UCD Smurfit Executive Development has for the first time been ranked in both the Open Enrolment and Customised programmes in the prestigious 2020 Financial Times Executive Education Rankings. The ranking sees both programmes in the European top 50 with Open Enrolment programmes ranked 27th and Customised programmes ranked 47th.

In UCD’s first year participating in the Customised programmes ranking, the School is placed 85th globally. Open Enrolment programmes are ranked at 42nd globally, rising one place from 43rd place in 2019.

The ranking, which assesses performance across a number of criteria saw the School place in the world’s top 50 across 14 of 16 categories in Open Enrolment, including 13th in the world for Partner Schools which evaluates programmes taught in conjunction with other EQUIS or AACSB accredited business schools.

In the Customised ranking, the School achieved 21st in the world for Faculty Diversity and 23rd for Overseas Programmes.

The rankings demonstrate the international standing of Smurfit’s executive education programmes and places UCD Smurfit Executive Development within an elite group of global business educators.

Following the publication of the ranking, Professor Anthony Brabazon, Dean, UCD College of Business said:

“UCD Smurfit School has now been listed among the world’s top business education providers by the Financial Times for two decades. This milestone comes at a time when we are seeing extraordinary changes to ‘business as usual’ as we collectively face the defining challenge of a generation. Now more than ever, investment in the development of leadership talent is essential.”

Helen Brophy, Director, UCD Smurfit Executive Development said:

“Our high ranking results across multiple categories demonstrates our commitment to delivering premium, executive level programmes. We are bolstered by the breakthrough ranking of our Customised programmes which have now been recognised among the world’s best. Our sustained and strategic investment in high-calibre faculty and innovative staff, growth of elite, global alliances and maintenance of prestigious accreditations have advanced our position on the global stage.”

Michael Murphy, Bord Bia’s Organisation & Industry Talent Development Director, said:

“Investing in people and developing talent for the Irish food and drink industry is a priority for Bord Bia. Through our partnership with UCD Smurfit Executive Development we have been able to design world-class programmes which are attracting highly talented people. Working with a Financial Times globally ranked provider in executive education enables the Irish food and beverage industry to further develop the high-level skills necessary for the sustainability, growth and development of the sector, giving us an edge as we face complex global challenges.” 

To read the full The Financial Times Business School Rankings 2020 report click here.