St Andrews voted UK University of the Year

The Sunday Times University Guide has named the University of St Andrews as UK University of the Year.

St Andrews was also named the top University in Scotland and ranked no. 6 in the national league, up 10 places from last year.

The guide states: “Outstanding teaching and research assessments over the past 12 months have propelled St Andrews into sixth place in the UK league table. Its ranking is up ten places from last year and represents its highest- ever finish in the Sunday Times league table, earning it the coveted University of the Year title.”

Principal and Vice-Chancellor Dr Brian Lang said, “We are delighted by this recognition. The University has, over the past few years, been steadily improving its standards in teaching and research. This award recognises the very hard work of all of our staff, their commitment and skill. We take a tough approach to learning and research – our staff work hard and we expect our students to do the same.

“The award is good news for Scotland as an important endorsement of the quality of Scottish higher education and the real evidence that we Scots are capable of punching above our weight.

“The challenge ahead is to nurture the qualities which make St Andrews such a special University. Above all, we want to ensure that St Andrews continues to contribute to Scottish competitiveness. We want to be open and accessible to all who might benefit from joining us, regardless of their social or economic circumstances.”

Meanwhile, President of the Students’ Association Rory O’Hare said, “We’re delighted to hear that St Andrews is officially the best place to study in the UK. It’s a credit to everything which makes St Andrews stand out – both academically and socially. The community is made up of students and staff from all over the world but, because of its size and close- knit atmosphere, it’s easy to make friends and develop a good working relationship with lecturers, many of whom are world leaders in their field. Hopefully, this recognition will encourage countless others to apply here and join us.”

The full guide can be viewed at http://www.sunday- times.co.uk/universityguide.

ENDS

Issued by Beattie Media on behalf of the University of St Andrews For more information please contact: Claire Grainger on 01334 462530, 07730 415 015 or email cg24@st- andrews.ac.uk View University press releases on- line at http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk Ref: suntimesaward/standrews/chg/13sep20 02