University News Last updated 18 September
Birmingham City University (BCU) has jumped to 99th in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027, building on a recent uplift in The Guardian University Guide rankings.
The latest result reflects continued progress for the University and comes as higher education institutions across the UK face a challenging financial environment and a competitive graduate jobs market.
Professor David Mba, Vice-Chancellor of BCU, said the result was recognition of the hard work of staff and students across the University.
“It reflects the commitment of our staff and students, and our continued focus on providing an excellent student experience and preparing our graduates for the world of work,” he said.
“At BCU, we are proud to be a university rooted in our city and committed to giving our students the knowledge, skills and practical experience they need to succeed in their chosen careers.
“We know there are significant challenges facing the higher education sector, as well as our students and graduates. That makes it particularly important that universities continue to demonstrate the value of higher education and ensure students are equipped to make a positive contribution to society and the economy.
“This rise is encouraging, but our focus remains firmly on continuing to improve and delivering for our students, our staff and the communities we serve.”
BCU also rose four spots in The Guardian University Guide, following jumps in both the Daily Mail University Guide and Complete University Guide in August and June respectively.
The Times rise - BCU moves up 14 spots from 113th - follows Wednesday’s announcement that BCU and the BBC have agreed a 10-year partnership to develop the next generation of creative media professionals.
The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027 highlights the changing priorities of students and universities, with an increasing emphasis on preparing students for future careers and providing opportunities for hands-on learning.
Helen Davies, editor of The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, said the latest rankings reflected the innovation and ambition across the UK’s higher education sector, while recognising the financial pressures facing institutions and the challenges of the graduate jobs market.
“What shines through more than ever this year is an emphasis on preparing students for future careers,” she said, adding that universities had developed their campuses to support hands-on learning, including mock courtrooms, clinical simulations and trading floors.
For BCU, the latest ranking provides further recognition of the University’s continued progress as it works to give students a career-focused education and strong links to the city and region.