Impact Rankings 2025: University ranked first globally for reducing inequalities
The University of Huddersfield is ranked number one in the world when it comes to reducing inequalities in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025.
The ranking relates to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10 – Reduced Inequalities and is a step up from last year when Huddersfield was placed second in the world.
A number of key indicators were used to assess performance for this goal including research on reduced inequalities; the number of first-generation students; international students from developing countries; students and staff with disabilities as well as measures against discrimination.
It means that for the 2025 Impact Rankings, the University of Huddersfield was the highest-ranked institution out of 1,261 worldwide that submitted evidence in this category this time.
Professor Bob Cryan, Vice-Chancellor of the University, commented: “This world number one ranking from Times Higher Education confirms Huddersfield's global recognition for our work to transform lives through inspiring education, groundbreaking research, and international engagement.”
In addition, Huddersfield performed strongly in two further categories: Sustainable Development Goal 1 – No Poverty and Sustainable Development Goal 17 – Partnership for the Goals.
The former saw the University achieve a ranking of joint 64, having submitted evidence in this category for the first time; and the latter saw Huddersfield jump two ranking bands to be placed 101-200.
On the back of this positive performance, Huddersfield maintained its place in the top 200 of THE’s overall Impact Rankings, which this year included a total of 2,318 institutions, around 350 more than in 2024.
Find out more about Sustainable Development Goals at the University of Huddersfield
Over half of undergraduates at the University of Huddersfield come from families where they will be the first to attain a degree. The institution also sees many of its international students come from countries in the developing world.
The University also offers extensive support to students with disabilities, from meeting with a disability advisor on applicant recruitment days through to personal learning support plans.
Furthermore, a range of research centres at the University work to help reduce inequality, including the Just Futures Research Centre and the Centre for Sustainability, Responsibility, Governance and Ethics.
The Impact Rankings identify universities that excel across multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By excelling in a variety of goals, these universities showcase their commitment to addressing the world's most pressing challenges, including environmental sustainability, social inclusion, economic growth and partnerships.