UTAS was given three five-star ratings in the latest guide, ranking among the top universities in the country for student-to-teacher ratio, graduate starting salary and social equity.

In contrast, it was rated below the national average for student support, learning resources and overall experience.

A UTAS spokesman said the ratings had to be taken in context.

“There are a range of rating systems which measure university outcomes across the sector,” he said.

“Each system uses different methodologies and produces different results, sometimes around the same data.

“Our university is tuned into these ranking systems to the extent they can guide student decision-making."

Released annually through the Good Education Group, the Good Universities Guide relies on data from the Department of Education and Training, as well as from student surveys. This year, the guide featured a First Generation rating, which looked at the proportion of a university’s student cohort who are the first in their family to pursue tertiary education.

For Tasmania University Union president Jessica Robinson, the guide captures a snapshot of the university’s approach to the delivery of higher education.

“This data is integral and speaks volumes to support some of the student concerns that we have been hearing,” she said.

“I think that although it is important to acknowledge the areas to which the university rated highly, the comparison's made definitely reinforce the areas that the university is going to have to continue to step up and improve.

“I believe that UTAS is already taking steps to improve areas regarding student retention and resources, and that ultimately stems from creating a space where students want to learn.”

“I think that it is important that the university use these statistics.”

While you're with us, did you know that you can now sign up to receive breaking news updates and daily headlines direct to your inbox. Sign up here.