Dundalk Institute of Technology is set to become a University College following an agreement with Queen's University Belfast today.
The major new partnership will see it change from an IT to a University College of Queen's University Belfast.
The move was formally approved by the governing bodies of both institutions today.
The plan also secured Cabinet approval after the proposal was put before it by Minister for Further and Higher Education James Lawless this morning.
A formal agreement is expected to be signed next month, with the aim of the new University College being fully operational for the start of the 2026 academic year.
It means students enrolling from next September will graduate with a Queen's University Belfast degree or postgraduate qualification.
The Institute in Dundalk will retain its financial, staffing and governance autonomy, in the same way the model works with St Mary's University College and Stranmillis University College.
It is hoped the collaboration will catalyse economic and social development within the Dublin to Belfast corridor and enhance higher education, research and innovation in the area.
Minister Lawless said it was a "landmark initiative with the potential to strengthen and advance higher education across the island".
He said it was the first all island initiative of its kind.
"My department will work closely with DkIT as this strategic partnership develops, and I extend my best wishes to both institutions as they explore this important opportunity" , he said.
Northern Ireland Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald welcomed the partnership and said it was "major step in north-south collaboration".
"Strengthening academic links across the island will expand opportunities for student and researcher mobility, foster innovation, and further support delivery of regional balance. By investing in shared knowledge and talent, both institutions are shaping a future where excellence thrives through co-operation."
The collaboration was described as "hugely significant and exciting" by QUB President and Vice Chancellor Professor Ian Greer.
"Dundalk University College will allow us to deliver high-quality education to more people and strengthen our shared ambition for the wider region. We look forward to signing the Heads of Agreement in December and to welcoming the first cohort of students in 2026."
DkIT President Dr Diarmuid O'Callaghan said the move helps make DkIT's strategic plan to become a sustainable and accessible university campus a reality.
"Our students are at the centre of our strategy, and we are committed to delivering on our promise that they graduate with a university award.
"This partnership presents the real opportunity for our students to graduate with a Queen's University award. Our collaboration with Queen’s University has spanned decades and together we have the potential to have a profound impact in the region," he said.
