Initiative offers affordable, high-quality higher education experience to U.S. students of Irish descent

WASHINGTON and DUBLIN, March 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Institutes of Technology Ireland (IOTI), an alliance of Irish colleges of higher learning, today announced the launch of the Ireland Homecoming Study Program (IHSP).  The new initiative aims to draw Americans of Irish descent to Ireland for a world-class, career-focused higher education and immersive cultural experience, while forging new links between Ireland and America's next-generation globalized workforce.  At tuition costs of up to 40 percent less than the standard rate for non-EU students, the children and grandchildren of Irish nationals living in the U.S. can now obtain very affordable undergraduate degrees or engage in shorter study courses at Ireland's premier technical colleges.

According to IHSP creator, Brian McNamara, "This program makes it possible for U.S. students to take advantage of a high-quality educational experience in a leading EU member state while tapping into their Irish heritage."  IOTI CEO, Gerry Murray added, "Institute of Technology Degrees are fully transferrable and students emerge equipped with the professional skills needed to quickly embark on productive career paths back home in the U.S.  The return on our investment is a new crop of goodwill ambassadors that promote Irish culture and commerce worldwide.  It's a win-win opportunity for ambitious U.S. students and for Ireland."

Today's announcement was made at an Enterprise Ireland-hosted luncheon in Washington, DC.  The event was one of several associated with a Trade and Investment Mission to the U.S. led by Ireland's Prime Minister, Brian Cowen.  The Mission was organized by Enterprise Ireland, the Irish state agency responsible for the development and promotion of the indigenous Irish business sector.  

Known for their leading-edge research, academic excellence and practical on-the-job training, the eight Irish colleges in the IHSP program offer degrees in disciplines that drive the advancement of globalized economies.  These include: engineering, computer science, telecommunications, gaming technologies, aircraft maintenance, horticulture and alternative energy.  To further inform and advance the educational experience for students, the colleges partner closely with the Irish subsidiaries of more than 471 U.S. multinational companies, along with emerging and established companies in the thriving indigenous technology sector.

Applications for participation in the IHSP from the children and grandchildren of Irish nationals can be accessed at www.irelandhsp.com.

To learn more about Institutes of Technology Ireland, please visit www.ioti.ie.

To learn more about Enterprise Ireland, please visit www.enterprise-ireland.com or www.americas.enterprise-ireland.com

SOURCE Enterprise Ireland

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http://www.enterprise-ireland.com
http://www.americas.enterprise-ireland.com
http://www.ioti.ie