Durham University has been named University of the Year 2026 in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide. The institution was also joint runner-up for University of the Year for Graduate Employment and climbed to third place overall, up two places from 2025.
These achievements mean Durham is now ranked in the UK’s top five across all three major national university league tables for 2026. In The Guardian University Guide, Durham rose to fifth place, securing top subject results including first in Theology & Religious Studies, second in Biology and English, and third in Accounting & Finance, Marketing & Public Relations, and Criminology. In the Complete University Guide 2026, the university also moved up to fifth.
Durham’s consistent performance reflects its strengths in teaching, graduate outcomes and research, alongside its wider student experience. Graduates are highly sought after internationally, with the university ranked 64th in the world for employer reputation in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
Durham’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Karen O’Brien
“Durham is an outstanding place to study. We ensure that every student can grow and thrive here. Our loyal, engaged alumni are testament to the impressive career prospects that await our graduates.”
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