Studying for a Bachelor’s Degree in Ireland
Ireland has become a popular destination for international students thanks to its strong higher education system, globally recognised qualifications, and wide range of English-taught programmes. Many students also choose Ireland for its modern campus facilities, industry links, and practical, career-focused learning approach.
Ireland’s higher education institutions are commonly grouped into:
Universities
Technological Universities (many formed through the merger of former Institutes of Technology)
Private Higher Education Institutions
When choosing a programme, it is recommended to consider not only the subject area, but also career outcomes, industry connections, campus resources, and location.
English Language Requirements (Typical)
Most institutions require proof of English proficiency. Typical ranges are:
IELTS: 6.0 – 7.5
TOEFL iBT: 80 – 90
(Exact requirements vary by institution and programme.)
Typical Programme Duration
Bachelor’s (Undergraduate): usually 3–4 years (depending on programme and institution)
Some students may start directly without a foundation year if they meet entry and language requirements.
Documents Commonly Requested for Application
High school diploma and transcript
English language test result
CV / résumé (sometimes)
Passport/ID
Tuition Fees (General)
Tuition fees vary widely by programme and institution. A broad estimate is €10,000 – €28,000 per year (some programmes can be higher). For an exact quote, it’s best to check the specific course page or contact an advisor.
Public Universities in Ireland
Below are some of Ireland’s main public universities:
Trinity College Dublin (TCD)
University College Dublin (UCD)
University College Cork (UCC)
Dublin City University (DCU)
Maynooth University
University of Limerick (UL)
University of Galway (formerly NUI Galway; rebranded as University of Galway in 2022)
Technological Universities in Ireland
(Many were formed by mergers of former Institutes of Technology.)
Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) – established in January 2019 from the merger of Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT), Institute of Technology Tallaght, and Institute of Technology Blanchardstown.
Munster Technological University (MTU) – established in January 2021 from the merger of Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) and Institute of Technology Tralee.
Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) – established in October 2021 from the merger of Athlone Institute of Technology (AIT) and Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT).
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) – established in April 2022 from the merger of GMIT, IT Sligo, and Letterkenny IT (LYIT).
South East Technological University (SETU) – established in May 2022 from the merger of Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) and Institute of Technology Carlow (IT Carlow).
Other Public Higher Education Institutions (Still Standalone)
Some institutions that used to appear under “Institutes of Technology” lists still exist as independent public colleges (not merged into a TU in the same way):
Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT)
Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT)
Private Higher Education Institutions (Examples)
National College of Ireland (NCI)
Griffith College
Dublin Business School (DBS)
CCT College Dublin (established in 2005)
Independent College Dublin
Dorset College
Galway Business School
ICD Business School (private business school; established in 2001)
Popular Bachelor’s Programmes (Examples)
BA Business Studies
BA Accounting & Finance
BA International Hospitality Management
BA Computer Science / Computing
BA Business & Law
BA Journalism / Media
BA Interior Architecture / Interior Design
BA Fashion Design
For more details about entry requirements, campus options, and programme suitability, you can match your goals (career, industry, location, budget) to the most appropriate institution.
