Under the Regional Technical College Act, 1992 and the Dublin Institute of Technology Act, 1992, it is a function of an institute to provide such courses of study as its governing body considers appropriate, subject to the annual programme and budget approval process laid down in the Acts. The question of introducing, modifying or terminating a specific course in an institute of technology arises in the context of academic planning and review in higher education institutions. Any proposals for change or new developments are submitted through the academic council to the governing body of the institution concerned.
I have been advised by Limerick institute of technology as follows:
The College Diploma/Degree in Architectural Technology in Limerick Institute of Technology has been under review by the Institute authorities for well over a year. Staff were fully aware that restructuring of the course in the best interest of the students and reflecting the future needs of the industry, was inevitable. Following discussions with Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland where full technician status recognition was confirmed for all those on the old syllabus, it was decided that a more broader based recognition was more appropriate for this course and in the best interests of the future students. This information has been conveyed to all applicants in time, should they wish, to exercise their CAO change of mind options, a similar facility is open to students in respect of over a dozen other CAO courses also.
The decision to extend the period of time to four years was taken after much consideration and discussion of the benefit to students of a year period of practical experience in approved placements. This period of practical work placements has been extremely successful in the three other degree programmes in this Institute.
