Thunderbird School of Global Management Named Best in International Trade for Fifth Straight Year
For the fifth year in a row, Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University has earned the title of the world’s leading institution for international trade. This recognition comes from Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), a well-respected organization that ranks higher education programs globally.
In the 2027 QS International Trade Rankings for MBA and master’s programs, Thunderbird claimed the top spot, outperforming notable institutions like the University of Miami, University of Michigan — Ann Arbor (Ross), Columbia University, and international competitors such as INSEAD, University of Cambridge, and University of Oxford.
Charla Griffy-Brown, the director general and dean of Thunderbird, expressed pride in this achievement, highlighting the dedication of faculty, students, and alumni to challenge and innovate international trade education. “This recognition is a tremendous honor,” Griffy-Brown said. “Our community’s ambition and impact inspire us to keep improving our programs.”
The Thunderbird curriculum combines global commerce, technology, and leadership training, preparing students from around the world to explore new markets and adapt to changes. The school achieved a remarkable overall score of 100, placing it first among nearly 110 institutions globally that offer graduate programs in international trade. Durham University in the UK followed with a score of 92.7.
Notably, Thunderbird remains the only institution from the United States and the Americas to rank in the global top 10, with the University of Miami coming in at No. 13. The school has consistently held this prestigious position over the last few years.
A key factor in Thunderbird’s top ranking is its faculty, who have received recognition for their real-world experience and engagement in the field of international trade. The school ranked sixth globally in “Faculty Industry Experience and Engagement,” reflecting faculty’s involvement with major organizations like the United Nations and the World Economic Forum.
In addition to their global outreach, Thunderbird faculty and students actively participate in various local groups, including the Arizona District Export Council and the Phoenix Council on Foreign Relations. Their research and insights are frequently cited by influential organizations, informing global policy and strategy.
The QS rankings assess schools based on several criteria, such as program content, student outcomes, and industry collaboration. Thunderbird’s flagship Master of Global Management program was highlighted as the leading graduate program in international trade.
According to Alex Boome, program director at the Hinrich Foundation, which collaborates with Thunderbird, the school’s trade-related curriculum is extensive and well-aligned with what employers seek in future global trade leaders. The Hinrich Foundation offers three scholarships annually to outstanding incoming students, providing significant financial support to help them succeed.
These scholarships, valued at $25,000 from the Hinrich Foundation and an additional $18,000 from Thunderbird’s Alumni Scholarship, are available to students from all backgrounds with relevant experience and a strong interest in pursuing a career in global trade.
The QS International Trade Rankings not only aid prospective students in finding top programs but also provide universities with benchmarks to enhance their trade education offerings.
Griffy-Brown emphasized the transformative experience of Thunderbird graduates, saying they leave equipped with both business acumen and a global outlook. “Our students are ready to step onto the world stage, bringing innovative ideas and the skills needed to navigate today’s complex environment,” she added. As the global landscape continues to evolve, Thunderbird graduates are well-prepared to take on future challenges and seize opportunities.
