Discover the top UK universities for Education in 2026. These schools excel in teaching quality, student satisfaction, and graduate employability.
Best Universities for Education: 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 Birmingham | 88 | 79 |
| 2 Silver | University of Leeds | 87 | 81 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Sheffield | 85 | 80 |
| 4 | University of Nottingham | 84 | 77 |
| 5 | University of Manchester | 83 | 75 |
| 6 | University of Glasgow | 82 | 78 |
| 7 | University of Exeter | 80 | 79 |
| 8 | University of Warwick | 79 | 81 |
| 9 | University of East Anglia | 78 | 77 |
| 10 | University of Sussex | 77 | 76 |
1. University of Birmingham Gold
2. University of Leeds Silver
3. University of Sheffield Bronze
4. University of Nottingham
5. University of Manchester
6. University of Glasgow
7. University of Exeter
8. University of Warwick
9. University of East Anglia
10. University of Sussex
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Education 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, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Education Universities in the UK
The UK is a global leader in teacher training and educational research, with many universities offering outstanding opportunities for aspiring educators. Our 2025 guide highlights the best universities for Education in the UK, based on teaching quality, student satisfaction, and career outcomes. Whether you’re interested in primary teaching, educational psychology, or policy, these universities deliver the expertise and experience to help you make a difference.
University of Birmingham
Birmingham’s School of Education is one of the UK’s most established, offering strong research foundations and excellent placement opportunities. With a focus on evidence-based practice and professional development, it’s ideal for students pursuing teaching or educational leadership.
University of Glasgow
Glasgow provides a comprehensive range of education specialisms, from inclusive education to early years and policy studies. The university’s supportive staff and affordable living costs make it one of the most accessible and well-regarded options in the UK.
University of Manchester
Manchester offers diverse specialisms and hands-on experience through school partnerships and community projects. Its vibrant campus, strong research culture, and graduate employability make it a popular choice for future teachers and educational researchers.
University of Exeter
Exeter is known for academic excellence and practical teacher training. The university places a strong emphasis on student wellbeing, inclusive learning, and professional placements, producing confident, reflective practitioners ready to enter the classroom.
University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s Moray House School of Education is one of the UK’s oldest and most prestigious. It focuses on inclusive and equitable education, with top satisfaction scores and opportunities to study policy, psychology, and global education systems.
University of Leeds
Leeds combines high-quality teaching with active student societies. Students benefit from practical placements, flexible course options, and a lively community. The city’s affordable cost of living adds to its appeal for future educators.
University of Nottingham
Nottingham provides a supportive and research-informed Education programme. Its strong graduate outcomes reflect excellent teacher training and employability links across schools and local authorities.
University of Sheffield
Sheffield’s School of Education is praised for its innovative and inclusive teaching. Students enjoy an engaging balance between theory, practice, and wellbeing, supported by the city’s active student scene and low living costs.
University of York
York’s Education department has a growing research profile and exceptional student support. The university’s focus on reflective teaching and policy understanding makes it ideal for those interested in both classroom practice and educational leadership.
University of Southampton
Southampton’s Education programmes are known for strong career services and community partnerships. Students gain practical teaching experience and develop valuable skills for roles in education, policy, and social development.
Career Prospects After an Education Degree
Graduates with a degree in Education can pursue careers in teaching, educational psychology, policy, and training. Many go on to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or work in school management and research. Related subjects include Social Work and Psychology.
Entry Requirements for Education Courses
Typical entry requirements range between 112 and 144 UCAS points, with GCSEs in Maths and English required for most teaching pathways. Some universities may also ask for relevant work experience or an interview as part of the selection process.
Most Affordable Cities to Study Education
Leeds, Glasgow, and Sheffield offer affordable living and excellent Education departments. Lower rent and strong community networks make these cities ideal for students focused on teaching or early childhood education.
Best Universities for Nightlife and Social Life
Manchester, Leeds, and Nottingham stand out for their vibrant student life, combining strong Education faculties with active societies, nightlife, and cultural events.
Student Wellbeing and Study Support
Universities such as Exeter and York are known for excellent pastoral care, mental health support, and tailored resources for Education students balancing placements and coursework.
Considering Alternatives to Education?
If you’re exploring similar paths, consider degrees in Social Work, Psychology, or Primary Education for careers that also focus on development, wellbeing, and learning.
Summary: Which Education University Is Right for You?
When choosing where to study Education, consider teaching quality, placement opportunities, wellbeing support, and city lifestyle. Birmingham, Exeter, and Edinburgh lead in research and training, while Glasgow and Leeds offer excellent affordability and community. Use this guide to compare and find the university that matches your goals in education.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Education
Leading universities for Education include University of Cambridge, University College London (UCL), and University of Oxford. Check our latest rankings for updated student insights.
Cambridge often leads in Education for academic excellence and student satisfaction.
Yes. An Education degree opens doors to teaching, research, and educational leadership careers, with strong demand across the UK.
The UK has a global reputation for Education degrees, especially at top universities, but countries like Canada and Australia also offer strong programs.
Entry requirements vary, but English and a social science subject are commonly recommended. Check each university's course page for details.
Careers include teaching, education consultancy, policy roles, training and development, and educational research.
Yes. There is consistent demand for qualified teachers and education professionals across the UK.
Starting salaries typically range from £24,000 to £30,000, rising with experience and further qualifications.
Courses involving teacher training and placement can be demanding but rewarding. The practical element adds real-world experience.
Graduates commonly work in schools, colleges, education policy, charities, and training organisations.
Yes, Education is widely respected, especially when studied at well-ranked UK universities.
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