Best Nursing Degrees in Ireland

Ireland is a leading destination for international students pursuing nursing, offering degrees that are fully recognised across the European Union. This EU-wide recognition provides graduates with exceptional career mobility, not only across Europe but also in healthcare systems around the world.

Irish nursing programmes are designed to meet global standards, preparing students to become Registered General Nurses (RGNs) through a four-year bachelor’s degree that combines academic study with extensive clinical training. For those seeking advanced specialisation, Ireland also offers 1–2 year master’s programmes in areas such as child health, mental health nursing, maternity care, midwifery, and gerontological nursing.

Below are the top-ranked nursing schools in Ireland, based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025. If you’re ready to explore your options, book a free consultation with StudyIn to receive expert guidance on choosing the right course and university.

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Top Nursing Degrees in Ireland for 2026

1. Trinity College Dublin

The School of Nursing and Midwifery at Trinity College Dublin is one of Ireland’s most prestigious nursing faculties, offering advanced postgraduate programmes in general, mental health, children’s, and community nursing. While undergraduate nursing is not available to non-EU students, international applicants can pursue specialised MSc pathways supported by research-led teaching and clinical placements.

Suggested Course: MSc in Nursing
Entry requirements: Honours degree in nursing or related discipline; current nurse registration; brief research plan required
Faculty: School of Nursing and Midwifery
Campus: Dublin

2. University College Cork

UCC’s School of Nursing and Midwifery offers a four-year BSc in General Nursing, combining theoretical learning with clinical placements in public and private healthcare settings. The programme is designed to develop independent thinking, evidence-based practice, and professional competence.

Suggested Course: BSc (Hons) in General Nursing
Entry requirements: H5 in two subjects and 06/H7 in four others; one must be a lab science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Agricultural Science); IELTS 6.5+ for non-native speakers
Faculty: School of Nursing and Midwifery
Campus: Cork

3. University College Dublin

UCD’s School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems offers a range of postgraduate nursing programmes, including the MSc in Public Health Nursing. The course is delivered via blended learning and prepares nurses for leadership roles in community health.

Suggested Course: MSc Nursing (Public Health Nursing)
Entry requirements: Must hold a UCD Graduate Diploma in Public Health Nursing (Level 9) and be employed as a Public Health Nurse during the programme
Faculty: UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems
Campus: Dublin

4. University of Galway

The Bachelor of Nursing Science (General) at the University of Galway is a four-year programme with integrated clinical placements, including a paid 36-week internship. The curriculum blends lectures, workshops, and simulation-based training.

Suggested Course: Bachelor of Nursing Science (General)
Entry requirements: H5 in two subjects and 06/H7 in four others; preferred subjects include English, Mathematics, and a lab science
Faculty: College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences
Campus: Galway

5. University of Limerick

The University of Limerick’s Department of Nursing and Midwifery offers nursing programmes at the undergraduate level, with options in general nursing, mental health nursing, intellectual disability nursing and midwifery. The general nursing programme takes four years to complete and educates students to care for people in hospitals and community settings. The practical focus of the training starts with the first year itself, wherein theory is combined with clinical practice. The programme has a 100% employability rate a year after graduation and is offered in conjunction with the Health Service Executive West.

Suggested Course: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (General)
Entry requirements: Candidates must have passed at least six subjects with H5 Grades in two and 06 or H7 grades in the remaining four. English language competency is a must for non-native English language speakers.
Faculties: Department of Nursing and Midwifery
Campus: Limerick

6. Dublin City University

DCU’s BSc in General Nursing is a four-year honours degree that combines academic study with clinical placements each semester. The programme meets Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) standards and prepares students for compassionate, evidence-based practice.

Suggested Course: BSc in Nursing (General)
Entry requirements: H5 in two subjects and 06/H7 in four others; IELTS 6.5+ for international applicants
Faculty: School of Nursing, Psychotherapy and Community Health
Campus: Dublin

7. Royal College of Surgeons

RCSI offers postgraduate nursing programmes aligned with NMBI standards, including the PgDip in Medical Nursing. The curriculum integrates clinical experience with advanced theoretical training in specialised areas.

Suggested Course: PgDip in Medical Nursing
Entry requirements: Must be a registered general nurse (RGN) with NMBI; hold an NFQ Level 8 qualification (e.g. BSc); currently working in the relevant speciality
Faculty: School of Nursing and Midwifery
Campus: Dublin

International Tuition Fees in Ireland

Tuition fees in Ireland vary depending on your level of study, university, and subject area. Here’s a general overview for international (non-EU/EEA) students:

Study Level	Tuition Range (per year)	Notes
Undergraduate	€12,000 – €25,000	Medicine and engineering tend to be higher
Postgraduate (Taught)	€13,000 – €22,000	Business, law, and tech programmes vary widely
PhD (Research)	€6,000 – €18,000	Often, lower funding and scholarships are available

Additional Costs

Living expenses: €7,000 – €12,000 per year (accommodation, food, transport)
Student visa fee: €60 (single entry) or €100 (multiple entry)
Medical insurance: Approx. €500/year

Many universities offer tuition fee waivers, merit scholarships, and country-specific awards to help reduce costs. Ireland also allows international students to work part-time during term and full-time during holidays, helping offset living expenses.

Apply to Study Nursing in Ireland

Applying to an Irish university is a structured process that varies slightly depending on your level of study and nationality. Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD studies, Ireland offers a transparent and student-friendly admissions system.

1. Choose Your Programme and University
Research courses that match your academic background and career goals. Ireland offers globally recognised degrees in fields like business, engineering, medicine, architecture, and more.

2. Check Entry Requirements
Requirements vary by course and institution. Most programmes require:

Academic transcripts
English language proficiency (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL)
Personal statement or research proposal (for postgraduate/PhD)
Letters of recommendation

3. Apply Online

Undergraduate students typically apply via the Central Applications Office (CAO).
Postgraduate and PhD applicants apply directly through the university’s website or admissions portal.

4. Apply for a Student Visa
Non-EU/EEA students must apply for a D Study Visa via the AVATS portal. You’ll need proof of admission, financial support, and medical insurance.