University of Waterloo climbs to No. 1 University in Canada for water resources in global ranking

The University of Waterloo has claimed the No. 1 position in Canada for water resources and climbed to 24th globally in the 2024 ShanghaiRanking’s Global Rankings of Academic Subjects—its highest position to date. Rising from 25th last year, the ranking underscores the university’s performance and reputation in water resources, a field critical to addressing escalating climate change and water security challenges worldwide.

The ShanghaiRanking’s Global Rankings, launched in 2017, annually assess universities worldwide across academic subject areas. In this year’s evaluation, over 1,900 institutions from 96 countries and regions were included, with rankings based on academic metrics, such as world-class faculty, world-class output, high quality research, research impact and international collaboration.

“The University of Waterloo’s leading position in Canada and its strong global reputation in water resources reflect the importance of the Water Institute’s leadership role in bringing world-class faculty together to advance impactful water research and education, tackling some of the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges” said Joan Rose, Homer Nowlin Chair in Water Research at Michigan State University and Chair of the Water Institute’s External Advisory Board.

The University of Waterloo established the Water Institute in 2009 to demonstrate world-class leadership in interdisciplinary water research and education. The Institute fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange to address complex water challenges and promotes innovation in research and education. Its membership includes over 170 faculty members, including more than 20 Canada and University Research Chairs, and 300 graduate students, representing 25 departments and schools across all six faculties.

“Reaching this top global ranking among Canadian universities serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Water Institute and the dedicated pursuit of global water security through innovative solutions and technologies by our researchers,” said Roy Brouwer, Executive Director of Waterloo’s Water Institute. “We are proud to provide critical resources to support faculty and students across all academic disciplines,” he said. “Our committed team works tirelessly to bring cutting-edge, innovative work to the forefront, where it can enhance human well-being, economic development, and environmental protection.”

Photo: Roy Brouwer, Executive Director of The Water Institute.