Some of the lowest ranked university in the world include the University of Huddersfield in the UK, the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) – in Canada, and Montana State University – the US. All of these universities are ranked in the bottom 10% of universities globally.
Some of the lowest ranked university in the world may not have the prestige of their higher-ranked counterparts, but that doesn’t mean they’re not worth considering. Although they may not be household names, these institutions can offer students a unique educational experience.
For example, some low-ranked universities strongly focus on experiential learning, which can be more valuable than simply studying from a textbook. In addition, these universities often have compact class sizes, which can provide students with more individualized attention. Sometimes, these schools have a specific niche that makes them an excellent fit for students.
So before you write off a low-ranked university, please take a closer look at what it has to offer. You might be surprised by what you find!
Top 30 Lowest Ranked University in the World (Canada, US, & UK)
Here are the top 30 lowest-ranked universities in Canada, the US, and the UK.
1. University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) – Canada
UNBC is situated in Prince George, British Columbia, Canada; It was founded in 1990. It’s a small, primarily undergraduate university known for its beautiful campus and commitment to serving the needs of Northern British Columbia. The University has a student population of just over 4,000, which is much smaller than most universities.
UNBC offers undergraduate programs, particularly in environmental sciences, natural resources, and health sciences. The University of Northern British Columbia is one of the lowest ranked Universities in the world because of its small size, limited research output, and lack of international recognition.
Despite its low ranking, UNBC is a good option for students who want to study in a small and supportive environment. The University is known for its focus on undergraduate education and its commitment to sustainability.
2. University of New Brunswick (UNB) – Canada
The University of New Brunswick was founded in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada, in 1785. It is one of the oldest public universities in North America. Its Fredericton campus is known for its picturesque setting along the Saint John River.
UNB offers undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, particularly engineering, business, computer science, and environmental sciences.
The University is home to several research institutes and centers, including the Canadian Rivers Institute and the Planetary and Space Science Centre. These centers conduct significant research in environmental science, geology, and astrophysics.
Like UNBC, the University of New Brunswick (UNB) is also a small university with a student population of just over 10,000. This small size is one of the main factors contributing to UNB’s low ranking. In addition, UNB has a limited research output, and its programs are not internationally known.
3. Thompson Rivers University (TRU) – Canada
Thompson Rivers University is situated in the scenic city of Kamloops in British Columbia, Canada. It was established in 1970, which makes it a relatively young institution compared to some older Canadian universities.
TRU offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, such as business, science, arts, and education. It is mainly known for its trades, law, and natural resource science programs.
It has a student population of just over 26,000, which is one of the reasons why it ranks so low. In addition, TRU has limited research output and its programs are not well known internationally. Despite these limitations, TRU is a popular option for students because it is affordable and offers many programs.
4. Royal Roads University (RRU) – Canada
Royal Roads University (RRU) is another small university in British Columbia, Canada. Like UNB and TRU, RRU’s small size is one of the main reasons for its low ranking. It is on a historic military college campus on Vancouver Island with stunning gardens and architecture. It was established in 1995, making it a relatively young institution compared to some older Canadian universities.
The University is known for its focus on graduate and professional programs, particularly in business, leadership, tourism, and environmental management. The University’s unique delivery model often involves blended learning, combining online and on-campus components.
RRU strongly emphasizes experiential and applied learning, often incorporating real-world projects and field experiences into its programs. This approach is designed to prepare students for practical challenges in their respective fields, and it is well known for its innovative programs and student support.
5. University of Windsor – Canada
The University of Windsor is situated in Windsor, Ontario, a region known for its manufacturing and automotive industries and proximity to the United States. Established in 1963, it is a relatively young institution compared to some older Canadian universities.
The University of Windsor (UWindsor) is ranked low for many of the same reasons as other small universities in Canada. However, the University has some unique challenges. For example, the University is in a city with a relatively high crime rate. In addition, UWindsor has been impacted by a series of recent scandals which has impacted its reputation.
Aside from those challenges, the University offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including engineering, business, health sciences, and arts. It is known for its engineering and law programs.
