Arts University Bournemouth ranked one of the top five universities in the South West

Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) has been announced as one of the top five universities in South West England in the Complete University Guide.

The 2026 guide was released on 10th June 2025 and pushed AUB up 32 places from last year to 61st, making it one of the few “newer universities” that are challenging older universities for a spot in the top 70.

The new ranking also places AUB in the top five universities in South West England, alongside University of Bath, University of Exeter, University of Bristol and Bristol’s UWE.

The annual independent university league tables and rankings from the Complete University Guide are designed to give prospective university students all the key information they need for university research by ranking the best universities in the UK.

Professor Amanda Chetwynd, Chair of the Complete University Guide Advisory Board, said: “This year, we’ve seen considerable movement in the subject tables, underlining their importance as a resource for students who know what they want to study but are still weighing up where to apply.

“Whether making early choices or preparing for Clearing, our university and subject league tables, along with regional insights, are here to help students navigate one of the most important decisions of their lives.”

Lisa Mann, Vice-Chancellor and CEO at the UAB, added: “We’re thrilled to have gained 32 places, it’s an incredible achievement in just one year. And to now be in the top five universities in South West England is something we’re all very proud of.

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“These guides and league tables are vital for prospective students when they’re deciding where and what to study, and in a challenging and competitive market, it will make a big difference to the University to be so highly ranked and is a testament to the hard work of all AUB staff and their commitment to providing an excellent student experience.”

The university told Bournemouth’s Tab that this “good news comes as a welcome relief following a very difficult time for the University”, with AUB recently announcing the unavoidable redundancies due to the challenging economic environment.

The local creative and business community have also stepped forward to show support and congratulate AUB on this amazing achievement.

Elspeth McBain, Chief Executive at Lighthouse Poole, said: “Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) plays a vital national role in nurturing talent across the performing and digital arts. Through hands-on, industry-focused training, AUB equips its students with the practical skills and experience needed to thrive in the creative industries.

Adding: “AUB’s sharp rise in the rankings is a remarkable and richly deserved achievement. It reflects the University’s unwavering commitment to excellence in creative education. Congratulations to Lisa Mann and her outstanding team on this success.”

Featured image via Google Maps