Queen’s University Belfast has been identified as a world leading institution across three major international and domestic university rankings, reflecting the University’s wide-reaching impact in research, education, sustainability, and student satisfaction. 

In the latest Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings 2026, Queen’s has broken into the top 200 globally, placing 199 out of over 1,500 universities worldwide. This ranks the University in the top 13.3% of institutions assessed, with the achievement of a coveted top 200 position reflecting significant efforts to strengthen its global reputation. 

The University has also recorded an outstanding performance in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, in which industry experts assess the contribution universities make towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), where Queen's placed 79 in the world. Having also ranked comfortably within the top 100 for the sustainability metric within the QS rankings (67), this demonstrates the real-world impact of Queen’s and its commitment to addressing global challenges. 

Domestically, Queen’s has also moved up in the Complete University Guide 2026, rising to 24 in the UK, and once again ranked the number one university in Northern Ireland. The guide, which is used widely by prospective UK students, measures a range of factors including student experience, graduate outcomes, and research quality. 

Commenting on the announcement of the rankings, Professor Sir Ian Greer, Queen’s University President and Vice-Chancellor, said: 

“The progress in all three major rankings is a significant achievement and the result of focused, strategic work over several years led by Professor Margaret Topping with support and input from many teams across the University. I would also like to thank our Senate, under the leadership of Chair and Pro-Chancellor, Dr Len O’Hagan CBE, for their guidance and contribution to this success.  

"Collectively, the results reflect growing global recognition of Queen’s excellence in teaching, research, civic contribution and student experience, as acknowledged by academics, students and employers from around the world, with our improved position strengthening our ability to attract the best talent, enhance our research capability, and build high-value partnerships locally, nationally and internationally. 

“As we mark Queen’s 180th anniversary year, these latest rankings successes provide further evidence of the university’s momentum in delivering excellence across education and research, while also strengthening communities and shaping a better future for all. These achievements are a testament to the dedication, talent and ambition of our entire Queen’s community - staff, students, alumni, partners and supporters - whose collective efforts continue to drive us forward as a university of global impact and local pride.” 

 

Media

Media enquiries to damian.kelly@qub.ac.uk