Subjects shine as University of Chester rises in 2027 Guardian University Guide

Subjects from across disciplines at the University have been ranked in the top 20 nationally, including Geography and Social Work rated in the top ten, which are joined by more subjects as the best in the North West.

The institution is now placed 61st overall among Higher Education Institutions in the UK - a rise from last year’s 70th ranking - securing a spot in the top half of the table and demonstrating its continued commitment to student satisfaction, academic excellence, and innovation.

The University - which has sites across Chester and University Centres in Warrington, Birkenhead and at Reaseheath near Nantwich - has been ranked 21^st for the value added for students which measures the extent to which they exceed expectations relative to their entry qualifications.

The Guardian University Guide helps prospective students and their families choose where to study, ranking 123 universities across eight measures to form an overall score out of 100. Among the measures considered are the quality of teaching and the staff-to-student ratio.

The University’s key achievements in subject rankings nationally are:

• Social Work - 6th
• Geography - 7th
• Fine Art - 11th
• Interior Design - 14th
• Mental Health Nursing - 16th
• Languages and Linguistics - 18th
• Music - 18th
• General Nursing - 20th
• Midwifery - 20th

Just outside the UK top 20 are:

• History - 21st
• Law - 23rd

These do not include subjects offered by fewer than 40 UK institutions, and each subject can cover several courses.

Fine Art, Geography, History, and Social Work also all ranked first in the North West (not including subjects offered by fewer than five institutions in the region).

Professor Eunice Simmons, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Chester, said: “We are delighted to see the University of Chester’s achievements across various categories and subjects recognised in the Guardian University Guide 2027.

“Our rise in the overall rankings, alongside being placed among the country's leading institutions for the value we add to our students' academic success, reflects our commitment to helping every student achieve their potential.

“These results are a testament to the dedication of our staff and students, the quality of the learning experience we provide, and to creating opportunities for students to thrive both during their studies and beyond.”

The University of Chester was also named the North West’s number one University of the Year, for the third consecutive year, at the 2026 Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs).  The WUSCAs draw on more than 42,000 verified student reviews from over 85 university campuses nationwide, offering independent insight into the student experience. 

For further details on the Guardian University Guide, please visit: https://www.theguardian.com/education/universityguide