Studying in Ireland
Griffith College & The International Office
The Higher Education Training Awards Commission (HETAC)
Foundation & English Language Courses
Student Life
Entry Requirements
FAQs
Contact Us

Studying in Ireland
The Republic of Ireland, of which the capital city is Dublin, has a population of 3.8 million people. Its area covers 26 of the 32 counties in the island of Ireland. The UK governs the other 6 counties. Ireland has a mild, oceanic climate. The average winter temperature is 8 degrees centigrade and the average summer temperature is l8 degrees centigrade. Ireland, often referred to as the Emerald Isle, is one of the least spoiled and least populated countries in Western Europe. Lakes, mountains, spectacular cliffs, deserted beaches, rugged countryside and more than 2,000 miles of coastline make up the Irish landscape.

The Republic of Ireland has been an independent state since 1921.It is a full member of the European Union and has equal voting rights along with other European states. It is the only country in the EU outside the UK where English is spoken as a first language. The Irish accent and pronunciation of English is extremely clear and easy to understand, which makes it an ideal country for non-English speakers to study in.

Historically, Ireland was known as "The Land of Saints and Scholars" as it was a centre of scholastic excellence with major monastic schools of learning, which spread their influence across mainland Europe. Ireland has an unparalleled heritage of English literature. Some of the finest and most internationally acclaimed English writers have come from Ireland's shores. These writers include Shaw, Beckett, Wilde, Yeats, Joyce, Goldsmith, Behan and many more. This impressive academic tradition has continued throughout the ages and Ireland is still a centre of learning today. It boasts one of the highest standards of education in the world. The Irish government has taken advantage of the high standards of education to promote economic development.

Ireland, at present, has the highest economic growth rate in the EU. In recent years Ireland has become a global centre for the banking, telecommunications, pharmaceutical and software industries. The combination of state of the art telecommunications infrastructure, a quality of life that is second to none and a well-educated workforce has attracted many international companies to make Ireland the headquarters of their European operations. Much of Ireland's recent economic success can be attributed to the educational system. Ireland at the start of the 21st Century is an exciting place to be. The country is poised to benefit from the advantages of the digital revolution, yet proud and protective of its ancient culture.

With a population where 50% of our inhabitants are under the age of 25, Ireland is a vibrant and energetic place to be. The richness of the culture, the sense of history, the strength of the literary and musical tradition, the breathtaking scenery and the friendliness of the people make it an ideal location for study.

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Griffith College Dublin is Ireland's most progressive business college in Europe's most progressive economy. Griffith College was established in 1974 and is now the largest independent college in Ireland, with a student population of over 4,000. It is based in a series of period buildings on a seven-acre campus, within a 15-minute walk from Dublin city centre.

The International Office was established to accommodate the needs of overseas students and is committed to ensuring that these students' time in the college will be as enjoyable and rewarding as possible, both from an academic, cultural and social point of view.

There is a wide range of courses on offer including Journalism, Law, Business, Computing, Interior Architecture, Photography, Film Studies, Hospitality Management, Accounting. Many students also attend the college for post-graduate or professional studies in the areas of Accountancy, Business and Finance, Law and Computer Science/Software Development. Other students attend the pre-university courses (The Irish Leaving Certificate) in order to gain entry to the Medical Colleges in Ireland. Griffith College acts as a "feeder "college to the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, ranked amongst the best medical colleges in the world.

Griffith College Dublin has a policy of keeping class sizes small. In this way the lecturers can give a lot of individual attention to the students and assist greatly with assignments. This policy ensures that no students
fall behind in their studies.

Griffith College has the largest computing faculty of any independent college in Ireland and the UK. GCD offers professional work experience for our students, as part of their course, in some of the most reputable international organisations. With comprehensive courses, premium recreational and sporting facilities, the most up to date computer technology and regular social events, Griffith College has grown from strength to strength.

