Policy

Talent, Discover and Transformation, DCU Strategic Plan 2017-2022

DCU is committed to providing equal educational opportunities for all students including mature, second-chance and lifelong learners. During the lifetime of its current Strategic Plan 2017-2022, DCU will review access to the University for under-represented groups, and work with Further Education providers to develop new and enhanced entry routes for these students.

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National Plan for Equity of Access to Higher Education 2015-2019

Promoting equality of opportunity to higher education is a national priority, and the National Plan for Equity of Access to Higher Education 2015-2019 (NAP) identifies goals, objectives, and actions to support under-represented groups to access and complete third level education. DCU’s commitment to educational equality is informed by priorities and trends at a national level, and the University's widening participation agenda is aligned with the national vision for increasing levels of participation in higher education among all Irish citizens.

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Progress Review of the National Access Plan and Priorities to 2021

A mid-term review of the National Access Plan (NAP) was published in December 2018. The report provides an overview of progress in respect of the goals, objectives, actions and targets as set out in the NAP. The Review highlights a number of positive achievements during the first phase of NAP, including increased participation rates across several of the target groups such as students with disabilities and socio-economically disadvantaged groups. The report also highlights key challenges for the second phase of the implementation of NAP, including enhancing pathways from further education and training to higher education and developing access and foundation courses for students progressing to higher education.

Download Progress Review of the National Access Plan and Priorities to 2021