Ireland
Country Overview
Study in Ireland will be a passport to a successful career. Historically, Ireland was always one of
Europe’s poorer countries, however, in the last 20 years; it has grown into one of Europe’s wealthiest
nations. And the quality of the Irish education system is a major contributing factor to the rapid
rate of economic growth. The Irish Education System is divided into three basic levels: Primary
(for 8 years); Secondary (for 5 or 6 years) and Third level which offers a wide range of opportunities
from post-Secondary courses, to vocational and technical training, to full degree and the highest
post-graduate level. Apart from this, Ireland education system accepts student's for post graduation
with 15 yrs of education, unlike some countries. NFQA maintain quality Standard of Ireland education
system. Ireland is famous as an international hub for high quality scientific research. Many students
from around the world, including India, choose Ireland to pursue research in various fields.
Ireland's worldwide reputation for high quality education is built on the solid
foundation of commitment to excellence. Ireland is a beautiful island, combining contemporary modern
cities with an unspoilt countryside, cityscapes steeped in history and a rich natural habitat.
Renowned for friendliness, our safe English-speaking country offers the warmest of welcomes to
students from all over the world.
Dating back to the Middle Ages, Ireland- known as the Island of Saints and Scholars-
provided education to much of the western world. More recently, Irish writers such as James Joyce,
Samuel Beckett, WB Yeats, George Bernard Shaw and Oscar Wilde, are studied around the globe, while
ongoing investment in research and development has placed modern Ireland at the cutting edge of
science and technology.
For information about Education in Ireland, the education system, our institutions, applying for
courses, study advice, history, culture and more visit www.educationinireland.ie
Friendly and Safe Country
And it is not just us saying it! Ireland was voted by Lonely Planet as the world’s friendliest country
in 2008 and 2010 and was ranked 12th in the 2009 Global Peace Index. Our hospitable nature coupled with
an unrivalled sense of fun ensures living in Ireland is an unforgettable experience. The island’s varied
environment is ideal for many outdoor pursuits such as climbing, water sports and all kinds of ball and
team sports.
English-speaking Country
Ireland is an English-speaking country with close cultural, economic and educational links to the rest
of the English-speaking world, especially the UK — our next door neighbor — and the USA. Every year,
thousands of people from all walks of life come to Ireland to study the English language. And there
are plenty of language schools that hold courses designed to focus on your exact needs.
Internationally Recognized Qualifications and Extensive Choice
Irish qualifications are recognized for excellence world-wide. Students can choose from an extensive
range of courses to meet their needs in highly respected business schools, centre of scientific and
technology excellence as well as renowned language, humanities and arts faculties.
Supportive Learning Environment
Dedicated international offices work closely with academic, administrative and specialist staff to
fully support students throughout their time in Ireland. Through these support structures, students
receive direct access to information, facilities, services and staff.
Innovative and Creative Culture
Ireland is a land rich in cultural heritage with a history of world-leading innovation. From the
flamboyance of Oscar Wilde to mould-breaking James Joyce, from the pioneering quantum physics of
John Bell to Nobel Laureate Ernest Walton, Ireland’s unique innovative and creative culture is an
integral part of the Irish experience.
Distinguished Graduates
Ireland’s graduates are innovators in their fields, leaders in their communities and ambassadors
for excellence all around the world. Qualifications earned and connections made in Ireland deliver a
passport to success.
Leading Global Companies in Ireland
Companies who require a skilled, educated and highly capable workforce to drive their success choose
to locate in Ireland. Ireland has welcomed Google, Facebook, Pfizer, Apple, Intel to name just a few—
all of whom chose Ireland as their European base. For a wealth of information on this and other
matters, see the website of our Investment and Development Agency IDA Ireland.
A few more points to consider
- Ireland has one of the best education systems in the world according to the independent IMD World
Competitiveness Yearbook 2009 (ranks 8th).
- The quality of the Irish education system is a major contributing factor to the rapid rate of
economic growth Ireland has experienced over the last few decades (The World Economic Forum’s
2009-2010 Global Competitiveness Report ranked the quality of Ireland’s secondary and tertiary
educational system, as assessed by business community, as eight out of 133 economies).
- Ireland is recognized as an international location for high quality scientific research. Ireland’s
rapid ascent in the ranking of scientific output, rising from 36th place in 2003 to recently
breaking into the top 20. Ireland has joined countries such as Finland, Germany and the US in the
scientific output stake.
- Quality of life: Ireland ranks 5th in the UN’s Human Development Index.
- Ireland has a young vibrant population, with 40% of the population under the age of 25, Ireland is
one of the most exciting places in the world to be a student.
- Ireland is a safe country to study in. 2009 Global Peace Index Ireland ranked 10th safest country
out of 27 OECD countries.