Up to 40 jobs are to be created through the development of an international student college at Queen's University Belfast.
The joint venture between Queen's University and INTO University Partnerships will bring hundreds of international students to Northern Ireland over the next three to five years.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Gregson said the college will make Northern Ireland a major player in the delivery of higher education to international students.
"Our partnership with INTO will ensure that Queen's and Northern Ireland will be promoted around the world through INTO's international network."
"This new College, delivering pre-entry programmes to students who want to come to Queen's, will provide the next generation of ambassadors."
Andrew Colin, Chairman of INTO University Partnerships said: "UK universities are facing strong competition for international students, not only from universities in the United States and Australia, but from many emerging countries too."
© UTV News