Universities in Ireland for Masters | Study in Ireland

Discover the best universities in Ireland for master's programs, offering quality education, global recognition, and vibrant campus life for international students aiming to study in Ireland.
authorImageMbbs 21 Jul, 2025
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Universities in Ireland for Masters

Universities in Ireland for Masters | Study in Ireland - With its rich cultural, architectural, philosophical, and scientific past, Ireland is an appealing destination for higher study. Despite its modest size, the Irish higher education system's development and level make it a standout option for postgraduate study in all aspects of art.

 

Despite its modest size, the Republic of Ireland has numerous internationally famous institutions and colleges. Advance courses in Ireland nowadays are organised into two broad educational institutions for overseas students, who might study at a university or an institute of technology. The candidate can pick any form of postsecondary institution based on his or her academic activities and area of interest.

Universities in Ireland for Masters

As a prospective study abroad student, you will want to select the ideal place and school for your further education. Among the various possibilities accessible, Ireland is developing as one of Europe's most popular master's study abroad locations. Master's programs in Irish universities are among the best. Ireland is an outstanding student location due to its practical education system, diversified programs, skill development, and career possibilities for graduates.

Study in Ireland Highlights

Studying for a Master's degree in Ireland, sometimes known as MS in Ireland, is a popular post-graduate study option for students interested in engineering, computer science, and general sciences. To be eligible for MS studies, candidates must have successfully completed their degree. The table below summarizes the highlights-

Study in Ireland Highlights

Particulars

Details

MS Colleges in Ireland

Approximately 19+ MS colleges

Cost of MS in Ireland

INR 16 lakhs (approx.)

Cost of living in Ireland

INR 5 Lakhs (average)

Top Specialisations

  • STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs

  • Computer Science & Engineering

  • IT & Networking

  • Geology

  • Health Science

  • Business courses.

Admission Process

Bachelor’s Degree + GMAT/GRE scores + IELTS/TOEFL score + Statement of Purpose (SOP) + Letter of Recommendation (LOR) + resume + work experience

How to Apply to the Top Universities in Ireland for MS?

Candidates seeking to study for Masters at Ireland's Top Universities must apply directly to the university. The following documents are necessary for admission to Irish universities:

  • Academic transcripts include mark sheets for standard X, XII, and bachelor's degrees, as well as internet-based TOEFL or IELTS results.

  • If you have job experience, then two letters of recommendation (LOR) from the employer or manager who knows you well and can remark on your professional talents.

  • Statement of Purpose (SOP).

  • Academic resume and portfolio (for students applying to art, design, or architecture programmes).

  • Others (state and national certificates and achievements, as well as extracurricular activities)

  • Proof of finances.

  • Health Insurance

  •  A copy of your passport

Reasons to Consider Ireland Colleges for Masters

Before we get started on the list of the best master's universities in Ireland, let's look at the benefits of attending any of Ireland's institutions. These benefits will convince you that Ireland is the best destination to further your studies.

  • It is the sole English-speaking country in the Eurozone.

  • It's both inexpensive and student-friendly.

  • The headquarters of the world's leading firms are located here.

  • After two years in Ireland, students are eligible for permanent residence.

  • Part-time career prospects and a two-year post-study work permit.

  • After completing a master's degree, graduates have easy access to the employment market. Ireland has a unique vital employment list. If you belong to these working sectors, you will find a job following your master's degree in Ireland.

Top Masters Universities in Ireland

Many  Irish universities encourage overseas students, providing English-taught courses and well-designed research facilities. However, some of the top universities in Ireland for MS with high rankings are:

  • Trinity College Dublin

  • University College Dublin

  • National University of Ireland Galway

  • National College Cork

  • Dublin City University

  • University of Limerick

  • Maynooth University

  • Technological University of Dublin

In this section, we will look at the best universities in Ireland for international students interested in pursuing an MS. 

