Carlow College is to wind down its operations over the course of the next two years, with its land and buildings to be transferred to South East Technological University (SETU).
All currently enrolled students will be able to complete their studies and to achieve their intended qualification with Carlow College, St Patrick's.
However, no new student intakes will be offered from September 2026 and beyond.
During this period, Carlow College will remain responsible for its academic operations, staffing, employment obligations and delivery of programmes.
The college has said it wishes to reassure all current learners that their studies will continue as normal through to course completion with no impact on their studies or graduations.
Students will be kept abreast of the situation through ongoing engagement with the Carlow College Students’ Union, a statement from the college said.
Meanwhile, over the next two years, there will be a phased redundancy process for the 87 staff currently employed by Carlow College.
The third-level liberal arts college in Carlow town centre offers undergraduate, postgraduate and part-time courses to around 600 students.
Founded in 1782, Carlow College, St Patrick's website states that it is the second oldest third-level institution in Ireland.
An agreed framework has now been put in place, in consultation with SETU, to support a structured programme completion period for current students and to enable an orderly and managed "teach out" for the college.
A statement from the college adds that a formal consultation process has commenced in line with statutory obligations and best practices, and it is committed to "engaging openly and respectfully with staff and union representatives".
"Comprehensive supports will be available including access to wellbeing supports," the statement adds.
St Patrick's has said it embarked on a process of deepening collaboration with the Higher Education sector since 2017 and engaged in discussions with relevant stakeholders regarding the future strategic positioning of the college.
In February 2022, Carlow College, engaged with the State on options to secure its long‑term future within the higher education sector.
The college said that engagement forms part of the "broader context" for the learner protection and teach out that has now been agreed, which will see the land and buildings of Carlow College, St Patrick’s transfer to SETU.
A 'long‑standing contribution to education' in the region
President of Carlow College, St Patrick’s, Fr Conn Ó Maoldhomhnaigh said: "Since its foundation in 1782, Carlow College has been part of the higher education story in the south east.
"Its next chapter reflects a continuation of its long‑standing contribution to education in the region, while supporting the ongoing educational future of the campus. This decision by the college’s Governing Body and Property Trustees was made with due regard to the best interests of our students and staff, and in recognition of the college’s long and distinguished contribution to liberal arts education.
"Our priority now is to ensure a carefully planned and supported completion of all academic programmes over the next two years, so that every student currently enrolled at Carlow College can complete their studies with confidence and integrity.
"We are deeply committed to supporting our staff throughout this teach out and to working with them in a transparent and respectful way. Carlow College’s mission has always centred on people and community, and that commitment will guide us in the months and years ahead.
"Over many decades the people of Carlow town and surrounding areas have been deeply supportive of, and have pride in the College, and this is something that is greatly appreciated.
"We know that we will have their continued support as we enter into this new phase," Fr Conn added.
'Constructive engagement'
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless said he welcomed the "constructive engagement" between Carlow College and SETU, which has resulted in a "clear student‑centred plan for the future".
He said: "I welcome the constructive engagement between Carlow College and SETU, which has resulted in a clear student‑centred plan for the future. I and my Department have worked closely with both institutions over a sustained period to support this outcome.
"Protecting learners has been the central priority throughout, and this framework ensures that every student currently enrolled can complete their studies with certainty."
Minister Lawless also acknowledged the heritage and contribution of Carlow College, St Patrick's for over two centuries.
He said: "For over 240 years, Carlow College has made an outstanding contribution to higher education, not only in the South East but nationally. Its strong tradition in the liberal arts and its deep connection to community life have left a lasting impact which should be recognised and valued."
The minister also acknowledged the role of his colleagues and stakeholders in supporting the process.
"I want to acknowledge the constructive approach taken by all parties, including the leadership in SETU, Carlow College, and my department officials.
"I also wish to recognise the longstanding support and advocacy of Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, who has worked closely with the College over many years and has been a strong voice for the region throughout this process."
