Studying Communications & Media at Third Level – Funding & Access

Bill Cullen

The recent public debate around funding for third level education reflects the considerable inequalities of access and participation that still exist in Ireland’s educational system. On Tuesday 10 March, Bill Cullen, Chairman, Glencullen Group and supporter of the DCU Access Programme hosted a breakfast briefing on Studying Communications & Media at Third Level – Funding & Access. This briefing specifically highlighted DCU’s groundbreaking Access Scholarship Programme and the fact that for many young people from disadvantaged backgrounds going to university is still a financial burden.

Over 60 professionals from the media, journalism and communications sector attended the briefing in Albert College and discussed the need to increase access to higher education for all young people. Guests also learned about the role the DCU Educational Trust plays in continuing DCU’s commitment to our Access Programme. The DCU Educational Trust supports students who receive a place on the DCU Access Programme with scholarships funded entirely by the private sector. Bill Cullen asked guests to consider both personal and corporate philanthropy as a tangible way of demonstrating their belief that all students should have the tools to fulfil their dreams and ambitions. He called on Aengus McClean, Vice President, AOL Europe to inform the group on their company’s support and why they chose this programme. This appeal was reinforced by guest speaker Caroline Morahan, broadcaster and DCU communications graduate on the importance of attending third level and the opportunities it provides for students entering into their chosen career paths.

DCU initially established the access programme over 20 years ago to address these inequalities by providing opportunities for a third level education to talented young student who circumstances would not otherwise allow them to attend university. Today, the DCU Access Programme is the largest of its kind in the country, with over 430 students from all over the country attending DCU. The DCU Access Programme works with students, their teachers and families from primary school onwards, encouraging students to develop positive attitude towards education and to see participation in higher education as a real possibility for them.

If you would like to receive further information on the DCU Access Programme or wish to attend a future briefing, please contact Orla Holmes, Director of Operations, DCU Educational Trust office at (353) 1-700-5467.