Minister Harris signs order incorporating St. Angela’s College, Sligo into Atlantic Technological University

July 06, 2023

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD has today signed the Statutory Order to allow St. Angela’s College, Sligo to become part of the Atlantic Technological University (ATU).

Three people standing outside a wooden-sheeted building, with the man in the centre and two women either side. All are smiling and looking at the camera.

The incorporation is effective from 1 November 2023.

The Minister thanked the Ursuline Order that has gifted the St. Angela’s Lough Gill campus and additional lands to the TU as part of the transfer of assets. The Order’s legacy of over 70 years of dedicated service to higher education in Sligo is being recognised in the incorporation.

The terms and conditions of all staff are safeguarded and from 1 November next students who would otherwise have enrolled with St. Angela’s for the academic year 2023/2024 will do so as Atlantic Technological University students and graduate with ATU qualifications.

Minister Harris added: “I want to thank all those involved who have got us to this point. Today is a great day and I cannot wait to visit ATU’s newest campus.”

Dr Amanda McCloat, President of St. Angela’s College, said: “We are delighted that the statutory basis for the incorporation of St Angela’s is now complete. This is a historic moment for the staff and students of the College and the Ursuline Order.

“We look forward to continuing our reputation for excellence in higher education and a bright, progressive future as fully integrated staff and students of ATU which will be one of the largest higher education institutions in the country.”

Dr Seán Duffy, Vice President, ATU Integration said: “ATU is delighted to be at the final stage of incorporating St Angela’s College into the university. ATU has already built strong relationships with St Angela’s staff and students and looks forward to working with colleagues on our ninth campus.

“St Angela’s expertise in the areas of home economics, initial teacher education, nursing and health sciences will enhance and expand ATU’s academic programmes which will benefit the west and north west region and beyond.”

Welcoming the news, Dr Alan Wall, Chief Executive of the HEA said: “This incorporation is the culmination of the combined efforts of staff, students and the wider stakeholders of St Angela’s College and ATU working together towards a shared vision for the future of higher education in Sligo and across the region.

“The expansion of ATU, and the unique strengths and disciplinary expertise that this incorporation brings to the institution, will support further positive social and economic impacts in the West and North West regions.”