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The granting of university status to the previously HETAC designated Dublin City University and University of Limerick clearly confirms the standard of the HETAC awards. In all, there are over 600 separate courses approved by HETAC. HETAC qualifications, as the national qualification of a constituent EU member-state, are recognised internationally.

GCD currently has 14 courses validated by HETAC and a further 2 in the process of validation. These courses enable students to apply for a range of exemptions from professional bodies and other educational institutions.

Course Recognition
Many courses offered by Griffith College are granted substantial examination exemptions for the relevant professional body. Courses in the Faculty of Management and Business have been awarded exemptions, as appropriate, from organisations such as the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, the Marketing Institute and many more.

Nottingham Trent University
The BA in Business and Law is offered in conjunction with the Southampton Institute under the aegis of Nottingham Trent University, which is one of the largest universities in the United Kingdom with 15,400 students. Its Law School is the only school providing advanced management and legal training for lawyers.

Exam Success
For over a quarter of a century, the college has developed a culture of close student contact, first class lecturers and excellent study material which has been central to the examination success achieved by our students. For example, no fewer than 100 Griffith College students have received 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes in the nationwide professional accountancy exams.

Financial Bonding
All our courses are fully bonded for your additional peace of mind. This bonding guarantees the provision of tuition for which fees have been paid. The bonding facility has been provided in conjunction with a major state owned financial institution.

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Foundation Course
The University International Foundation Programme is intended for those students who wish to study a third level course but do not have the English language level to do so. The course is fully accredited by the Higher Education Training Awards Commission (HETAC) and is approved by universities in Ireland, the UK, the United States and New Zealand.

The foundation programme is a one-year course offered by Griffith College in conjunction with International House and UIFP. The students study English, Business and Computing. On successful completion of the programme, students will have achieved a recognised foundation qualification and the 600 TOEFL score (6.0 IELTS) necessary to meet the entry requirements for university. They are then free to apply to the third level course of their choice. This course is tailor made for those students whose national high school examination certificates are not recognised for entry into degree courses in universities and colleges in English speaking countries.

International House
International House is a member of the renowned International House World Organisation, which comprises of more than 100 member schools world-wide, all committed to the highest standards in language teaching. It is a long established organisation with an outstanding reputation and many years experience in teaching languages to people in different professions and age groups. IH offers general English Programmes and Examination Preparation Programmes for Cambridge, TOEFL and IELTS examinations. It is based on the Griffith College Campus, sharing the college's facilities.

Maximum number of students per class is 12 and courses are designed to maximise students' communicative potential. All classes are of homogeneous levels and regular assessments are conducted to ensure students remain in the class best suited to their needs.

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Sports
The College actively supports and funds many sporting activities Some of our recent successes include winning the GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) All-Ireland Colleges Cup and being runners up in the Colleges Access Shield in Rugby. Camogie, basketball, soccer and volleyball also have a keen following in the College. Other activities, such as tennis, boxing, aerobics, table tennis, drama, paint ball, role-playing, music, horse riding and golf are organised by student societies.

Students Union
All full-time and evening students are automatically registered as members of the Students' Union. The main aims of the Union are to represent students interests and the general welfare of the student body.

International Students have an elected student officer who concentrates on the social and recreational needs of international students. The International Student Officer organises special International student events on a monthly basis, but international students are also encouraged to attend all of the events run by the Student Union and to integrate with the Irish students as much as possible.

The Students' Union in GCD also takes an active interest in ensuring that students enjoy their time here at the college both academically and socially. Some of the events organised by the Union are:

• Freshers Week
  
• Rag Week
  
• The annual GCD Ball
  
• Charity collections for causes such as Cancer Research, Goal, etc.
  
• Halloween Ball
  
• Trip to Aran Islands
  
• Christmas Ball
  
• Soccer trip to Paris
  
• Chinese New Year celebrations
  
• Tours of Dublin
  
• Rugby Tour

The Students' Union in Griffith College Dublin is affiliated to the Union of Students in Ireland (USI). The USI was established in 1959.It campaigns for the rights of all students to education and for their rights within the education system. The USI also represents students' interests at national and international level and is the only organisation recognised to represent students on national bodies and within the European Parliament and the European Commission. Griffith College Dublin's Student Union is one of the few independent college unions affiliated to USI.

