Courses to Study in Ireland: Top Selections
You’re excited about the prospect of diving into one of the best courses to study in Ireland—and maybe a bit overwhelmed. In 2025, a record 89,308 CAO applicants (up 6,139 from 2024) signaled strong interest in Irish universities—so competition is real source. Don’t worry. You’ll learn about top programs, admissions tips, career paths, scholarships, and more. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why Study in Ireland?
Ever wondered why Ireland attracts so many international students? Here’s the thing: Ireland combines top-ranked universities with a vibrant culture and booming industries. The truth is, the Emerald Isle offers a high-quality education at a lower cost than other English-speaking countries.
Tech giants like Google and TikTok have offices in Dublin. Health research thrives at UCD and Trinity. That creates jobs—and internships—for grads. The higher education system (Wikipedia) is ranked among the best globally. As a result, you’re setting yourself up for success when choosing courses in Ireland.
The downward adjustment in Leaving Cert grade inflation was necessary to reflect true academic ability, says Trinity College Dublin Admissions Office.
You might be wondering how to pick the right program. Start by aligning study choices with industry demand and personal passion.
Top Undergraduate Courses
Picking an undergraduate course shapes your career trajectory. What matters most: employability, ROI, and personal fit.
- Computer Science: Average graduate salary €45,000–€65,000.
- Engineering (Integrated Engineering, Mechanical, Civil): High demand in construction and tech.
- Business & Management: Courses like Management Science and Information Systems require 625 CAO points.
- Health Sciences: Physiotherapy and Dental Science are among the highest point programs.
- Arts & Humanities: Combine creative skill-building with digital media modules.
And another thing—don’t overlook smaller programs that offer work placements. They’re golden for building networks.
Real Example
A student at University College Dublin landed a summer internship with a fintech startup after taking a work-placement module in Software Engineering. That internship turned into a full-time offer.
Popular Postgraduate Courses for International Students
Postgraduate study offers specialization and often faster career progression. Let me explain why these are hot right now (and into 2026).
- MSc Data Science & AI: Average starting salary €50,000–€75,000; includes capstone projects.
- MBA: Leadership training with consulting or tech electives.
- Healthcare Management: Tailored for international students seeking roles in hospital administration.
- Environmental Science: Growing focus on sustainability and green technologies.
Case Study
An Indian graduate completed an MSc in Data Science at Trinity College Dublin with a research placement at an AI lab, leading to a PhD scholarship. Quite the trajectory, eh?
How to Apply for Courses
Let’s break down the CAO application steps so you know exactly what to expect.
- Register on the CAO website by February 2025.
- Review course entry requirements—some require minimum H1s in specific subjects.
- List up to 10 course choices in order of preference.
- Submit supporting documents (transcripts, English test scores) before the closing date.
- Check offers on 5 August 2025—first-round offers went to 59,901 applicants (90% Level 7/6 first choice).
It’s worth noting that random selection was used for 25 courses this year. So meet the points—and hope for the draw!
Visa and Scholarships
Securing a study visa and funding is crucial. Here’s a quick guide.
- Student Visa: Apply online through Irish Immigration Service; show financial proof of ~€7,000 per year.
- Government Scholarships: The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships offers 10 awards annually.
- University Grants: Check specific programs at UCD, Trinity, NUIG for departmental funding.
FAQ
Q: How many points do I need for Computer Science?
A: Expect 520–600 CAO points, depending on the university (e.g., TCD saw an average rise of 9.6 points).
Q: Can I work part-time while studying?
A: Yes, up to 20 hours/week during term; full-time in breaks.
Q: What is the duration of postgraduate courses?
A: Most MSc programs run one year full-time; MBAs often 1–2 years.
In Summary
Choosing the right courses to study in Ireland is about balancing your passion with career outlook, understanding the CAO process, and securing funding. Focus on high-demand fields like tech, health, and management for the best ROI.
Next Steps
- Research undergraduate courses in Ireland 2025 and postgraduate courses in Ireland for international students.
- Register on the CAO portal and set reminders for deadlines.
- Contact admissions officers with specific questions about your chosen course.
Now you have a clear roadmap to navigate courses to study in Ireland. The bottom line is: start early, align with industry needs, and seize scholarships. Best of luck—your Irish adventure awaits!
