University of Leicester continues climb in Guardian University Guide

The University of Leicester has improved its position in the Guardian University Guide, with the latest edition placing Leicester at =39th among UK universities.

Released today (12 September), the Guardian University Guide 2027 records a rise for Leicester from 40th position last year, while seven subjects at Leicester have been ranked in their top ten including top in the UK for Health Professions. 

It reaffirms Leicester’s position among the top 40 institutions in all major UK university league tables. Last month, Leicester recorded its highest-ever position in the Daily Mail University Guide 2027, rising seven places to 27th= out of 128 UK universities. It also maintained its position as a top 35 UK University in the Complete University Guide 2027. Earlier this year, the University of Leicester experienced a rise of 12 places to =314th in the QS World Rankings 2027, while the University recorded its third consecutive year of improvement in the National Student Survey.

The online Guardian University Guide 2027 includes the full UK league table, subject rankings and detailed profiles of every UK university and subject area. Unlike rankings that focus heavily on academic research, the Guardian looks at the university experience itself – from teaching and feedback to class sizes, spending per student, course completion and graduate careers.

Seven subject areas at the University of Leicester were ranked in their respective top ten:

• Health Professions (1)
• Chemistry (2)
• Midwifery (7)
• Earth and Marine Sciences (8)
• Anthropology and Archaeology (9)
• Physiotherapy (9)
• Medicine (=10)

This coming academic year will see all University of Leicester students provided full access to Microsoft 365 Copilot. By embedding AI into the learning experience, the University is ensuring its graduates leave with the skills and confidence to use the technologies shaping their future. For students, access to Copilot will form part of a wider commitment to future-ready education at Leicester, which also includes 100 hours of employer-informed, work-related learning on every undergraduate degree and research-inspired education embedded across all areas.

Linda Ralphs, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Learning Innovation) at the University of Leicester, said: “Leicester’s strong performance in the Guardian University Guide reflects the outstanding commitment of colleagues across the University, whose dedication continues to enhance the experience and success of our students.

“Together with our excellent results in the National Student Survey, the Complete University Guide and the Daily Mail University Guide, this recognition demonstrates the impact of our ongoing investment in high-quality, inclusive education and student support. As we continue to innovate, from providing all students with access to cutting-edge AI tools to embedding 100 hours of work-related learning within their studies, there has never been a better time to be a student at the University of Leicester. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and remain committed to helping every student thrive and achieve their ambitions.”