overall acceptance rate for Durham University is 74% , according to the admission statistical report . However, if you are interested in a specific Durham college and do not want to make an open application, you may want to calculate your chances of being accepted. 

Below is a table of the acceptance rates for each Durham College for the 2020/2021 admission cycle:

It’s important to note that these acceptance rates may vary from year to year and depend on various factors, including the number of applications received, the quality of applicants, and the number of available spots.

Learn everything in our guide:

• What Is the Durham University Acceptance Rate?

Which is the hardest Durham College to get into?

The three most popular colleges in Durham , and hardest to get into,  are St Chad’s , University College , and St Mary’s . However, these colleges have significantly lower acceptance rates compared to the average. St Chad’s has an acceptance rate of 40%, University College (or Castle) has an acceptance rate of 45%, and St Mary’s has an acceptance rate of 56%.

What is the easiest Durham College to get into?

The easiest colleges to get into at Durham University are South College and Stephenson College with acceptance rates of 96.5% and 96%, respectively. Van Mildert and John Snow colleges have a slightly lower acceptance rate of around 94%. 

It is worth noting that these acceptance rates are significantly higher than the average acceptance rate at Durham University.

Durham Collegiate System

The collegiate system is unique to Durham University and is one of the reasons why the university is so highly regarded and recognised in the UK. It’s often compared to Oxford and Cambridge . 

Each Durham College has its character and identity, which creates a strong sense of community within the university. 

The collegiate system also means that students have access to a wide range of facilities, formal, sports activities and resources within their college, as well as across the university.

It’s hard to rank which of the Durham colleges is the best. To help narrow down the options, we researched several key factors including the number of applicants, acceptance rate, quality of education, alumni and student feedback. Based on our findings, we have compiled a list of the 7 best Durham Colleges for 202 4.

St. Chad’s College boasts a history that dates back to 1904, making it one of the oldest colleges at the University of Durham. The college is a part of the heart of medieval Durham and is renowned for its stunning location. It’s been considered one of the best Durham Colleges for years. 

Despite being one of the oldest Durham colleges, St. Chad’s maintains the highest academic standards while providing a relaxed, friendly, and supportive atmosphere for its students.

With a total of around 550 undergraduate and postgraduate students, St. Chad’s is a small but welcoming community . The college has an excellent reputation for challenging and supporting its students. 

Competition for the admission process is high , making St. Chad’s of the top 3 most popular colleges in Durham in terms of applications per place every year. St. Chad’s acceptance rate is around 40%.

St. Chad’s offers the best library facilities and extensive study spaces, setting it apart from other Durham colleges. 

Keep in mind, Chad’s students have outstanding academic results, with 92% graduating with a 1st or upper-second-class honours degree in 2022. If you are entering into this college, you will be part of the top academics in the University.

A unique aspect of St. Chad’s is that students wear their college gowns to formal events such as Formal hall, matriculation, and college congregations. Members of the college don academic gowns and gather for formal hall one or two times per week, a tradition that brings together students and staff. 

During formal hall, fellows, tutors, and their guests sit at the high table, further fostering a sense of community.

The college is a “recognised college” of Durham University, meaning it is not maintained or governed by the university. It’s a totally independent institution. Nonetheless, it maintains a strong reputation as one of the best colleges at Durham University.

University College, known as Castle, is the oldest college of Durham University, founded in 1832. For almost all Castlemans is the best Durham College. 

This friendly living community is home to approximately 750 undergraduates, 700 postgraduates, and 300 University staff members. With more than 500 students residing in Castle’s five accommodation areas, including the Castle itself and four nearby residences, it’s no surprise that it’s the most popular Durham College. 

Due to its popularity, University College has a highly competitive admission process that receives numerous applications every year, with an acceptance rate of around 45% .

Castle offers a diverse range of facilities, including the Lowe Library, part of the Castle, the Undercroft, commonly known as “The Undie,” music rooms in Bailey Court accommodation, a small gym in Moatside Court, and a laundry in Bailey Court, open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Since you will study and live in University College (Castle), you have access to a wealth of opportunities to explore your values, interests, course of study, and personal well-being. 

