Manchester named among UK’s top five universities for graduate employability

The University of Manchester has been named one of the UK’s top five universities for graduate employability in a new international ranking.

The University of Manchester placed fifth in the UK and 50th globally in the Global Employability University Ranking 2027, published by Times Higher Education. This represents an improvement from 56th place globally in the 2026 ranking.  

The ranking, designed by HR consultancy Emerging, identifies the universities that recruiters at leading companies believe are best at preparing students for the workplace. A total of 17 UK universities feature among the 300 institutions included globally.  

The result follows further recognition of Manchester’s strong links with employers. Earlier this year, the University was ranked first in the UK for graduate employer interest in High Fliers' The Graduate Market in 2026, based on research with 100 of the UK’s leading graduate employers. 

Professor Jenn Hallam, Vice-President for Teaching, Learning and Students said: “This recognition reflects the strength of our students and graduates, as well as our close relationships with employers. We want our students to leave Manchester with the knowledge, skills, experience and confidence they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world of work.”

The University of Manchester is taking practical steps to support graduate employability through placements, micro-internships and closer working with business. These opportunities enable students to apply their learning, build confidence and take their first steps into employment.

In other rankings during 2026 The University of Manchester was placed 40th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2027 and first in the world in the 2026 Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings. Manchester also retained its place among the UK’s top six universities in the 2026 Academic Ranking of World Universities