World University Rankings by QS - MIT ranked 1st
According to the 2018 QS World University Rankings, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) claimed the coveted top spot, solidifying its position as the global leader in education, research, and innovation. Alongside MIT, other notable institutions such as Cornell University, the Australian National University (ANU), La Trobe University, and Heriot-Watt University made significant strides in global rankings, showcasing the international dynamics of higher education.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): The Pinnacle of Global Higher Education
Ranked No. 1 in the world according to the 2018 QS World University Rankings, MIT continues to be an unparalleled force in global higher education. The institute’s academic excellence is underscored by its strong performance in all five indicators measured by QS, but particularly in academic reputation and research output. MIT is renowned for its contributions to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, and it consistently ranks at the top for disciplines such as engineering, computer science, physics, and mathematics.
Cornell University: A Steady Climb in the Global Rankings
Cornell University, ranked No. 14 globally in the 2018 QS World University Rankings, has shown impressive upward mobility in recent years. Moving up two spots from its 2017 ranking of No. 16, and five spots from No. 19 in 2015, Cornell is demonstrating its growing influence on the global academic stage. The university earned a score of 90.7 out of a possible 100, reflecting its overall excellence in both academic and employer reputation.
Australian National University (ANU): Australia’s Top University
The Australian National University (ANU) reaffirmed its position as Australia’s top university in the 2018 QS World University Rankings, securing a spot in the global top 20 at rank 20. This achievement places ANU among the top 0.1% of the 26,000 universities globally, underscoring its reputation as a leader in research, academic excellence, and innovation.
ANU's rise to prominence is particularly evident in its global ranking in subjects such as political science, economics, law, and astronomy, where it has consistently placed among the world’s best. The university’s commitment to producing world-class research is complemented by its high levels of student satisfaction and strong employability outcomes, which have bolstered its reputation across international platforms.
La Trobe University: A Steady Improvement
Ranked 360th globally in the 2018 QS World University Rankings, La Trobe University has demonstrated significant improvement in recent years. The university has climbed 26 positions from its 386th place in the 2016 rankings, placing it firmly within the top 1.4% of universities worldwide.
La Trobe’s rise can be attributed to its focus on providing high-quality teaching and research across a broad range of disciplines. Known for its strong programs in the health sciences, humanities, education, and social sciences, La Trobe has invested heavily in expanding its research capabilities and fostering partnerships with international institutions and industry leaders.
Heriot-Watt University: Making Strides in Global Rankings
Heriot-Watt University has seen a positive trend in the QS World University Rankings, moving up 15 places to secure a position at 312th globally in 2018. Known for its strengths in engineering, business, and technology, Heriot-Watt is particularly well-regarded for its focus on international students and global faculty.
Heriot-Watt’s ranking highlights its international outlook, as evidenced by its substantial percentage of international students and faculty members. The university’s focus on providing a global perspective on education, alongside its strong research contributions in engineering, mathematics, and business, ensures that it continues to attract attention from academic institutions and employers worldwide.
