ASSERT Centre, UCC Competitors

University College Dublin is one of Europe's leading research-intensive universities; an environment where undergraduate education, masters and PhD training, research, innovation and community engagement form a dynamic spectrum of activity. With over 33,000 students drawn from 144 countries, including almost 4,000 students based on overseas campuses, UCD is not only Ireland's largest university but also its most globally engaged. UCD is ranked 118 in the world, according to the QS World University Rankings It is the 'university of destination' for international students coming to Ireland; UCD's international students make up 25% of its student body, while international academics make up 32% of faculty. The international standing of UCD has grown in recent years too; it is currently ranked within the top 1% of higher education institutions world-wide. UCD is Ireland's leader in graduate education with over 9,900 graduate students; almost 20% of whom are graduate research students. Over 1,660 PhD students benefit from the University's structured PhD programmes, as well as its research-led education culture. The UCD Horizons scheme of modern, modularised education based on learning outcomes sees 50% of students take modules outside their subject areas. As Ireland's largest university, with its great strength and diversity of disciplines, UCD embraces its role to contribute to the flourishing of Ireland through the study of people, society, business, economy, culture, languages and the creative arts, as well as through research and innovation. Updated - May 2021

The University of Manchester is recognised globally for its pioneering research, outstanding teaching and learning, and commitment to social responsibility. Part of the Russell Group, we’re ranked 35th in the QS World University Rankings, 2025 (6th in the UK) and 46th in the Academic Ranking of World Universities, 2025. The power of our social and environmental impact has been recognised on a global scale as the only university in the top ten in both the QS World University Sustainability Rankings and Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, for our contribution towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our university is a powerhouse of research and discovery; 26 Nobel laureates are among our former staff and students, and we were ranked fifth for research power – the quality and scale of research and impact – in the Research Excellence Framework (REF), 2021. Ranked 20th most international university in the world according to Times Higher Education (2025), our community includes more than 44,000 students, 12,800 staff and 550,000 alumni from 190 countries, working together to tackle the world’s biggest challenges. We’re one of the most popular institutions in the UK for undergraduate applications, according to UCAS, and were the most targeted university by the UK’s leading employers in 2024 (The Graduate Market). Learn more at www.manchester.ac.uk.

The University of Edinburgh Business School attracts ambitious and talented students from around the world. Throughout your time with us, you will have the opportunity not only to develop a practical knowledge of your chosen subject. We will support you to develop your professional capabilities and supply you with the skills you need to manage your career and make an impact. Our students are committed leaders with a global perspective who are encouraged to make a difference in whatever career they pursue. The School is equally committed to making an impact in the world of business through high quality research that addresses new and emerging business challenges. The University of Edinburgh Business School wouldn't be where it is today if it weren't for our gifted students and alumni, our staff and our partners. Together, we are developing the next generation of leaders who will guide organisations through a business world shaped by economic uncertainty and fluctuating resources. Want to be a part of this amazing community and join our network of outstanding alumni? Visit our website to find the right programme for you.