The climb in the latest university league table builds significantly on the improvement in Bedfordshire’s ranking in the Complete University Guide, published last month, which saw the University rise seven places.

Commenting on the publication of the Guardian University Guide, Vice Chancellor Bill Rammell said it showed the University of Bedfordshire continues to make positive progress, adding:

“The latest league table rankings are an affirmation that the University of Bedfordshire continues to move forward, and that our commitment to putting students first and providing a truly transformational student experience is increasingly being recognised.

“Our student-staff ratio has improved significantly over the last five years, while during the same period we have invested significantly in high-quality, student-focused facilities – investments that are continuing. And we have dedicated, hard-working teaching staff who deliver courses that are driven by world-leading research. All of this contributes to the University of Bedfordshire being the number one university for improving the student experience."

In the 2016 Guardian University Guide, the University of Bedfordshire has risen 17 places, from 115 to 98, and is one of the top 10 risers in the country.

The rise is equal or greater than that of other universities in the region and of Bedfordshire’s main competitors, ensuring the University’s ranking above others such as Aberystwyth, York St John, Canterbury Christ Church, Bucks New, London South Bank, London Metropolitan, East London, Westminster, Bolton, Sunderland, Leeds Beckett and Southampton Solent.

Bill Rammell concluded:

“Bedfordshire is a forward-looking university with a clear mission to widen access to higher education, nurturing students to become creative self-starters and global citizens with the drive and ambition to make a real difference. While our students leave with good honours, we offer much more than just a degree.”