QS World University Rankings

World-leading status affirmed in QS World University Rankings 2024 

Our status as a globally outstanding centre of teaching and research excellence has been affirmed once again in the QS World University Rankings 2024, being ranked 78th in the world.

The 2024 rankings, which assessed 2,963 universities, see Durham move up 14 places on last year, with notable successes in the new indicators of Sustainability and International Research Network. 

Our top performance came in the new Sustainability category, being ranked joint 30th in the world. This area evaluates the social and environmental impact of universities as centres of education and research and is taken from the analysis of the QS Sustainability Rankings. 

The richness and diversity of our international research partnerships was also acknowledged, being ranked 108th in the world for the impacts of our International Research Network. 

We also enhanced our already strong performances in the areas of Employer Reputation and Academic Reputation, being ranked 50th and 124th respectively and both up on the prior year. Together, these cement Durham’s global reputation with employers and for its excellence in research.

QS Senior Vice President Ben Sowter said: “This year, Durham University propels itself further into the world’s top 100. Its burgeoning reputation among international academics and employers alike has been instrumental in this success, particularly the latter, in which its exceptional performance showcases the exemplary upskilling and work readiness that it instils in its graduates.

“Additionally, Durham’s commitment to sustainable development goals is evident in both its management structure and curriculum, as demonstrated by its outstanding performance in QS’ new Sustainability indicator. Notably, Durham ranks among the top 30 universities globally for this metric and within the top 10 in the UK, spotlighting its dedication to fostering a better future for its students and society more broadly.”