Destination Dublin, Ireland

Ireland is a globally oriented, open economy. A small island, and the only English speaking country in the EU, we have always looked outward. Studying in Ireland is a special experience and our students are warmly welcomed.

Dublin is the capital and largest city in Ireland. Over 1,000 years old, Dublin is a city rich in history, famed for its legacy of scholarship and renowned for its easy-going charm and cultural heritage. Through the centuries, a proud population has helped shape Dublin into what it is now: welcoming, relaxed and fun, boasting a vibrant cultural and social scene. It is without a doubt one of the most energised capital cities in Europe. With its pubs and restaurants, art galleries and museums, music venues and theatres, it's no wonder Lonely Planet named it the 7th best city in the world to visit in 2022. 

Dublin is also the gateway to the rest of Ireland with easy access to the windswept Cliffs of Moher to the world-famous Aran Islands and the magical city of Galway on the west coast. For sheer unadulterated, natural, beauty we also have the Giant's Causeway or the entire county of Kerry. There are a multitude of locations to visit on your weekends.

Dublin is one of Europe's top destinations for both study and work. A compact city with a big heart and a bigger global footprint, it’s home to the world’s leading companies in technology, social media, pharmaceuticals and finance including Google, Meta, Microsoft, LinkedIn, Apple, IBM, Pfizer, GSK and too many others to mention, who require a skilled, educated and highly capable workforce to drive their success.

 

UCD welcome you to Ireland

Key Facts

International students (non-EU) are entitled to a one-year stay-back work visa on completion of their studies. Ireland has one of the highest employment rates in Europe, recorded at 74% in 2023 (source CSO.ie). Sectors such as technology, pharmaceuticals and finance are strong in Ireland and fuel their workforces from the local pool of young, English-speaking, highly educated and talented graduates. Companies like Google, Amazon, Apple, Meta,  Microsoft and Pfizer have significant operations here, offering internship and employment opportunities for graduates. 

Employment sectors

Source: Enterprise Ireland and Gov.ie

Ireland is a small but highly globalised economy. It is recognised as one of the best countries for business, ranked 11th globally by Forbes’ Best Countries for Business list.

Dublin is at the heart of Ireland’s robust economy, ranking 3rd in fDi Intelligence’s ‘Major European City of the Future 2024’ listing, showcasing its commitment to fostering innovation, sustainable growth and collaboration. Home to the European Headquarters of many multinational corporations (MNCs), Dublin has certainly made its mark as a progressive city.

Ireland is the only English-speaking country in Eurozone.

Irish hospitality is famous worldwide, and Dublin is no exception.  Moreover, Dublin city is safe and easy to get around. Ireland ranks within the top 3 safest countries globally, according to the Global Peace Index 2023. 

A small island country, Ireland’s beautiful landscapes and vibrant cities are easily accessible with major European destinations just a short flight away. 

Dublin at a Glance

Lonely Planet named Dublin one of the top 10 cities in the world to visit (2022)

Official UNESCO City of Literature

Home to 9 of the Top 10 Global ICT companies

Ranked 3rd in fDi Intelligence’s ‘Major European City of the Future 2024' listing

Famous for music, literature and theatre

Phoenix Park, one of the largest green recreational spaces within any European capital city

Airline hub for easy access to Europe and the rest of the world

EU headquarters for Google, Facebook, Microsoft and many other international MNCs

Find out more

Find out even more about living and studying in Dublin and Ireland at the links below:

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