Dublin City University (DCU) and Drogheda Institute of Further Education (DIFE) have renewed and extended their partnership, strengthening established pathways for students progressing from DIFE to a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across DCU faculties.
The five-year extension of the memorandum of understanding confirms existing pathways while providing for the expansion of further DCU offerings in Drogheda. President of DCU, Dáire Keogh, highlighted the shared commitment of both institutions to helping learners reach their full potential.
“Like DCU, DIFE represents ambition, opportunity, and a deep commitment to helping learners become the very best version of themselves. We are proud to continue and build upon our relationship with DIFE in the years to come,” he said.
President Keogh emphasised that the partnership equips learners with the skills, confidence, and academic foundations necessary to transition smoothly into higher education. “This partnership creates clear and supportive routes to university life and gives learners the tools to excel beyond it,” he added.
Minister of State Thomas Byrne attended the renewal ceremony, praising the sustained collaboration between DIFE and DCU. He noted that the partnership enhances access, progression, and regional opportunities for learners while supporting national policy to improve transparency in pathways between further and higher education.
Sadie Ward McDermott, Director of Further Education and Training at LMETB, welcomed the renewed agreement, saying it reinforces the commitment to expanding tertiary pathways and supporting learners as they transition to higher education.
The partnership also facilitates delivery of DCU Business School’s Level 9 Graduate Certificate in Management (Operations & Supply Chain) in Drogheda, providing additional professional opportunities for local learners.
Davy McDonnell, Principal of DIFE, said the extended agreement reflects a shared ambition to broaden opportunities and support students in achieving their full potential.
“DIFE is proud to continue our partnership with DCU. Together, we are creating clear, supportive transfer routes and building new initiatives that enhance the student experience,” he said.
The extended agreement positions both institutions to have a lasting regional impact, strengthening educational opportunities and progression pathways for learners in Drogheda and surrounding areas.
