Concern over unlicensed Dublin 'university'

THE HIGHER Education Authority has expressed concern about the operation of an unlicensed “university” with an address in Dublin city centre.

The European University of Ireland claims to operate from Dominick Street, Dublin 1, but has no office at the premises, which is occupied by a legitimate private college.

The Department of Education has also attempted to prevent its operation, but has so far been unsuccessful.

The “university” offers “advanced professional programmes for mature individuals and executives” through seminars, workshops and distance learning, according to its website.

Courses include degrees in business administration, science, music, education and management as well as master’s and doctorate programmes.

It is not accredited by any recognised body in Ireland, but this is marketed as a money-saving advantage for prospective students.

“EUI is a privately funded independent university and does not receive any State funding, thus the board of governors are not compelled to seek validation,” the website says. “The recognition process itself can be lengthy and costly, which will inevitably drive the course fee high for students.”

The company operated a post office box address until 2009 from Dominick Street, but the service ceased when it failed to pay its bills. Past students still try to make contact through the PO box in search of promised accreditations and references.

A spokesman for the Higher Education Authority said it had been contacted by some students from Asia with inquiries about the business.

The authority was concerned about the use of the word “university” in its title “because, quite clearly, it is not”, he said.

All attempts to contact the European University of Ireland were unsuccessful.