Study MS in Ireland – Top Universities, Eligibility & Cost

What image does Ireland bring to mind? Castles, lighthouses, and natural beauty? Or even tasty brews and lip-smacking food? Ireland is truly one of the best places for international students with its vibrant culture. If you wish to do your MS in Ireland, you’ll also be happy knowing that the country is ranked #3 in the Global Peace Index 2024. On that note, here’s looking at the key aspects of a master’s in Ireland for Indian students.

MS in Ireland: Highlights 

Here are some of the key facts that you should know if you wish to pursue a master’s degree in Ireland. 

MS in Ireland- Top MS Colleges in Ireland 

Here are some of the leading institutions to pursue your MS in Ireland based on the QS World University Rankings 2024 list. 

Popular MS Specializations in Ireland

There are numerous specializations for master’s in science degrees in Ireland. Some of them include the following: 

• Human Resource Management
• Civil Engineering
• Aeronautical Engineering
• Business Analytics
• Computer Science and Information Technology
• Public Health
• Chemistry
• Zoology
• Biotechnology
• Microbiology
• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Earth and Ocean Sciences
• Economics
• Law
• Accounting and Finance Management

Eligibility Requirements for Studying MS course in Ireland

If you are looking to pursue education abroad, Here are the usual eligibility criteria for MS programs in Ireland (may vary across universities and courses). 

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Letter of recommendation (LOR)
• Statement of purpose (SOP)
• Program-specific requirements may also have to be met. 
• Candidates should also meet the English language proficiency requirements (IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in every section or equivalent). 
• Student visa
• Health insurance
• Updated resume
• Include a letter of recommendation from your employer in case you have work experience.

Cost and Duration of Studying MS Course in Ireland 

When considering an education abroad in Ireland, it's essential to understand both the financial investment and the time commitment required. Here's a breakdown of the cost and duration of pursuing an MS in Ireland:

Cost of Studying MS in Ireland

Tuition

The tuition for MS in Ireland varies depending on the course and the university. The following are some of the top universities in Ireland, along with their average tuition per annum.

Source: Official University Websites

Cost of Living in Ireland

The cost of living in Ireland is approximately €985.1 per month, excluding rent. A monthly transportation pass costs €100.

Duration of MS Course

The duration of an MS course in Ireland is normally one to two years. This depends on the program and the university. Here are some examples of MS courses with their durations:

Scholarships to Study MS courses in Ireland

To cover MS in Ireland costs, here are some scholarship options worth considering (there are many other options available in the country). 

1. Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Program- This scholarship is offered for all disciplines, and the selection committee looks for pioneering research proposals from meritorious candidates. The benefits include an annual stipend of €19,000, direct research costs of €3,250 per year and a contribution to tuition fees (maximum €5,750 per year). 
2. University College Dublin Global Excellence Scholarships- University College Dublin offers coverage for 100% and 50% of tuition fees for selected candidates under this scholarship program. 
3. Trinity College Dublin Postgraduate Scholarships- These scholarships are provided in the form of a reduction in tuition fees by €2,000-5,000 for the first year of the course. 

Doing your MS in Ireland can be a good step for studying at a reputed higher education institution and setting the tone for a fulfilling global career ahead.

Career Scope after Studying MS Courses in Ireland

Studying for an MS in Ireland can offer diverse and promising career opportunities, thanks to the country's educational system, strong economy, and a significant presence of multinational corporations. 

After completing MS in Ireland, you can land jobs in various sectors like Project Management, Finance, and Accounting.

Average Salaries after Studying MS Courses in Ireland

Average salaries after studying MS in Ireland vary significantly based on the industry and job role. The following are the average salaries of some prospective job roles:

Source: Payscale 2024

Work Permit After Studying MS in Ireland 

International students can benefit from the Third Level Graduate Program, which enables them to stay in Ireland after completing their studies for up to 12 months if pursuing a bachelor’s degree and 24 months for a master’s. However, graduates should have current Stamp 2 student immigration permissions with updated registration cards. They should not have crossed the limit of seven years as non-EEA nationals in the country. 

The purpose of the initiative is to enable graduates to find work and apply for general employment/critical skills employment permits. The award/qualification from the institution should be presented along with some other documents like medical insurance and a copy of your passport for applying. 

A fee of €300 is payable (per individual) for registration under the scheme. The permit may be renewed for another twelve months, subject to several conditions. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, pursuing an MS in Ireland provides several opportunities, from exceptional world-class education and diverse specializations to promising career prospects and competitive salaries. With its vibrant culture and welcoming environment, Ireland provides a solid foundation for personal and professional growth.