Universities in London & Their Specialisms

London universities are among the most diverse in the world. Our London university list ranges from specialised learning facilities to world-leading research centres, including all the top universities. Students come to the UK capital from all corners of the globe to expand their studies, with over 100,000 international students from upwards of 200 countries flocking to earn some of the world’s best degrees. As a table-topping provider of London student accommodation in Zone 1, at urbanest we decided to compile a comprehensive list of London universities to provide a snapshot of what they offer. We’ll also look at which London university is best for your subject.

The best universities in London

Home to some of the best universities in the world, let alone the country, London unis are no stranger to the top-ranking tables. Here are the best universities in London 2025 according to the Complete University Guide’s official league tables.

University London ranking Closest urbanest
London School of Economics 1 urbanest Westminster Bridge
Imperial College London 2 urbanest Battersea
UCL (University College London) 3 urbanest St Pancras
King’s College London 4 urbanest city
University of the Arts London 5 urbanest St Pancras
City, University of London 6 urbanest Hoxton
Queen Mary University of London 7 urbanest Hoxton
University of West London 8 urbanest Victoria
Goldsmiths, University of London 9 urbanest Vauxhall
St George’s, University of London 10 urbanest Vauxhall

The best London universities by subject

If you’ve already chosen your subject and are set on studying in the capital, you’ll want to apply to the best uni in that field. To make your application process easier, we’ve put together a list of the top London universities for each subject so you can do your research easily.

The best universities in London for accounting and finance

  1. London School of Economics

As the name suggests, the London School of Economics (LSE) excels in degrees in finance and accounting, coming first in the country. Studying at LSE will give you access to undergraduate, postgraduate and executive programmes with the very best reputation in the world of finance.

If you’re thinking of studying at LSE, check out urbanest Westminster Bridge, which is closely situated near the university, for an easy morning commute.

  1. King’s College London

King’s College London’s BSc in Accounting & Finance blends academic excellence with practical industry knowledge. Students gain expertise in areas like financial reporting and asset management, benefiting from strong industry links and London’s vibrant financial district, offering unmatched opportunities for both academic and personal growth.

Find your perfect student accommodation at urbanest city, which is just a short distance from King’s College London’s main buildings.

  1. City St George’s, University of London

City, St George’s, University of London, also known as Bayes Business School, offers a practical finance and accountancy course focusing on key skills for success in the industry. With strong industry ties, work placement opportunities, and a supportive environment in Tooting, students gain a solid academic foundation and real-world experience, preparing for careers in finance.

Discover our shared flats and studio apartments at urbanest Vauxhall, a stone’s throw away from City St George’s.

For more information, check out our full post on The Best Universities in London for Economics.

University In London

The best architecture universities in London

  1. University College London

UCL’s BSc Architecture course offers a creative and rigorous approach to design, blending studio-based projects with theory and technology. It ranks 9th in the country. Students create their own architectural masterpieces, working collaboratively in a vibrant environment. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and industry connections, the course provides students with everything they need to excel in architecture.

Find the perfect UCL accommodation at urbanest St Pancras.

  1. University of the Arts London

UAL Central St Martins BA (Hons) Architecture offers a blend of design, technology, and theory. Students develop their creative vision while gaining practical skills in architecture, urbanism, and sustainability. With expert lecturers and located in the heart of London’s creativity, it properly prepares students for a successful architectural career.

Find closely located student accommodation with 24/7 security and vibrant social spaces at urbanest Tower Bridge.

  1. Kingston University London

Kingston University’s BA (Hons) Architecture takes a hands-on approach to architectural education. Students explore all aspects of building design through studio-based projects, gaining practical skills and critical thinking. With a focus on sustainability and creativity, this course prepares students for an architecture career in the modern world.

Discover your perfect stay while studying at Kingston University London at urbanest Vauxhall.

The best art universities in London

  1. University College London

Second in the country, UCL’s Slade School of Fine Art offers a Fine Art course that combines studio practice with critical studies. Students can explore a range of media, including painting, sculpture, and digital art, helping them explore their unique creativity.