6. University of Victoria – Canada
The University of Victoria is a mid-sized university in British Columbia, Canada, established in 1963. Like other universities in Canada, UVic’s low ranking is primarily due to its relatively small size and limited research output. However, UVic is known for its academic programs and beautiful campus.
The University is also a popular option for international students, with over 6,000 enrolled students. Despite its low ranking, the University of Victoria is still respected in Canada.
The University offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, engineering, and business. It is mainly known for its strengths in environmental studies, oceanography, and indigenous studies.
7. Montana State University – US
Montana State University is in Bozeman, a picturesque city in southwestern Montana. It was established in 1893 and has a long history of providing education and research opportunities to the region.
MSU offers undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including agriculture, engineering, business, and the sciences. It is mainly known for its strengths in agriculture and engineering programs.
MSU’s ranking is impacted by its small size, limited research output, and remote location. MSU is also ranked low due to its high dropout rate, with over 30% of students failing to complete their degree. Despite these challenges, MSU is a respected university in Montana.
8. University of Idaho – US
The University of Idaho is situated in Moscow, a scenic city in Idaho. Founded in 1889, it has a long history of providing education and research opportunities to the region.
The University offers undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including agriculture, engineering, business, and the sciences. It is mainly known for its strengths in agriculture and natural resource programs.
However, its ranking is affected by limited research output and a relatively low graduation rate. In addition, it is located in a rural area, making it difficult to attract top students and faculty.
9. University of Maine – US
The University of Maine (UMaine) is situated in Orono, a picturesque town in Maine. Established in 1865, it has a long history of providing education and research opportunities to the region.
UMaine offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including engineering, business, the sciences, and liberal arts. It is mainly known for its strengths in marine sciences, forestry, and agriculture.
UMaine ranks low on many lists, including the US News & World Report rankings. This low ranking is due to lack of research funding, low graduation rates, and a small endowment.
10. University of Arkansas at Little Rock – US
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is situated in the capital city of Arkansas. Established in 1927, it has a history of providing education and research opportunities to the region.
UALR offers undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, health sciences, and liberal arts. It is known for its strengths in business programs and its connections to the local business community. UALR is a popular choice for students in the Little Rock area, with over 9,000 enrolled students.
The University is ranked as one of the lowest ranked university in the world – according to US News & World Report. UALR has an overall ranking of #447 out of all US colleges and universities and is considered a regional university. UALR’s low ranking includes its low average test scores, low graduation rates, and low research funding.
11. University of Alabama at Birmingham – US
The University of Alabama at Birmingham is situated in the vibrant city of Birmingham, Alabama. It was established in 1969 and has since grown into a comprehensive research university that serves its local community and the broader region.
UAB offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including health sciences, engineering, business, and the arts. It is mainly known for its strengths in healthcare-related fields.
UAB is considered a regional university and ranked outside top 400 out of all colleges and universities in the US. The primary reason for UAB’s low ranking is its low average test scores. In addition, the graduation rate is only 40%.
12. Southern University and A&M College – US
Southern University is a historically black university (HBCU) with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1880. It has played a significant role in providing access to higher education for African-American students in the southern United States.
Southern University offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, engineering, business, and education. It is known for its commitment to providing educational opportunities to underserved communities.
The University is deeply rooted in its community and is an anchor institution in Baton Rouge. It contributes to local economic development, cultural activities, and social justice initiatives.
The University is ranked #477 out of all colleges and universities in the country. The main reason for SU’s low ranking is its low average test scores. In addition, the graduation rate is only 32%. There are currently over 7,000 students enrolled at SU.
13. University of North Carolina at Pembroke – US
UNCP has a unique history and is a Native American-serving institution (NASI). It was founded in 1887 as a school for Native American students and has since grown into a comprehensive regional university.
UNCP offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including education, business, health sciences, the arts, and social sciences. It is known for its commitment to providing educational opportunities to diverse student populations.
The University is deeply connected to the local community, particularly the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. It is pivotal in supporting regional development, cultural preservation, and social initiatives.
UNCP’s low ranking is primarily due to its low average test scores. Additionally, the graduation rate is only 37%. Despite its low ranking, UNCP is a popular choice for students in the Pembroke area. There are currently over 6,000 students enrolled at UNCP.
