We've put together a round-up of the best unis in Birmingham for you, so you don't have to.
Updated: 02 Jul 2026
Birmingham is the second largest city in the UK and an exciting place to be a student. This multicultural city is well connected, with an international airport and major train stations. It boasts more miles of canals than Venice and more parks than Paris, as well as the largest public library in the UK. As well as a variety of restaurants, bars and clubs, the Bullring & Grand Central is the ultimate shopping destination. Well known as a hub for industry, trade and commerce, universities in Birmingham provide great links for students and graduates, with vast opportunities for work placements and internships.
Using our sister site Complete University Guide's 2027 league tables, we've put together a list of the top unis in Birmingham for all different criteria, so no matter what's important to you, you can find the perfect uni.
There are five universities in Birmingham, all offering different subjects and undergraduate experiences.
NEXT: Student city guide to Birmingham: top 10 things to do
Birmingham Newman University
Birmingham Newman University is situated in a quiet, residential area outside the city centre and is proud of the tranquil learning environment this provides. The uni is known for its friendly, community feel among students and staff, with small class sizes where lecturers give personal care and attention to each student. Newman also offers the HEADstart, HEADsup+ and HEADonline short courses to help prepare you for uni life before starting your course.
NEXT: Read what students are saying about Birmingham Newman University.
University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham comes out highly in rankings for graduate outcomes. As both a student and alumni, you’ll have access to careers professionals in the university’s Careers Network. They provide support in a variety of areas such as work experience, alumni mentors and CV and interview advice. The uni also encourages students to attend careers fairs and employer presentations, as well as completing summer internships during undergraduate studies.
NEXT: Read what students are saying about the University of Birmingham.
University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham has an excellent reputation as a research institution and prides itself on tackling real-world issues. One of the uni’s strategic goals is to deliver high quality ‘research that matters’ and to enable change that will benefit society. It’s part of the Russell Group, which contributes over two-thirds of the world-leading research produced in UK universities. The University of Birmingham has pioneered allergy vaccines and conducted leading clinical trials, and remains one of the leading research institutions in areas such as gene therapy, robotics and virtual reality.
NEXT: Read what students are saying about the University of Birmingham.
University of Birmingham
With over 350 undergraduate degrees on offer, the University of Birmingham comes out top of the Complete University Guide 2027 rankings in Birmingham. Studying here means you’ll be part of a diverse international community at the heart of the UK in a vibrant and exciting city. As part of the world-class Russell Group of universities, it provides the very best research, teaching and learning experiences and industry links. The vibrant and cosmopolitan campus is known to be diverse and welcoming, and offers many cultural and social events.
NEXT: Read what students are saying about the University of Birmingham.
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