You can participate in team sports, design sets for plays, work out with neighbours, attend concerts, serve as a peer mentor, volunteer in the community, and more. 

University College students (Castlemans) have a busy schedule, but the atmosphere is friendly and they usually manage to balance study and social life. 

Students get three meals a day in the Great Hall of the Norman castle, situated on the Bailey. It’s worth mentioning that University College is the only UNESCO World Heritage site where people, known as Castlemen, currently live and study!

Every Tuesday and Thursday, Castle hosts Formals, where students are expected to dress smartly and wear gowns. Booking a seat costs 1 GBP. During Formals, everyone attending must stand when the High Table enters, when grace is being said or sung, and when the Senior Student is bowing out.

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Hatfield College, established in 1846, is the second oldest Durham college . Positioned on one of the oldest streets in Durham, the college is laying between the banks of the River Wear and the World Heritage site of the Norman Cathedral.

Definitely in the top 3 best Durham Colleges. Also considered a posh college, since most of the students are from private schools. 

The college boasts a fantastic college spirit, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to create a welcoming and inclusive community. You’ll feel a part of the community due to its friendly atmosphere, despite the “stereotype” that college is called the most hated at the university.

Hatfield College offers comfortable rooms, and its cleaners are friendly and attentive to the needs of students.

Like other Bailey Colleges, Hatfield College requires the wearing of undergraduate academic gowns for formal events, such as the matriculation ceremony and Formal dinners every week on Tuesday and Friday. 

Initially established as a more affordable alternative to University College, Hatfield College introduced communal dining as opposed to private meals delivered by a personal servant. Opposite Castle college. These two are the biggest rivals. 

Hatfield College is renowned for its sporting activities and has become dominant in collegiate tournaments. The college has produced successful rugby players and has become associated with rugby culture, often known for its boozy socials with grim initiations and general boisterousness.

St. Mary’s College is founded in 1899. It is among the oldest and best colleges in Durham. With a friendly and welcoming mixed community of about 750 undergraduates, 150 full-time, and 200 part-time postgraduates, the college provides a great academic experience. 

Its location is also an advantage, as it is close to the university’s central facilities and academic departments.

St. Mary’s College has a fantastic reputation for providing exceptional support to its students. Every student at St. Mary’s is assigned a mentor who guides and supports them throughout their college journey.

Although it was previously a girls’ college, St. Mary’s is now a unisex college with only one female block, leading some to perceive it as a girls’ college. The grounds of the college are well-kept, making it a pleasant place to be.

St John’s College in Durham University is a highly regarded institution and one of the two independent “recognised colleges” of the university, the other being St Chad’s. 

It is the second smallest college in Durham , which fosters a close-knit community where students are familiar with each other, regardless of their year, course or accommodation. 

First-year and most final-year students live within the college, whereas second-year students are expected to arrange their accommodation. 

Freshers Reps are elected, who are well-known throughout the college and provide one-on-one interaction, giving new students a more solid foundation during their first few weeks than in larger colleges.

St John’s has an excellent reputation for food , which is rated among the best in the university . (We are sure this is because of good deserts) 

The catering team is friendly and accommodating to various dietary requirements. The college is fully catered during term time, and self-catered packages are not offered . The college’s location on the Bailey is also a significant advantage.

Students of St John’s College benefit from free formal dinners , free coffee, and free laundry facilities, which are all well-liked by students. 

The college community is known for being friendly, which is something that all students seem to agree on.

Collingwood

Collingwood College is the largest college of Durham University and has approximately 1800 students, out of which around 520 students live within the college. The college was established in 1972 and was the first mixed-sex college in Durham. It is named after Sir Edward Collingwood, a famous mathematician.

Collingwood College has a great academic record and excels in sports and the arts. The college has an active student body, known as JCR, which organises various activities and events. The college has an informal and relaxing culture, making it an energetic and modern place to study. If you don’t like traditional colleges, you will like Collingwood. 

