Durham University is the sixth best in Britain, according to the Complete University Guide 2025, up from eighth last year.
The institution on the banks of the River Wear is top in the North East and among the best in the country. In the North East, Newcastle University, Northumbria University, the University of Sunderland and Teesside University complete the top five.
In the national ranking, Newcastle comes 26th, Northumbria 34th, Sunderland 72nd, and Teesside 100th. The University of Cambridge tops the list, beating out Oxford and the London School of Economics, which complete the top three.
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The prestigious ranking is released yearly and also features subject league tables. The idea is to help prospective students make decisions about which university is right for them.
Professor Amanda Chetwynd, Chair of the Complete University Guide Advisory Board, said: "In the latest edition of the Complete University Guide rankings, we extend our congratulations to the University of Cambridge for securing the coveted top spot. Our methodology, rooted in independent measures, reflects vital aspects cherished by students, such as post-graduation job prospects, ratio of staff to students and the quality of the teaching.
"The competitive landscape within the top 20 underscores the exceptional standards upheld by UK universities. Furthermore, the dynamic shifts witnessed in the subject league tables emphasise their significance as a crucial resource for prospective students navigating their academic journey, providing invaluable guidance for those seeking clarity on where to pursue their passions."
The Complete University Guide team said its figures showed nearly 80% of graduates had "successfully transitioned" into graduate or professional jobs or postgraduate studies.
Simon Emmett, chief executive of IDP Connect which publishes the Complete University Guide, said: "The 2025 Complete University Guide rankings are an essential compass for students navigating their academic journey. Rooted in unwavering independence, the guide empowers students with crucial insights, ensuring trust and reliability in their decision-making process.
"Beyond mere rankings, the guide addresses key concerns like cost of living and local crime rates, serving as a comprehensive resource for students and parents alike."
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