SWPS University among world-changing universities
Discussions surrounding higher education now extend beyond education and research, encompassing universities' social responsibility as part of their so-called third mission. The universities' efforts in this domain are evaluated by THE Impact Rankings, a system that measures their achievements in alignment with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In this year's rankings, SWPS University joined the ranks of nearly 1,600 universities from 112 countries, including 23 from Poland. Notably, SWPS University demonstrated significant progress by scoring over 40 percent more points compared to the previous year, resulting in a ranking of 1001+. The ranking creators specifically recognized our university's contributions towards the "Good health and well-being" and "Gender equality" goals, positioning us between 101 and 200 globally in both categories. Furthermore, SWPS University achieved a respectable rank between 301 and 400 in the "Peace, justice, and strong institutions" category.
Additionally, SWPS University received noteworthy rankings in the "Reduced inequalities" category (401-600 globally) and the "Partnerships for the goals" category (601-800 globally).
For a comprehensive review of the rankings, visit the official Times Higher Education website
Empowering women and fostering gender balance
When evaluating universities' activities related to the "Gender Equality" goal (SDG-5), the ranking creators analyze various factors, including the gender balance among students and staff, the proportion of women receiving degrees, the number of women in senior academic positions, and research on gender equality. SWPS University received 64 points in this category, securing the second position in Poland, with the University of Gdansk ranked first.
At SWPS University, more than half of our senior academic positions are held by women, reflecting our dedication to supporting the career development of female academics.
Furthermore, we actively conduct scientific projects investigating various socio-political issues related to women. One such project is GEMTRA, where our researchers analyze the transition to motherhood.
Promoting healthy living and enhancing well-being of entire social groups
The "Good Health and well-being" category (SDG-3) assesses universities' contributions to activities that impact the health and well-being of individuals and communities. SWPS University achieved 75 out of 100 points in this category, securing third position among Polish universities, just behind the Medical University of Gdańsk and the Medical University of Lodz. Our score reflects strong performance in key indicators such as the number of graduates in health-related studies, research conducted in this field, collaboration with external partners, and access to health services.
SWPS University's research centers carry out advanced projects spanning a wide range of health-related topics. Our researchers:
Advising public institutions
The ranking creators also recognized SWPS University's engagement in the "Peace, justice, and strong institutions" category. This category encompasses cooperation with national public institutions and research on the rule of law and justice in its broadest sense. With a score of nearly 60 points, our university secured the fifth position among Polish universities.
SWPS University stands as a leader in public sphere research in Poland. However, our commitment extends beyond the study of socio-political phenomena. Drawing on the latest scientific data and practical experience, our experts collaborate with public institutions to develop practical solutions that address the crucial needs of citizens and society. One notable initiative is the educational gov_LAB program, which assists local governments in designing effective support instruments and services for local entrepreneurs and investors.
In our educational endeavors, we prioritize raising awareness about peacebuilding issues. This academic year, we introduced a unique graduate certificate program titled "The Roots of 20th Century Totalitarianism: Auschwitz - Holocaust - Genocide," which is conducted in collaboration with the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. We aim to provide our students with a deep comprehension of the mechanisms that underlie totalitarian systems and sensitize them to suffering and harm caused by indifference to antisemitism, racism, persecution, and war.
Times Higher Education Impact Rankings
THE Impact Rankings are the only global performance tables that evaluate universities based on the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These goals address the most pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges of our time.
The rankings were created by leaders in higher education analytics and creators of one of the most renowned global university rankings, THE World University Rankings.
This year's fifth edition of the rankings includes nearly 1,600 universities from 112 countries. The rankings continue to expand each year, demonstrating their dynamic nature. Universities are assessed in four broad areas:
research
stewardship
outreach
teaching