QS World University Rankings 2027

We rank 85th in the world

49th in the world

for Employer Reputation

Joint 24th in the world

for Sustainability

3rd in the UK

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

University of the Year 2026

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide

QS World University Rankings 2027: Durham ranks 85th, up 9 places

Our global reputation for employability reflects the quality and relevance of our education and research. As well as being ranked 85th overall, we are in the world top 50 for Employer Reputation.

We rank joint 24th for Sustainability, and we also have a strong academic reputation - testament to the international impact of our world-leading academics and the strength of our industrial and business partnerships.

To rise nine places to 85th in the QS World University Rankings is a tremendous achievement, in an outstanding year for Durham University. That employers rank us among the world’s top 50 universities is particularly important for our students and graduates, indicating the exceptional value that a Durham degree holds in equipping students for work and preparing them for career success.

Professor Karen O’Brien

Vice-Chancellor and Warden

Other rankings to date

3rd UK Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

5th in the UK, Guardian University Guide 2026

22 subjects in the World Top 100 (QS World University Rankings 2026)

Our departments are among the world’s best

We have a best-ever 21 subjects in the world top 100, in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025. Three subjects are in the top ten, and eight are in the top 50.

Explore our rankings by subject Learn more about our UK rankings