We are very excited to have not just one, not two, but three institute of technologies join Jobs Expo Dublin. DIT, ITB and ITT. The three institutes will be joining forces to exhibit at Croke Park's Hogan Suite on Saturday April 28th. They will be discussing their future plans and the vast educational opportunities they have to offer.
DIT, ITB and ITT planning for the future
Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) and partners IT Blanchardstown and IT Tallaght are preparing to apply to become one, as Ireland’s first Technological University. Together they attract almost 13% of all higher education students in Ireland. They aim to offer students an unrivalled choice of programmes. This includes apprenticeships and degree programmes from Level 6 to Level 10 or PhD. In addition, there'll be smaller teaching groups and class sizes. Thus, ensuring students get involved in group projects and a more focused learning experience.
Frank Costello, Head of Student Recruitment in DIT, explains
“This is a really exciting time for our three institutions as we prepare to formally join together as a Technological University. Right now, students choosing any programme in DIT, ITB or ITT from the wide range of programmes currently available on our campuses in Blanchardstown and Tallaght, and on the current DIT campuses in Dublin city centre, will benefit from a unique educational experience. Our students are the ‘makers and do-ers’ in the higher education system. Our approach combines academic excellence with the practical application of knowledge – our engineers are getting hands-on experience; our culinary artists are creating beautiful dishes; our computer scientists are working in industry on six-month projects; and our journalism students are editing and managing an online news resource for primary school children. These are the experiences that ensure our graduates are sought after by employers and are equipped to build sustainable careers in a rapidly changing employment environment.”
Location, location, location
Furthermore, this is a particularly exciting time for DIT. The institute prepares to move from some of their well-recognised locations, such as Rathmines, Kevin Street and Cathal Brugha Street, to what will be a contemporary, purpose-built campus at Grangegorman on a 73 acre site in the centre of Dublin.
Excellent facilities
Students will enjoy excellent learning and research labs, combined with recreation and sporting facilities, and performance and exhibition spaces. Currently there are 1200 students based on the new campus but construction has begun on the next phase of the development of two academic quads spanning more than 50,000 sq metres, to accommodate 10,000 students in September 2020. Students registering on programmes in 2018 will have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of this new environment in the third year of their programme.
Work experience
Many students in the three institutions will complete a work placement while studying for their degree. This is another aspect of their education that not only prepares them well for the reality of the world of work but also gives them an edge with employers when applying for jobs. Many also opt to study overseas for a time, giving them a better understanding of other cultures, while also gaining the confidence that living away from home provides.
Campus culture
Of course, college is not only about academic learning and students are encouraged to participate fully in campus life. For example, DIT has more than 120 student-led societies and sports clubs with something for everyone, from the arts to fashion, photography and dance.
DIT, ITB and ITT will be jointly represented at the Dublin Job Expo and look forward to talking to visitors about their huge range of programmes and their vibrant campuses, both city-centre and in Tallaght and Blanchardstown – two of the most populous areas of the Greater Dublin Region.