Durham ranked sixth in Times University Guide 2027

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027 ranks Durham as the North East’s top university and names it University of the Year for the region.

Durham sits well clear of every other university in the region and remains one of Britain’s most prestigious institutions, known for its academics, historic setting and strong graduate employment prospects.

Its academic reputation was also reflected with a record 22 subjects ranked among the world’s top 100 in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject, including three in the top 10.

Despite dropping three places from third to sixth nationally, Durham remains one of the country’s top-tier universities.

Durham University ranks best in North East and sixth in the country in Times Good University Guide 2027. (Image: Durham University)

Durham University (Image: Durham University)

For students weighing up their options closer to home, the guide also reveals how other North East universities fared in the national rankings.

Newcastle University was the region’s second highest-ranked institution, placing 30th nationally and fifth in the North and North East rankings.

Northumbria University followed in 52nd place nationally, securing seventh spot in the regional table.

Northumbria University (Image: Supplied)

Teesside University was ranked 68th in the UK, placing eighth across the North and North East, while the University of Sunderland came 106th nationally and 13th regionally.

The annual guide ranks universities based on teaching quality, student satisfaction, graduate prospects, continuation rates and entry standards.

Teesside University (Image: Supplied)

University of Sunderland (Image: Supplied)

Helen Davies, editor of The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, said: “What shines through more than ever this year is an emphasis on preparing students for future careers.

“Universities have tailored their campuses to suit hands-on learning with mock courtrooms, simulations of clinical settings and trading floors.”

The latest rankings cement Durham’s position as the North East’s leading university and a top choice for students across the UK.