University College Cork was recognised as the winner of the Best Masters Programme – Science, Technology, and Built Environment at the Education Awards 2025.

The Redesigning the Post-Industrial City (RePIC) MSc programme was honoured for its distinctive, transnational approach to urban studies, combining challenge-based learning, participatory teaching methods, and EU-wide collaboration.

Partnerships with Cork City Council and involvement in the MSCA Doctoral Programme (CIPeR) allowed students to address real-world urban challenges, while embedding research excellence and global perspectives into the curriculum. The programme’s measurable impact includes equipping graduates with skills to contribute meaningfully to post-industrial urban revitalisation initiatives.

Judges highlighted the programme’s innovation in curriculum design, its transnational collaboration, and its integration of practical, policy-oriented projects. They noted the initiative’s ability to cultivate a network of urban thinkers capable of influencing policy and practice, demonstrating leadership in both education and the built environment sector.

The programme’s success reflects the growing standards within the Education Awards, where winners increasingly demonstrate measurable outcomes, sector influence, and forward-thinking pedagogical approaches.

Their achievement now establishes a standard for innovative higher education programmes as attention turns to the 2026 awards cycle. The question now is: which institutions will define the next wave of master’s education in 2026?

Entries close on 15 January 2026, with finalists to be announced on 12 February 2026. From there, the spotlight will turn to the awards gala on 16 April 2026 at the Johnstown Estate, Enfield, Co. Meath, where Ireland’s education leaders will convene to celebrate achievement, innovation, and excellence across higher and further education.

For a full list of judges, detailed category information, and to stay updated on developments across Ireland’s education sector, visit the official website and subscribe to the newsletter.