ITT's Dr Ed Carey said he hoped the partnership with the New Jersey university would help the Dublin university significantly increase the numbers of students studying such courses. "Business operates on a global market and it's a natural progression for education to follow that trend. Tallaght is a leader in delivering pharmaceutical education and training in Ireland which gives us the confidence that we can attract international students, " he said.

The Stevens institute specialises in engineering, ITT in pharmaceutical manufacturing and analysis. Carey said the marriage of the two would be beneficial for students.

Stevens and ITT will deliver courses in partnership through a newly formed joint venture, the International Centre for Pharmaceutical Education.