Study Overseas

The international dimension of education is important in Ireland, which has one of the most trade dependent economies in the world. The Irish Government has invested in the internationalisation of our education system, both to promote the international activities and linkages of our colleges and to encourage students from overseas countries to study in Ireland.

Higher education in Ireland is judged by international standards and the employment market for graduates is a global one. Overseas students receive a quality education in a friendly environment. They in turn enrich the educational experience of our own students and bring an international dimension to our campuses. Lifelong friendships and networks are formed between Irish and overseas students which later enhance the cultural and trade relationships between our countries.

Higher Education

Higher Education in Ireland consists of the universities (with associated colleges of education), institutes of technology, and a number of private independent colleges. The universities and institutes of technology are autonomous and self-governing, but are substantially state-funded.

Universities and Colleges

Northern Ireland

There are two universities in Northern Ireland:

1. Queen's University Belfast which includes:
   
   • St. Mary's University College
   • Stranmillis University College
2. University of Ulster

There are Colleges in seven colleges in Northern Ireland:

1. Union Theological College

2. Belfast Metropolitan College

3. Northern Regional College

4. North West Regional College

5. Southern Regional College

6. South Eastern Regional College

7. South West College

Republic of Ireland

There are four universities in the Republic of Ireland:

1. Dublin City University
   

2. National University of Ireland of which there are four constituent universities:
   National University of Ireland, Cork
   National University of Ireland, Dublin
   National University of Ireland, Galway
   National University of Ireland, Maynooth
   

3. University of Dublin including:
   

   • Trinity College Dublin

4. University of Limerick

The Republic of Ireland also has:

• 8 Colleges of Education
• 39 Colleges of Further Education
• 33 Independent/Private Colleges
• 13 Institutes of Technology

In addition to offering degrees at Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate levels, over a full range of disciplines, the universities and colleges also undertake research in many areas. Undergraduate and postgraduate diplomas are also available and universities are involved in continuing and distance education programmes (aimed mainly at Irish residents).

Institutes of Technology
Institutes of Technology offer programmes at degree, national diploma and national certificate levels in a wide variety of subjects. Their qualifications are externally validated by Ireland's national certification authority, which ensures that their qualifications reach the highest international standards. Many of the Institutes of Technology also run postgraduate diploma and degree programmes, both taught and research.

Colleges of Education
Colleges of Education offer three-year, full-time courses leading to a B.Ed degree which is the recognised qualification for primary school teaching.

Independent/Colleges of Further Education
These colleges offer programmes leading to certificates, diplomas and degrees, which have received recognition by Ireland's national certification authority or from other external accreditation institutions (such as universities). Courses on offer include: Accountancy and Business Studies, Law, Humanities, Hotel & Catering, Tourism Studies and Art.

Explanation of Programmes available at Third Level Institutions

• One-Year Certificate: One-year full-time course
• National Certificate: Two-year full-time course
• National Diploma: One-year after National Certificate/three years ab initio
• Bachelors Degree: Normally a three or four-year course
• Graduate Diploma: Specially for graduates seeking a vocational reorientation - usually a one-year course
• Masters Degree: Either by research or through a taught programme. Normally 1-2 years duration
• Doctorate (PhD): Usually takes 3-years of original research

Study Programmes Available to Overseas Students

In addition to full undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, Irish universities offer a wide selection of study programmes involving credit transfer arrangements with overseas universities and colleges. These range from Summer programmes, to semester programmes, to full academic year programmes in a broad spectrum of faculties. These programmes include:

Junior Year Abroad (JYA) and Study Abroad Programmes (mainly aimed at non E.U. students)

Lifelong Learning Programme is a European funding programme which supports education and training across Europe. The programme provides funding for all stages of lifelong learning; for activities at school, at college, at university, in the workplace and in the community. The Lifelong Learning Programme is made up of several different programmes offering a variety of opportunities:

• Comenius - project-based partnerships, in-service opportunities and assistantships for all levels of school and further education.
• Erasmus - supports the mobility of HE students and staff across Europe, for both work placement and study purposes
• Leonardo - for the development of skills and training.
• Grundtvig - a passport to partnerships and training opportunities for adult education organisations, teachers and learners.
• Transversal Study Visits - giving UK learning professionals the chance to exchange expertise with their European colleagues.
  

Student Expenses

The main costs that students can expect to incur while in Ireland include fees, accommodation and living expenses. These vary considerably depending on the course, the institution and the lifestyle of the student.

The universities and colleges have a small number of scholarships for overseas students. Students are advised to contact the institution directly to obtain further information.

Application Procedures
Studying overseas is a very enriching experience however it can be quite costly, hence it is worth spending time and consideration choosing the most suitable programme and most appropriate institution.

Apart from the universities in Northern Ireland, application for most full-time undergraduate courses is made through a Central Applications Office (CAO). The CAO provides an applications pack with a handbook which lists all the courses on offer and gives information on how to apply.

Author

Susan Gibbons

Education Ireland
Sandford Lodge
Sandford Close
Ranelagh, Dublin 6
Ireland

Tel: +353 1 5292400
Fax: +353 1 5292499