5.7k applications for Magee result in just 727 accepted offers

only 727 of 5,786 applications for courses resulting in accepted offers by September 5, 2011.

The huge capacity shortfall follows Magee Provost Professor Deirdre Heenan’s description of the decision of the Department for Employment and Learning not to fund the University’s bid for 1000 additional undergraduate places at Magee as “extremely disappointing.”

Now Learning Minister Dr Farry has advised SDLP MLA Pat Ramsey that of 5,786 applications this year just 727 were successful up to the start of this month.

Dr Farry stated: “The University of Ulster has informed my Department that there were 5,786 applications through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service ( UCAS), from 4,072 Northern Ireland domiciled applicants, for entry to full time undergraduate courses at Magee in academic year 2011/12. Students can include up to five choices on their application form and there is no preference order.

“A total of 1,111 applicants received and firmly accepted a conditional offer and, up to 5 September 2011, 727 Northern Ireland domiciled students have been offered and have accepted places at Magee.”