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Driven by a diverse and high-quality student cohort, strong career prospects, and an excellent reputation among international employers, UCD Smurfit School maintains its position as Ireland’s leading Executive MBA programme.

London, 30th April 2025: Global business education specialist QS Quacquarelli Symonds has today released the 2025 edition of the QS Executive MBA Rankings. UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School achieved the best Executive MBA in Ireland, placing 87th globally and 30th in Europe. It is Ireland’s only EMBA to place in the world’s top 100.

The Executive MBA Rankings feature 233 of the world’s best Executive MBA programmes across 50 countries and territories. 

QS President Nunzio Quacquarelli said, “QS is thrilled to celebrate the success of UCD Smurfit School, recognised as Ireland’s premier EMBA programme—a distinction earned through its outstanding reputation among international employers, diverse student cohort, and career prospects.” 

“In today’s interconnected business landscape, where globalism is being increasingly questioned, agility and cross-cultural competence are more vital than ever. Leading Executive MBA programmes, such as that offered by UCD Smurfit School, must continue to prioritise diversity, employability, and high-calibre alumni networks to equip future leaders.” 

QS analyses several datasets to assess the quality of the world’s Executive MBA programmes. The full methodology can be found here. UCD Smurfit School enjoys a Diverse Student Cohort, strong Career Outcomes and graduate Employability, and is the national leader in both Employability and Career Outcomes.