The UK's 12th best university
Celebrating the University of Essex climbing up The Guardian University Guide rankings
The University of Essex is celebrating its highest ever ranking in its 60 years of history. The Guardian University Guide this week revealed we are now ranked 12th in the UK, jumping up an incredible 13 places in one year - and up from 42nd in 2023.
The overall ranking means Essex is ahead of many Russell Group universities and second in the East of England, only behind the University of Cambridge.
We've maintained or improved our ranking across seven of the eight key metrics this year. This includes our staff-student ratios, spend per student, career progress of Essex graduates after 15 months and our ability to get the most out of our students as shown in our value-added measure. These were all highlights in The Guardian's influential analysis. Our strength in empowering students to get better degree results than their previous grades indicate means we're among the very best for 'value-added' - ranking 14th in the UK on this measure.
Away from the headline figure we are also toasting triumphs in individual schools and departments - with Essex now home to nine top ten subjects.
Ranking 1st for drama in the Guardian University Guide 2026, Essex is also 3rd for anatomy and physiology, 6th for biology, 6th for nursing, 6th for mathematics and 10th for sports science.
In addition, Essex is in the UK top 10 for three social science subjects – criminology, economics and international relations, which are all 9th in the guide.
Other subjects in the UK top 20 include hospitality, event management and tourism, mental health nursing, philosophy, physiotherapy, politics and sociology.
Centre stage for drama
Essex's number one ranking for drama covers East 15 Acting School and drama courses delivered by the Department for Literature, Film, and Theatre Studies (LiFTS).
Essex is unique in having theatres at all three of its campuses - the Clifftown at Southend, the Corbett at Loughton and the Lakeside at Colchester.
East 15 has fostered, trained, and guided countless stars including RuPaul's Drag Race UK winner Kyran Thrax, Inbetweeners' Blake Harrison, and comedian Masie Adams.
It offers an extraordinary, dynamic and unique portfolio of Undergraduate, Masters and PhD courses that span many areas of training for actors, directors, producers, technical theatre specialists, and students of theatre practice.
With graduates going on to set up their own pioneering theatre companies.
East 15 Director Dr Chris Main says it is no surprise the rankings have singled out the School's success.
“Our staff are devoted to delivering the highest quality education – teaching, directing and supporting our students. Our students are dedicated and passionate – always striving to achieve. Our alumni are performing, creating new work, and teaching across the globe – making a difference through theatre and the arts. I am privileged to work in such a creative atmosphere.”
East 15 graduate Charlie Josephine in Bitch Boxer, courtesy of Alex Brenner
East 15 graduate Charlie Josephine in Bitch Boxer, courtesy of Alex Brenner
Head of LiFTS Matthew De Abaitua thinks they offer something special to students which is highlighted by the ranking.
The interdisciplinary department draws on academic expertise from across the creative arts - with students learning from writers, film makers and journalists, building a foundation for careers across the creative arts.
“We pride ourselves on our close connection to the local culture. Being ranked 1st acknowledges the strength of the diverse nature of our students and the excellent work of our experienced team of playwrights, directors, stage production staff and actors in unlocking that talent.”
The next generation of scientists
Essex has cemented itself as one of the UK's best science universities, with our Faculty of Science and Health home to five top ten courses.
We are now ranked 3rd in the UK for anatomy and physiology, 6th for biology nursing and mathematics, and 10th for sports science.
The next generation of scientists and health care professionals will get the skills and education they need to help us all cope with the challenges of a changing world.
From exploring coral reefs in Indonesia to working in advanced genetics labs and professional sports clubs, students 'learn by doing' from scientists at the forefront of research.
Many degrees are accredited by leading professional bodies like the Institute of Biomedical Science, ensuring that graduates are job-ready and stand out in a competitive market.
The biology rankings cover a diverse mix of courses ranging from biomedical science to marine biology, reflecting the wide-ranging education delivered by the School of Life Sciences.
“This is testament to our innovative teaching, with an emphasis on developing laboratory and field skills. Another factor in our sector-leading 'graduate-career metrics' is the opportunities that we provide for students to interact with prospective employers, including placements, site visits and leading academic conferences.”
Multiplying success
Now ranked 6th in the country for mathematics the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science is living up to its mantra: “Mathematics in the world, mathematics for the world.”
With a broad focus our academics research and explore the real issues that impact everyday people's lives and pass this ethos on to undergraduates.
From exploring the economic impact of social networks of cows to the mathematical modelling of brain evolution and solving scheduling problems at the Port of Felixstowe, our mathematicians are changing the world.
This passion and drive is underpinned by the teaching of a degree desired by employers.
With courses focused on mathematics, statistics, actuarial science and data science providing a fantastic platform to enter a range of interesting sectors.
Head of School, Professor Spyros Vrontos, thanked his entire team for achieving the “historic milestone”.