  1. Goldsmiths, University of London

With a selection of courses, including Fine Art, Digital Arts Computing and Fine Art & History of Art, and postgraduate degrees to further your study, Goldsmiths, University of London is an excellent choice for allowing your creativity to thrive. Providing you with your own studio space during your degree, students get to meet guest artists and speakers, offering a unique perspective and invaluable advice.

Explore our rooms at urbanest Vauxhall, located in the heart of the city and within easy commuting distance of Goldsmiths, University of London.

  1. Kingston University London

Kingston University London is home to three dynamic sectors: the School of Arts, Creative and Cultural Industries, and the Design School. Each has a variety of courses for aspiring artists, including 3D Design, Animation, Fine Art, and Art Business, providing a platform to unleash your creativity.

Student in art gallery

The best business universities in London

  1. King’s College London

Coming third overall in the UK, King’s College London’s BSc in Business Management provides a modern approach to understanding international business, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. The course includes practical experience through industry placements and study abroad opportunities, focusing on employability.

  1. University College London

The UCL School of Management scored fifth in the country for their forward-thinking programmes designed to encourage leadership and entrepreneurial skills for the future. Big on real-world application, their courses allow students to gain an insight into global business challenges, preparing them for the real world.

  1. London School of Economics

With a wide range of business and management degrees, it’s no surprise that LSE is in the top three again. Their BSc Management course combines finance, marketing and operations with quantitative analysis, giving you an all-round education in the business world.

The best universities in London for computer science

  1. Imperial College London

Imperial College London is ranked third in the country for their computer science courses. Most of their degrees are separated from the start into different specialisations. This ranges from artificial intelligence to security and software engineering to visual computing and robotics, allowing you to get ahead if you already know the field you’d like to pursue. If not, you can study for a general undergraduate computing degree before specialising in your second and third years.

Enjoy a rooftop terrace, gym and cinema room to help you chill out from your studies at urbanest Battersea.

  1. University College London

UCL appears on the list for several courses, including its computer science degree. The BSc course includes programming, algorithm design, and software engineering and emphasises practical experience through real-world projects and industry partners.

  1. King’s College London

Kings College London makes for a great start to a career in computer science. The Department of Informatics at King’s looks to explore and understand the newest trends and knowledge in computer science, artificial intelligence, robotics and telecommunications.

For more information, check out our full post on The Best Universities in London for Computer Science.

The best dance universities in London

  1. City St George’s, University of London

​City St George’s, University of London Professional Dance and Musical Theatre degree is a triple threat course, including dance, singing, and acting training. With industry-focused pathways and performance opportunities, students are well-prepared for a career in the performing arts.

  1. Goldsmiths, University of London

Goldsmiths offers a varied and unique selection of dance courses, including their Confucius Institute for Dance and Performance. This school offers a unique blend of Chinese culture, language, and artistic expression, letting students explore Mandarin, traditional dance, martial arts, music, and arts through various short courses. Their Diverse Dance Styles course combines African, Caribbean, contemporary dance, and hip-hop with industry performances and choreography.

  1. Kingston University London

Kingston University’s BA (Hons) Dance course follows a hands-on approach to contemporary dance, emphasising technique, creativity, and performance. Offering a variety of styles and guest workshops, it encourages students to embrace their creativity.

The best drama universities in London

  1. Guildhall School of Music & Drama

Specialists in the creative industry, Guildhall supply an all-encompassing degree in drama and performing. Partnering with the famous École des Écoles, it helps organise international workshops across London, giving young performers a chance to showcase their skills.

Find your nearest nest at urbanest Hoxton, with ample social spaces and a fitness studio.

  1. Queen Mary University of London

The highest-rated Russell Group university for student satisfaction in London, Queen Mary University believes in achieving the unachievable through academic excellence. Choose from several undergraduate and postgraduate courses at their School of Drama, including Drama with Creative Writing, Drama and Film Studies and Liberal Arts.

