AS it marks its 100th year, Mapúa University wrote a new chapter in its storied legacy by earning a coveted place in the 2026 QS World University Rankings—one of the most respected and competitive ranking systems for universities around the world.
The achievement comes at a profoundly symbolic time: Mapúa’s Centennial Year. Founded on January 25, 1925, by Don Tomás Mapúa, the country’s first registered architect and a graduate of the prestigious Cornell University in New York, Mapúa was envisioned as an institution that would shape the nation’s top builders and innovators. A hundred years later, that vision flourished beyond borders and is now celebrated on the world stage.
“As an alumnus of this institution and now privileged to serve as its President and CEO, this recognition holds profound meaning,” shared Dr. Dodjie Maestrecampo. “It embodies a vision we have long held, that is, to build a university that stands shoulder to shoulder with the world’s finest. This is not just a win for Mapúa, but a triumph for everyone who has poured their heart into this community—students, faculty, staff, alumni, and our partners who believe in our vision.”
Mapúa’s momentum toward global distinction is no coincidence. For the first time in 2022, the University was ranked 1501+ in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, and it has since continued to strengthen its international presence. It has been recognized for five consecutive years in the QS Asia University Rankings and holds the distinction of being a QS 4-Star institution, with high marks in employability, facilities, social responsibility, and teaching.
Today, Mapúa stands not only as a premier engineering school but also as a comprehensive university, home to a diverse range of cutting-edge undergraduate programs–from architecture and information technology to media studies, business, health sciences, and nursing.
Among its boldest steps toward the future is the launch of the Bachelor of Science in AI Engineering, making Mapúa the first and only university in the Philippines to offer this advanced and specialized program. This move aligns directly with the country’s National AI Roadmap, positioning both Mapúa and the nation as future leaders in artificial intelligence (AI) across Southeast Asia.
In tandem with this is the opening of the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management (STHM), a strategic leap into the dynamic world of service and global experiences. Housed in the prestigious Seda Hotel, within Ayala Malls, Manila Bay, the new school offers a forward-looking curriculum grounded in discipline and innovation, ensuring students learn in an immersive, industry-aligned environment.
Behind this historic QS debut is the collective effort of a thriving community. Over the years, more than 400 board topnotchers have emerged from Mapúa’s halls. Further cementing its legacy as the home of topnotchers are Miguel Lorenzo Caballero Rubia, who placed 7th in the April 2025 Civil Engineering Licensure Examination, and Roby Yzel Evangelista Katipunan, who ranked 8th in the May 2025 Chemical Engineering Licensure Examination.
As Mapúa continues its journey forward, it remains a pioneering force in Philippine higher education, having been among the first to adopt AI as a cornerstone of academic advancement. Through its co-intelligence framework, Mapúa embeds AI into its academic programs—pairing advanced digital tools with a strong foundation in ethics and critical thinking. This ensures students and educators actively engage with AI as a learning partner, cultivating the adaptability, creativity, and discipline essential for success in fast-changing industries.
In doing so, it reaffirms its mission to remain not only relevant, but indispensable in shaping the builders of the future.
Be part of Mapúa University’s 100-year legacy of innovation and excellence. Visit admissions.mapua.edu.ph to begin your journey!