by business editor Trevor Sturgess

Students have rated the University of Kent in the UK’s top three for satisfaction.

The 2012 National Student Survey placed Kent third for overall satisfaction, with Oxford and Cambridge joint second behind the Open University.

Kent, with campuses in Canterbury and Medway, has also achieved a top 10 position for overall student satisfaction in 17 subjects, and is in the top 20 for 26 out its 36 subject areas.

The survey is aimed at all final-year undergraduates in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as those attending 15 out of 19 HEIs in Scotland.

It is based on answers to 23 core questions, relating to teaching, assessment, feedback, academic support, organisation and management, learning resources, personal development, overall satisfaction and students' union.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dame Julia Goodfellow said: "I am pleased that our students rate their experience at Kent so highly.

"Their overwhelming endorsement of the University and our academic offer is a reflection of the dedication and commitment of all our academic and professional services staff.

"It also confirms that our continuous investment in teaching and research, undergraduate support, and residential and study environments, is recognised and valued by our many students."

The university was ranked 22nd in the recent Guardian University Guide.

Which? said it provided "a wealth of European and international opportunities for study, work and travel, a stimulating and effective learning community that focuses on the individual and excellent research-led teaching."