Recognised for a bold rethinking of undergraduate engineering education, the University of Limerick claimed last year the Excellence in Education Award at the Engineering Excellence Awards 2025, transforming the third year of its Civil Engineering degree into an immersive, full-year work experience underpinned by problem-based learning.

The defining element of the University of Limerick's submission was the wholesale conversion of an academic year into a live professional environment. Rather than supplementing study with industry exposure, the programme embedded students directly into real-world engineering challenges, creating conditions where practical skills, professional confidence, and employer relationships could develop in tandem.

The results spoke to the strength of the model — producing graduates better equipped for the demands of the profession while offering industry partners access to motivated, academically grounded talent from an earlier stage.

Judges were unambiguous in their praise. "The integration of problem-based learning created a dynamic and rewarding environment, benefiting both students and employers. This programme exemplified innovation in higher education, delivering tangible results and meaningful real-world impact," the judges said.

The award highlights a broader shift in how the Engineering Excellence Awards evaluate educational contributions — with growing emphasis on real-world applicability, industry collaboration, and the degree to which programmes prepare graduates for the realities of modern engineering practice. The University of Limerick's approach signals what is possible when institutions commit fully to closing the gap between academic study and professional life.

As the 2026 cycle approaches, the question facing Ireland's engineering and education communities is clear: who will build on this standard and push the boundaries of what engineering education can achieve?

Visit the official website to explore last year's winners, review category details, and subscribe to the newsletter for insights and event updates.