Discover the best UK universities for History in 2026. Explore top programs blending rich academic tradition with vibrant student life.
Best Universities for History: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Oxford | 95 | 82 |
| 2 Silver | University of Cambridge | 94 | 80 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Edinburgh | 91 | 79 |
| 4 | University of Manchester | 89 | 77 |
| 5 | University of Glasgow | 88 | 75 |
| 6 | University of York | 87 | 74 |
| 7 | Durham University | 87 | 72 |
| 8 | University of Nottingham | 85 | 73 |
| 9 | University of Sussex | 83 | 70 |
| 10 | University of Bristol | 82 | 75 |
1. University of Oxford Gold
2. University of Cambridge Silver
3. University of Edinburgh Bronze
4. University of Manchester
5. University of Glasgow
6. University of York
7. Durham University
8. University of Nottingham
9. University of Sussex
10. University of Bristol
How We Ranked These Universities
Our History rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, crime rate, student satisfaction, cost of a pint and Uber
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked History Universities Explained
University of Oxford
World-renowned for academic excellence, archival resources, and research impact.University of Cambridge
Strong tutorial system, extensive historical collections, and high graduate employability.University of Edinburgh
Known for interdisciplinary approaches and supportive learning environment.University of York
Offers dynamic teaching, diverse course options, and great student satisfaction.University of Glasgow
Affordable city with rich historical heritage and strong student support.University of Manchester
Balances academic rigor with vibrant campus life and research opportunities.University of Leeds
Strong in social history and modern historical studies with active student societies.University of Bristol
Reputation for critical thinking and excellent teaching quality.Durham University
Historic campus with focus on medieval and early modern history.King’s College London
Excellent access to archives and strong career support for history graduates.Career Prospects After a History Degree
Graduates often find roles in education, heritage, archives, media, and public policy. Related courses include Politics and Linguistics.
History Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Typical requirements include A-levels in History or related subjects. UCAS points usually range from 120 to 160 depending on the university.
Cheapest Cities to Study History in the UK
Glasgow, York, and Leeds combine affordability with strong history programs.
Best Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Manchester, Leeds, and Edinburgh offer lively student scenes alongside rich academic offerings.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Universities like Edinburgh, York, and Bristol provide excellent mental health services and supportive communities.
Not Sure About History? Consider These Alternatives
Consider Archaeology, Politics, or Philosophy.
Summary: Which History Uni is Right for You?
Focus on course variety, teaching style, city lifestyle, and career support. Bookmark this guide to help you decide.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for History
Top UK universities for History include Oxford, Cambridge, University College London, and Durham, known for excellent teaching and rich research opportunities.
Oxford University consistently ranks highest for History, praised for its academic rigor, expert faculty, and student satisfaction.
A History degree offers critical thinking, research, and communication skills valued across sectors such as education, law, media, and public service.
Typical A-level requirements include History or English Literature, but many universities accept a broad range of subjects. Check individual course pages for specifics.
Graduates often work in education, heritage, journalism, law, public policy, and roles requiring strong analytical and writing skills.
Yes, employers value History graduates for their research and critical thinking abilities, especially in education, media, and public sectors.
Starting salaries range around £20,000 to £28,000, with potential growth in fields like law, media, and education.
Some History degrees focusing on intense research and original dissertation work can be challenging. Check course content and student reviews for insights.
Many work in education, heritage organisations, media, public service, and roles requiring strong communication and analytical skills.
Yes, History is widely respected, especially from top UK universities, valued for transferable skills and academic depth.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
