McMaster ranks 18th in the world for global impact

McMaster has placed among the top universities in the world for sustainability and global impact in a prestigious annual ranking.

The university ranked 18th out of 1,603 institutions worldwide and fourth in Canada in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Rankings, which measure universities’ performance in advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to work toward peace and prosperity for people and the planet.

In addition to the overall ranking, McMaster is ranked seventh in the world and first in Canada for SDG 3 — Good Health and Well-Being — which measures how universities ensure people live healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.

“This ranking is a testament to our role among international partners in protecting our planet and improving life around the world,” said McMaster President and Vice-Chancellor Susan Tighe.

“McMaster’s leadership in health education and research continues to propel us to new heights on the global stage, and we are so proud of the faculty, researchers, staff and students who drive our success,” Tighe said.

McMaster ranked in the world’s top 30 universities in three other SDGs:

The university also ranked in the top 50 globally for Industry, Innovations and Infrastructure (SDG 9), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Partnership for the Goals (SDG 17).

Here’s more on how McMaster faculty, students and staff are making an impact locally and around the world: