Top 5 universities in Europe

  

1. ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich, or the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, is one of the world's leading universities for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Founded in 1855, it is located in Zurich, Switzerland, and has a rich history of innovation and academic excellence.

The university is renowned for its cutting-edge research and has been associated with 22 Nobel laureates, including Albert Einstein. It offers a diverse range of programs, from bachelor's to master's and doctoral degrees, attracting students from over 120 countries. ETH Zurich emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and personal initiative, preparing students for impactful careers in academia, industry, and beyond.

Bachelor's degree studies

Bachelor's degree studies from ETH Zurich offer you a comprehensive and challenging fundamental education in a technical or scientific field of study.

The study programmes at ETH Zurich provide sound professional knowledge, practical experience and expertise in interdisciplinary cooperation as well as training in social skills and critical thinking. They provide an excellent foundation for your academic or professional career.

The main teaching language in all Bachelor’s degree programmes is German. However, a command of English is indispensable.

2. University of Oxford (United Kingdom)

The University of Oxford is often regarded as the best university in Europe and one of the top institutions globally. With roots tracing back to 1096, it is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Oxford boasts a diverse range of programs, from humanities to sciences, and is renowned for its tutorial-based teaching system. Its libraries, including the Bodleian Library, house millions of volumes, making it a haven for scholars. Oxford has produced numerous notable alumni, including 28 British prime ministers and countless Nobel laureates.

The University of Oxford does not have a main campus, its buildings and facilities instead being scattered around the medieval city center. Its colleges each have a distinctive character and traditions often dating back centuries. Colleges are self-governing institutions to which students usually apply directly. There are four academic divisions within Oxford University: Humanities, Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences; Medical Sciences; and Social Sciences. The university’s particular strength is the sciences, and it is ranked number one in the world for medicine.

Oxford is a youthful and cosmopolitan city with plenty to see and do. There are dozens of historic and iconic buildings, including the Bodleian Libraries, Ashmolean Museum, Sheldonian Theatre, the cathedral, and the colleges themselves. 

Students can choose to spend their time studying or avail themselves of the many extracurricular activities available. There’s a strong musical life at Oxford, with clubs and societies spanning all genres, from jazz, through to classical and folk. Oxford is also ranked highly for sport, with its top rowers taking part every year in the world-famous boat race with the University of Cambridge on the River Thames. Drama lovers are also well catered for, with one of the largest and most vibrant university drama scenes in the country.

Oxford has an alumni network of over 250,000 individuals, including more than 120 Olympic medalists, 26 Nobel Prize winners, seven poets laureate, and over 30 modern world leaders (including Bill Clinton, Aung San Suu Kyi, Indira Ghandi and 26 UK Prime Ministers). 

3. Imperial College London

Imperial College London specializes in science, engineering, medicine, and business. Established in 1907, it is a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation. Imperial is particularly renowned for its contributions to technology and healthcare, with strong ties to industry and government. Its central London location provides students with access to a vibrant cultural and professional environment.

Imperial is based in South Kensington in London, in an area known as ‘Albertopolis’, Prince Albert and Sir Henry Cole’s 19th century vision for an area where science and the arts would come together. As a result, Imperial’s neighbours include a number of world leading cultural organizations including the Science, Natural History and Victoria and Albert museums; the Royal Colleges of Art and Music; and the Royal Albert Hall, where all of their students also graduate.

There is plenty of green space too, including two Royal Parks (Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens) within 10 minutes’ walk of campus. Travel to and from the area is also really easy as it’s served by three Tube lines and many bus routes.

One of the most distinctive elements of an Imperial education is that students join a community of world-class researchers. The cutting edge and globally influential nature of this research is what Imperial is best known for. It’s the focus on the practical application of their research – particularly in addressing global challenges – and the high level of interdisciplinary collaboration that makes their research so effective. 

4. University of Cambridge (United Kingdom)

Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge is another iconic institution. Known for its rigorous academic standards and stunning architecture, Cambridge has a strong emphasis on research and innovation. It has contributed significantly to fields like physics, biology, and mathematics, with alumni such as Sir Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin. The university comprises 31 autonomous colleges, each with its unique traditions and culture.

The University of Cambridge is one of the oldest universities in the world and one of the largest in the United Kingdom. Its reputation for outstanding academic achievement is known world-wide and reflects the intellectual achievement of its students, as well as the world-class original research carried out by the staff of the University and the Colleges. Its reputation is endorsed by the Quality Assurance Agency and by other external reviewers of learning and teaching, such as External Examiners. These high standards are the result of both the learning opportunities offered at Cambridge and by its extensive resources, including libraries, museums and other collections. Teaching consists not only of lectures, seminars and practical classes led by people who are world experts in their field, but also more personalised teaching arranged through the Colleges. Many opportunities exist for students to interact with scholars of all levels, both formally and informally.

5. UCL

UCL is the university in London that is most targeted by graduate employers*, according to a report compiled by High Fliers Research in The Graduate Market in 2024. It is the largest and most authoritative annual careers survey of final year students at the UK's 30 leading universities. 

UCL, established in 1826, was the first university in England to admit students regardless of their religion. It is known for its progressive approach to education and research. UCL offers a wide range of programs and has a strong focus on global challenges, such as sustainability and public health. Its central London campus is a melting pot of cultures and ideas.

These universities not only excel academically but also provide students with opportunities to engage in diverse cultures, traditions, and cutting-edge research. Whether you're looking to study humanities, sciences, or engineering

At UCL we know that students choose to enter graduate study for a myriad of reasons and we are deeply committed to supporting our student’s aspirations and enhancing their skills and employability. 

UCL Careers Service helps students to find their perfect career, develop their professional skills or start their own business through one-to-one guidance and events, as well as a variety of career information. 

Recruitment and networking events help students improve their knowledge of a particular industry sector and specific employers. For students interested in starting a business, UCL Innovation and Enterprise gives expert advice and practical support, as well as networking opportunities.