It's being put down to an increase in Springboard courses online.
The move to online learning is increasing the national reach of facilities such as Athlone Institute of Technology.
Ireland's newest Technological University will offer 929 Springboard courses this year, with the aim to take in around 2,000 students through the scheme.
Springboard is a free or subsidised qualification available to those unemployed, actively seeking work or available to take up work.
Dean of Faculty, Continuing, Professional, Online and Distance Learning at AIT Michael Tobin says the project could lead to more graduates making the move to the region:
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