The aims and objectives of the Students 'Union are:

• To represent, protect and advance student rights and interests and to advise or act on behalf of a student or students who may be experiencing difficulties.
  
• To provide social and recreational facilities for students. The Union, which has a good working relationship with staff, organises social events including entertainment, clubs, societies, etc.

The Leisure Capital of Europe
There can be few better cities than Dublin in which to enjoy your time as a student. With a large student population and a host of congenial pubs, cafes, clubs, restaurants, cinemas and music venues to choose from, the city attracts young people from around the world to sample its unique atmosphere. At Griffith College Dublin all this excitement is literally on our doorstep.

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We at GCD use the renowned educational comparison system NARIC to give a general equivalent of all educational qualifications. Hence, regardless of your country of origin, a fair and accurate comparison of your qualifications will be made by our admissions department.

We also require that you have a good standard of written and aural English (e.g. 550 TOEFL or 5.5 IELTS). Your level of English will be tested on arrival to the college, prior to Registration. Should you not meet the required level, your place on the course may be withdrawn, and you may be placed in an intensive English course before being permitted to join your faculty.

HETAC Courses
The following entry requirements have been established by the Irish Government Higher Education Training Awards Commission (HETAC) for entry by students to courses validated by that body.

MSc in Computing
Applicants must have obtained a primary honours degree in a relevant discipline. Alternatively, applicants who have completed a Graduate Diploma in Computing and have obtained honours are also eligible for this course.

Graduate Diploma Programmes
Applicants must have obtained a primary degree or equivalent in an unrelated subject.

Degree Programmes
2 "A "levels at Grade C or higher and 4GCSEs (to include English and Maths). An " A "Level at Grade C can be supplemented with 2 "A" Levels at Grade C.

Diploma and Certificate Programmes
1 "A "Level at grade E or higher and 4 GCSEs (to include English and Maths). An "A "Level at Grade C can be supplemented with 2 A/S Levels at Grade C.

LLB in Irish Law (Nottingham Trent University)
2 "A "Levels at Grade C or higher and 4 GCSEs.

BA in Business and Law (NTU in association with Southampton Institute)
2 "A "Levels at Grade C or higher and 4 GCSEs.

Diploma in Interior Decoration &Design
All students with a keen interest in design are eligible to apply. A portfolio of work, while not essential, would be advantageous.

Diploma in Hospitality Management
Students will be assessed by interview to determine their eligibility for the course.

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How do I apply for a course in Griffith College?
You can download the Griffith College International Application Form from the college website, www.gcd.ie, complete it and return it to the International office at the address below:

International Office
Griffith College Dublin
South Circular Road
Dublin 8

With your application, you should include the following:

• A 200 word essay about why you wish to study in Ireland. This must be in your own handwriting.
  
• 4 photographs (passport size).
  
• Original educational records to date, or attested copies.
  
• Details or records of English language qualifications.
  
• Completed Griffith College application form.
  
• A letter of Good Conduct from a Headmaster, Peace Commissioner, Judge or Senior Policeman.
  
• Letter of support/financial status indicating the ability to pay college fees.

Please note that all documents will be checked thoroughly by the Admissions Department.

• Please ensure that all relevant documentation is enclosed with your application form, as failure to do so may result in your application being denied or postponed. .

How do I apply for my student visa for Ireland?
Applications for visas are made through the Irish Embassy or Consulate in your country of permanent residence. In the event that there is no Irish Embassy or Consulate in your country, you may apply directly to the Department of Foreign Affairs (www.irlgov.ie/iveagh/) or Department of Justice here in Ireland:

Dept. of Foreign Affairs
(Visa Section)
69-71 St. Stephens Green
Dublin 2
Ireland
Tel: +353 1 4780822

Dept.Of Justice
72 St.Stephens Green
Dublin 2
Ireland
Tel: +353 1 6028202

Applicants will be required to supply the following documentation:

• 4 passport photographs.
  
