Are you drawn to the high-quality education and breathtaking landscapes of Ireland? If so, you’re not alone. Ireland continues to skyrocket in popularity. Now, over 32,000 international students currently study in Ireland, many of them at Irish universities, which all rank in the world’s top 3%. Ireland is also home to leading technology companies like Google, LinkedIn, Microsoft, Pfizer, and AstraZeneca. If you’re looking for the most in-demand careers in Ireland, keep on reading. We’ll delve into the opportunities found on Ireland’s Critical Skills Occupations List.
What is Ireland’s Critical Skills Occupations List?
If you plan on studying and working in Ireland, the Critical Skills Occupations List just might be your roadmap to success!
This important list is published by the Irish government’s Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. It includes several different types of skills-based jobs or qualifications, all of which are in demand in Ireland.
Since the Irish economy is growing (it’s the fastest-growing economy in Europe), there aren’t enough skilled workers in Ireland. That creates a great opportunity for you as a potential international student. This means if you come to Ireland to study a subject that matches one of the careers on this list, you’re in luck. You’ll be in a strong position after graduating to stay and start your career in Ireland!
The Critical Skills Occupations List features many different job types. Some careers include web designers, architects, teachers and social workers. In this article, though, we’re focusing on four of the major career categories found on the list: information technology, healthcare, science, and engineering.
Did you know that students from these 70+ nationalities don’t need to apply for an Irish student visa to enter Ireland?
In-Demand Information Technology (IT) Careers
Information Technology (IT) and telecommunications professionals are one of the most in-demand careers in Ireland. Career opportunities range from software developers to business analysts and project managers. With Ireland’s status as a growing tech hub, you’re sure to find work in this field.
Check out these courses that can help you find an in-demand career in Ireland.
University College Dublin – Bachelor of Science (Honours) – Computer Science
With this course, you’ll go far. It covers it all, from advanced software engineering to theory to the mathematics behind logic and formal software. Learn programming languages, as well as tools like Git, JavaScript, and Big Data programming techniques.
National College of Ireland – Bachelor of Science (Honours) – Computing
This course covers game programming, software development, cybersecurity, AI, and more. The course is industry-focused, and you’ll get a six-month work placement in the third year! Want to hear the best part? The yearly tuition is only 10,000 Euros (which is considerably more affordable compared to many other courses).
Are you fascinated by advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and its many applications? If you want to be a master of AI, check out the University of Limerick’s Bachelor of Science – Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.
In-Demand Healthcare Careers
If you’re looking for a career that’s in high demand both in Ireland and around the world, look no further than healthcare. Healthcare professionals make a difference in people’s lives. Furthermore, they can earn above-average salaries in careers like nursing, psychology, and physiotherapy.
Read on to find our course recommendations that can help you find an in-demand career in Ireland.
University of Limerick – Bachelor of Science – Nursing Studies
This course ensures students thoroughly understand nursing in an-ever changing world. Classes offered include philosophy, as well as the present-day roles of nurses. The curriculum is flexible, and students will have the opportunity to practice transferable skills.
Maynooth University – Bachelor of Arts (Honours) – Psychology
This degree is the first stage in professional psychology training. It provides students with the opportunity to learn about the human mind and behaviours. You’ll be using numerous research methods in your classes, and earn a Post Secondary Institution (PSI)-accredited degree.
Did you know that Irish universities have the happiest students in all of Europe? Read our blog to find out why you should study in Ireland.
In-Demand Science Careers
Want to solve some of the great mysteries of the universe? A degree in science is a great place to start! Studying science is definitely a smart investment, and will be helpful in the long run. Careers like biochemistry or analytical development in the natural sciences are in high demand in Ireland.
Here are some courses that can prepare you for career success.
Trinity College Dublin – Bachelor of Arts (Honours) – Chemistry with Molecular Modelling: Chemical Sciences
This creative-science course teaches you how to develop everything! From battery superconductors to cutting-edge drug molecules, this course covers it all. The skills you’ll learn in this chemistry with molecular modelling course can be applicable to many different industries. This includes careers in up-and-coming technology, as well as pharmaceutical healthcare.
University College Dublin – Master of Science – Plant Biology and Biotechnology
Graduates of this one-year course will be able to pursue scientific careers in high-demand industries. Some industries can include academia, agriculture, and biotechnology. This course also has a bonus module on entrepreneurship in plant biology.
Let’s be real. Moving to a different country isn’t always easy. To help you prepare, we’ve looked at six common challenges faced by international students and how to overcome them!
In-Demand Engineering Careers
Want an innovative career that shapes the future? Ireland’s reputation for engineering continues to grow alongside its technology sector. Civil, structural and electrical engineers are in especially high demand.
Check out our course recommendations that can prepare you for engineering career opportunities in Ireland:
University of College Cork – Master of Engineering Science – Engineering – Mechanical Engineering
This program offers students the opportunity to learn about the principles and theories of modern manufacturing techniques. You’ll also learn about the methodology and tools used to design and improve the operations of engineering companies.
Dublin City University – Bachelor of Engineering – Electronic and Computer Engineering
This course has international recognition. This means that graduates can practice as professional engineers in different countries if they choose to. As a student, you’ll learn to build devices and troubleshoot industry challenges using cutting-edge technology.
Planning on studying at the postgraduate level? Check out our guide to the Irish postgraduate application process.
As Ireland continues to grow, these courses can prepare you for in-demand careers in a thriving country. Plus, studying abroad in the Emerald Isle offers you a number of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
So, regardless of your reasons for choosing Ireland, you have tons of options available to you. Choosing an in-demand career to work towards can help you make the most of your study abroad experience. After graduation, working in these fields can mean increased career opportunities, flexible hours, and an above-average salary.
Want to learn about study and career opportunities in Ireland from real study-abroad experts? Join our free webinar on June 22, 2023, and have all your questions answered. Register here!
Or are you ready to take the leap and start your journey to study in Ireland? From course information to an international student guide, we’ve got the tools you need to succeed.
