News

University of Galway’s J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics has been recognised among the top 1% of business schools worldwide after achieving a prestigious triple crown of international accreditation. The J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics is among an elite group of business schools in the world after securing the three most rigorous and internationally recognised quality standards in business education - EQUIS accreditation by the European Foundation for Management Development; Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and Association of MBAs (AMBA). Professor David Burn, President of the University of Galway, said: “Achieving triple crown accreditation marks an important milestone for J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics and for the University as a whole. This recognition reflects the School’s consistent engagement with industry and society, and its commitment to delivering education that is relevant, impactful and rooted in the needs of our region, while also contributing on a global stage.” Professor Alma McCarthy, Executive Dean of the College of Business, Public Policy and Law, added: “This achievement belongs to the entire School community, whose shared focus on high-quality teaching, impactful research and meaningful engagement has made it possible. For our students, it is a signal that their education stands alongside the best in the world, and that we will continue to challenge ourselves to deliver an academic experience that is dynamic and relevant in an evolving global business landscape.” Professor Karena Yan, Dean of J.E Cairnes School of Business and Economics, added: “This achievement recognises the staff, students, alumni, and industry partners who have built the School. To stand among the global top 1% of business schools is pride and responsibility in equal measure. It speaks to the rigour of our scholarship, our leadership in sustainability, and our public good commitment.” The EQUIS accreditation recognises the commitment of the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics to word class teaching, research and real-world impact. It involves a rigorous peer-review process across a broad range of criteria including academic quality, governance, research, ethics, sustainability, internationalisation and engagement with industry and society. The milestone of securing the triple crown of accreditation builds on a series of successes for the School, including receiving the Silver Swan Award in recognition of its commitment to gender equality. The School also received the Excellence in Education award at the Irish Accountancy Awards 2026 for its future-focused approach to learning in its Accountancy and Finance discipline, which are delivered through a suite of summer schools across four postgraduate master’s programmes and shaped by research, industry and global trends. The University of Galway Tax Clinic received the prestigious US-based AACSB Global Impact Award 2026, which celebrates initiatives addressing pressing regional and local challenges. Led by Director Professor Emer Mulligan and Coordinator Maggie O’Neill, the Tax Clinic delivers real impact through community engagement and support, while providing valuable, hands-on learning experiences for students. Ends