Durham University

Durham University is a globally renowned public research university established in 1832 by Act of Parliament, making it one of England's oldest universities. Located in the historic city of Durham — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — in North East England, it is ranked 85th in the QS World University Rankings 2027 and consistently places 6th across all three major UK league tables (Times/Sunday Times, Guardian, and Complete University Guide) for 2027. The university offers over 200 undergraduate and over 100 postgraduate courses across 27 academic departments, structured into the Durham University Business School, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Faculty of Science, and Faculty of Social Sciences. Its distinctive collegiate system of 17 colleges forms the heart of student life, providing residential communities with catered or self-catered accommodation, drama, music, sport and wellbeing facilities. With a student population of 21,588 (2023/24) drawn from over 120 countries, Durham has a strong international profile, ranking in the top 50 most international universities (Times Higher Education, 2026). Research excellence is central to the university's mission: 90% of research outputs are rated world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021). Durham graduates are highly sought after, with 88% in work or further study 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes Data 2026) and the university ranked 49th globally for employer reputation (QS 2027).