UCU comment on new university world rankings

UCU said the study underlined how UK universities were punching above their weight in tough economic times but warned that without more funding support they were at real risk of falling behind as competitor countries invested more in their universities.

The rankings, which were compiled by Times Higher Education (THE) magazine, focus on universities under the age of 50, with 20 of the top 100 institutions coming from the UK. The University of York is the highest ranked UK university, with three UK institutions featuring in the top 10.

UCU general secretary, Sally Hunt, said: ''These rankings shows the breadth and depth of quality provided by the UK's diverse university sector. Our newer universities are doing a fantastic job of punching above their weight in tough economic times, but receive too little support from politicians.

'Our universities are a real success story but maintaining our global position will require the UK to match the investment in tertiary education taking place among our competitors rather than reducing funding as is the current trend.'

For full details on THE's rankings contact Phil Baty, editor, THE World University Rankings: phil.baty@tsleducation.com