Published on 16.01.2025
The University of Fribourg in 2024's University Rankings
The University of Fribourg has maintained a stable presence in global academic and sustainability rankings over the last year, demonstrating the ongoing impact of its efforts across various fields.
In the Times Higer Education (THE) World University Ranking the University of Fribourg kept its position among the Top 500 Universities globally, out of more than 2000 institutions. In the THE subject-specific ranking, Fribourg improved its already strong position in the Arts and Humanities, and is now classified among the top 200 universities in the world in this area (last year it was in the 200 - 250 range). It further continues to rank among the top 300 places in the world for studies in the Life and Physical Sciences.
In the QS World University Rankings, Fribourg moved up to current 539th from previous 563th globally, among more than 1500 universities. The institution also ranks among the top 150 in Europe for research impact by citation count, reflecting steady academic contributions. In the QS Rankings by subject strong performances were recorded in Classics and Philosophy, reinforcing the university's continued prominence in the humanities.
The Leiden Rankings reported shifts for Fribourg, with the university climbing to 91st in Life and Earth Sciences from its previous 228th position based on the impact of its research in these fields. However, Biomedical and Health Sciences experienced a slight decline, from 220th to 279th. Fribourg continues to lead in promoting female authorship, maintaining the third-highest proportion of female authors in Swiss scientific publications.
In the Shanghai Ranking, Fribourg maintains its position for the fourth consecutive year in the tier from 501 – 600th, while simultaneously the number of ranked universities keeps increasing, this year counting 3190 Institutions. In the subject specific ranking Fribourg is now listed among the top 200 for Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, and among the top 300 globally in Geography, Human Biological Sciences, and Psychology, highlighting its interdisciplinary strengths.
Sustainability efforts remain a priority, with Fribourg ranking 369th in the QS Sustainability Rankings 2025, out of over 1700 institutions. The university also secured third place in Switzerland for equality, reflecting its commitment to fostering inclusive environments. In 2024 the University was ranked for the first time in the Times Higher Education Impact Ranking, which is based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, in this ranking our university presented above average scores for Gender and Equality (SDG 5), Industry and Innovation (SDG 9), and Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16). Finally, the WWF report about Sustainability at Swiss Universities now extends to 2024, reinforcing ongoing initiatives.
These achievements affirm the University of Fribourg's dedication to advancing academic research, sustainability, and social responsibility.
Further details can be assessed at the Institutional webpage on Rankings. If you have questions concerning university rankings and University of Fribourg’s participation within them do not hesitate to contact Efrain Ochoa from the Research Promotion Service.