UK University Ranking - Cambridge ranked Top again

The University of Cambridge has once again come top of the Complete University Guide 2019, ahead of Oxford (2nd) and London School of Economics (3rd).

The University of Cambridge’s dominance in the Complete University Guide 2019 is a testament to its longstanding reputation for academic excellence and its comprehensive, rigorous approach to education. With a global reputation for producing some of the brightest minds in science, literature, and the arts, Cambridge's position at the top of the rankings only strengthens its appeal to prospective students worldwide. The University continues to excel in multiple disciplines, from the humanities to engineering, attracting top-tier students and researchers. Its commitment to cutting-edge research, a wide range of resources, and its world-class faculty ensures that Cambridge remains a beacon of academic achievement. Its longstanding rivalry with Oxford, which has held the second spot, is symbolic of the competitive nature between these two historic institutions, both of which continue to push the boundaries of higher education.

However, the Complete University Guide 2019 highlights that there is more to the UK’s academic landscape than just Cambridge and Oxford. The University of Southampton’s impressive rise in the rankings, moving up six places to reach 20th overall, is one example of this. Southampton has made significant strides in various subject areas, with the university ranking in the top 10 for several disciplines. Notable areas of strength include Aeronautical & Manufacturing Engineering, where it is ranked 4th, and Anatomy & Physiology, where it holds 8th place. Southampton has also made impressive strides in Communication & Media Studies, Computer Science, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering, with several of these subjects ranking in the top 10 nationally. The university’s emphasis on research and innovation has contributed to its rise in the rankings, and its strategic focus on key subject areas ensures that it remains a highly attractive option for students seeking a specialized and high-quality education. Southampton’s commitment to research and its ability to collaborate with industries ensures that students have access to cutting-edge facilities and real-world opportunities, making it an important player in the UK’s higher education landscape.

Newcastle University, ranked 22nd overall, also showcases the dynamic nature of university rankings, with the institution moving up one place from the previous year. Known for its diverse range of courses, Newcastle has 38 subjects featuring in the Complete University Guide’s subject tables, with 17 of these ranked in the country’s top 10. This impressive achievement reflects the university's broad academic strengths across multiple disciplines. Newcastle has built a reputation for excellence in subjects such as Art and Design, Agriculture and Forestry, Food Science, Dentistry, Medicine, and Archaeology. The university has invested heavily in both teaching and research, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of academic excellence in the UK. Furthermore, Newcastle’s interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on real-world applications give its students an edge in an increasingly competitive job market. With a reputation for strong support networks, an excellent campus environment, and robust industry connections, Newcastle University continues to grow its presence both nationally and internationally.

The University of Reading’s placement at 32nd in the Complete University Guide 2019 also highlights its academic strengths. Although not in the top 30, the university has a number of areas where it excels. Notably, it ranks highly for Research Quality & Intensity, Academic Services Spend, and Degree Completion, underscoring the institution's commitment to providing students with a high-quality educational experience. Reading also places highly for student satisfaction, with strong metrics for the Student-Staff Ratio and Good Honours. The university’s emphasis on research and teaching quality contributes to its continued success and the strong demand for its programs across a variety of fields. Reading’s commitment to supporting its students through dedicated services and resources is also a key factor in its impressive ranking, and its ability to maintain strong links with industry and the private sector provides students with vital opportunities in their respective fields.

The University of Liverpool’s rise in the rankings, moving up five places to 36th overall, reflects its continued focus on academic excellence. While its overall position is not among the top 30, Liverpool stands out in specific subject areas, with seven subjects ranking in the top 10. Among these, Occupational Therapy, Veterinary Medicine, Archaeology, and Medical Technology shine as areas of particular strength. The university’s commitment to advancing research, particularly in the health sciences and medical fields, has been a significant contributor to its success. Liverpool’s ability to offer specialized programs in fields such as Physiotherapy, Chemistry, and Optometry further highlights its diverse strengths. The university’s approach to research-led teaching ensures that students have access to cutting-edge facilities, while its links with the NHS and other medical institutions provide students with unparalleled opportunities for practical experience and career development. Liverpool's commitment to producing well-rounded graduates who are well-prepared for the workforce is evident in the high number of students employed after graduation.