HECA was formed in 1991 to represent the interests of its member colleges. Current HECA membership comprises most of the major independent colleges in Ireland.

Our plans are strategically aligned to the National Strategy for Higher Education to 2030. HECA member Colleges are developing innovative programme development and delivery practices with a particular emphasis on distance and blended leaning. They are recognised as offering the highest quality student experience through rigorous feedback, strong progression and completion rates and external recognition.

Current HECA membership comprises most of the major independent colleges in the country.

Membership is restricted to colleges meeting and abiding by stringent academic and operating regulatory criteria.

2019, HECA has over 22,000 students from 172 different countries studying for a higher education qualification in Ireland.