York features in global top 50 for arts and humanities in latest QS rankings
Posted on Wednesday 25 March 2026
York now has three subjects in the top 50: Archaeology (up nine places to 16th); English Language & Literature (up four places to 28th); and Social Policy & Administration (up three to joint 38th).
Top 100
According to the prestigious rankings, York has retained nine top 100 subjects, with Philosophy moving into the top 100, alongside Education and Training (81st); Sociology (95th); Psychology (98th); while History and Performing Arts also make the top 100.
QS provides independent comparative analysis on the performance of more than 18,300 individual university programmes, taken by students at more than 1700 universities in 100 locations around the world, across 55 academic disciplines.
The latest results build on the success of last year when the University rose 15-places in the overall QS World University Rankings.
Dedication
Professor Duncan Petrie, Dean of the Arts and Humanities Faculty, said: “It is particularly pleasing to see the Arts and Humanities breaking into the global top 50 –highlighting how York’s reputation as a hub for world-leading research and teaching continues to grow.
“These results are a testament to the dedication, curiosity, and rigour of our academic community.”
Professor Tracy Lightfoot, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education and Students, said: “While rankings are only one measure of success, seeing many of our subjects recognised on the global stage reinforces our commitment to providing a transformative education and tackling the complex challenges of our time.
“I am incredibly proud of our staff and students whose hard work continues to drive York forwards in the global standings."
