Southampton Solent University climbs 22 places in Times University Guide 2026

Today’s [Friday 19 September] rankings show that Solent is in the top five highest risers in the country, also achieving the highest position the institution has ever claimed in the Times Guide.

This strong performance highlights Solent’s continued progress as it celebrates 20 years of university status and builds on a series of recent successes across national university rankings.

The Times results follow the Guardian University Guide 2026, where Solent rose to 58th in the country, and this year’s National Student Survey (NSS), where the University was ranked first in Hampshire for Learning Opportunities, Teaching on My Course, Assessment and Feedback, and Academic Support.

Among the highlights from the Times University Guide 2026:

• Solent ranks 24th nationally for Teaching Quality

• Solent is 14th for Social Inclusion amongst English and Welsh universities

• On a subject level, Solent has seven subjects in the top 25% of rankings for Teaching Quality, including: Law, Communication and Media Studies, Sports Science, Social Work, Psychology, Social Policy and Business Management and Marketing.

Professor James Knowles, Vice-Chancellor of Solent University, said:

"This remarkable improvement in the national rankings is a testament to the hard work of our staff and the commitment of our students. We are proud to be recognised for the quality of our teaching and the inclusive environment we provide, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive."

Professor Sarah Jones, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education, added:

"Our focus on practice-based, student-centred learning is at the heart of our recent climb up the national rankings. These results reflect the dedication of our teaching teams and our continued drive to provide the best possible educational experience for our students."

Four more subjects achieved top 25% rankings for Student Experience in the Guide, [Law, Communication and Media Studies, Sports Science and Music] – testament to the productive environment encouraged by Solent staff.

The news comes after Solent launched its 2035 Strategy earlier this year. The strategy underpins these achievements and sets out an ambitious roadmap for the future. Building on its founding principles as a practice-led institution, the university is embracing its role as a civic institution with a new civic charter showcasing research and strategic partnerships across Southampton and the wider region.