DCU Access Service

Skills that can take you anywhere!

At DCU, our objective is to produce well-rounded graduates. Specifically, we wish to equip our graduates with a set of personal skills to enable them navigate the challenges of a dynamic, globalised world and an increasingly knowledge-based workplace.

We have conducted research among Irish and international employers into our graduates’ current and future skills, as well as the competencies that will be required of them. Arising from this process, we have identified a set of six generic attributes.

At DCU, we are committed to creating an environment which will pro-actively foster these attributes in our students. Students will develop these attributes through formal and informal learning and through full engagement in the university experience.

The DCU Graduate Attributes are:

Creative and Enterprising

DCU students are encouraged to be innovative in their approach to problem-solving. DCU graduates will be adaptable and willing to pursue new ideas.

Committed to Continuous Learning

DCU promotes inquiry, reflection and evaluation. DCU graduates will have learned that knowledge is not fixed or static, and that insights and skills can always be improved and developed.

Solution-Oriented

DCU emphasises the importance of concentrating on solutions rather than problems. DCU graduates will be adept at effectively applying knowledge to issues encountered in the workplace and in society.

Effective Communicators

DCU motivates students to appreciate the importance of communication. DCU graduates will be able to draw on appropriate skills to negotiate effectively, collaborate, and influence others.

Globally Engaged

DCU encourages students to be locally and globally aware, value tolerance and cultural diversity, and be committed to civic engagement. DCU graduates will understand the importance of engaging with their communities in an ethically responsible manner.

Active Leaders

DCU focuses strongly on the development of leadership skills. Graduates will appreciate that it is their personal responsibility to take the initiative and to effect change for the better in every walk of life.

DCU students will acquire and develop these attributes through full engagement with the university learning environment.