Dublin City University

Overview

Dublin City University (DCU) was established in 1975 as the National Institute for Higher Education. It earned university status and changed its name only in 1989 by statute. Since then, it has established itself as a leading university in the country with a good reputation abroad.

Today, the university runs four faculties and a business school. These include the (1) Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, (2) the DCU Institute of Education, (3) Faculty of Science and Health, and (4) the Faculty of Engineering and Computing. Each has their respective schools offering learning services and research support. Courses are offered in the fields of Mathematical Sciences, Human Development, Theology, Music, Computing, and many more.

The university also runs the National Institute for Digital Learning. This unit aims to become a leading authority and contributor in the area of blended, online, and digital education models. It also promotes access to university-grade online qualifications and degrees.

The university is active in various research projects. Spearheaded by respective faculties and schools, research initiatives range from language and cognition to Irish literature. Moreover, research projects are also funded by both national and international agencies. Sponsors include the Irish Research Council, the European Union Seventh Framework Program, Enterprise Ireland, and Science Foundation Ireland, among many others.

Furthermore, Dublin City University hosts many research centers and institutes. These organizations lead in specialist research and many, if not all, espouse an interdisciplinary approach. Research centers and institutes at the university include the National Center for Plasma Science and Technology, the Water Institute, the Institute of Ethics, Center for Astrophysics and Relativity, and the Anti-Corruption Research Center.

Dublin City University also offers technology transfer and commercialization services through its DCU Invent organization. DCU Invent works with companies, researchers, and other organizations to take research by the university to market. It does not only provide consultation services and support but it also helps participants with networking.

Moreover, the university is also committed with regard to its community engagement efforts. It provides lifelong-learning opportunities and education programs through an outreach center in cooperation with the Dublin City Council.

The university also makes it a point to create and maintain a great atmosphere for learning and socialization. It entrusts much of the responsibility to the DCU Student Union. With more than 140 clubs and societies, students are likely to find organizations that cater to their interests, hobbies, and passions.

In 2016, four Dublin educational institutions were incorporated into the DCU. This absorption enabled the university to extend its reach and services. The four institutions are the Church of Ireland College of Education, All Hallows College, Mater Dei Institute of Education, and St Patrick’s College.