University rankings

University rankings use various indicators to compile lists of the ‘best’ universities. Typical metrics include budget, academic staff numbers, the number of scientific publications and citations, and the number and origin of students. Survey results – for example, on the academic reputation of the institutions – are in some cases also included in the evaluations. Since the individual rankings differ considerably in their methodology (e.g. selection of indicators or citation databases used), their results can only be compared to a limited extent.

Although rankings can provide indications of the strengths and weaknesses of individual universities and their development over time, they must be viewed critically for a number of reasons. The quality of a university remains a controversial concept that depends heavily on the individual and subjective weighting of individual evaluation factors. Structural differences – for example, in terms of scope, funding, range of subjects offered or geographical setting – have a significant impact on the results in some cases, but are not adequately taken into account in most rankings.

When interpreting the ranking results of Austrian higher education institutions, particular attention should be paid to open access to higher education and the fragmented and diverse higher education landscape.

The University of Innsbruck pays particular attention to five university rankings:

• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU "Shanghai Ranking")
• QS World University Ranking (QS WUR)
• Times Higher Education Ranking (THE WUR)

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