Warwick Rises in Global QS Rankings as PAIS strengthens top‑50 position

The University of Warwick has reinforced its global standing in the latest QS World University Rankings 2027, climbing six places to 68th in the world and ranking 10th in the UK among more than 1,500 institutions.

This strong institutional performance reflects continued progress across key indicators including employer reputation, sustainability, and research impact, highlighting Warwick’s growing global influence and the real‑world value of its teaching and research.

Within this broader success story, the Department of Politics and International Studies (PAIS) continues to demonstrate its own international excellence. PAIS has been ranked among the top 50 Politics departments globally in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, placing 49th worldwide, 18th in Europe, and 8th in the UK. Notably, PAIS is also the top‑ranked Politics department in England outside of Oxbridge and London, reinforcing its position as one of the UK’s leading centres for political research and education.

Warwick’s rise to 68th globally is underpinned by improvements in areas that resonate strongly with PAIS’ strengths, including research citations and employer reputation - metrics that reflect the global relevance of academic work and the success of graduates. These results align with PAIS’ reputation for world‑leading research, policy impact, and an outstanding student experience, supported by a collaborative and internationally engaged academic community.

The latest rankings also highlight Warwick’s broader momentum across international league tables and subject rankings, demonstrating a sustained upward trajectory that benefits departments across the institution.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Stuart Croft described the rankings as recognition of the University’s commitment to “world‑leading education, research, and innovation,” as Warwick works towards its ambition of being among the world’s top 50 universities by 2030. For PAIS, its continued presence in the global top 50 signals both stability and ambition -cementing its reputation as a leading department for Politics and International Studies while contributing to Warwick’s wider global success.

To read more about Warwick's success, visit the central university new story here.