
Lancaster has retained its crown as the top university in North West England in the Complete University Guide 2025.
The University scored highly in a number of individual subjects including Social Work – ranked number one in the UK – while Architecture made its first appearance in the Guide going straight in at number seven.
Lancaster also maintained a high national position – ranking 11th out of 130 universities across the UK.
Professor Wendy Robinson, Lancaster University Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education, said: “It is fantastic to see Lancaster retain its position as the top-ranked university in the North West, and to also maintain a good position among the best institutions in the UK.
“From our cutting-edge research and wonderful teaching, to our vibrant campus and welcoming atmosphere, Lancaster is an excellent university which constantly seeks to enhance and enrich our overall student experience, with a holistic approach to their learning and personal growth.”
The Complete University Guide league table is based on ten measures: entry standards, student satisfaction, research quality, research intensity, academic services spend, spending on student facilities, continuation, student-staff ratio, graduate prospects – outcomes, and graduate prospects – on track.
It includes 130 institutions.