Leeds Beckett University has once again been recognised among the world's top institutions, securing a place in the top 100 globally for sports-related and hospitality and leisure management subjects in the QS World University Rankings 2026. This marks the sixth consecutive year that these subjects have achieved this ranking. The QS World University Rankings are an internationally respected system designed to guide prospective students in choosing the best universities for their chosen fields. The 2026 edition is based on an analysis of over 18,300 university programmed taken at more than 1,700 universities around the world in 55 academic disciplines. Rankings are determined using five key indicators, including academic reputation, employer reputation and international research networks. In addition to its top 100 rankings, Leeds Beckett University holds a coveted 5-star 'excellent' rating from QS Stars, a system that assesses teaching quality, employability and internationalisation among other factors. Peter Mackreth, Dean of the Carnegie School of Sport at Leeds Beckett University, said: "We're delighted to have maintained our position in the top 100 universities for both sports-related and hospitality and leisure management subjects. The ranking is recognition of the continued impact our work has, through our graduates in their careers, our research and the industry partnerships we have to underpin our portfolio." Ben Sowter, QS Senior Vice President, said: "The QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 highlight a global higher education landscape that is becoming both more competitive and more specialised. Institutions are increasingly building global reputations through targeted subject excellence, research collaboration and industry engagement. This year's results show that strategic investment in specific disciplines - not just overall institutional strength - is becoming a defining feature of how universities compete and gain international recognition." Find more information about the QS World University Rankings on the Top Universities website.
A group of ten students from the university's Carnegie School of Sporttook on key operational roles during the showpiece rugby league games at Allegiant Stadium, supporting areas including media operations and talent movement. The opportunity was brokered by a former national rugby league player who now lectures in Sport Management at Leeds Beckett, helping connect students with organisers of the high-profile event. The Las Vegas showcase saw some of rugby league's biggest names from both hemispheres come together as the sport's culture and fanfare took over the famous strip. Throughout the week-long trip, the students contributed across a range of events. These included the headline Leeds Rhinos vs Hull Kingston Rovers Super League fixture and additional Super League matches. There was also a Rugby League 9s tournament featuring Hunslet RLFC and a schools' tournament. Third-year Sport Business Management student Patrick Wilkinson worked at the heart of the event throughout the week, including roles in media and talent movement. Patrick said: "The trip was full of learning, networking and unforgettable experiences. Every experience added a new layer of understanding about how major sporting events are delivered, promoted, and brought to life on a global stage. "Being part of the media and talent movement operation for such a major international event reinforced just how much coordination, precision, and teamwork goes into elite sport off the field. Seeing it up close was an invaluable learning experience and a brilliant way to end the trip. Im heading home motivated, inspired, and even more excited about whats next in sport." Sport Management lecturer James Webster praised the students' contribution throughout the week. He said: "What an extraordinary week it has been for the students. They were given the incredible opportunity to contribute to a major global sporting event in the worlds capital of sport. "A special mention must go to their outstanding contribution to the world-famous Fremont Street fan event, as well as their involvement on match day itself. "Our sincere thanks to the NRL team for making this truly unique and invaluable experience possible."