• Valid passport.
  
• Valid visa (if appropriate).
  
• Evidence that course fees have been paid in full.
  
• A letter of acceptance into a full-time course from the college.
  
• Evidence that the applicant can support him/herself fully without relying without on state services or resources. This can be in the form of a sponsorship letter from a corporate body or from the applicant's embassy.
  
• Evidence of support from a private individual should be accompanied by a current bank statement and a "letter of good standing" from the sponsor's bank.
  
• A letter showing the applicant has an obligation to return to their home country upon completion of their course at Griffith College. This may take the form of a job offer from a company or evidence of further studies in the future.

In the event that your visa request is denied, all your fees will be refunded, less the registration fee of US$150. It is essential to apply for the visa as early as possible. Insufficient documentation is the primary cause of delay in the application process.

Is there a possiblity of internship on certain courses?
Yes, the college offers professional work experience for students as part of their courses, in some of the most reputable Irish and international organisations based in Dublin.

Are there adequate computer facilities for assignments and study outside of lecture hours?
There are no fewer than nine computer laboratories providing students with the latest software-based training which is so essential for the modern business environment. There are 250 fully networked workstations offering the most up-to-date Windows-based software, putting Griffith College Dublin at the forefront of computer technology training for industry.

Hardware

• 250 Workstations (Pentium 3)
  
• Configured around 9 NT networks

Software

• Novell
  
• Unix
  
• Oracle
  
• C++
  
• 'C'
  
• Java
  
• Microsoft Office
  
• Visual Basic
  
• Multimedia Software

How do I find accommodation in Dublin?
We at Griffith College Dublin recommend that our international students stay with an Irish host family for their first year at least and the International Office can arrange this for you. Irish people love to talk and are renowned for their hospitality. You can be sure of a warm welcome and to be engaged in conversation continually. Meals are taken with the family and this is an excellent opportunity to get to know your host and improve your English. All host families are carefully selected.

Irish families, recommended by the college, usually live outside the city centre in pleasant suburban houses. All our host families are on easily accessible bus routes, which will leave students in close proximity to the
college. Advice is also available for those seeking self-catering accommodation.

Is there someone in the college I can talk to if I'm having difficulties with my studies or in my personal life?
Griffith College Dublin recognises that students making the transition from second to third level education need support and advice on many day-to-day issues. In addition, students living away from home for the first time may also have special needs. Every student attending full-time courses at the college has a personal tutor with whom he or she can consult on a range of issues (personal, academic or social).

The college also provides a student counsellor who offers a free and confidential service for students experiencing personal difficulties during the course of their studies. Appointments can generally be made within 24 hours and meetings take place in an informal setting at a city centre location outside of the college.

What is the social life like for International Students?
International Students have an elected student officer who concentrates on the social and recreational needs of international students. The International Student Officer organises special International student events on a monthly basis, but international students are also encourages to attend all of the events run by the Student Union and to integrate with the Irish students as much as possible.

How do I arrange medical insurance when I get to Ireland?
It is a requirement under Irish Government Regulations that each International Student must have Medical Health Insurance. This insurance costs £200 per year and can be arranged through the International Office, who will issue you with a Medical Insurance card when you pay your medical fee.

Where in Dublin is the College located?
The College grounds are just a mile from St. Stephen's Green in the centre of Dublin, on the busy South Circular Road. As this is a main arterial route, it is especially well served by public transport. Regular buses include the 16,16A,19,49,49A,56A,122,155 and 210.

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Below are the contact details for the International Office at Griffith College:

Griffith College Dublin
International Office
South Circular Road
Dublin 8
Ireland
Tel: +353 1 415 0400
Fax: +353 1 473 0045
Email: international@gcd.ie
Website: www.gcd.ie

Contact: Leo O'Brien
Director, International Office

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