Best Sports Universities in UK: Admissions, Courses, Rankings, Acceptance Rates, and More

Looking to start your career in sports or train at a world-class level? The UK is home to some of the best sports universities in the world, offering top-ranked courses, elite facilities, and connections with professional teams. From Loughborough’s Olympic-level training grounds to Durham’s team sports dominance, these universities combine education and athletic excellence. Whether you dream of becoming a sports scientist, coach, or athlete, this guide covers everything you need—rankings, courses, acceptance rates, and more—to help you find the perfect place to pursue your passion. 

Loughborough University

Loughborough University stands tall as a global leader in sports education, consistently holding the #1 position in the QS World University Rankings for Sports-Related Subjects for the past eight years (2017–2024). This university doesn’t just teach sports — it lives and breathes it.  

Over 2,000 elite athletes train at Loughborough, including many who have gone on to represent Team GB and secure medals at the Olympic Games. For example, in preparation for the London 2012 Olympics, over 90% of Team GB athletes used Loughborough’s facilities, proving its status as a world-class training ground. Below are the key details of the Loughborough university: 

Liverpool John Moores University

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) has emerged as a major player in global sports education, climbing the rankings to secure 6th place worldwide in the 2024 QS World University Rankings for Sports-Related Subjects. What makes LJMU special is its innovative and practical approach to sports studies. With unique courses like Science and Football—which directly supports research in professional football performance—and specialised degrees in Sport Nutrition, Sport Psychology, and Sport Coaching, LJMU is helping shape the future of sports science. Below are the key details of Liverpool John Moores University: 

University of Birmingham

The University of Birmingham stands proudly as one of the UK’s premier institutions for sports education, sharing the #6 spot globally in the QS World University Rankings for Sports-Related Subjects (2024). With the global sports market estimated to grow beyond $700 billion by 2026, Birmingham’s investment in future sports professionals is more crucial than ever. The university’s impressive £55 million Sport & Fitness Club caters to over 15,000 members annually, offering some of the most advanced training environments in the country. Below are the key details of University of Birmingham: 

University of Exeter

The University of Exeter has quietly built a strong reputation in sports education, ranking #27 globally in the QS World University Rankings for Sports-Related Subjects (2024). Furthermore, over 90% of Exeter students participate in physical activity through the university’s various sports clubs, classes, and social sport programs.  

Exeter’s facilities are equally impressive, centered around the Sports Park, which boasts a high-performance gym, indoor and outdoor pitches, and specialized sports science labs used for groundbreaking research. The university’s sporting alumni include international stars like Tom Johnson, former England rugby player, and Jo Pavey, a celebrated Olympic long-distance runner. Below are the key details of University of Exeter: 

University College London

University College London (UCL) is widely celebrated as one of the world’s top academic institutions, but it also holds a respectable place in the world of sports education. Ranked #37 globally in the QS World University Rankings for Sports-Related Subjects (2024), UCL provides its students with a balance of academic excellence and quality sports opportunities, right in the heart of London.  

With over 70 sports clubs and thousands of students actively participating, UCL combines education with a strong focus on health, fitness, and competition. In fact, over 5,000 students take part in UCL’s athletic programs each year, from competitive leagues to recreational activities. Below are the key details of University College London: 

Durham University

Durham University has earned a powerful reputation as the top university for team sports in the UK, holding this title every year since 2013. Globally it ranks within the top 100 in the QS World University Rankings for Sports-Related Subjects (2024). Durham has an impressive range of sports facilities that cater to over 50 sports clubs and approximately 75% of the student body participates in sport regularly.  

From cricket and rugby to rowing on the River Wear, Durham’s athletes consistently rank among the best in university leagues, particularly in BUCS (British Universities & Colleges Sport) competitions where Durham regularly sits at the top. Below are the key details of Durham University: 

Conclusion

The UK’s leading sports universities are shaping the future of global sport through innovative programs, expert faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. Whether you aim to compete at the highest level or build a career behind the scenes, these institutions offer the perfect balance of academic success and athletic opportunity. With their impressive rankings and rich sporting history, choosing one of these universities is a winning move for your future in sport.