The University of Sussex has been ranked first in the world for development studies in the QS University Rankings 2018. 

This is the second year running that the University has been ranked first, and the fourth consecutive year that it has been ranked in the top two universities globally for development.  

The ranking reflects the long-standing partnership between the University of Sussex and the Institute of Development Studies (IDS) and the quality, impact and range of international development research and courses offered across the Sussex campus, which includes IDS’ research and teaching programmes. 

Head of the School of Global Studies at the University of Sussex, Professor Andrea Cornwall, said: “I'm delighted to see our excellence in development studies recognised in this way.

"It's a real testament to the wonderful work that our inspiring and committed colleagues across the University of Sussex campus are doing.” 

IDS Director Melissa Leach said: "It’s wonderful news that Sussex has been ranked first in the world for development studies for a second year running. 

"The range of postgraduate teaching programmes that IDS and Sussex offer, alongside our world-class research, are going from strength to strength. Together we are offering solutions to pressing global challenges such as sustainability and inequality and nurturing the next generation of leaders who will continue this much needed work.”

The University of Sussex is in the world’s top 100 universities for seven other subjects – including all four of the disciplines in the School of Global Studies – the latest rankings reveal:

• Anthropology
• Communication and Media Studies
• English Language and Literature
• Geography
• History
• Politics and International Studies
• Sociology

Overall, UK universities have performed well in the ranking, with 10 of the 48 subject tables being led by UK institutions.