English at York placed 8th in the UK and 32nd in the world

York’s Department of English and Related Literature reconfirmed its place among the world’s most highly regarded departments for the study of English language and literature. This subject was ranked 8th in the UK and 32nd in the world by QS World University Rankings (2025), retaining its top-40 position globally. The department sits in our Arts and Humanities faculty, which was ranked 75th in the world.

Published annually, QS World University Rankings assess over 50 subjects, at over 1,700 universities, on academic reputation, employer reputation and research impact. 

Head of Department, Professor Jennie Batchelor, said, “We are thrilled that English has been ranked so highly in recognition of our vibrant teaching and research culture and our diverse and inclusive academic community. Students and staff in English at York are passionate about our discipline and its place in the world.”

York's overall position

In total, three subjects at the University of York were ranked in the top 50 globally, as well as top 20 in the UK: 

• Archaeology (5th in the UK, 25th= globally)
• English Language and Literature (8th in the UK, 32nd globally)
• Social Policy and Administration (8th in the UK, 41st globally)
  

Six more were ranked in the top 100 in the world. All of which are ranked as top 20 in the UK]: 

• Education and Training (11th in the UK, 72 globally)
• Sociology (17th in the UK, 88th globally)
• Psychology (14th in the UK, 97th globally)
• Linguistics (9th in the UK, 99th= globally)
• Performing Arts (=13th in the UK, top 100 globally)
• History (=12th in the UK, top 100 globally)

In the broad subject of Arts and Humanities, we were ranked 75th globally.