Universities in Ireland

QS World University Rankings 2024

World University Rankings 2023 – Times Higher Education (THE)

QS World University Rankings 2022

US News & World Report: Best Global Universities 2022

Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin

Dublin, Ireland

Grade: A++

81

161

#101

#222

University College Dublin

Dublin, Ireland

Grade: A

171

201-250

#173

#244

University of Galway

Galway, Ireland

Grade: B+

289

301-350

#258

#548

University College Cork

Cork, Ireland

Grade: B++

292

301-350

#290

NA

University of Limerick

Limerick, Ireland

Grade: B++

426

601 – 800

#298

#392

Dublin City University

Dublin, Ireland

Grade: C++

436

401-500

#490

#861

Maynooth University

Maynooth, Ireland

Grade: C+

801-850

401-500

#501-550

#861

Technological University Dublin

Dublin, Ireland

Grade: C

851-900

1001-1200

#801-1000

NA

 

In this part, we will discuss the best MS universities in Ireland according to popular ranking bodies.

Top Colleges for MS in IT & Networking in Ireland

University

QS World University Rankings 2022

US News & World Report: Best Global Universities 2022

University College Cork

#101

#222

University College Dublin

#173

#244

Griffith College

#290

NA

Technological University Dublin

#298

#392

Dublin City University

#490

#861

Maynooth University

#751-800

#1198

Top Colleges for MS in Computer Science & Engineering in Ireland

University

QS World University Rankings 2022

US News & World Report: Best Global Universities 2022

University College Cork

#101

#222

Trinity College Dublin

#101

#222

University College Dublin

#173

#244

Dublin City University

#490

#861

Technological University Dublin

#298

#392

Maynooth University

#751-800

#1198

Trinity College Dublin, Ireland

Trinity College Dublin, Ireland, is often regarded as the greatest institution on the island, because of its stunning backdrop, cobblestone walks, and enormous mediaeval library. Pursuing your master's degree here ensures the highest quality teaching, research, and facilities. It is ranked highly among Irish institutions for master's degrees that are internationally recognised and provide world-class work prospects.

Particulars

Details

Type of University

Public

Location

College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland

Trinity College World Ranking 2024

81

Tuition Fees

€9,000-€20,000 (INR 8,10,500-18,00,000) per year

Popular Programs

  • MSc Mechanical Engineering

  • MSc Finance

  • MSc Computer Science

  • MSc Neuroscience

  • LLM

National University of Ireland Galway

This Irish institution, like many others, provides high-quality master's programmes. However, it stands out due to the balance it strikes between performing research and providing a job-oriented curriculum. The National University of Ireland advertises that 94% of MS alumni work in Ireland after completing their studies. As a result, NUIG may be considered one of Ireland's top master's colleges.

Particulars

Details

Type of University

Public

Location

University Rd, Galway, Ireland

Tuition Fees

€ 13,000 - € 25,000 (INR 11,70,000 - 22,52,000) per year

Popular Programs

  • MSc Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence

  • Master Data Analytics

  • MEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering

  • MSc Biotechnology

  • MSc Clinical Research

University College Dublin

University College Dublin is one of Ireland's leading master's universities. The research-based institution offers cutting-edge answers to current concerns. And why does this need to be mentioned? If you browse their website, you'll notice that they promote space research, futuristic infrastructure, and other topics. University College Dublin's objective of being one step ahead of the rest of the globe places it among Ireland's best institutions for MS.

Particulars

Details

Type of University

Public

Location

University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland

UC Dublin World Ranking 2024

171

Tuition Fees

€10,000-€26,000 (INR 9,00,000-23,42,000) per year

Popular Programs

  • MSc Mechanical Engineering

  • MSc Computer Science

  • MBA

  • MA Management

  • MSc Data and Computational Science

MS in Ireland: Eligibility Criteria

Candidates wanting to pursue an MS in Ireland must meet these key requirements:

  • Students must have earned a three or four-year graduating degree in a comparable profession.

  • To pursue an MS in Ireland, students must first take English proficiency exams such as IELTS, TOFEL, and PTE, followed by a personal interview conducted by select colleges.