Enjoy a quick commute to your lectures and workshops from urbanest Hoxton.

  1. Royal Central School of Speech and Drama

From Musical Theatre to classical and Contemporary Acting, the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama also offers a wide selection of courses within the performing arts sector. Their degrees span theatre, film, television, and audio, giving students the opportunity to develop their skills across multiple areas and eventually decide on the right one for them.

Book private and ensuite rooms and luxury studio apartments near the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama at the urbanest King’s Cross.

The best engineering universities in London

  1. Imperial College London

Rated among the top 10 universities and second in the UK, Imperial’s stellar reputation attracts students worldwide. Having produced four Nobel Prize Laureates, this prestigious university has an enviable track record. With degrees in aerospace, bioengineering, artificial intelligence, and civil engineering, there’s no shortage of options.

  1. University College London

With a vibrant environment and cutting-edge technology, UCL’s Engineering course prepares students to solve real-world challenges. With a strong focus on research and industry, you’ll gain skills across various disciplines and graduate with extensive knowledge, giving you a head start in a career in engineering.

  1. King’s College London

From undergraduate degrees to Ph.D.s, the KCL Department of Engineering is well-known for its high-quality teaching and resources. It has mechatronics, wireless communication, signal and information processing, and user-facing engineering courses that help students apply what they have learned to other industries, making a difference in the real world.

The best universities in London for English

  1. University College London

Covering a mix of English Language and Literature, UCL ranks fifth in the country, making it a great place to study. Along with learning the history of the language, students get to choose their specialisms from an extensive list, personalising their studies to meet their interests.

  1. King’s College London

Kings College London also leads the way for degrees in English. Their English BA syllabus combines medieval performance literature with poetry and global fiction, giving students a varied education in the written language. With over 50 modules, students can fully tailor their studies, learning from some of the best minds in the country.

  1. City St George’s, University of London

From English and Creative Writing to  English with Publishing, City St George’s provides practical skills that can be applied throughout your career. Honing your writing skills and giving you access to many resources, their courses go beyond English as we know it.

The best law universities in London

  1. University College London

University College London (UCL) is a fantastic university in London for studying law, coming second in the country for the subject. With 41% of its students from a non-UK background, UCL is considered a gateway to the world. Right in the city centre, you can expect specialised teaching a stone’s throw from the best London attractions.

  1. London School of Economics

The London School of Economics is highly regarded as one of the best universities in the world for studying law. This year, they came third in the country for the degree. Your study will include modules which range from human rights and international law to media and global commodities law. LSE is internationally recognised for its teaching and research, with its teaching staff being experts in law and frequent guest lecturers.

  1. King’s College London

KCL is another prestigious university when it comes to law. With globally recognised programmes that provide students with a comprehensive understanding of various specialities, the course sets you up with real-world experience and excellent industry links.

To see more Law Universities, check out our full post on The Best 7 Law Universities In London.

Image of bookshelf

The best universities in London for marketing

  1. University of the Arts London

The University of the Arts London offers short courses and degrees in fashion marketing and advertising. It is a great choice for those looking to study full-time or alongside their career. Their courses engage with industry and examine consumer needs, offering realistic insight and applicable teachings.

  1. Queen Mary University of London

Queen Mary University of London’s BSc in Marketing and Management blends marketing theory with practical management skills. Students gain a deep understanding of consumer behaviour, business strategy, and digital marketing. The course provides valuable real-world experience in the field, and students can include a year in industry.

  1. Middlesex University

Studying Marketing and Digital Communications at Middlesex University allows students to dive head-first into the industry, preparing them for a career in the ever-evolving field. Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Marketing, this course equips you with essential digital marketing, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Check out our urbanest King’s Cross accommodation, close to London’s famous sightseeing spots and Middlesex University.

The best universities in London for medicine

  1. University College London

Ranking third in the country, UCL’s Medicine MBBS BSc offers an integrated curriculum that combines scientific knowledge with clinical practice. Over six years, students gain hands-on experience through placements in top hospitals and community settings across London. With access to world-class facilities and expert faculty, this program expertly prepares students to excel in medical careers.

