An additional 13 subjects are ranked in the top three worldwide.
The University of Cambridge ranks number one globally for both Archaeology and English Language and Literature in the 2026 QS World University Subject Rankings. The rankings are compiled annually to help prospective students identify the world’s leading universities in specific subjects.
More than 1900 institutions worldwide are reviewed. Cambridge secured second place in ranked subjects Anatomy and Physiology, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Modern Languages, and Psychology. The University was also ranked third in Anthropology, Arts and Humanities, Earth and Marine Sciences, Geography, History, Law, Linguistics, and Maths.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Prentice said: “It is with immense pride to hear that Cambridge continues to rank so highly for the study of multiple disciplines again this year. These outstanding results reflect our exceptional success, particularly in Archaeology and in English Language and Literature which ranked top globally. The dedication and hard work of colleagues across the university continues to ensure that Cambridge is a world-leading institution committed to excellence in education and research.”
Archaeology:
Speaking about the outstanding achievement of first place, the Head of the Archaeology Department, Professor Cameron Petrie, said: “We are delighted that Cambridge has topped the list of University rankings for Archaeology again in the QS World University Rankings. We are extremely proud of our achievements in recent times, notably international awards for research projects and unexpected discoveries during our student training excavation. We are committed to transforming our understanding of the past through world-leading research and teaching.”
Last year’s Wandlebury Hillfort excavation uncovered a remarkable 9th-century mass grave, including a 6ft 5in man with a trepanned skull. Archaeology also received major awards – Chris Evans, former Director of the Cambridge Archaeological Unit, with an MA honoris causa, and Professor Broobank’s team won at the Shanghai World Archaeology Forum. The department also launched an open-access portal for historic Survey of India maps from the Mapping Archaeological Heritage in South Asia Project.
English:
English Faculty Chair, Professor Alex da Costa, said of the preeminent ranking: “It is a pleasure to see the English Faculty recognised as world-leading for the study of Anglophone Literature. It is testimony to the excellent work of our entire community, especially the globally influential research and inspirational teaching of my colleagues. The Faculty is committed to demonstrating the central place of literary study in understanding cultural, intellectual and political life across time and meeting the challenges of today.”
This year alone, the English Faculty’s influence was highlighted when alumna Dame Pippa Harris produced Hamnet, which won a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Drama (among many other awards). The Faculty’s commitment to teaching excellence was further demonstrated by Professor Orietta Da Rold becoming the tenth member of the Faculty to be awarded a Pilkington Prize.
About QS:
The QS World University Rankings features 55 subjects grouped into five broad faculty areas: Arts and Humanities, Engineering and Technology, Life Sciences and Medicine, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences and Management.
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