The University of Reading has been crowned the best place to study business in Britain, according to the 2026 edition of the ‘Daily Mail University Guide’.
Students pursuing business degrees at Reading are based at the world-renowned Henley Business School, one of the oldest and most prestigious business schools in the UK. With more than 7,000 students from 100 countries, Henley offers a vibrant international community and a portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes covering management, finance, entrepreneurship, and digital business.
The 2026 rankings, which assess 85 institutions nationwide, draw on measures that go beyond league-table convention. They include student satisfaction, the quality of teaching and facilities, social life on campus, and—crucially—graduate jobs and salary prospects.
What makes Reading stand out?
Henley’s global reputation, strong industry links, and emphasis on employability secured its top spot. Graduates enter roles in finance, consultancy, and tech, with many benefitting from internships and placement opportunities with leading multinational firms.
Other top performers
While Reading leads the way, several other universities earned high scores:
Warwick Business School impressed for its international outlook and pioneering research.
London School of Economics (LSE) continues to be a powerhouse in economics and management, attracting top employers worldwide.
University of Bath School of Management was praised for student satisfaction and strong graduate outcomes.
University of Strathclyde Business School remains a leader in Scotland, with strengths in innovation and entrepreneurship.
A changing landscape for business education
The 2026 guide also highlights the growing importance of digital skills, sustainability, and entrepreneurship in business education. Universities that adapt to changing employer demands—by embedding data analytics, AI, and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) content into their courses—are climbing the rankings quickly.
Why this matters to students
Choosing the right university for business studies has never been more important. With graduate salaries among business students varying by more than £15,000 a year depending on institution, the guide offers vital insight for prospective applicants.
For 2026, Reading leads the way, setting a benchmark for excellence in teaching, research, and graduate opportunities. Photo by Andrew Smith, Wikimedia commons.