14. Norfolk State University – US
Norfolk State University is a historically black university with a history dating back to its founding in 1935. It has played an integral role in providing access to higher education for African-American students in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia.
NSU is a public university in Norfolk, Virginia, ranked as one of the lowest-ranked in the world. The primary reason NSU’s low ranking is its low average test scores. In addition, the graduation rate is only 29%. Despite these challenges, NSU is still a popular choice for students in the Norfolk area. There are currently over 5,000 students enrolled at NSU.
Norfolk State offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including liberal arts, business, engineering, health sciences, and the sciences. It is known for its commitment to providing educational opportunities to diverse student populations.
15. Alabama A&M University – US
Alabama A&M University is a historically black university (HBCU) with a history dating back to its founding in 1875. It has played an integral role in providing access to higher education for African-American students in Alabama.
Alabama A&M offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including agriculture, engineering, business, education, and the sciences. It is known for its commitment to providing educational opportunities to diverse student populations.
While it may not be a research-intensive institution compared to more prominent universities, Alabama A&M is involved in agriculture, environmental science, and engineering research efforts. It contributes to regional development and technological advancement. However, its low ranking is primarily due to its low average test scores and high student loan default rate.
16. Mississippi Valley State University – US
Mississippi Valley State University is a historically black university (HBCU) with a history dating back to its founding in 1950. It has played a significant role in providing access to higher education for African-American students in the Mississippi Delta region.
MVSU offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including education, business, the sciences, liberal arts, and health sciences.
The University is ranked as one of the lowest ranked university in the world due to its low graduation rate and high student loan default rate. Despite its low ranking, MVSU is still a popular choice for students in the Mississippi Delta area. Over 3,000 students are currently enrolled at MVSU.
17. Coppin State University – US
Coppin State University is a historically black university (HBCU) with a history dating back to its founding in 1900. It has significantly provided access to higher education for African-American students in Baltimore and beyond.
Coppin State offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including education, business, the sciences, liberal arts, and health sciences. It is known for its commitment to providing educational opportunities to diverse student populations.
Like other universities ranked low, CSU has a low graduation rate and a high student loan default rate. About 2,500 students are currently enrolled at CSU.
18. University of Maryland Eastern Shore – US
UMES is a historically black university (HBCU) in Princess Anne, Maryland, with a history dating back to its founding in 1886. It has played a significant role in providing access to higher education for African-American students on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
UMES offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including agriculture, health sciences, business, education, the sciences, and the arts. It is known for its commitment to providing educational opportunities to diverse student populations.
The University’s low ranking is primarily due to its high student loan default and low graduation rates; however, over 3,000 students are enrolled. UMES is also known for its agriculture and nursing programs.
19. Morehouse College – US
Morehouse College was founded in 1867 and has a storied history as a private, all-male, historically black University in Atlanta, Georgia. It is known for its pivotal role in producing African-American leaders, including civil rights activists, politicians, and business leaders.
MC’s low ranking is primarily due to its low graduation rate and high student loan default rate. Despite this, MC is still a popular choice for students interested in attending an HBCU (historically black college or University). MC is known for its strong focus on African-American studies, and many notable African-American leaders have attended the college, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Morehouse offers a range of undergraduate programs, primarily in the liberal arts and sciences. It is renowned for its commitment to providing a high-quality education emphasizing leadership, critical thinking, and social responsibility.
20. University of South Carolina Upstate – US
University of South Carolina Upstate is a public university situated in Spartanburg, South Carolina. USC Upstate is also ranked as one of the lowest ranked university in the world due to its low graduation rate and high student loan default rate.
Despite this, USC Upstate is still a popular choice for students in the Spartanburg area. The University is known for its affordable tuition and vast academic programs.
USC Upstate offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, health sciences, education, liberal arts, and the sciences. It primarily serves the educational needs of the upstate region of South Carolina.
21. Saint Leo University – US
Saint Leo University (SLU) is a private, not-for-profit university in Saint Leo, Florida. Its low ranking is mainly due to its low graduation rate and high student loan default rate.
The University is known for its flexible learning options, including online and evening classes. The University also strongly focuses on student support services, career services, and academic advising.
