Higher education in Dublin 2024

Ireland is a magnificent green island, rich in historical sights, medieval castles, beautiful national parks, museums, lakes, known for its delicious cuisine. The country is inhabited mainly by the indigenous population, the society is friendly to all visitors, including students.

Dublin is a prosperous, safe city with a developed infrastructure. Travelers come to it to visit the most picturesque places. Also, every year a large number of students from all over the world strive for Dublin to receive a quality European education.

Universities in Dublin have a reputation as the most prestigious educational institutions, have a good material and technical base, modern equipment. Higher education in Dublin for foreigners offers high-quality language training for admission to a university, training in popular specialties, and the opportunity to build a successful career.

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

Dublin's universities and colleges are renowned for their friendly and safe environment, exceptional quality of higher education, and internationally recognized degrees. They offer a less expensive alternative to the United Kingdom, providing a unique experience in an international student community. Students can choose from a wide array of educational courses and programs, with degrees recognized globally. In addition, Dublin's higher education institutions prepare in-demand professionals and allow senior students to work while studying, offering a pathway to employment in Ireland after graduation.

Higher education in Dublin is provided through a mix of universities, institutes, and colleges. Each institution has its unique offerings, making the choice dependent on the student's desired profession and future goals. Ireland is home to 7 public universities, 13 institutes of technology, and 8 teacher training colleges, along with several private colleges and business schools. All these institutions offer a wide range of undergraduate programs to students worldwide.

Trinity College Dublin, a prestigious and highly sought-after institution, consistently ranks in the top 50 universities globally. Other popular institutions include Dublin Institute of Technology, Griffith College, and St. Andrew’s College, all welcoming international students.

Colleges and institutes in Dublin often focus on more practical skills compared to universities, and their diplomas are highly valued by employers in Ireland. Popular fields of study include humanities, social sciences, public health, medicine, engineering, natural sciences, economics, and more.

The higher education system in Ireland comprises three levels: undergraduate (bachelor's degree), postgraduate (master's degree), and doctorate. Bachelor's degrees are offered as ordinary or honors, with the latter requiring a competitive entry process and higher academic standards.

Bachelor's Degree in Dublin

A bachelor's program in Dublin typically lasts four years. Upon completion, students receive a degree in various fields like arts, engineering, education, business, or international development. Many programs include internships, ensuring graduates are skilled professionals with practical experience. After graduation, students have the opportunity to stay in Ireland for a year to seek employment and apply for residency.

Master's Degree in Dublin

To earn a master's degree, graduates must undertake intensive one to two-year programs, including publishing research. Postgraduates can stay in Ireland for two years after receiving their degree to find work in their field.

Doctoral Programs

Doctoral candidates must have completed both undergraduate and postgraduate studies and typically spend three years on their research.

Dublin's universities offer quality and affordable education compared to the UK or USA. Russian students can pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programs in state universities, technology institutes, and private colleges. The academic year is divided into two or three semesters, starting in early September and ending in late June, with summer, Christmas, and Easter breaks.

Dublin universities offer top specialties in medicine, education, IT, business, finance, journalism, engineering, mathematics, law, design, international relations, and political science. They allow students to work up to 20 hours per week, providing both additional income and practical experience.

Many universities in Dublin offer financial assistance to students with high academic achievements. Scholarships available to international students can cover from 10% to 100% of tuition fees, with eligibility often based on academic performance, sporting achievements, or contributions to the student community.

In addition to academics, students engage in sports, arts, social activities, and volunteering. Facilities include sports complexes, creative studios, clubs, computer labs, modern scientific laboratories, libraries, cafés, theaters, and relaxation rooms.

The cost of higher education in Dublin varies. For medical students, fees start from €30,000 per year, while humanities range from €15,000 to €20,000 per year. Private colleges charge about €9,000 to €12,000 per year, and technology institutes start from €9,000 to €13,000 per year. Public university fees for bachelor's programs range from €11,000 to €30,000 per year, and master's programs start from €6,000 per year.

Additional expenses include accommodation, transport, food, personal expenses, and various activities.