There are so many reasons why an international student would want to study abroad in Ireland, and in the capital city of Dublin.
One of the most important reasons is that Ireland is a perfect destination for an international student who wants a world-class education in a progressive, innovative country with promising career options. It is also perfect for students interested in stunning scenery, beautiful coastal and mountain walks, ancient culture and architecture. Those who prefer the indoors life will adore Ireland’s numerous museums and art galleries, gourmet food, coffee culture and cosy pubs with their traditional live music.
Graduates who want to stay in Ireland for longer after they complete their studies and pursue a career will be happy to know they can avail of either one or two-year stay-back visas.
Study abroad in Ireland
Ireland is a very safe, friendly and welcoming country. On the Global Peace Index Ireland is ranked 12th in the world, and 22nd in the World Happiness Index. Young Irish people have the fourth highest standard of education in the world, according to the OECD 2019 Education report.
The Bloomberg Innovation Index 2020 has ranked Ireland as the 16th most innovative country in the world. Ireland is also home to five of Forbes Top 10 companies; Apple, Google, Alphabet, Amazon and Samsung.
Study in Dublin
International students will feel right at home in Dublin city, which topped the 2020 Condé Nast list of Europe’s friendliest cities. They will sure of a warm welcome! The cosmopolitan city centre has all the amenities of a European capital city and is easily traversed on foot or on public transport.
Dublin is the gateway to exploring Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and the Ancient East. Here you will find beaches that attract surfers from around the world, cliffs, mountains, ancient ruins, hiking trails and world-renowned food and hospitality. It’s also the gateway to mainland Europe with affordable and regular flights.
Why study at University College Dublin?
University College Dublin (UCD) is ranked in the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide. In the overall QS World University Rankings 2020, UCD is 177 in the world. UCD is number one in Ireland for graduate employability, and 78th in the world (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020). UCD has been number one for three consecutive years!
In the 2020 QS World University Rankings by Subject, UCD has four subjects in the top 50, see more on our subject rankings section. For the past two consecutive years, UCD has also been named the number one university in Ireland by US News & World.
Established in 1854, there are now 34,000 students studying at UCD – more than 8,400 are international students from 140 different countries. The UCD Alumni Network is influential, successful, active and truly international. Many of the 288,000 UCD global alumni network, living in 169 countries, hold positions in leading organisations around the world.
Undergraduate students love the UCD Horizons programme which is much more flexible than traditional degree programmes. It offers students the choice to adapt the curriculum to their personal preferences. Along with core and option modules that make up their main degree, students can choose two elective modules from outside their degree. We’ve had Medicine students who have chosen Psychology and Orchestra!
Through six Colleges, UCD offers Ireland’s most diverse range of graduate opportunities. Masters programmes are led by academic experts and offer international graduate students unparalleled choice at all levels. UCD’s graduate programmes are recognised and valued by academic institutions and employers around the world. UCD offers Doctoral Programmes, taught and research masters, graduate diploma, certificate programmes and higher diplomas. Taught programmes are modularised to facilitate access, continuing professional development and life-long learning.
UCD is situated on 133 hectares of beautiful, green parkland – one of the largest urban campuses in Europe. Students live and study in modern, world-class buildings surrounded by beautiful, green parkland, wildlife and fabulous facilities. Take our 3D campus tour to experience it for yourself!
Some of the world-leading facilities our students benefit from include the UCD O’Brien Centre for Science, UCD Sutherland School of Law and UCD Lochlan Quinn School of Business.
Number 1 for Graduate Employment in Ireland
UCD was ranked number one in Ireland for graduate employability and 74th in the world, for the third consecutive year in the 2020 QS Graduate Employability Rankings. The career services UCD offers our students are top class. Through the Jumpstart programme, international students begin their preparations before they arrive on campus. They have access to interview preparation, internship opportunities, and alumni connections.
Scholarships for International Students
There are a wide variety of scholarships and awards for international students at UCD. These awards are highly regarded by employers and industry and celebrate the diverse talents of our students. There are also a number of Global Excellence Scholarships available to international students. They are competitively awarded based on academic merit and offered by country and/or by discipline. Students must hold an offer before they can apply for a scholarship. Full terms and conditions apply.
International Student Life at UCD
At UCD our students benefit from a unique and world-class experience, through involvement in clubs, societies and sports, volunteering opportunities, and exposure to active and independent learning strategies.
UCD students are the most engaged in Ireland with over 100 clubs and societies in which they can explore new interests and friendships. These experiences and our campus environment mean that UCD offers unparalleled experiences for students looking to study abroad. Our students enjoy woodland walks, biodiversity areas, wildflower meadows, as well as outstanding sports facilities, health and fitness centre and the UCD Student Centre.
For more information about studying at UCD, go to www.ucd.ie/global and select your country of residence for specific entry requirements, study options, scholarships, fees, accommodation and much more.
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