Department of Philosophy ranked 2nd in the UK for research excellence
York's Department of Philosophy is the 2nd strongest department in the UK, according to the Times Higher Education's ranking of the latest REF results (2021).
The outstanding research conducted in our department has been ranked 2nd in the UK by the Times Higher Education, based on the results of the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF). We are extremely proud of the quality of our research, with 100% of our research being assessed as world-leading (4* rating) or higher.
Our research expertise brings the history of philosophy into dialogue with debates and issues in contemporary society. Our core research strengths include the philosophy of the mind, analytic theology, ancient philosophy, and philosophy in the phenomenological tradition. Our researchers work closely with government organisations, charities, and think tanks to ensure our research contributes positively to society and culture.
We have always been proud of the research we produce at York, and of the community of staff and students that make it possible. We are delighted to have the quality of our research endorsed in this way.
Quote from Head of Department, Professor Tom Stoneham
“Our ranking as 2nd in the UK is a recognition of the excellence of our research and the significant impact it has had on society. It has taken years of hard work and team effort to achieve this, and everyone in the Department has played a role in one way or another. We are already building on this achievement with exciting and innovative new projects in mental health, AI and data privacy, and comparative analytic theology, to cement our position as one of the leading Philosophy Departments in the UK and the world (QS top 100).”
York’s overall position
The University of York as a whole also moved into the top 10 universities in the UK as ranked by Times Higher Education analysis of the REF results. All of our subject areas are now ranked in the top 30 in the UK, with four of our Departments positioned in the top five: Language and Linguistics (1st), Philosophy (2nd), Sociology (4th) and Education (5th).
Such exceptional rankings demonstrate our commitment to the quality of our research, our supportive research environment, and our commitment to contributing to the public good.
Find out more about York’s excellent REF results
About the REF
The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a UK-wide assessment of the quality of research in universities undertaken by expert review panels. The REF provides a robust and thorough assessment of the quality of universities’ research in all disciplines, providing accountability for public investments in research and demonstrating the benefits of that investment. The highest ratings are 4*, indicating research that is world-leading in terms of originality, significance and rigour, and 3*, indicating research that is internationally excellent.