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How QS Stars helped Technological University of the Shannon showcase its strengths internationally
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16 March 2026
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How QS Stars helped Technological University of the Shannon showcase its strengths internationally
Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) has achieved the highest possible distinction in the QS Stars university rating system, earning an overall Five Star rating and becoming one of the top-rated universities globally under the framework.
The university also received five stars in every category assessed, highlighting its strengths across teaching, employability, internationalisation and academic development. TUS has additionally made history as Ireland’s first university to achieve five stars in the Arts and Culture category.
For the university, the QS Stars framework provided an opportunity to demonstrate the breadth of its performance to a global audience.
A comprehensive assessment of institutional performance
Unlike traditional rankings that place institutions within a single league table, the QS Stars rating system evaluates universities across a wide range of performance areas using verified institutional data. The framework is designed to provide a more comprehensive picture of institutional quality and the overall student experience.
The assessment evaluated TUS across eight categories:
- Teaching
- Employability
- Internationalisation
- Academic Development
- Online Learning
- Programme Strength
- Arts and Culture
- Inclusiveness
TUS achieved five stars in each category, reflecting consistently strong performance across academic provision, student outcomes and institutional development.
Recognition of a student-centered institution
For the university’s leadership, the results reflected long-standing institutional priorities around inclusiveness, teaching quality and graduate success.
Professor Vincent Cunnane, President of Technological University of the Shannon, said the outcome recognised the university’s core values as a higher education institution.
"The fact that we have received the highest number of stars in what is considered one of the most influential and credible ratings for universities globally is a fitting acknowledgement of our commitment to a student-centred, inclusive university that excels at academic development and providing work-ready graduates."
Within the QS Stars framework, five-star institutions are recognised for demonstrating excellent overall performance, providing an independent reference point for prospective students, employers and collaborators.
Supporting visibility with students and employers
The QS Stars rating helps institutions communicate their performance to international audiences in a clear and recognisable format.
For students and families comparing universities across different countries, the QS Stars badge offers a trusted signal of quality. For employers, graduates from five-star institutions are often associated with strong academic preparation and workplace readiness.
By highlighting strengths across multiple areas, the rating allows universities to present a more complete picture of the student experience they provide.
A global benchmark for institutional strengths
For Technological University of the Shannon, the QS Stars rating provides a globally recognised benchmark that helps communicate its achievements beyond national borders.
By receiving five stars across all assessed categories, the university is able to demonstrate excellence across teaching, student outcomes and cultural engagement - reinforcing its position as a student-focused institution with strong links to industry and community.
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