The University of Sussex has climbed four places to 43rd in the UK in the newly-published Complete University Guide 2026.
In the subject league tables two of our subjects ranked in the national top 10. Childhood and Youth Studies was ranked third, maintaining its top three position for the third consecutive year. American Studies also secured third place in the UK, marking its second year in a row in the top three.
The University also climbed 26 places for staff:student ratio, and has risen 24 places for academic spend compared to last year’s rankings.
The Complete University Guide is published annually, and its publication is timed to help prospective undergraduate students make last minute choices on which university to join and, where relevant, assist them through the Clearing choices available. Its methodology focuses primarily on assessing teaching quality, student satisfaction and graduate outcomes.
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sasha Roseneil, said: “I am pleased to see a small improvement in Sussex’s overall position in this year’s Complete University Guide, and I am delighted that we retain two top 10 subject positions – for American Studies, and Childhood and Youth Studies. The dedication and collective commitment of members of the University community to ensuring that Sussex students have the best possible educational experience matters now more than ever. Thank you to everyone who has been focused on enhancing the experience of our students - in the classroom, lecture theatre, and in all aspects of campus life – and to everyone who has contributed to preparing our students for work and life after graduation.”