Members of the University Teachers' Union have approved industrial measures following a ballot that saw 71 per cent back strike action and 95 per cent favouring shorter forms of dispute.
The five largest teaching organisations across Northern Ireland have collectively decided to take industrial steps unless the Department of Education resolves complaints regarding staff capacity.
Previous voting rounds by these major bodies resulted in substantial majorities for industrial activity.
The National Education Union has confirmed its intention to align with these preparations and assist in organising the dispute.
A government minister acknowledged the strain on the profession and noted he had personally asked for a panel to examine specific workload concerns.
He also highlighted that the current ballot was launched prior to the most recent rounds of talks between the parties involved.
Overall participation in the latest voting exercise stood at 46 per cent.
The outcome reflects continued dissatisfaction with current conditions within the education sector.
No further details on the proposed panel's composition or timeline were provided by officials.