University of the Year 2026

Three alumni are reporting from football's biggest tournament this summer.

Yuk Chi Chan (Law, College of St Hild and St Bede, 2016-2019), has been named the United States national winner for Business and Innovation at the prestigious British Council Study UK Alumni Awards, recognising his entrepreneurial leadership and impact on the global space sector. Yuk Chi came to Durham after serving with the Singapore Army Engineers, choosing to study law at Durham because of its reputation for academic excellence and its distinctive collegiate experience.

Our alumni have taken part in a programme of career networking and engagement activity across the United States from 7–15 May 2026.

University Chancellor Dr Fiona Hill hosted the 11th Annual Chancellor’s Circle Dinner on 30 April at the historic Fishmongers’ Hall in London. Chancellor’s Circle members gathered to celebrate the group’s transformational giving and the difference this makes to the University.

On Sunday 26 April, students from Ustinov College and the Durham University International Study Centre (ISC) came together for their first Varsity event at Maiden Castle. The day focused on taking part, trying something new and bringing people together through college sport. It showed how sport at Durham supports students of all abilities, not just those competing at the highest level.

Global media leaders will debate the most pressing issues facing journalism and truth-telling at a summit held in memory of our late alumnus Sir Harry Evans.

Durham alumni have been prominent on our large and small screens recently, and winning awards and acclaim for their endeavours.

In March, we were named a World Top 50 international university by Times Higher Education and we have achieved a record 22 subjects ranked among the world’s top 100 in the prestigious QS World University Rankings by Subject.

We are one of Europe’s leading universities, placed 32nd in the latest QS World University Rankings: Europe.

With major government initiatives on the horizon for Artificial Intelligence, skills and trade, our Chancellor, Dr Fiona Hill, joined with industry leaders and the University community for an engaging discussion on how they could impact business across the region.

Hundreds of students experienced an engaging and high-profile recruitment showcase from the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team. 

On Saturday 20 June 2026, Ustinov College and Ustinov Graduate Common Room were delighted to welcome alumni, students, staff, families, and friends to Ustinov Day 2026, held for the first time at Sheraton Park.

On Sunday 26 April, students from Ustinov College and the Durham University International Study Centre (ISC) came together for their first Varsity event at Maiden Castle. The day focused on taking part, trying something new and bringing people together through college sport. It showed how sport at Durham supports students of all abilities, not just those competing at the highest level.