Learn which Ireland cities international students love and why
Ireland is a small island nation situated in North Western Europe, with a population of 4.9 million. The quality of education, top universities, affordable tuition fees, and a plethora of employment opportunities for international students are all reasons why Ireland is so popular, in addition to its scenic beauty. Ireland is also referred to as the land of saints and academicians due to its extensive academic history. It is the location of the headquarters of international banks, pharmaceutical companies, and information technology titans, in addition to being a vibrant and remarkable nation with a rich cultural and historical heritage.
Why study in Ireland?
Ireland is an ideal destination for international students due to its world-class institutions, extensive selection of courses, and abundant employment opportunities. The following are the primary factors why Ireland is the ideal destination for those seeking higher education:
- Quality institutions: The National Framework of Qualifications (NFF) is the mechanism by which the Irish government oversees the quality of education. This implies that the caliber of education is consistent regardless of the university in which you enroll.
- Innovation and research: The universities and colleges of Ireland are among the top 1% of research institutes worldwide, with significant impacts in 19 disciplines, including healthcare, social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities. This offers a significant opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to register for research programs that are driven by innovation and offer numerous opportunities.
- A land of prospects: Ireland is noted for its presence of over 1,000 multinational corporations, including 9 of the top 10 global ICT companies, 8 of the top 10 global pharmaceutical companies, 6 of the top 7 diagnostic companies, 8 of the top 10 gaming companies, and 15 of the top 20 medical device companies. It is a land of opportunities. I am relieved! Additionally, Ireland is home to 50% of the world’s most prominent financial services organizations.
- Safe community: Ireland is ranked third on the Global Peace Index 2023, indicating that it is one of the most secure countries in the world.
- Irish culture: The Irish are renowned for their amiable and hospitable demeanor. They derive pleasure from engaging in conversations and are likely to be the most adept at eliciting laughter. In 2017, Ireland was ranked as the tenth most sociable country in the globe.
- Work opportunities: It is possible to work part-time while pursuing a degree in Ireland. You are permitted to work for 20 hours per week during the academic session and 40 hours per week from mid-December to mid-January, as well as in the months of May, June, July, and August.
Top 5 student cities in Ireland
City 1: Dublin
Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is the greatest city in the nation. It is recognized for its student-friendly environment, which is exemplified by its numerous colleges and four universities. According to the QS Best Student Cities 2023, the city is ranked 16th in the world for student blend and is among the top 50 best student cities in the world. This is indicative of the city’s dynamic and multicultural nature, which is reflected in the high proportion of international students.
The city provides a variety of popular courses in a variety of disciplines, including Accounting and Finance, Computer Science, English Language & Literature, Medicine, Business & Management, Arts & Humanities, Law, and Pharmacy. These can be pursued at institutions that are globally recognized. For example, Dublin is the location of the renowned Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
City 2: Cork
Cork, situated in the southwest province of Munster, is the second-largest metropolis in Ireland. It is a significant academic city in Ireland, with a student population ratio that exceeds the national average. Despite its youthful demographic, this lively city offers a distinctive quality of life and an affordable cost of living, with a total population of 221,452. This figure includes an estimated 3,500 students. Engineering, management, and life sciences are among the most popular disciplines offered at universities in Cork, Ireland.
The city is committed to the continuous development and enhancement of its physical and social environments, as well as the expansion of community resources, to facilitate the mutual support of individuals in the performance of all life functions and to promote their full potential. Cork, in truth, has been designated as a World Health Organization (WHO) Healthy City since January 2012.
City 3: Limerick
Limerick is a metropolis situated in the mid-west region of Ireland and is a constituent of the province of Munster. The city is situated on the River Shannon and is considered one of the most picturesque communities in Ireland. The city is renowned for its practical industry-based education and promising employment opportunities for graduates, with a student population of approximately 30,000 * and a population of 205,444.
The city, which was designated as the National City of Culture in 2014, is home to numerous contemporary exhibitions, local playwrights, and drama productions. Riverfest is an annual summer festival that has been conducted in the city since 2004. The city boasts a combination of contemporary high-rise structures and Georgian architecture. The city is home to numerous retail centers, as well as nightclubs and pubs that provide music.
Some of the most highly sought-after universities for study abroad are located in Limerick. For example, the University of Limerick is ranked #426 in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
City 4: Galway
Galway, situated on the River Corrib in the western region of Ireland, is a city that exudes a bohemian vibe. The city is renowned for its harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. The rapid advancement of technology in the region has resulted in a promising employment market and a secure and student-friendly environment. With an estimated population of 80,000, it is home to a student population of more than 22,500, which accounts for 28% of the total population of Galway.
Galway may be the perfect city for you, given its historical charm and inspiring pace of development. Plus, it is a small city. It is a city that is quite prospective for international scholars, as it is a leader in medical technology and research. It is the location of several universities that are highly regarded. The National University of Ireland, Galway, is ranked #270 in the QS World University Rankings (2023). Galway Mayo Institute of Technology is an additional esteemed institution of higher education in Galway.
City 5: Maynooth
Maynooth is a charming university town that is safe, affordable, and peaceful. It is situated 24 kilometers west of Central Dublin in the northern region of County Kildare, Ireland. Maynooth, which is home to the Maynooth University, is renowned for its contributions to the humanities and sciences, dating back to the eighteenth century. A diverse and competitive student body is maintained by the city’s attraction to international students from more than 90 countries.
Heatons, Next, and Dunnes Stores are among the numerous high-street retailers in the municipality. In reality, the substantial student population in the area has resulted in the presence of numerous renowned restaurants and eateries that are also reasonably priced.
Therefore, whether you select these cities for their academic excellence, employment opportunities, charisma, or a combination of all of these factors, you will be making an exceptional decision. Begin your journey to study in one of these beautiful cities of Ireland by exploring your career opportunities and finding your optimal fit with Liveabroad’s international education expert.