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Education

Oxford Tops South East University Rankings, St Andrews Takes National Lead

today15/09/2023 38

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University of Buckingham Also Shortlisted for “University of the Year” in the Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024

The University of Oxford has claimed the top spot in the South East, according to The Times & The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024. Despite its strong performance locally, Oxford ranks second at the national level, being edged out by the University of St Andrews.

National Upset

This is only the second time in the guide’s 30-year history that neither Oxford nor Cambridge secured the number one position nationally. This year’s top honor went to the University of St Andrews, marking a notable shift in traditional academic hierarchies.

Buckingham’s Achievement

The University of Buckingham has garnered attention as well, being shortlisted for the prestigious “University of the Year” award. Although ranked 56th nationally, its nomination signifies its remarkable contributions to higher education.

Rankings Breakdown

Here is a snapshot of the South East Rankings vs National Rankings for the top institutions:

  • University of Oxford: South East 1, National 2
  • University of Southampton: South East 2, National 17
  • University of Surrey: South East 3, National 21
  • University of Reading: South East 4, National 34
  • University of Sussex: South East 5, National 48

Key Findings

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024 also revealed several key trends:

  • The type of course and the university attended significantly impact future earnings. For instance, computer studies at Imperial College leads to an average salary of £64,000 within 15 months of graduation.
  • There has been an almost 10% increase in applications to study computer science, including AI, video games design, and robotics, compared to last year.
  • While Oxford and Cambridge maintain their prestige, there has been a significant rise in admissions from non-selective state schools.

Diversity Challenges

Despite their high academic standing, many top universities still find themselves at the bottom of the rankings in terms of social inclusion. The Russell Group institutions notably occupy 16 of the bottom 20 places in this regard.

Expert Comment

“The higher education landscape has never been tougher,” says Helen Davies, editor of The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide. “Our 30th edition aims to help prospective students, parents, or carers make the most informed choices about their education.”

Award Winners

Other notable winners include:

  • University of the Year 2024: University College London
  • University of the Year for Graduate Employment: Imperial College London
  • Sports University of the Year: University of Nottingham

For a more comprehensive overview and rankings, visit The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024.

This extensive guide serves as a crucial resource for prospective students and their families, offering a multitude of information from degree completion rates to graduate employment prospects and more. The 2024 edition also introduces an environmental and ethical standards ranking from People and Planet, as well as guides on scholarships, bursaries, and campus facilities.

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Written by: Hamish Law

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