Wrexham University named Welsh University of the Year
Date: August 13, 2026
Wrexham University is celebrating being named Welsh University of the Year 2027 in the Daily Mail’s University Guide.
The annual guide ranks how universities perform on teaching, research, student experience and graduate outcomes, and has become a popular source for students looking for a clear picture of the higher education sector.
Wrexham University’s commitment to student support and satisfaction, investment in new, modern infrastructure, focus on partnerships, social inclusion, and new research degree awarding powers, were all cited as reasons for the win.
Alastair McCall, Editor, Daily Mail University Guide, said: “Wrexham University is going places. A stellar year for the University, which has seen it gain research degree awarding powers, is capped by winning the Daily Mail award for Welsh University of the Year 2027.
“Our award recognises the transformation in the University’s fortunes in the past three years as it positions itself as a leading modern civic university, helping to drive forward the economy and support the communities it serves in North East Wales and the Welsh Borders.
“The launch of the Wrexham Business School, the completion of CanfodAu - the university’s engineering, enterprise and optics centre, and the opening of the Simulation and Immersive Learning Centre all speak to the heavy investment in the teaching and learning experience to give students access to outstanding facilities.
“Their wider experience is not being neglected either with plans in progress for a revamped and relocated students’ union. These are exciting times for the University.
“Key partnerships with regional further education providers have established clear pathways from further to higher education, opening up the prospect of degree-level study to the widest possible audience and building on Wrexham’s exceptional record for social inclusion.”
Wrexham University Provost and Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Paul Davies, added: “Being named the Daily Mail’s Welsh University of the Year is a tremendous moment for Wrexham University and for the region we proudly serve. It reflects the hard work, ambition and belief of our staff, students, partners and community who have helped us grow into a modern, confident university with a clear purpose.
“Students consistently rate Wrexham University among the top institutions in Wales for student satisfaction, with subjects such as Nursing, Criminology, Health Studies and Social Work ranked 1st in the UK for how supported and included learners feel. The University’s commitment to social inclusion also creates a community where everyone is encouraged to belong, thrive and succeed.
“Over the past year we have reached milestones that speak to the strength and direction of our institution. Gaining research degree awarding powers was a landmark achievement that recognised rising academic standards, and positions us to deliver even greater impact for North East Wales. Our 2030 strategy is already creating opportunities; from launching Wrexham Business School, to securing new investment in engineering, advanced manufacturing and health innovation.
“We are now preparing for our biggest capital development to date: the £22m Wrexham Business Gateway. Supported by Ambition North Wales and aligned with the regional Investment Zone, the project will create new collaborative learning spaces, a relocated Students’ Union, improved catering facilities and dedicated incubation and enterprise space for students, graduates, start-ups and local businesses.
“The Gateway will act as a front door to University expertise and collaboration, helping businesses access talent, facilities and support while strengthening links with regional partners. The Outline Business Case forecasts that the project will support around 150 gross jobs and generate more than £85m in additional GVA, helping to drive skills, business growth and economic opportunity across North East Wales.
“Alongside recent upgrades such as the CanfodAU Engineering and Enterprise Centre and our Simulation and Immersive Learning Centre, it shows how we are building a university ready for the future and a region ready for growth
“I am incredibly proud of everyone who has brought us to this point, and excited for what we will achieve together in the years ahead.”
Spaces for the September 2026 intake are still available on some courses through Clearing. Find out more here.