Strong scores in THE World Rankings by Subject 2026

The University of Reading has performed strongly in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026, published today [21 January].

Reading remains in the global top 100 for the study of Business and Economics, ranking 87 in the world out of 1,067 institutions featured.

The University also saw notable improvements in two key areas since the 2025 version of the rankings were published. Education Studies moved up to the 101-125 bracket from its previous 126-150 position. Life Sciences advanced to 126-150, from 151-175 last year.

The University demonstrated consistent strength across other disciplines, including:

• Arts and Humanities (101-125)
• Physical Sciences (101-125)
• Psychology (151-175)
• Social Sciences (151-175)
• Law (251-300)
• Computer Science (301-400)

Professor Peter Miskell, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education & Student Experience) at the University of Reading, said: "As we mark 100 years of the University of Reading, these global rankings are a testament to our sustained commitment to academic excellence across all our disciplines. The improvements in Education Studies and Life Sciences demonstrate the quality and impact of our teaching and research in these subject areas, while our continued strength in areas such as Business and Economics, Arts and Humanities, and Physical Sciences reflects the breadth of expertise we offer.

"Our consistently strong performance across multiple discipline areas reflects the hard work and dedication of our academic and professional colleagues, and serves as a mark of the quality of our subject provision.”

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject evaluate universities across various metrics including teaching, research quality, research environment, international outlook, and industry. The rankings are widely recognised as a key indicator of university performance and global standing.

For more information about the University of Reading's performance in the latest national and international rankings, visit https://www.reading.ac.uk/about/