A Framework for Two-Year Transition Period
Carlow College, St Patrick’s today announced the plan for the future of Carlow College, following a lengthy and detailed internal and external review process.
As part of this process, an agreed framework has been put in place, in consultation with South East Technological University, to support a structured programme completion period for current students and to enable an orderly and managed transition for the College. These arrangements reflect a shared commitment to learner protection, continuity of academic standards, and the preservation of Carlow College, St Patrick’s longstanding educational legacy. The framework also enables the transfer of the land and buildings from Carlow College to SETU as soon as practicable. This process has been facilitated through detailed engagement with Minister Lawless and his officials in the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS).
Two-year completion period for academic programmes
A multi-phased completion process will commence immediately to allow for an orderly phasing out of Carlow College programmes and associated activities. All currently enrolled students will be supported to complete their studies and to achieve their intended qualification with Carlow College. No new student intakes will be offered in 2026/27 and beyond. During this period, Carlow College will remain responsible for its academic operations, staffing, employment obligations and delivery of programmes.
Students supported to graduation
The College has always maintained a student-centred approach and this will continue over the next two years to ensure a positive student experience. Carlow College wishes to reassure all current learners that their studies will continue as normal and students will be kept abreast of the situation through ongoing engagement with the Carlow College Students’ Union. All current learners have been notified today.
Period of Change
Carlow College recognises that this period of change will be challenging, particularly for its dedicated staff. Over the next two years there will be a phased redundancy process for the 87 staff currently employed by Carlow College. A formal consultation process has commenced in line with statutory obligations and best practices, and Carlow College is committed to engaging openly and respectfully with staff and union representatives. Comprehensive supports will be available including access to wellbeing supports.
CAO Courses for 2026
Carlow College, St. Patrick’s has today advised the Central Applications Office (CAO) to withdraw its undergraduate courses from the CAO website for 2026. All CAO applicants will be contacted today to advise how they can update their preferences via the CAO Change of Mind facility which is open until 1st July. Information on similar alternative courses available in the South East has been provided to applicants.
As a private college, Carlow College, St. Patrick’s will continue to work closely with students, staff, regulating bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure the teach out is managed carefully and responsibly to ensure the optimum possible outcome.
Next phase for Carlow College, St. Patrick’s
In the context of the National Strategy for Higher Education to 2030, Carlow College, St. Patrick’s 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. That engagement forms part of the broader context for the learner protection and programme-completion period that has now been agreed, which will see the land and buildings of Carlow College, St. Patrick’s transfer to SETU.
Speaking of the announcement, 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 longstanding 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 transition 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”. Fr Conn continued, “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”.
Carlow College would like to express gratitude to Minister for Further and Higher Education and his officials, and SETU for their engagement throughout this process, and to Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor T.D. who has supported the College over many years.
The overriding ambition of Carlow College was to ensure that its longstanding educational legacy continues to have a meaningful impact in the South East. This next phase marks a new chapter, carrying forward the College’s rich heritage and sustaining that legacy for the years ahead.