  1. Imperial College London

Closely following in fourth, Imperial College London’s six-year Medicine MBBS/BSc program also offers a mix of science-based teaching with clinical practice. Students gain early patient contact through placements across NHS Trusts. The course offers dual qualifications, including a research-focused BSc year, allowing students to continue learning with a PhD. ​

  1. Queen Mary University of London

Queen Mary University of London’s Medicine MBBS (A100) program includes both theory and extensive clinical experience. Students develop clinical skills while engaging with patients in various healthcare settings while being supported by cutting-edge facilities.

The best nursing and midwifery universities in London

  1. King’s College London

Putting students straight into the action, King’s College London’s Nursing with Registration as an Adult Nurse BSc immerses them in the real world with early clinical placements at London hospitals. The research-driven course offers opportunities for international placements, equipping students to tackle the challenges of modern healthcare.

  1. Kingston University London

Leaders in healthcare courses, Kingston University, is recognised for its Adult Nursing BSc (Hons) and Midwifery with Registered Midwife BMid (Hons) courses. Both programs combine academic study with practical placements in leading healthcare institutes, preparing students to deliver high-quality, compassionate care.

  1. University of West London

The University of West London offers a range of nursing, midwifery, and healthcare courses with a strong focus on practical experience. Students gain essential skills through placements and state-of-the-art simulation centres. With experienced staff, excellent facilities, and a strong NHS partnership, UWL prepares students for fulfilling careers in healthcare.

Enjoy rooms overlooking the river Thames at urbanest Westminster Bridge, the ideal location for the University of West London students.

The best universities in London for psychology

  1. London School of Economics

Leaders in the country, LSE’s BSc in Psychological and Behavioural Science explores the complexities of human thought, emotion, and behaviour from psychological and social science perspectives. The course combines theory with real-world applications in fields like health and education, helping students develop skills that can be used across several industries.

  1. University College London

Similar to its world-renowned degrees in Law, University College London is also one of the best universities in London for psychology. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses accredited by the British Psychological Society. At UCL, you will develop your skills and knowledge to a standard level before specialising. That could be in neurological, clinical, developmental, or social psychology.

  1. King’s College London

King’s College London’s BSc Psychology provides an in-depth understanding of the human mind, exploring everything from mental health to cognitive neuroscience. Accredited by the British Psychological Society, the course combines research, clinical expertise, and practical experience with an optional year abroad or professional placement. With strong connections to the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s University offers unmissable opportunities for future psychologists.

The best universities in London for international students

  1. Imperial College London

Imperial College London is a top pick for international students because of its world-leading courses, outstanding reputation, and welcoming and inclusive environment. Beyond academics, it provides diverse support, career guidance, and various social societies, helping students build relationships and learn new skills. With a global network of opportunities, Imperial helps students develop personally and professionally.

  1. University College London

UCL is another fantastic choice for international students due to its global reputation for academic excellence and supportive student community. Located in the heart of London, UCL gives students access to personal and professional opportunities that can’t be found elsewhere. Their international focus and great industry connections prepare students for a global career.

  1. King’s College London

King’s College London’s prestigious reputation makes students stand out in worldwide career applications. Their central location and extensive support services and initiatives embrace London’s multicultural society, letting international students celebrate their values while studying abroad.

List of universities in London

How many universities are there in London?

London is home to over 40 universities, making it a global hub for higher education. As well as those listed, the UK capital boasts a variety of specialist universities and those offering short courses, undergraduate degrees, postgraduate degrees and p.h.ds. No matter your interest or background, London’s universities provide a great place to study and live.

Our urbanest student accommodation is situated in 8 easily accessible boroughs of zone 1 of London. Giving you easy access to top universities and the best bars, restaurants and attractions, our nests create the perfect home away from home during your studies. Check our student accommodation in London availability to see whether you could be staying with us this year!