University of Sussex is Number 1 in the World for Development Studies
This is the eighth year in a row that Sussex has received this honour from QS World University Rankings.
In partnership with the Institute of Development of Studies (IDS), the University of Sussex has been named best in the world for Development Studies in the (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024) for the eighth year in a row.
This ranking reflects our international reputation for excellence as well as the strength of teaching and research relationships between Sussex, IDS, our staff, students, alumni and partners globally. It has been achieved through the work of IDS, the University of Sussex Business School, and our Schools of:
"Being ranked number one in the world for the eighth year in a row is a fantastic achievement for the University and a worldwide recognition of our commitment to research and teach the most pressing global development issues of our times," says Geert De Neve, Head of the School of Global Studies.
What's behind Sussex's continued success?
Over the last 60 years, our thinking and research in development studies has challenged prevailing assumptions about geopolitics and north-south relations, while continuing to engage, advise, and ask difficult questions, like:
- Whose voices are being heard?
- What does this tell us about power and inequality?
- How can justice be fostered locally, nationally and globally?
This reputation is at the root of our continued number one ranking.
We are witnessing a shift in global power centres and increasing threats to democratic spaces, citizen voice, and human rights. Conflict, security, global health, climate and environmental changes are taking new forms, and discussions on issues of race, gender, and decolonization are becoming increasingly mainstream. The Covid-19 pandemic significantly impacted the world, with long-lasting social, economic, and political consequences.
To respond to these changing contexts, Sussex and IDS have introduced courses in areas such as:
- climate change and sustainable development
- food and development
- migration and global development
These are alongside our existing undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Sussex's research expertise
Our research continues to focus on globally significant areas, including those that are new and emerging. We are helping to shape debates on issues such as:
- access to vaccines and preparation for future pandemics
- the regulation of global financial flows
- equity in international tax regimes
- achieving climate justice whilst respecting local knowledge
- supporting food security amidst crises
- understanding and addressing gender, race, and religious violence.
Teaching and research at Sussex and IDS are closely integrated. Active researchers lead lectures, classes, and seminars. They bring theory and evidence to their teaching, as well as firsthand experience — asking questions and presenting dilemmas in meaningful ways.
Curious to learn more? Explore the Sussex website and find out why we're ranked #1 in the world for Development Studies!
Explore studies in Development at the University of Sussex