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Wednesday, 5 June 2024

University of Limerick is now ranked 421 in the world according to the latest World University Rankings by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS).

This is an improvement of five places on last year’s results and cements UL’s position among the top three per cent of universities worldwide and ranked joint fifth in Ireland. 

The 21st edition of the QS World University Rankings featured 1,503 institutions across 104 countries and is the only ranking of its kind to emphasise employability and sustainability.

UL has continued to improve its standing globally against a backdrop of increasing competition from universities around the world and the uncertainty in the future of long-term funding for the sector in Ireland.

UL’s improved ranking is due to better performances in academic reputation, citations, faculty-student ratio, sustainability, and international student ratio.

Welcoming the news, UL Provost and Deputy President Professor Shane Kilcommins said: “Improving our position in the QS World Rankings is more than just a point of pride for University of Limerick; it is a testament to our commitment to academic excellence and research that drives real-world impact. Our research strategy ‘Wisdom for Action’ values creativity, curiosity and excellence but fully encompasses our energy as an enterprising institution.

“At its core, we continue to build a vibrant community where those values are committed to for a social good. Our people and their work for this institution are to be thanked and praised because as we climb higher, we not only enhance our global reputation but also strengthen our ability to attract top-tier talent and foster innovative collaborations.

“This progress empowers us to better serve our community and the world, fulfilling our mission to produce research that makes a meaningful difference in society."

UL Vice President Research Professor Norelee Kennedy said: “This is another fantastic result for UL and we are delighted that we have improved on last year’s rankings, in what is a very competitive arena.

“While the rankings have their limitations, the result here reinforces the work being carried out across the university from research to teaching and learning, to community and industry engagement.

“Being ranked 421 is of huge benefit when we continue to market UL as the university of choice for potential students and staff members. The improvement is consistent with our Research Strategy Wisdom for Action which has a mission of building a vibrant community where excellence is valued, supported and central to the universities work. Congratulations to all involved as this is a collective effort.”

Find out more about UL research addressing global challenges.

More information is available on QS World University Rankings.