Governance Structure
DCU Governance Structure
The University is committed to openness and effective stewardship of our resources and mission. This section of the website offers a clear, high-level overview of our governance and management framework. Here, we detail the core bodies and structures that are responsible for setting the strategic direction, ensuring financial stability, and maintaining academic integrity. By outlining the separation of powers between governance (oversight and strategy) and management (day-to-day operations), we aim to provide external stakeholders with a complete understanding of how our University is led and held accountable.
The sections below provide detailed information on the core components of the University's structure including:
- Governing Authority: Focuses on strategic direction, institutional oversight, financial management, and ultimate legal authority.
- Executive Committee: Outlines the senior staff responsible for day-to-day operations, implementing strategy, and administrative management.
- Academic Council: Responsible for the academic affairs of the University, as defined by statute, including the curriculum of, and instruction and education provided by, the University.
- Senior Management Group: An informal advisory and consultation group that supports the President on all matters relating to the management of the University.
- University Committees: Describes the key sub-committees (e.g., Audit & Risk, Finance & Investment, Culture & People) that supports the Governing Authority in their specialized functions.
- University Policies: Provides access to the formal documents and regulations that legally define the University’s operations and the powers of its various bodies.
The DCU Governing Authority is charged with the overall governance of the University in accordance with the Universities Act 1997.
Please see link below for further information.
Chaired by the President, the Executive Committee is a decision making body of the University, charged with the task of advising the President and deciding on policy and strategy of the University.
Details of the University's Executive Committee may be accessed at the link below.
Details of the Executive Committee's Terms of Reference may be accessed at the link below.
Academic Council has responsibility for the academic affairs of the University, as defined by statute, including the curriculum of, and instruction and education provided by, the university. Academic Council has three main sub-committees, namely Education Committee, University Standards Committee and Graduate Research Studies Board. Further information on the workings of Academic Council and related sub committees can be found below.
Details of the University's Senior Management Group (SMG) may be accessed at the link below.
SMG Meeting Guidelines may be accessed at the link below.
Details of the University's Committees may be accessed at the link below.
The various policies, codes, statutes, charters etc. by which the University manages it affairs may be accessed at the link below.