BCU climbs 14 places in the Good University Guide

Birmingham City University has risen 14 places in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027, moving from 113th to 99th.

The university also climbed four places in the Guardian University Guide, and has improved in the Daily Mail University Guide and the Complete University Guide.

What the Vice-Chancellor said

Professor David Mba, Vice-Chancellor, said the result "reflects the commitment of our staff and students, and our continued focus on providing an excellent student experience."

He said the university was focused on giving graduates the practical skills they need for their careers.

A partnership with the BBC

The rise comes shortly after the university announced a ten-year partnership with the BBC to train the next generation of creative media professionals. Eight new courses will start in September 2027 at the Tea Factory in Digbeth, where the university will create studios and teaching spaces built to BBC specifications.

How the tables are worked out

University league tables combine measures such as student satisfaction, entry grades, graduate prospects, completion rates and research quality. Each guide weights these differently, which is why universities can rise in one table and fall in another.

Birmingham's universities

Birmingham is home to five universities: the University of Birmingham, Aston University, Birmingham City University, Birmingham Newman University and University College Birmingham. Together they teach tens of thousands of students, making higher education one of the city's biggest employers and a major part of its economy.

About BCU

Birmingham City University has campuses in the city centre and Edgbaston. It includes the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, Birmingham School of Art and Birmingham School of Acting, and it is known for courses in creative industries, health, education, law and engineering.