NCAD make QS World University Rankings

The National College of Art and Design (NCAD) has been ranked among the top 100 Art and Design colleges in the world, according to the latest QS World University Rankings.

Source: NCAD Official Website

The QS World University Rankings compares the world’s highest performing universities, while exploring the leading institutions in various world regions and  across specific subject areas.

This is the second year in a row that the college has been ranked in the top 100. It has climbed five places, from 73 to 68, and was ranked 40th overall in terms of academic reputation.

In the top 100 list, only 27 European universities were included, out of which NCAD was ranked 17th.

NCAD is the only Irish college to feature on the list in the Art and Design category.

Speaking about the rankings, Bernard Hanratty, Acting Director of the College, said that it “really is a great achievement that a small independent art college should achieve this level of recognition internationally.”

He went on to say that it is “a real tribute to the quality of our students and the commitment of our academic staff.”

“Over the past few years, the Board and Executive have concentrated on restructuring the framework for many of our programmes.  This has been in keeping with international best practice.

By doing this, we have ensured NCAD continues to turn out highly-skilled art and design graduates, who make a valuable contribution to Ireland’s economy and society,” he explained.

Creative graduates, according to Mr Hanratty, are in high demand from the world’s leading global employers.

“Creative skills are in high demand from leading global employers because creative graduates add value at the highest levels of industry. Creative graduates have a key role to play in adding value to both the economy and to Irish society,” he concluded.

The college came under fire last year, however, after the then director, Professor Declan McGonagle, stepped down amid concerns from students over mismanagement and miscommunication within the college.

According to Trinity News, Mr McGonagle stated that his reasons for stepping down were “personal”, but that his time as director helped initiate a programme of “necessary change”.

By Meadhbh Sinclair