  • Some Irish institutions need 3 to 5 years of work experience before enrolling.

Work Permit After Studying MS in Ireland

Once you have completed your MBA in Ireland, you may want to remain a little longer and consider getting a job to get useful work experience in your associated field of study as part of your post-study work visa. Students can request for a non-renewable extension of up to two years after completing the course. This prolongation is given for the purpose of locating suitable work. Later, you may apply for a green card (renamed Critical Skills Employment Permit) or a work permit (renamed General Employment Permit).

In this part, we will discuss the best MS institutions in Ireland, their first-year tuition prices, and the average salary students may anticipate after graduation.

College Name

First-Year Tuition Fee

Average Salaries (Source – emolument)

Waterford Institute of Technology

Rs 13.3 Lakhs

$62,000

University College of Dublin

Rs. 21.63 Lakhs

$78,000

Cork Institute of Technology

Rs 14.8 Lakhs

$61,000

University College Cork

Rs 21.2 Lakhs

$64,000

Top MS specialisations in Ireland

Here is a list of the best MS specialisations in Ireland for Indian students interested in pursuing a Master's degree in Ireland.

Top MS specialisations in Ireland

MS in Biology (Sciences) in Ireland

MS in Physics in Ireland

MS in IT & Networking in Ireland

MS in Engg (others) in Ireland

MS in Computer Science & Engineering in Ireland

MS in Health Science in Ireland

MS in Mathematics in Ireland

MS in Geology in Ireland

Cost of studying MS in Ireland (tuition + living expenses + Ireland study visa)

In this part, we will look at the average cost of studying MS in Ireland and the cost of living in Ireland for international students. The average first-year cost of pursuing MS in Ireland is INR 16 lakh. The average cost of living in Ireland is around INR 5 lakhs per year. Living costs may rise or fall based on the candidate's lifestyle and selected accommodation.

Ireland Study Visas are classified into two types: "C Study Visa" (for courses lasting three months or less) and "D Study Visa" (for courses lasting more than three months). Students who wish to apply for a long-stay D Study Visa must pay €60 for a single entrance valid for 90 days, or €100 for a long-stay D Visa with several entries.

How to Choose a University for a Masters Degree in Ireland?

Now that you know which colleges in Ireland offer the top Masters programs, you may be wondering how to choose one. Here are some tips to help you with that:

  • Determine your subject of specialisation based on your bachelor's degree.

  • Choose the best institutions from the list above and research the programs they provide in your subject of interest.

  • Shortlist the programs that may be of interest to you at various institutions.

  • Compare the program curriculums of leading institutions on their respective websites. Choose the one most suited to your needs.

  • Check the program's eligibility, application deadline, and admissions conditions.

  • Consider additional criteria relating to the chosen university, such as the city, cost of living, climate, career prospects, and housing options.

  • After carefully considering all of the considerations listed above, apply for the program that best fits your needs.

Conclusion

Universities in Ireland provide excellent holistic development chances for their students. Enrolling in any of the top colleges will assure skill improvement and solid employment chances when you complete your master's degree. Ireland is a worthwhile option for getting your master's degree because of the number of opportunities available.

Now that you've learned everything there is to know about the best master's programs in Ireland, including tuition prices and university characteristics. After selecting the appropriate university/course, the actual study abroad procedure begins, which includes admissions applications, scholarships, loans, visa applications, and so on.  Take the first step in your foreign study adventure now!

Universities in Ireland for Masters FAQs

Which are the top universities for Masters in Ireland?

Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, University College Cork, National University of Ireland Galway, and Dublin City University are among the best.

What are the basic admission requirements?

You generally need a relevant Bachelor’s degree, English proficiency proof (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent), transcripts, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

How long does a Masters program take in Ireland?

Most Master’s programs take 1 year, though some may last 2 years depending on the field or research component.

When should I apply for a Masters in Ireland?

Applications usually open in October and close by March, but some universities accept applications as late as July if seats are available.
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