About Ireland
Ireland is an increasingly popular destination for students from all over the world. The friendliness and hospitality for which Irish people are renowned, contribute to the ease with which overseas students adapt to the way of life and in particular, student life.
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 internationalization 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.
Irish Education
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 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.
There are nine universities in Ireland (2 in Northern Ireland and 7 in the Republic), 14 Institutes of Technology, and a number of private independent colleges located throughout the Republic offering programmes at degree, diploma/national diploma and certificate/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 also run postgraduate diploma and degree programmes, both taught and research.
Useful Links:
www.education.ie
www.cao.ie
www.justice.ie
www.inis.gov.ie