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Teesside University celebrates highest-ever position in Guardian rankings

14 September 2026

 

Strong graduate outcomes and a commitment to teaching excellence have seen Teesside University achieve its highest-ever position in the Guardian University Guide.

Teesside University has achieved its highest ever ranking in the Guardian University Guide.
Teesside University has achieved its highest ever ranking in the Guardian University Guide.

The University, which has campuses in Middlesbrough and London, has climbed 24 places to 32nd in the UK.

The exceptional rise in rankings in the Guardian University Guide 2027 reflects continued improvements across teaching quality, student experience and graduate outcomes.

The rankings also highlight the strength of a number of Teesside University subjects, with several ranked among the best in the UK. These include:

  • Interior Design: 1st in the UK
  • Sports Science: 2nd in the UK
  • Social Work: 2nd in the UK
  • Animation and Games Design: 3rd in the UK
  • Media and Film Studies: 4th in the UK

The Guardian rankings are based on factors including student satisfaction with teaching and assessment, continuation rates, value added scores and graduate career prospects.

The latest results build on Teesside University's growing reputation for delivering positive outcomes for students.

According to data featured in the Guardian University Guide, 83 per cent of Teesside graduates progress into highly skilled employment or further study.

Around 58 per cent of Teesside University graduates remain in the Tees Valley and almost 90% stay in the wider North East, helping to retain talent, skills and expertise within the region, supporting Teesside University’s mission to drive economic growth.

These results demonstrate the impact of the high-quality education, support and opportunities we provide.

Professor Mark Simpson, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Teesside University

Professor Mark Simpson, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Teesside University, said: 'This is a landmark achievement for Teesside University and reflects the dedication of our staff, students and graduates.

'To reach our highest-ever position in the Guardian University Guide is something of which the whole University community can be proud.

'These results demonstrate the impact of the high-quality education, support and opportunities we provide. We are committed to ensuring our students not only succeed during their studies but graduate with the skills, experience and confidence they need to thrive in their careers.

'As a civic university, we are particularly proud that so many of our graduates choose to build their futures here in the Tees Valley and the wider North East, contributing their talent and expertise to the continued growth and prosperity of our region.'

The ranking follows a period of significant recognition for the University, which holds a Triple Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework and Ofsted Outstanding. Last year, the University was also recognised as Times Higher Education University of the Year and the Daily Mail Modern University of the Year.


 
 
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