Maynooth University (MU) and Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) have officially launched the MU-DkIT Regional Graduate Academy (RGA), a collaborative initiative that marks a major step forward in doctoral education and regional development in the North East of Ireland.
The Regional Graduate Academy will deliver structured PhD programmes across six approved disciplines: Computer Science, Biology, Environmental Science, Electronic Engineering (Renewables), Applied Social Sciences, and Media Studies. Doctoral students will be jointly registered at both institutions, with supervision by DkIT academic staff and degrees awarded by Maynooth University.
This launch event marks the first major milestone in the strategic partnership between MU and DkIT, following their Letter of Intent signed in June 2024. The collaboration is supported by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) through the Technological Sector Advancement Fund (TSAF), and is aimed at strengthening the regional research ecosystem and expanding access to Level 10 (doctoral) education.
Speaking at the launch, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless T.D., hailed the academy as “a clear example of regional ambition in action.” He added:
“Delivering on DkIT’s strategic goal to continue provision of Level 10 education in the region, the Academy marks a new and significant phase of collaboration between two strong institutions.
This partnership is to be commended. It reflects a shared commitment to building research capacity, strengthening ties with enterprise, and supporting the development of local communities, while enhancing the national research and innovation ecosystem.”
Dr Alan Wall, CEO of the HEA, welcomed the development as a landmark moment in Ireland’s strategic education landscape:
“The MU–DkIT Regional Graduate Academy is a tangible example of how collaboration can enhance Ireland’s higher education and research system locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.
The structured programmes... will advance research and innovation in these disciplines and benefit students as well as the region.”
The first cohort of 16 PhD students are already undertaking innovative research, many in collaboration with industry partners. Among them is Stephanie Woods, whose research investigates how environmental education can help alleviate eco-anxiety in young people in Ireland. Presenting her work at the launch, Woods shared:
“Through my work on H2O Heroes, I witnessed first-hand the positive impact environmental education was having on young people in Ireland. This experience inspired me to pursue my own research... Our goal is to empower young people to take meaningful action in response to the climate crisis.”
Further joint initiatives are being developed by the two institutions, including collaboration in Research and Innovation, Student Experience, and the potential provision of MU awards for DkIT’s Level 8 and 9 programmes.
Professor Eeva Leinonen, President of Maynooth University, praised the new model of doctoral education:
“The MU–DkIT Regional Graduate Academy represents a new kind of partnership — one that moves beyond institutional boundaries to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
Together, we are building a collaborative model of doctoral education that is rooted in place, shaped by purpose, and driven by ambition — delivering real benefits for our students, our communities, and the broader research ecosystem.”
Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan, President of Dundalk Institute of Technology, added:
“This collaboration is a wonderful opportunity for each institution to showcase its individual strengths and explore together how we can strategically develop to serve our regions... I have high aspirations for the future opportunities it will bring for our students, enterprise and everyone in the shared region.”
A regional impact assessment is currently underway to evaluate the broader social and economic benefits of this strategic partnership. The ultimate aim is to retain graduate talent, stimulate innovation, and reinforce the quality and reputation of higher education in the region.
