The university is ranked 70th out of 958 institutions in the 2026 QS World University Rankings: Europe.  

The rankings highlight the University’s strengths in research, global engagement, employability and sustainability among others.  

An additional 291 institutions have joined the rankings since 2025 and yet Queen’s has improved on its previous position from 73 to 70, firmly maintaining its place in the top 100.  

The rankings measure the performance of the universities against their learning experience, the impact of their research, employment prospects for graduates, and opportunities for students to study and carry out work placements overseas.  

Highlights for Queen’s in the rankings include: 

• Ranked 18 in Europe for international faculty
  
  
• Ranked 39 in Europe for international student diversity
  
  
• Ranked 52 in Europe for sustainability
  
  
• Ranked 50 in Europe for international research network 

This follows Queen’s breaking into the top 200 globally in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings 2026 announced last year, placing 199 out of over 1,500 universities worldwide. 

Professor Sir Ian Greer, President and Vice-Chancellor said:

“We are delighted to be placed in the top 8% of universities across Europe in these prominent rankings.  

“Our ranking among the top 70 universities in Europe is a strong recognition of the quality, reach and influence of research at Queen’s. High performance in areas such as international research collaboration and citations per paper reflects a research environment that is both globally connected and impactful.  

“I would like to thank our dedicated staff, students and university community who are pivotal to our success.” 

Professor Margaret Topping, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement, added:

“Our rise to 70th in Europe is a resounding endorsement of Queen’s growing international profile and the impact of our global community. Our strong showing for international research networks, citations per paper and sustainability demonstrates a research culture that is collaborative and focused on addressing global challenges.” 

 

Media

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