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North East England is known for its affordable cost of living, well respected universities and friendly people, and is a popular region for students. It has three cities (Newcastle, Durham, and Sunderland), each with their own institution. Outside the cities, there are plenty of stunning beaches and beautiful countryside to explore.
There are five universities to pick from in North East England. To help you decide which is right for you, we’ve used the student-focused criteria in the Complete University Guide’s 2025 league tables to put together a list of the best in the area.
Universities in North East England
The following universities can be found in North East England:
- Durham University
- Newcastle University
- Northumbria University, Newcastle
- University of Sunderland
- Teesside University, Middlesbrough
Best uni in North East England for student satisfaction (Complete University Guide 2025)
University of Sunderland and Teesside University, Middlesbrough
It's a tie for the top spot when it comes to student satisfaction in North East England. Both the University of Sunderland and Teesside University, Middlesbrough have been doing lots to make sure their students feel happy and at home while at uni.
Read what students are saying about the University of Sunderland and Teesside University.
Best uni in North East England for graduate outcomes (Complete University Guide 2025)
Durham University
Durham boasts excellent careers advice for students throughout their time at the uni. Everyone has access to career planning advice as well as workshops on applying for internships and jobs. The uni hosts a variety of employer events and fairs, and has strong links with leading graduate recruiters giving students access to thousands of opportunities. There is also an extensive selection of online careers guidance and advice, and all graduates get lifelong access to Durham’s Careers & Enterprise Service.
Read what students are saying about Durham University.
Best uni in North East England for research quality (Complete University Guide 2025)
Durham University
Durham is an elite Russell Group university and well known as an outstanding centre for teaching and research. It has ten research institutions, bringing together different departments, staff and students using state of the art facilities. The institution prides itself on world-leading environmental research, with aims to lead us all in becoming more environmentally sustainable. The uni has flexible study areas including group rooms, bookable individual spaces and research-based viewing rooms. All students have access to an extensive online platform which includes university resources, exhibitions, research and other digitised materials.
Read what students are saying about Durham University.
Best uni in North East England overall (Complete University Guide 2025)
Durham University
Coming out top of universities in North East England is Durham University. It scored 88% overall in the Complete University Guide’s 2025 league tables. The institution has a global reputation for research and teaching, as well as a collegiate system. This means every student is a proud member of a college with its own character and traditions. It has two stunning campuses, both with excellent facilities. Durham is a vibrant university city, small enough that everything is accessible, but with plenty of rich history and natural beauty nearby to explore.
Read what students are saying about Durham University.
