TODAY it is not enough that students receive an objectively high-quality academic education. In order to be properly equipped for the workplace, they need to benefit from a well-rounded experience. This is why, annual university classifications like The Guardian University League Table (GULT) also focus on how satisfied alumni are with their courses and teaching. Below, we look at the latest ranking of higher education institutions based on the student satisfaction ranking in particular.
Maintaining their overall 3rd place ranking in the GULT two years in a row, St. Andrews takes pride in being the university with the highest student satisfaction score (94.9/100). Students are not only happy with the quality of their course, but also the wide array of one-on-one guidance they receive. Recent graduates have noted that their seminar leaders and lecturers provide them with support and guidance that exceeds the boundaries of their taught subject. Furthermore, the University’s support continues post-graduation, with St. Andrews alumni having an 83.2% chance of getting in their career of choice within 6 months.
At number 32 in the GULT rankings, Keele University is probably best known for its academic position in various areas of scientific study and research. This is probably why students have awarded it a score 93.2/100 for student satisfaction. In this case, it was cited that the small study groups and the extended level of collaboration with other institutions for several scientific projects is what appeals to many of its students. The early collaboration with industry names early on in their academic career give students the confidence they require when entering the workforce.
Constantly improving its position from year to year, Aberystwyth University finds itself in the top 100 institutions in the GULT, with an impressive 3rd place in student satisfaction (92.6/100). The University is especially appreciated among international students and many of its alumni fondly remember the friendliness of university staff. It is this open-door policy that allows students to thrive and make the most of their degrees, while ensuring that their journey is as stress-free as possible.
This top-tier research institution finds itself in the top 1% of universities worldwide and has improved in the GULT rankings by six places since last year’s classifications. As far as student satisfaction goes, it scored 91.4/100, with graduates citing admiration for the University’s quality of teaching especially in scientific areas. UEA is particularly popular among post-graduates who have noted that the University provides an accessible and open-minded platform for new research in environmental studies and wildlife.
Here is yet another example of a university that has risen in the rankings from last year and which has an impressive student satisfaction score of 90.6/100. Coventry shows a great deal of flexibility and openness among its students and lecturers. It’s fairly progressive and it is the best starting point for someone who is looking for an out-of-the-box approach to education. Furthermore, Coventry University is a top choice among prospective overseas students looking to be immersed in the British academic experience.
Tying Coventry University with the same score of 90.6/100 in student satisfaction is the University of Lincoln. According to statements form current students and recent graduates, what sets Lincoln apart is the research-engaged teaching method (which ensures that students are always in the loop with the most recent developments in their field) and the existence of a vast array of work placements or consultancy projects. Not only do these means ensure that students possess the necessary transferable skills upon graduating, but it also helps them develop a networking system early on.
Here’s another example of a university that has improved in the overall rankings since last year, bearing a seven spot improvement with a 90.3/100 score in student satisfaction. Newcastle has for long been hailed by students as a high-quality learning institution, where traditional education is balanced out by the lecturer’s openness to discussion and a desire to forge new pathways for its alumni. Some graduates have noted the manner in which they feel both inspired and supported by their lecturers.
It’s no secret that Leeds is a fantastic institution that benefits from recognition among academics, students and employers alike. However, Leeds has achieved an equally admirable student satisfaction rate 90.1/100. Leeds excels in both Humanities and Science-based research, while their recognised position within the Russell Group opens numerous doors for its alumni.
