Royal College of Music ranked No. 1 UK conservatoire for 11th consecutive year
Thursday 26 March 2026
The Royal College of Music (RCM) has been ranked as the No. 1 institution for Music and Performing Arts in the UK and Europe, as well as the global number two position, in the QS World University Rankings by Subject.
James Williams, Director of the Royal College of Music, comments: ‘The RCM’s success in the QS World University Rankings belongs to our exceptional students, faculty and staff. Our consistent presence at the very top of global league tables reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence in teaching, research and performance, and we remain focused on our mission to provide the most inspiring education for future generations of musical talent.’
The RCM has been ranked the No. 1 institution for Performing Arts in the UK since QS introduced the subject ranking in 2016, making this its 11th consecutive year in the top spot. It is also the third year running that the College has been the top institution in the UK and Europe for Music, since its introduction in 2024.
The QS World University Rankings are a comprehensive evaluation of global institutions, prioritising areas that matter most to students such as quality of teaching, research opportunities, student experience and global partnerships. Using data and feedback from students, academics and employers, the rankings provide an objective view of each university.
Recently, the RCM was awarded a prestigious Queen Elizabeth Prize for Education, one of the highest national honours in UK higher 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.
