UK universities have solidified their position as leaders in producing job-ready graduates, as revealed in the Global University Employability Ranking 2025. This prestigious ranking, created by HR consultancy Emerging and published exclusively by Times Higher Education, lists 250 universities worldwide that are best at preparing students for the workplace.
In total, 13 UK universities made it to the list, with five based in London and the rest spread across the country, showcasing the breadth and quality of higher education across the UK.
- University of Cambridge: Cambridge tops the UK list, earning the 5th spot globally. Renowned for its international reputation, Cambridge graduates benefit from a vast alumni network spanning influential roles worldwide. The university's blend of traditional tutelage and innovative teaching methods ensures its students are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern workplace.
- University of Oxford: Ranking 7th globally, Oxford continues to attract attention for its exceptional alumni, including political leaders, Nobel laureates, and Olympic medalists. Employers value Oxford graduates for their competitive edge, nurtured by the university’s emphasis on research, innovation, and cutting-edge technology.
- Imperial College London: Securing the 10th spot globally, Imperial College London stands out as a hub for entrepreneurial and internationally minded students. Offering year-round career support, workshops, and employer-led events, Imperial ensures its graduates are equipped with the skills and connections necessary for success in a global job market.
- 1st in the UK | 5th globally – University of Cambridge (Cambridge)
- 2nd in the UK | 7th globally – University of Oxford (Oxford)
- 3rd in the UK | 10th globally – Imperial College London (London)
- 4th in the UK | 23rd globally – London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) (London)
- 5th in the UK | 39th globally – London Business School (London)
- 6th in the UK | 64th globally – King’s College London (London)
- 7th in the UK | 65th globally – University of Manchester (Manchester)
- 8th in the UK | 128th globally – UCL (London)
- 9th in the UK | 142nd globally – University of St Andrews (St Andrews)
- 10th in the UK | 148th globally – University of Edinburgh (Edinburgh)
- 11th in the UK | 169th globally – University of Birmingham (Birmingham)
- 12th in the UK | 187th globally – Cardiff University (Cardiff)
- 13th in the UK | 202nd globally – Durham University (Durham)
- London Dominance: Five of the UK’s top-ranked institutions are based in London, highlighting the capital’s global appeal as a hub for education and employability.
- Widespread Excellence: Universities across the UK, from St Andrews in Scotland to Cardiff in Wales, contribute to the country's strong performance in employability rankings.
- Global Prestige: UK universities remain highly regarded worldwide, with their graduates sought after for roles in diverse industries, including finance, technology, and healthcare.
Employers cited a focus on digital skills, critical thinking, global awareness, and adaptability as key attributes of UK graduates. Universities with robust industry partnerships and experiential learning opportunities were particularly celebrated.
As UK universities continue to innovate and align with industry demands, they remain a beacon of excellence in higher education, preparing graduates to excel on the world stage.
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