Collingwood College has several sports clubs and societies, such as The Woodplayers (Drama Society), Collingwood College Arts Society, Collingwood College Fashion Show, Collingwood College Boat Club, Collingwood College Rugby Football Club, and Collingwood College Cricket Club, and others. 

The college offers two types of accommodation, Standard and En-suite bedrooms. It is a fully catered college, providing three meals a day, seven days a week, to its residents. The cost of all meals is included in the residence fee. 

This can be discouraging for students who prefer to prepare their meals for some reason.

St Cuthbert’s

St Cuthbert’s or commonly known as Cuth’s, is founded in 1888 by students and prides itself on maintaining its independent spirit while offering all the benefits of being part of Durham University. 

The college does not have gowned formal dinners. Its accommodation options are varied and flexible, ranging from rooms in historic houses on the Bailey to modern self-catered flats at Parson’s Field. 

Cuth’s offers three catering options: catered, self-catering, or part-catered. The college boasts excellent IT facilities, including two computer suites with high-spec machines, large flat-screen monitors, and 24-hour access. WIFI is available throughout the college for convenience.

Map Of Durham Colleges

The map of Durham colleges provides an overview of the different colleges that are part of Durham University. 

These colleges are scattered throughout the city of Durham and vary in size and character, from the oldest and most traditional to the newer and more modern. 

Durham Colleges map serves as a useful tool for students and visitors alike to navigate and explore the various colleges, each with its own unique history, architecture, and academic and social opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Considering important factors such as the number of applicants, acceptance rate, quality of education, alumni and student feedback, we are able to rank the best Durham Colleges. And help you choose a college at Durham . 

From our research, St Chad’s College, University College (Castle), Hatfield College, and St Mary’s College are among the best Durham colleges in 2024. Each college has its own unique features, such as St Chad’s excellent library facilities and extensive study spaces, Castle’s diverse range of facilities, Hatfield’s welcoming and inclusive community, and St Mary’s modern facilities and close proximity to the city centre.

Hatfield College has gained notoriety for being regarded as the poshest college, with a majority of its students having attended private schools in the UK.

South is the most recent addition to Durham University’s college system, having been established in 2020.

“Castle,” which is the oldest of Durham University’s colleges, is affectionately known as University College. It offers a unique and supportive community that provides students with stimulating academic experiences, exciting social events, and valuable personal assistance.

Why Visit Colleges?

Find the right college for you..

A key part of deciding which college to go to is finding a good fit. And a great way to get more information is to visit the colleges in person.

Virtual tours are also a great way to learn more about a campus. It can help you determine whether a college is the right place for you and prepare you for a campus visit at your convenience.

A Firsthand View

Why are college visits important? A campus visit is your opportunity to get a firsthand view of a college. A college catalog, brochure, or website can only show you so much. To really get a feel for the college , you need to walk around the quad, sit in on a class, and visit the dorms.

Get Answers to Your Questions.

A visit also lets you talk to students, faculty, financial aid staff, and admissions officers. You can get answers to important questions like these:

• What’s the campus meal plan like? How is the food? What are the options?
• What's the social scene like? What kinds of activities are available?
• Is there plenty of dorm space or a housing crunch?
• How many students are commuters? How many are campus residents?
• Is there a health center? What mental health resources are available?
• What career development resources are available? What student employment opportunities are available?

Use this checklist for a campus visit to remind yourself of everything you want to do once you reach your destination.

Your family members can also participate in the visit and any information sessions. They can help you decide which colleges to apply to and which one to attend.

Benefits of a Campus Visit.

Visiting a college is a great starting point. Pick up any official college material you see on the campus tour, such as brochures and financial aid forms.

Don't forget to get business cards, too, so you'll have a real, live contact if you have a question about admissions or financial aid. Do college visits help with admissions? Yes, these visits allow you to speak to the admissions officer handling your application.

