Royal College of Music ranked Global No. 1 for fourth consecutive year
Wednesday 12 March 2025
The Royal College of Music (RCM) has once again been ranked the Global No. 1 institution for Music and Performing Arts in the QS World University Rankings by Subject. The College has proudly held the top spot in Performing Arts for four consecutive years and for Music since its introduction last year.
Royal College of Music Director, James Williams commented: ‘Being ranked the Global No.1 for the fourth consecutive year is a testament to the outstanding dedication of the entire RCM community. The Royal College of Music remains a leading destination for music students from around the world. I am delighted by this prestigious recognition in the QS World University Rankings and immensely proud of all that has been accomplished.’
The QS World University Rankings by Subject evaluate institutions globally, considering factors such as the strength and quality of teaching, research output and impact, student experience, university partnerships and faculty qualifications. These rankings are based on expert opinions from academics and employers, alongside an in-depth analysis of research performance.
In Music, the Royal College of Music achieved a 100% score for Reputation with Employers, highlighting an outstanding reputation and positive collaboration with the wider industry.
The latest results align with the Royal College of Music’s Gold ranking in the most recent Teaching Excellence Framework and the outstanding results in the 2024 National Student Survey, where the College excelled in teaching quality, learning opportunities and student voice. As a vibrant community of students, teachers, and staff, the RCM boasts one of the richest artistic programmes of any conservatoire, hosting over 500 events annually and recently performing at the BBC Proms.
Graduates from the Royal College of Music forge extraordinary careers across the global music landscape as soloists, conductors and in principal positions in orchestras worldwide. Many also thrive in diverse roles across the wider creative sector and beyond, showcasing the versatility and impact of an RCM education.
Discover more about studying at the Royal College of Music and find out more about what’s on.
View the full QS World University Rankings by Subject league table for Music and Performing Arts.
