Birmingham Newman University Named The Times University of the Year for Social Inclusion
Birmingham Newman University is delighted to announce that it has been named University of the Year for Social Inclusion by The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026.
This prestigious accolade recognises Birmingham Newman’s sector-leading student experience that is built upon a welcoming and diverse community, giving opportunity to students from all backgrounds. The award reflects the university’s sustained investment in outreach, support services, and inclusive teaching practices that have led to outstanding student outcomes.
The university doesn’t just welcome diversity it celebrates it, recognising that every student brings unique experiences and perspectives that enrich the entire community.
Professor Jackie Dunne, Vice-Chancellor of Birmingham Newman University, said:
“We are honoured to receive this national recognition for our commitment to social inclusion. It reflects the work of our university to support all students and deliver an exceptional student experience.
“We are proud to support a student community that reflects a rich diversity of backgrounds and experiences. 65% of our students come from lower-income households, 28% have disabilities, 70% are the first in their family to attend university, and 50% are from Black, Asian, or other ethnically diverse backgrounds. These figures highlight our continued commitment to widening access to higher education and creating an environment where every student can thrive and reach their potential.”
Professor Jackie Dunne, Vice-Chancellor discusses what this accolade means to Birmingham Newman University:
To mark this achievement, we are pleased to share a special message from Pro Chancellor at Birmingham Newman University and ITV Broadcaster Julie Etchingham, who has kindly recorded a video to help us celebrate this important recognition:
This recognition follows a series of national and regional commendations for student support and satisfaction, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in student-centred education. This includes being ranked 1st in England for Student Satisfaction in the Complete University Guide (2025) and named West Midlands University of the Year by WhatUni (2025). In the National Student Survey (2025) the University also placed in the top ten in England for full-time student satisfaction for the second consecutive year.
The University will be holding an Open Day for prospective students on Saturday 4 October from 10am to 3pm.
The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026 provides the definitive rankings for UK universities and the most comprehensive overview of higher education in Britain, making use of the latest data*.
The guide provides prospective students and their families with the information to make an informed choice about their higher education, evaluating everything from satisfaction with teaching quality and the student experience to degree continuation rates and graduate employment prospects.
A 96-page supplement will be published with The Sunday Times on September 21.
