Munster Technological University had to close the doors of its Cork-based campuses on Sunday after what has been described as a significant IT breach.
The college was shut for the Bank Holiday but many students are expecting to return to class today, however, it is understood that all full-time and part-time classes have been cancelled.
Sources say the campus will be closed for two days and is expected to reopen on Thursday, February 9.
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A source at MTU told CorkBeo: "There were issues last week as some systems were down but that's par for the course in an organisation this large.
“Usually, certain systems would go down and they'd be back up and running within a few days."
Students have reported learning tools like Canvas - which is used to submit and manage assignments - are inaccessible since early on Sunday morning.
With more than 12,000 students enrolled in the college, MTU senior management is taking ‘all necessary precautions’ to protect their systems.
A spokesperson for MTU said: "MTU Cork campuses are closing for 2 days, Tuesday 7th and Wednesday 8th February due to a significant IT breach and telephone outage. All classes, full-time and part-time, are cancelled.
"This includes Bishopstown, NMCI, Crawford College of Art & Design and the Cork School of Music. Staff and students are asked to monitor email and the www.mtu.ie website for further information.
"We have taken this precaution to allow us to fully assess the situation and protect our systems."
The National Centre for Cyber Security are investigating an incident that occurred on Sunday and has advised other organisations to remain vigilant for any possible security threats.
Vice President for Finance and Administration at MTU, Paul Gallagher said: "MTU is working to establish the extent of this IT breach. We will communicate further tomorrow."
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