New DCU-DkIT research graduate partnership
The Minister for Education and Skills, Jan O’Sullivan, has launched the DCU-DkIT Graduate School based on the DkIT campus. This is a significant milestone in the development of the strategic alliance agreed between both institutions two years ago. It strengthens their positions as key players in Ireland’s Eastern economic corridor through the consolidation of cutting edge research and innovation.
According to Denis Cummins, President of DkIT, “There has been a continual growth in the Institute’s research expenditure over the past decade, with research funding in excess of €40m, being secured from both national and international sources. The Institute is focussed on research that has the potential for real societal and economic impact and that addresses current global challenges. The DCU DkIT Graduate School will support this ambitious research agenda and ensure greater progression opportunities for all learners. Students who wish to pursue a Masters’ Degree or a PhD by research can do so in DkIT and receive a DCU accredited award.”
Professor Brian MacCraith, President of DCU says that, “DCU is committed to a research agenda which delivers tangible societal and economic benefit. The establishment of the DCU-DkIT Graduate School will ensure that research undertaken at both institutions will continue to deliver on this promise. We share a common approach to structured PhDs, which not only instills in research students a deep understanding of their discipline but also helps them to translate their research outputs in the world of work. Through this most recent undertaking, DkIT students can now benefit from the breadth of expertise and research activities undertaken by DCU, paving the way for future, mutually-beneficial collaborations.”
Cummins and MacCraith understand the economic impact of graduate education: from the contribution the accumulation of graduate skills can make to GDP to increasing productivity in the workplace. Increasing investment in Research and Development will also drive more sustainable economic growth.
Combined, the two institutions will support the economy in a manner that both operating independently could not achieve. They will simultaneously enhance their solid local reputations, raise their own international profiles and position the Eastern economic corridor as a leading magnet for investment.