RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences has been shortlisted in the Learning Assessment category at the 2026 QS Reimagine Education Awards for its pioneering programmatic approach to assessment for medical students.

The project has been recognised for transforming how students are assessed, moving beyond traditional high-stakes examinations to a continuous, learner-centred model that supports professional growth, clinical competence and lifelong learning.

The QS Reimagine Education Awards celebrate innovative approaches that enhance learning outcomes and prepare students for the future. The awards recognise institutions and educators from around the world who are reimagining education through impactful and scalable solutions.

Introduced as part of RCSI's transformed undergraduate medicine curriculum in 2022, the programmatic assessment model places assessment at the heart of the learning process. Rather than relying predominantly on examinations taken at single points in time, students receive continuous feedback through low-stakes assessments, longitudinal progress testing, reflective practice and competency-based evaluation.

The approach is designed to help students develop not only medical knowledge and clinical skills, but also the personal and professional attributes required for modern healthcare practice, including resilience, leadership, self-awareness and professionalism. Assessment is integrated with case-based learning, authentic clinical experiences, and a personal tutor programme, creating a connected framework that supports student development throughout their educational journey.

Professor Tracy Robson, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, said: "We are delighted that RCSI's programmatic assessment model has been recognised by the QS Reimagine Education Awards. Healthcare is evolving rapidly and medical education must evolve with it. By embedding assessment within learning, we are helping students to become reflective, resilient and adaptable practitioners who are prepared for the realities of contemporary healthcare and a lifetime of professional learning."

The model is underpinned by RCSI's educational philosophy of transformative learning and positive education, encouraging students to view assessment as an opportunity for growth and development rather than simply a measure of performance. Students are supported to identify strengths, address learning gaps and build the reflective skills that will underpin their future careers as healthcare professionals.

During the 2025/26 academic year, more than 2,200 students across RCSI's campuses in Dublin and Bahrain engaged with the assessment model as it continues to be rolled out across the undergraduate medicine programme. Early feedback from students and faculty has highlighted improvements in learner engagement, reflection and professional development.

The winners of the 2026 QS Reimagine Education Awards will be announced later this year.