Student newspapers and activity calendars give you a sense of what campus life is really like. Check out bulletin boards to see what bands are coming to the campus, what parties are advertised, what internships are posted, and what the day-to-day energy of the place is like.

Get Ready to Decide.

It’s your decision. Heed your intuition. Do you feel comfortable walking around campus? Do you feel at home? Do you click with the students and faculty? Is this what you imagined college to be like? Spending time on campus helps you determine whether a college is a good fit.

Adapted from  Campus Visits and College Interviews  by Zola Dincin Schneider. 

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The University of New Hampshire is excited to welcome you to campus. Please click on the date of the month to register for an Information Session and Campus tours convenient for you.

In addition, specialized academic sessions are also available to guests. Click here to  register for a session. 

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Durham Castle and Cathedral World Heritage Site is an awe-inspiring place.  People have come together to learn and worship here for over 1000 years.  

UNESCO inscribed the site on the World Heritage List in 1986 for its outstanding universal significance to humanity. Today it is stewarded by Durham Cathedral, Durham University, Durham County Council and St John’s College. 

Image reproduced by courtesy of Graeme Hall.

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Just beginning to tour colleges? Applying to UNH or getting ready to call us home? Wherever you are in your UNH journey, there’s a high-energy campus event for you. See if one of our events is the right time for you to visit campus.

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Every fall, members of our admissions team travel across the state and country to meet with students like you interested in a future at New Hampshire’s flagship university. Search our map by state to see if we’re headed your way.

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Experience the Raleigh Durham area, mild weather, and great barbecue on this spirited southern tour! After a long day touring colleges explore downtown Durham, do some high-speed go-kart racing, and try an original Krispy Kreme donut.

Popular colleges to include on this tour include Davidson College, Duke University, Elon University, High Point University, North Carolina State University, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, and Wake Forest University

Fly into Raleigh Durham Airport or arrive by charter bus. Sightseeing in area dependent upon arrival time.

College Visit #1 : North Carolina State University

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Post-offer Visit Day

Welcome to south college, a message from the principal:.

Colleges are so much more than halls of residence. They are friendly, supportive human-scale communities within the wider university. When you arrive in Durham, your college will welcome you and make you feel at home. Students and staff will help you to find your feet and provide opportunities for you to get involved in a huge range of activities.

South College is a ready-made family of people from different countries and backgrounds. Here, you will meet students who are studying every subject taught at the University and make friendships that will last a lifetime.

Your college will play a key part in looking after your wellbeing. And it will help you to find your strengths and develop skills and interests. South College will help you to explore sport, theatre, music and volunteering, and enjoy the outstanding social life that makes Durham such a special university.

As a new college with big ambitions, South has outstanding accommodation. It also has fantastic sports teams and student societies. Our formal dinners set a standard of stylish but relaxed excellence.

And our character is based on ideas expressed in our college motto: "Libertas, aequalitas, civitas totius mundi". In English this means "freedom, equality and global citizenship". Freedom refers to Durham University's commitment to freedom of thought, speech and debate. Equality emphasises South College's commitment to inclusion and diversity. Global citizenship stresses our determination to welcome students from all countries and continents and our concern for the future of our planet.

Professor Tim Luckhurst

Post-offer Visit Days 2024

Wednesday 14 February 2024

Wednesday 20 March 2024

Saturday 27 April 2024

We would be delighted for you to come and have a look at our college and meet some of the staff and students who make up our community.

On any of the Post-offer Visit Days you are very welcome to drop into South College between 9.30 am - 12:30 pm. You will be able to spend time in college, speaking to current students about their college experience. We will have refreshments available in bar (non-alcoholic!) and we would be delighted to take you on tours of our facilities. Our friendly staff and amazing students will be on hand to answer any questions. There will also be opportunities for photos with Oswald, our famous wooden mascot who attends every formal and greets each student as they join the college. Please feel free to bring family or friends with you.

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Below you will find links to further information about South College, our accommodation, facilities, and how to find us.

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