“Ranking 6th in the UK is a recognition of continuous and significant improvements across all key metrics, including teaching, feedback, learning resources, study support, and the organisation and management of modules and courses. Together, we have achieved this historic milestone - and together, we will continue striving to transform the lives of our students for the better, across every aspect of our educational offer: undergraduate, postgraduate, and lifelong learning.”
Sport science champions
Sport science at Essex has leapt an incredible 35 places in just one year, a testament to the commitment of the team in the School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences.
Now ranked tenth in the UK, students can enjoy cutting-edge, industry-led degree programmes that are driven by research excellence and real-world application
Specialist labs, the Human Performance Unit, and partnerships with professional sports clubs give students the best of both worlds - theory backed up with high-level practice.
From placements with international cycling teams to partnerships with clubs like Essex County Cricket, the University is dedicated to enriching our education and research, with unbeatable industry connections.
“These results are a clear recognition of the expertise, commitment, and collaboration of our academic staff, professional services colleagues, and technicians, all of whom work tirelessly to provide an outstanding learning environment. We are committed to building on this success and continuing to deliver a world-class student experience informed by world-class teaching and research.”
Prescription for achievement
Essex is proud to be recognised as one of the top UK universities for nursing - highlighting the strength of its teaching, research, and student support.
Now ranked 6th, our nursing programme, within the School of Health and Social Care, combines clinical expertise with a focus on social justice, preparing students for the realities of modern healthcare.
Working closely with healthcare providers, Essex is shaping the future of nurse training, developing the skills and values needed to deliver outstanding patient care in the 21st Century.
Teaching fosters a close-knit environment where students help each other and receive personalised support.
Each student is assigned a personal tutor who is both a Registered Nurse and an active academic, offering guidance informed by real-world practice and research.
Students also have the opportunity to take part in international placements and study abroad programmes, helping them develop cultural awareness and professional confidence.
“We are delighted to be recognised among the top universities in the UK for nursing. This ranking is a testament to the expertise and dedication of our academic and administrative staff, the hard work of our students, and the strong partnerships we have with healthcare providers.”
A social science powerhouse
Our social science students are taught by world-leading experts about how the forces that shape our world really work.
So, it is no surprise in the Guardian University Guide, Essex has been ranked 9th for criminology, economics and international relations.
Politics and sociology rank 12th - with business and management, and languages and linguistics also in the top 30.
Studying at one of the top universities in the UK for social science is a unique opportunity.
Our Department of Government was the first of its kind in the UK and continues to be celebrated for putting the science into politics. The Department attracts students from all over the world who want to enjoy the best education they can get, as well as excellent career prospects.
As a global powerhouse in the study of conflict and conflict resolution, when not in the classroom, our lecturers are advising political leaders, governments and international NGOs.
Current research carried out by our political scientists includes an ambitious €2.47million project which explores the benefits of peacekeeping and a project to navigate the complex process of reincorporating former rebels into mainstream society in Colombia.
Our Department of Sociology and Criminology is delighted to be ranked 9th for criminology and 12th for sociology. Students are connected to live issues and debates around the social problems and ethical dilemmas that impact their lives. Yes, they are stretched and pushed outside their comfort zone, but in return a community of supportive staff and students provide all the back up and inspiration needed to enjoy an enriching and transformative experience.
Its academics shape modern society today, advising the UN, government departments, think tanks and public bodies around the world on issues from the rights of indigenous peoples, to the regulation of key industries, and how to tackle organised crime and terrorism.
Our top-quality Department of Economics research percolates into our teaching. Our economics students learn alongside research stars who are breaking new ground in all fields of economics. This research mindset helps students develop the intellectual skills needed to look at the world through an economist’s lens.
Academics are using advanced methodologies and drawing on their extensive global research networks to uncover ‘inconvenient truths’, test and refine dominant theories and develop new areas of knowledge. They are changing the world by providing compelling answers to these profound issues - influencing government policies on issues in the post-pandemic world such as the changing job market and the impact on innovation.
“The 2026 Guardian University Guide demonstrates the continued success of social sciences at Essex. These rankings represent the dedication of our social science departments, which have delivered the best possible outcomes for our students. They are taught by some of the top researchers in their fields in the UK, study within nurturing departmental cultures, and gain a range of skills and experiences relevant to the graduate job market.”
“So well-deserved by everyone”
Vice-Chancellor Professor Frances Bowen, who spoke to The Guardian about Essex's rise up the rankings, said: “This is such good news and so well-deserved by everyone who contributes to delivering our excellent education and fabulous student experience.
“Positive feedback from our students shows how much they value the support we offer, the sense of community we nurture, the global connections we provide, and how we help them towards the careers they aspire to.
“We are excited to be working closely with our Students’ Union to continue listening to students to build on our strengths and help Essex thrive in the coming years.”
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