Study in Ireland

The Republic of Ireland, History has separated this landmass from Northern Ireland which is part of the UK.

Ireland - European Hub to many MNC’s

Study in Ireland, in wide variety of institutions offering a number of programmes, Ireland provides a dynamic learning experience without parallels. Highly rated for its first rate education Irish education lay stress on skill development and flexibility. Though a modernized country, Ireland retains its old charm, tradition and hospitality. Ireland is home for high ranking reputed universities and colleges. Its an island in north western Europe.

The Republic of Ireland is not to be confused with Northern Ireland, which is still an integral part of the United Kingdom. Ireland's 800 years of struggle under the British monarchy was a period of intrigue, strife, famine, progress and intellectual development as some of the most famous works in English Literature were written during that time. Writers like George Bernard Shaw, Oscar Wilde and James Joyce are all part of the Irish literary world.

QUICK FACTS

  • Language- English, Irish.

  • Ireland is the third largest island in Europe and the 28th in the world.

  • Capital of Ireland: Dublin.

  • Main cities- Dublin, Belfast, cork, Derry, Limerick, Galway, Craigavon.

  • Population index: 63,78,000.

  • Literacy rate: 99%.

  • Ireland Currency Euro (€).

  • It’s a young country and has over 200,000 international students.

Education system in Ireland

Irish institutions are classified into three categories: private independent colleges, universities and institute of technologies.

Irish universities are autonomous but funded by the state government. The universities have a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses on offer. There are 9 universities in Ireland.

There are 14 Institute of Technologies, and they have diploma, certificate and degree programmes in areas like business, linguistics, science and engineering on offer.Private independent colleges have certificate, degree and vocational programmes on offer in fields like art & design, rural development, business studies and law. Independent Third Level Colleges are Colleges offering programmes leading to certificates, diplomas and degrees, recognised by Irelands national certification authority or an accrediting university.

Ireland accepts students with 15 years of education for postgraduate studies.

Why study in Ireland?

  • Small, safe and friendly country
  • The globally respected Irish education system is one of the best in Europe.
  • Home to 1000 mnc’s. Pharmacy, tourism, energy and IT are major sectors.
  • Irish higher education institutions excel in many disciplines and are known for their teaching, innovation and research.
  • Being an English-speaking country, it’s a hub of technological innovations and scientific research.
  • Developed democracy with modern economy.
  • Irish people are known for their friendly nature and hospitality.
  • Ireland’s landscape is extraordinary. Every single weekend you will have a beautiful place to visit during your stay in the country. Make sure you get your checklist ready!
  • Ireland is a dynamic and modern country.
  • Masters can be completed in one year.

Life in Ireland

The Irish are known to be fun-loving people. As a student with a modest lifestyle, one can live comfortably with about 1500–1600 Euros a month. The Irish are extremely passionate about their food and drink and most towns have restaurants that cater to every budget and taste. Bread, Irish stew, Shepherd’s Pie and a glass of Guinness are a big part of the Irish cuisine. The Irish are also passionate about rugby and football.

Ireland is a place of amazing natural beauty and some of the popular tourist spots are:

  • Saint Patrick's Cathedral in Armagh and in Dublin.
  • Dublin Castle - the seat of power of the British empire when they ruled Ireland.
  • The Rock of Cashel - an ancient fortress town
  • Kilkenny Castle - originally built in 1172 as a wooden structure. It is now a stone structure and maintained as a heritage site by the government.
  • The National Gallery of Ireland - a museum preserving Irish and European art collections.

Study options

The primary academic intakes begin in September at most colleges and universities in Ireland, though a few institutions offer small intakes in February.

Undergraduate degree programmes usually last for 3 to 4 years (full-time study), which might vary depending on each institution. Postgraduate qualifications awarded could be postgraduate diploma or PhD. Both taught and research postgraduate courses are on offer at Irish institutions. A typical postgraduate lasts for 1–2 years of full-time study and a PhD lasts for 3 years at Irish institutions.

Cost of studying in Ireland

With the cost of living in Ireland being considerably lesser when compared with London or New York, Dublin and Cork have become attractive options for world-class higher education. The proximity to London also allows students to visit London during the weekends. Students studying in Ireland have to pay somewhere between €10,000 and €30,000, depending on the course they opt. Living cost may range from €600 to €800 per month for international students (it can go up depending on the location you choose to stay). Average cost of food could be €200 per month. Transport cost, health insurance and other expenses should be factored in while calculating your education cost in Ireland.

Scholarships for international students

Some of the popular scholarships available are –

  • NUI Galway international student scholarship.
  • University College Dublin scholarship.
  • Trinity College Dublin scholarship.

Benefits of studying in Ireland

  • Courses are taught in English.
  • Courses are globally recognised and accredited by leading academic bodies.
  • Scholarships for deserving students.
  • Strong Asian community.
  • Close proximity to London and is well-connected to the rest of Europe.
  • A land of astounding beauty with some amazing cliffs, lakes and beaches.
  • Dublin is a tech hub in Ireland. It is Google’s European headquarters as well.
  • Ireland is known as the largest exporter of software worldwide and is also well-known for its pharmaceutical industries
  • International students studying at Irish institutions have options to work part-time for 20 hours /week.
  • The country has 4.4% of unemployment rate.
  • Ireland also offers 1 year postgraduate and accepts MBA admissions (in certain cases) without any prior work experience.
  • Due to the technological advancements in Dublin, and other cities in Ireland, most universities have good rapport with industries; therefore, students find it easy to find a job.
  • Also most universities encourage students to take up internships with popular companies, to become job-ready graduates.
  • Ireland has a 2 year stay-back option for postgraduates studying at Irish institutions.
  • You have more than one reason to study in Ireland. With a strong economy in areas like software development and pharmaceuticals, Ireland offers a lot for an international student.