The Institute of Technology, Tralee has been approved by the Higher Education Authority (HETAC) to make its own awards within the National Qualifications Framework, at Higher Certificate, Ordinary Degree, Honours Degree and taught Masters levels.

This approval marks one of the most significant steps in the development of the Institute since its inception in 1977.

On welcoming the award of Delegation of Authority, Director of the Institute, Michael Carmody commented that 'the decision of HETAC to allow IT Tralee to make its own awards to taught Masters level is a reflection of the excellent standard of IT Tralee programmes and staff. The ability to make our own awards also confirms that IT Tralee is a university level institute in accordance with EU standards.'

The Director also outlined ?that the autonomy to make our own awards will provide ITT with increased opportunities to offer a wider and more flexible range of programmes to students and adult learners in the region, while continuing to ensure that IT Tralee remains an obvious choice for students in our catchment area who wish to attend third level college. The granting of authority to make our own awards also complements one of the proposals contained in the OECD Review of Higher Education Policy in Ireland, which advocates enhancing management and operating autonomy to the Institutes of Technologies.?

The Director also expressed his thanks to all those who assisted the IT Tralee in obtaining this award. An expert panel representing leading academic professionals in the Irish and international education arena visited the college in May 2004, when the submission for delegation of authority was considered. The support received as part of this process from all Institute stakeholders was tremendous and very much assisted IT Tralee in securing Delegation of Authority.

HETAC formally presented IT Tralee will DA Certification on October 8th 2004. 

ENDS

Further details available from Brid Mc Elligott 71 45608/087 2079267