The Independent News and Media (Ireland) group has entered the educational sector with the announcement that it is to open a privately-funded third-level college.
Independent Colleges will have a base in Dublin city centre but courses will also be delivered from locations such as Cork, Limerick and Galway.
Courses in subjects such as law, accountancy, journalism and arts will begin on a phased basis in November. College lecturers will also be offered a chance to take an ownership interest in the college, according to Independent Colleges' chief operating officer Philip Burke.
The media group's entrance into the education sector is part of a growing trend where newspaper groups provide third-level education in disciplines such as journalism, business and law.
