Increased support for Derry graduate entry medical students announced
The Economy Minister intends for students at the Graduate Entry Medical School at Ulster University’s Derry campus to be able to access a Government loan for tuition fees
Economy Minister Conor Murphy has today announced his intention to offer greater financial support for graduate entry medical students from 2025/26.
From the 2025/26 academic year, the Minister intends for students at the Graduate Entry Medical School at Ulster University’s Derry campus to be able to access a Government loan for tuition fees.
The Minister said: "Delivering 10,000 students at Ulster University's Magee campus is a priority for me as Economy Minister and for the Executive.
"To date students at the Graduate Entry Medical School have been unable to obtain a Government loan to cover the cost of their tuition. This has been a barrier for people taking up places.
"Offering them this loan will attract more students to Magee and produce much-needed medical professionals for our health service."
The decision is subject to the outcome of discussions with higher education institutions and other key stakeholders and consideration of their views. The Minister will then move to lift the restriction from next year.
The decision to pursue the change has been made with agreement from Health Minister Mike Nesbitt.