Transcript:

Greg McCloskey, Director of Digital and Information Services

Hello. I wanted to give you a quick update on how our current digital transformation is reshaping the experiences of our students, staff, academics and researchers by enhancing how we teach, learn, work and advance knowledge, helping to deliver the University’s strategic objectives.

Up until now, our admissions process could feel daunting, involving various applications, transcripts, recommendations, and forms. But, thanks to our "Connected Campus" digital transformation programme, things are about to change for the better.

We have now introduced a range of AI-enabled solutions that read and process applications faster and with greater accuracy, providing applicants with more timely updates as part of a smoother, more user-friendly process.

And, if an applicant doesn’t meet the criteria, our new AI Alternative Course Assistant provides helpful options, suggesting related courses, pathway programmes and tailored modules – giving applicants clear, informed choices for their future.

For staff, the transition to integrated systems is also well underway. The next step on our "Connected Campus" programme will see the introduction of Student 360, which will establish a Single Source of Truth that consolidates academic, administrative and pastoral information into one reliable digital identity. This approach removes the need to search across disparate data sets, and equips staff to proactively identify students at risk, enabling delivery of targeted support at an early stage.

University life for students will be also be streamlined and enhanced through improved support systems that eliminate the need to repeatedly relay personal information or communicate with multiple departments, creating a cohesive experience that helps each student feel recognised, appreciated and engaged.

The first phase of Student 360 goes live this month, with further components added throughout the year.

And this is just the beginning. As the phases of 360 roll out, each new service – from attendance monitoring and dynamic room allocation to improved module marking – will strengthen a campus ecosystem built on a secure foundation of trusted data, in which staff benefit from more efficient processes that reduce administrative burden, and students receive a cohesive, responsive experience.

We are also planning AI tools that will further empower staff by simplifying administrative tasks, automating routine workflows and supporting decision-making. With streamlined access to accurate student data and predictive analytics, staff will be able to focus on meaningful interactions and proactive support, ultimately enhancing their experience at work, as well as feeling more connected to their University community.

Together, we’re building a Connected Campus, where technology empowers decision-making and delivers timely insight that will ultimately enable an even greater level of support and inclusiveness for all within our university community.

Thank you for your continued engagement and feedback as we progress along this journey.

Amy Smith, Students' Union President

As Students’ Union President, my top priority is making sure every student feels supported from their very first interaction with Queen’s right through to their graduation.

So I really welcome the transformation of the University’s Admissions system, which now utilises the latest AI technology to enhance that first experience. The new system will help process applications faster and more consistently and will provide clearer updates and feedback to prospective students on a real time basis.

And if an applicant narrowly misses course requirements, the new AI tools in the Admissions system will do much more than just communicate an unsuccessful outcome. Instead, the system now suggests alternative pathways, keeping options open and giving students meaningful choices – and all done in real time.

For current students, other positive changes are also on the way, with the first phase of Student 360 going live this month.

The new Student 360 portal will mean that, instead of students having to repeat their circumstances to multiple departments, key information will now be held in one trusted place, enabling University staff and services to provide them with more personalised and timely support and help when needed.

These significant changes will mean a smoother student journey, fewer administrative barriers, and a stronger sense of belonging.

It’s positive to see this technology used to make the university experience more human, more supportive, more responsive and more focused on student success and wellbeing.