10 UNSW Sydney subjects ranked in the world’s top 100

UNSW’s law program ranked top in the state, while engineering was first in the country in the latest Times Higher Education subject rankings.

Ten UNSW Sydney subjects are ranked among the world’s top 100 in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings by Subject.

Law rose six places to 29th globally. Engineering moved up five spots to equal 46th, entering the top 50 and cementing UNSW as Australia’s highest-ranked engineering program.

Education Studies (=54), Medical and Health (64), Psychology (65), Computer Science (=78), Business and Economics (=88), and Life Sciences (=87) all improved in the rankings. Physical Sciences (83) and Social Sciences (=92) rounded out the UNSW subjects among the world’s top 100.

Acting UNSW Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Enterprise) Professor Stephen Rodda said the results highlighted the excellence of UNSW’s teaching and research.

“These rankings are a significant achievement and a credit to the dedication and talent of our students and staff across many disciplines,” Prof. Rodda said. “They affirm our commitment to world-class research, innovative technologies, and outstanding education that benefits society and advances Progress for All.”

Top-ranked law program in New South Wales

UNSW's law program remains the top-ranked in the state and is now second in Australia, according to THE.

Dean of UNSW Law & Justice Professor Andrew Lynch said the faculty’s achievement reflected not only its academic excellence but also its distinctive commitment to social justice.

“UNSW Law & Justice is consistently recognised as a global leader in legal education and research, which speaks to the energy and calibre of our students and staff, and to a collegiate environment where the best legal minds can thrive,” Prof. Lynch said. “Our teaching and research are grounded in rigorous, principled scholarship, with a clear focus on law’s power to achieve equitable and just outcomes.”

First in the nation for Engineering

Engineering is ranked equal 46th in the world, up five places from last year, and remains Australia’s top engineering program.

Dean of UNSW Engineering Professor Julien Epps said this recognition reinforced the faculty’s leadership in engineering innovation and education.

“This achievement reflects the entrepreneurial spirit and commitment of our exceptional researchers, educators, professionals and students working at the forefront of engineering,” Prof. Epps said. “Through strong industry engagement, world-leading research and experiential learning, we equip graduates to innovate, tackle complex challenges and make a meaningful impact in a rapidly changing world.” 

The 2026 THE World University Rankings by Subject evaluated universities in 11 subject areas using 18 performance indicators covering teaching, research, knowledge transfer, and internationalisation.