Durham University
Durham, England
- TEF Silver
- Russell Group
- #85 QS World
- #23 UK
About Durham University
The third-oldest university in England, and — along with Oxford and Cambridge — one of only three with a collegiate system. Durham University is a Russell Group research university based in Durham, holding a Silver Teaching Excellence Framework rating. Durham's college system creates tight-knit communities within a larger university. Set around a stunning Norman cathedral and castle (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), it offers a distinctive student experience.
In the latest rankings, Durham University is positioned #94 in the QS World Rankings 2026; #175 in the THE World Rankings 2026; #6 in the Guardian University Guide (UK).
The university has approximately 21,150 students, with a diverse international community representing 86 nationalities — 33% of the student body. The largest international cohorts come from China, Hong Kong, and India.
Durham University currently lists 121 courses on CourseOptions, spanning 55 undergraduate and 66 postgraduate programmes.
Graduate outcomes are strong: 90% of graduates go into employment or further study within 15 months, and the median graduate salary is £31,500, rising to £43,800 after five years.
Student satisfaction is exceptionally high, with 91% of students satisfied with teaching quality (NSS) and a continuation rate of 94%.
Beautiful, traditional, close-knit. A small cathedral city where the university IS the city.
What is Durham University's Ranking in 2026?
Durham University is ranked #85 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2026 and #23 in the UK by the Complete University Guide.
| Ranking System | Position |
|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings 2026 | #85 |
| Times Higher Education 2026 | #175 |
| Guardian University Guide (UK) | #6 |
| The Complete University Guide (UK) | #23 |
Source: QS, THE, CUG, Guardian — Updated January 2026
What Percentage of Graduates Get Jobs?
74.4% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.
Salary Progression
| Time After Graduation | Median Salary | UK Average | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months | £31,500 | £28,980 | +9% |
| 3 years | £35,600 | £32,752 | +9% |
| 5 years | £43,800 | £40,296 | +9% |
Source: HESA Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) 2025
These figures represent institution-wide averages across all subject areas and study modes. Actual graduate outcomes vary by course and cohort. For course-specific data, visit Discover Uni at Discover Uni.
How Satisfied Are Students?
Has an 86% overall satisfaction rate according to the National Student Survey (NSS) 2025.
Source: National Student Survey (NSS) 2025.
These figures represent institution-wide averages across all courses and may not reflect satisfaction for a specific course. For course-level data, visit Discover Uni at Discover Uni.
How Many International Students Study Here?
32.6% of students are international, representing 86+ countries. Total international students: 6,895.
| Countries | Students | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| China | 3,410 | 49.5% |
| Hong Kong | 510 | 7.4% |
| India | 405 | 5.9% |
| United States | 340 | 4.9% |
| Singapore | 180 | 2.6% |
| Taiwan | 130 | 1.9% |
| Thailand | 125 | 1.8% |
| Malaysia | 110 | 1.6% |
| Canada | 85 | 1.2% |
| Pakistan | 75 | 1.1% |
Source: HESA official data.
Courses at Durham University
Accounting
Accounting
Accounting Analytics and Sustainability
Accounting and Finance
Scholarships for International Students
We found 102 scholarships you may be eligible for based on your location.
9-month investigative journalism fellowship with Durham University and Reuters
Open to all international students
Competitive tuition fee discounts for international undergraduate students
Open to all international students
Merit-based scholarships for exceptional Global DBA candidates
Open to all international students
Deadline: 7 November 2026Competitive postgraduate funding for Catholic Theology/Studies
Open to all international students
Doctoral funding for climate action research aligned to SDG13
Open to all international students
Showing 5 of 102 scholarships
View all 102 scholarships at Durham University →Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
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