Lakeland University announces new partnership in Ireland

lakeland.jpg

Dublin Institute of Technology Dublin Institute of Technology
Lakeland University announced a partnership with the Dublin Institute of Technology.

Lakeland University’s School of Business & Entrepreneurship and Ireland’s Dublin Institute of Technology are partnering to create a new study abroad experience for students preparing to enter the hospitality industry.

Lakeland students will have an opportunity to study at Ireland’s leading and largest university-level provider of hospitality, tourism, leisure, and event programs. DIT students will have a chance to learn as part of Lakeland’s program, which has partnerships with Destination Kohler, Blue Harbor Resort, and The Osthoff.

“Students from both institutions are going to gain so much knowledge and experience through this exciting partnership,” said Ms. Britanni Meinnert, instructor of hospitality management. “DIT will provide Lakeland students opportunities in hospitality management that we do not offer, including event planning, and practical courses in culinary arts and running a restaurant or hotel. Along with the classroom work, students will have access to internships at some leading hospitality providers.” Moreover, both American and Irish students will benefit from learning and working in a foreign culture.

The first students will begin studying abroad in the 2017-2018 academic year. All DIT courses transfer to Lakeland and will not delay graduation. Students will pay Lakeland tuition. Financial aid and housing accommodations are available.

DIT Head of School, Dr. Dominic Dillane praised the new partnership. “Both DIT and Lakeland University already have very strong international credentials, and this exchange is part of our ongoing commitment to creating international opportunities for DIT students in the U.S., both as part of their academic courses and also for internships,” Dr. Dillane said.

Last year, a group of nine Lakeland students and two faculty members visited DIT and toured Ireland during a week-long study abroad class titled Irish Business, Culture, and Hospitality.