THE University of Chester, which has a campus in Padgate, has been ranked in fourth position in the north west according to The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2015.

Acting as a reference point for prospective students looking to attend university, the league table provides information about all universities and the leading colleges of higher education.

Student satisfaction, research quality, graduate prospects, entrance qualifications held by new students and degree results achieved are just some of the areas that are taken into consideration.

The university graded highly in a number of sections with 83.8 per cent of pupils satisfied with their experiences.

But it failed to beat neighbouring institutions Lancaster University, University of Manchester and the University of Liverpool, who were awarded first, second and third respectively.

Overall the University of Chester was ranked in 67th place dropping its position in the league table from last year's 52nd place.