Dr. Ma'moun Alshtaiwi

In today’s knowledge-driven world, global university rankings have become essential indicators of academic reputation, research quality, and institutional impact. For universities, particularly in countries like Jordan, achieving a place in prestigious international rankings such as QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education (THE), or Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), is both a mark of excellence and a strategic goal.

1. Understanding Global University Rankings

There are several global ranking systems, each with its own methodology and criteria. The most prominent include:
•QS World University Rankings
•Times Higher Education (THE)
•Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU)
•U.S. News Best Global Universities

Each system assesses institutions based on a variety of indicators, including:
•Academic reputation
•Employer reputation
•Faculty-to-student ratio
•Citations per faculty
•International faculty and student ratios
•Research output and impact
•Teaching quality
•Industry income and innovation

2. Key Steps to Enter and Climb Global Rankings

a. Enhancing Research Output and Quality

Research plays a central role in most ranking systems. Universities must:
•Encourage faculty to publish in high-impact international journals (indexed in Scopus or Web of Science).
•Promote collaborative international research projects.
•Support the creation of research centers of excellence.
•Incentivize citations and academic visibility by encouraging publication in English and in reputable journals.

b. Improving Academic Reputation

Reputation surveys contribute significantly to rankings. To build a strong academic image:
•Build international partnerships with well-ranked institutions.
•Participate in international conferences and networks.
•Invite renowned scholars and host international academic events.
•Promote faculty and university achievements through media and digital platforms.

c. Strengthening Teaching and Learning Quality

Rankings often consider the quality of education. Universities should:
•Maintain a low student-to-faculty ratio.
•Invest in faculty development and training programs.
•Modernize curricula to align with global standards.
•Embrace e-learning, blended learning, and innovative teaching methods.

d. Internationalization

International visibility is a key factor in rankings:
•Increase the percentage of international students and faculty.
•Offer programs in English or other widely spoken languages.
•Establish student exchange programs and double degrees.
•Strengthen the university’s presence in international education fairs and platforms.

e. Institutional Data and Ranking Participation

Many universities are absent from rankings simply because they do not submit their data or participate in global evaluations. To avoid this:
•Designate a ranking office or committee to handle data collection and submission.
•Maintain a comprehensive and accurate institutional database.
•Actively engage with ranking organizations, respond to surveys, and update profiles on ranking platforms.

f. Focus on Graduate Employability

Employer reputation is a major component, especially in QS rankings. To boost this:
•Build strong industry linkages.
•Create internship opportunities and career services.
•Ensure graduates are equipped with skills relevant to the labor market.
•Conduct regular employer feedback surveys and use results to enhance curricula.

3. Special Focus: Jordanian Universities

Jordan is home to several reputable institutions such as the University of Jordan, Jordan University of Science and Technology, and Yarmouk University. However, for more Jordanian universities to rise in global rankings, the following should be prioritized:
•Strategic Planning: Universities must develop a clear long-term plan targeting ranking improvement, integrated into their national higher education strategy.
•Government and Policy Support: Policies that promote academic freedom, funding for research, and incentives for international partnerships are essential.
•English as a Medium of Instruction: Offering more programs in English will help attract international students and faculty, and improve publication reach.
•Digital Visibility: Universities must ensure their websites, research, and activities are easily accessible, up-to-date, and search-engine optimized.
•Alumni and Global Networking: Developing strong alumni networks and encouraging their engagement can enhance employer perception and institutional reputation.

Achieving and improving a university’s position in global rankings is a complex but attainable goal. It requires strategic leadership, continuous quality improvement, and international engagement. For Jordanian universities, the road to global recognition involves not only internal reforms but also proactive outreach and innovation. By aligning with global best practices and showcasing their unique strengths, Jordanian institutions can rise in the rankings and contribute meaningfully to global academia.