University of Hertfordshire achieves top 50 UK university ranking
Published today (Saturday, 13 September), the Guide placed the University 49 out of 123 UK universities, a significant rise of 26 places that earned Herts the additional accolade of being one of the global news organisation’s top 10 highest climbers for 2026.
In addition to its overall success, the University delivered an exceptional performance at subject level. Its animation and game design course was ranked first in the country, while its healthcare disciplines stood out with top 10 rankings in eight areas: physiotherapy (4th), social work (5th), mental health nursing (7th), health professions (9th), nutrition and food science (9th), children’s nursing (10th), midwifery (10th) and paramedic science (10th).
This strong showing comes at a pivotal moment for the University, which has just opened recruitment for its new medical school and Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery degree (MBBS) programme, launching in the next academic year. The rankings underscore Herts’ growing reputation in health education and its commitment to expanding opportunities in clinical training, research and innovation.
The Guardian University Guide bases its assessment on the National Student Survey (NSS) and other key indicators, including entry standards, student satisfaction, assessment and feedback and graduate outcomes. Uniquely, it excludes research performance, placing a greater emphasis on teaching excellence and the student learning experience.
Professor Anthony Woodman, Vice Chancellor of the University of Hertfordshire, said:
“This is a landmark moment for the University of Hertfordshire and we couldn’t be more thrilled by this remarkable overall result, as well as the many subject-level achievements. Breaking into the UK’s top 50 for the first time in the Guardian University Guide is a powerful endorsement of our commitment to delivering high-quality, career-focused education and an outstanding student experience, and reflects the dedication of our staff, the ambition of our students and the strength of our teaching and support.
“It is a win for our entire community, and we really hope the people of Hertfordshire feel proud to say they have a top 50 university right here in their county. Together, we’re showing what’s possible when we invest in people, listen to our students and stay true to our values. We’re excited to keep building on this success.”
It’s been a fortnight of triumphs for the University of Hertfordshire, with the Guardian rankings following the news that the University has been shortlisted in four categories at the Times Higher Education Awards 2025 – including in the prestigious University of the Year category. Also shortlisted for Outstanding Estates Team, Outstanding Marketing / Communications Team of the Year and Widening Participation or Outreach Initiative of the Year, the remarkable results make Herts one of the five most shortlisted universities in the UK for 2025.