University of Bradford Leads Social Mobility Index for Fourth Consecutive Year

For the fourth consecutive year, the University of Bradford has secured the leading position in the English Social Mobility Index (SMI). This index evaluates the effectiveness of higher education institutions in enhancing their students’ future opportunities. The University of Bradford has maintained its top ranking since the SMI’s establishment in 2021, surpassing Aston University, which placed second, and the University of Wolverhampton, which ranked third. According to Vice-chancellor Prof Shirley Congdon, the institution has “for many years put great emphasis on making the University of Bradford the place to be to make a difference.” She further elaborated, stating, “This is a core part of who we are and informs everything we do.” Prof Congdon also affirmed, “We are committed to transforming the lives of our students by removing barriers and reducing attainment gaps. This in turn elevates their families and whole communities, enabling regional business to thrive, and boosting the economy.” The English Social Mobility Index evaluates universities in England that are registered with the Office for Students (with the exception of specialist institutions). Its methodology assesses their impact on social mobility by measuring the ‘social distance travelled’ by their graduates. The index incorporates various metrics for undergraduate students, including access, continuation rates, and graduate outcomes. While all study modes are considered, apprenticeship students are not included due to an absence of comparable data. Figures released by the University of Bradford indicate that 65% of its student body originates from the most socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Furthermore, 79% of its students are from the local region, and 92% are either employed or engaged in further education within 15 months of completing their studies.