Saint Leo University offers undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, education, liberal arts, health sciences, and the sciences.
The University also significantly focuses on educating military service members, veterans, and their families. It has a strong presence in online education and serves military personnel stationed worldwide.
22. Algoma University – Canada
Algoma University (AU) is a small, public university in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada. AU’s low ranking is mainly due to its small size and limited research output. However, the University has made significant strides in recent years, including establishing its first graduate program in 2015.
AU is also known for its unique location on the Canada-US border and its emphasis on Indigenous education. The Ontario Universities Council on Quality Assurance accredits the University.
Algoma University offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including liberal arts, sciences, business, and social sciences. It is known for its commitment to providing a personalized, student-centered education experience.
23. Cape Breton University – Canada
Cape Breton University (CBU) is a small, public university in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada. The University’s low ranking is mainly due to its small size and lack of research output.
However, CBU is making strides in improving its ranking, with a focus on internationalization and increasing enrollment. The University is known for its strong sustainability commitment and unique location on Cape Breton Island. CBU is accredited by the Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission.
Cape Breton University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, health sciences, education, liberal arts, and technology. It is known for its commitment to providing a student-centered education experience.
24. University of Prince Edward Island
The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) is a small, public university in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada. Its low ranking is mainly due to its small size and lack of research output.
The University is known for its agriculture, health sciences, and business programs. UPEI is accredited by the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada.
UPEI offers various undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including liberal arts, sciences, business, education, health sciences, and veterinary medicine. It is known for its veterinary medicine programs and research contributions.
25. University of Chester
The University of Chester is a public university located in Chester, England. It was initially founded in 1839 as a teacher training college, and it wasn’t until 2005 that it was granted full university status.
The University of Chester is ranked as one of the lowest ranked universities in the UK, primarily due to its low research output and limited international reputation. Despite its low ranking, the University of Chester has a strong reputation for its teaching quality and its focus on professional training.
26. University of Bolton
The University of Bolton is a public university located in Bolton, Greater Manchester, England. It was founded in 1824 as a teacher training college and later became a polytechnic. The University of Bolton gained university status in 2005 and has since grown to offer a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
The University of Bolton is consistently ranked as one of the lowest-ranked universities in the UK, primarily due to its low research output and limited international reputation. However, the University does have strengths in certain areas, including its vocational courses and work experience opportunities.
27. University of Huddersfield
The University of Huddersfield is a public university located in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, England. It was initially founded as the Huddersfield Technical College in 1825 before it became a university in 1992.
The University is consistently ranked as one of the lowest-ranked universities in the UK, primarily due to its low research output and limited international reputation.
28. University of Gloucestershire
The University of Gloucestershire is a public university with campuses in Cheltenham and Gloucester, England. It was founded in 1834 as a teacher-training college before it became a university in 2001.
The University is ranked as one of the lowest-ranked universities in the UK due to its limited research output and low graduation rates. However, the University has been praised for its friendly atmosphere and focus on employability.
The University’s graduates have an above-average employment rate.
29. University of Bedfordshire
The University of Bedfordshire is a public university with campuses in Bedford, Luton, and Milton Keynes, England. It was established in 2006 after a merger between the University of Luton and the Bedford campus of De Montfort University.
The University is ranked as one of the lowest ranked University in the world, primarily due to its low research output and high student loan default rate. However, the University has been working to improve its rankings in recent years and has made significant progress in certain areas.
30. Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) – UK
Bishop Grosseteste University is a small, public university in Lincoln, England. It was founded in 1862 as a teacher training college; later, it became a university in 2012. Despite its small size, BGU has a strong reputation in several fields, including theology, education, and drama.
However, the University is ranked as one of the lowest ranked university in the world, primarily due to its limited research output, limited international recognition, and low student numbers. However, BGU is still a popular choice for students.
Conclusion
While they may not have the high-ranking status of other universities, low-ranked universities can still offer a valuable educational experience. Some of these institutions are focused on experiential learning, have smaller class sizes, and specialize in certain subjects. So before you write off a university because of its ranking, take a closer look. You might find that a low-ranked university perfectly fits your needs.
That’s how much I can take on the topic. I hope you find it helpful. Don’t forget to share
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