Irish universities offer programmes right from the Certificate level to the Doctoral level, and in almost all fields of study. Engineering and Technology and Business administrations are main areas which are quite popular among international students. One surprising fact is that Ireland is touted to be the largest exporter of IT software, worldwide!
There are seven universities, 14 technical institutes and 24 recognized independent institutions in Ireland. There is a close association between universities and industries in Ireland, which translates into internships and employment for students after completion of their education.
In the Irish education system, primary and secondary education is followed by a 'Senior Cycle' period of one to two years. Students then take up further education in Universities, Institutes of Technology or Colleges.
Bachelor's degrees are of three to four years duration. A subsequent Graduate diploma is of one year duration. Further, a master's level degree is from one to two years duration.
Doctoral programs usually take between 3-5 years or original research.
Admission
Admission for Indian students is possible if they have their complete education in English medium, but with higher scores.
Academic year starts every year in September and ends by June. Deadlines for most programs fall between 1st February and 1st May. The academic year is divided into two or three semesters i.e.; January , April and September.
Cost of Education
At the Bachelor's level, the average cost of engineering education is between 9,500-13,000 Euros. Business education costs apron. 10,000-14,000. Medical education is the costliest, which will setback a student by at least 23,000 Euros per year.
Master's level cost approx. 6,000-12,000 Euros per year.
Additionally accommodation, living expenses, books and other miscellaneous expenditure would come to approx. 6,000-8,000 Euros, depending upon the location.
A small number of scholarships for international students are available from the universities and colleges themselves. These are awarded solely at the discretion of the individual institutions that set down their own criteria for eligibility. Students are advised to contact the institution of their choice directly, to obtain further information.
