What are the most popular Universities and Colleges in Barbados? uniRank answers this question by publishing the 2025 Barbadian University Ranking of 4 Barbadian higher-education institutions meeting the following uniRank selection criteria:
Explore the uniRank League Table and University Ranking of 4 Universities in Barbados
League Tables and University sub-rankings of Barbadian Universities in the following parishes:
Saint Michael (4)
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Barbados hosts a compact yet diverse higher education system characterized by specialized institutions and international partnerships. The nation's university landscape includes 1 public university and 3 private institutions, all concentrated in the Saint Michael parish. Medical education dominates the private sector, with for-profit Caribbean medical schools catering primarily to international students. The sole public institution—The University of the West Indies—delivers comprehensive education through its regional Cave Hill Campus. English serves as the primary language of instruction across all universities, reflecting Barbados' British colonial heritage and global educational outreach.
Barbados' higher education system comprises 4 universities with distinct governance models:
This distribution highlights Barbados' reliance on private medical institutions alongside its flagship public university. All universities operate within Saint Michael parish, creating an education hub centered around Bridgetown.
Barbados universities show limited representation in global rankings:
While no institutions currently rank among the world's elite universities, medical schools like Ross University maintain strong regional recognition for Caribbean medical education.
How many universities are in Barbados?
Barbados has 4 accredited universities, including 1 public institution and 3 private medical schools.
What is Barbados' top-ranked university?
Ross University School of Medicine holds Barbados' #1 position according to uniRank, followed by The University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus.
Are there public universities in Barbados?
Yes, The University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus is Barbados' only public university, established in 1963.
Why are there so many medical schools in Barbados?
Barbados attracts international students with its English-language medical programs, US-style curricula and tropical location, making it a hub for Caribbean medical education.
Do Barbados universities appear in global rankings?
Currently no Barbadian universities rank in the top 1000 globally, though they maintain strong regional recognition within the Caribbean.
Since 2005, UniRank provides original research, valuable information and resources to help you explore and make informed decisions about Barbadian universities and their online presence.