THE University of the Free State (UFS) has been ranked among the world’s top 1,000 universities in the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings by Subject, with several disciplines improving on last year’s performance.
The annual rankings assess universities globally based on five key indicators: teaching, research environment, research quality, industry income and international outlook.
The methodology considers academic reputation, student-to-staff ratio, research impact and international collaboration.
UFS subject rankings in 2025:
- Law: 301+
- Arts and Humanities: 501-600
- Education Studies: 501-600
- Psychology: 501-600
- Life Sciences: 601-800
- Social Sciences: 601-800
- Business and Economics: 801+
- Medical and Health:** 801-1 000
- Physical Sciences: 801-1 000
A “+” indicates the university is ranked at or beyond a specific position, while a range, such as 801-1 000, means the institution falls within that bracket.
THE subject rankings serve as a benchmark for prospective students selecting universities and help institutions establish research collaborations.
Universities with strong rankings often attract high-calibre students, faculty and industry partnerships.
“Global benchmarking enhances UFS’s international standing and supports efforts to recruit top students and faculty,” Professor Anthea Rhoda, the acting vice-hancellor and principal at the UFS, said.
“This aligns with our Vision 130 strategy, which aims to expand our reach and influence in higher education.” – Staff Reporter