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• Universities in Ireland for PhD

Studying a PhD in Ireland

Posted 17 May 2023 PhD

Ireland is a hub for higher education, offering a world-class education system that is recognised globally for its academic and research programmes. Despite its size in terms of geography, Ireland has many prestigious universities that consistently rank among the best across the world. One of the key areas where Ireland stands out is in the field of PhD education . Ireland has a long-standing tradition of providing quality doctoral programmes in multiple subject areas. Excellence in education, combined with the rich cultural heritage of Ireland, makes it a beautiful study-abroad destination for pursuing doctoral studies for international students.

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is a postgraduate degree that is designed to produce experts in a particular field of study. In Ireland, a PhD programme can last from three to five years and is usually a combination of coursework and research work. Students are expected to undertake independent research on a topic of their choice in the field of study under the supervision of a faculty member who is an expert in that particular area. With world-class facilities, highly supportive research environments, and excellent faculty, Ireland is an excellent choice for anyone looking to pursue a PhD.

If you want to attend the best Irish universities to earn your PhD degree, book a free consultation with SI-Ireland today to learn more about the entry requirements, scholarships, and other relevant information.

Top Universities in Ireland for PhD

1. trinity college dublin.

Trinity College Dublin, founded in 1592, is one of Ireland's oldest and most prestigious universities. TCD offers PhD programmes across various disciplines, including Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Engineering, Mathematics, Science, and Health Sciences. The PhD programme at Trinity College Dublin is a research-focused degree that aims to provide students with the opportunity to carry out independent research under the guidance of experienced and supportive supervisors. PhD students have access to excellent facilities, including state-of-the-art research labs, libraries, and archives.

Trinity also offers a range of training and development programmes, including workshops and seminars on research skills, academic writing, and career development. Prospective PhD students at Trinity College Dublin can choose from a variety of funding options, including scholarships, bursaries, and research grants. 

2. University College Dublin

University College Dublin (UCD) is one of the leading research-intensive universities in Ireland, with a strong focus on innovation. As Ireland's largest university, UCD has a diverse community of over 34,000 students, including over 8,000 international students from more than 130 countries. 

UCD offers a comprehensive range of PhD programmes across its six colleges and over 40 schools and departments. These programmes are designed to provide students with an opportunity to undertake advanced research in their chosen field while also developing their skills in critical thinking, analysis, and communication. The PhD programmes at UCD are based on a structured model, which typically involves two years of coursework followed by two to three years of research, culminating in the submission of a thesis. The university provides its PhD students access to world-class research facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and computer facilities. 

3. University of Galway

The University of Galway is located in Galway City in the west of Ireland. Established in 1845, it is one of the country's oldest and most prestigious educational institutions. Galway offers a variety of PhD programmes across its five colleges, which cover areas such as science, engineering, business, humanities, and social sciences.

PhD students at the university have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, world-class academics, and a supportive community of fellow researchers. The structured PhD programmes are designed to provide students with a comprehensive research education and typically involve a unique combination of coursework, research, and professional development activities. The university provides funding opportunities for PhD students, including scholarships, grants, and stipends. The university's research centres and institutes also provide funding for research projects, which can help PhD students to develop their research skills and advance their careers.

4. University College Cork

University College Cork (UCC) is a leading research-intensive institution located in Cork. With a history dating back to 1845, UCC is now one of the top-ranked universities in Ireland and is renowned for its research excellence offering world-class PhD programmes across a diverse range of disciplines.

UCC PhDs are designed to support students in developing advanced research skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. UCC's research community is highly respected, with UCC being ranked in the top 2% of universities worldwide based on its research impact. UCC offers PhD programmes in areas such as Arts, Business and Law , Celtic Studies and Social Sciences, Engineering, Science, and Medicine and Health. Each programme is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of their chosen subject area, and expert supervisors support students throughout their research journey.

5. Dublin City University

Dublin City University (DCU) is a leading research-intensive university located in Dublin. It was established in 1980 and has since grown to be one of the top universities in the country. DCU has a strong focus on research and innovation, with a particular emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and industry partnerships.

DCU offers a wide range of PhD programmes across its four faculties: Science and Health, Engineering and Computing, Humanities and Social Sciences, and DCU Business School. These PhD programmes are designed to provide students with advanced research skills and knowledge in their chosen field, as well as the opportunity to work alongside leading academics and researchers. DCU offers a supportive research environment for PhD students by providing them with access to state-of-the-art research facilities and equipment.

PhD in Ireland with Scholarship

PhD in Ireland can be pursued with scholarships, which are available for both domestic and international students. These scholarships are typically offered by universities, government agencies, and other organisations. Some potential avenues for pursuing a PhD with a scholarship in Ireland include:

- Irish Research Council (IRC) Scholarships

The Irish Research Council offers scholarships to support PhD research across different disciplines. These include the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship, which is open to applicants from all countries and covers a stipend, fees, and research expenses.

- Government-funded Scholarships

The Irish government, through agencies like the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI), provides funding opportunities for PhD research to students. These often focus on specific research areas such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects.

- University-specific Scholarships

Most Irish universities have their own scholarship programmes for PhD students and these scholarships may be funded by the institution itself or by external sources. Examples of this kind of scholarship include the Trinity College Dublin Provost's PhD Project Awards and University College Dublin (UCD) scholarships.

- International Scholarships

Several international scholarships are available for non-EU students to pursue a PhD in the country. Prominent among them are the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships and the Irish Aid Fellowships, which are specifically targeted at students from developing countries.

How to Apply for a PhD in Ireland

1. research the best options.

You can start by identifying the universities and departments that offer PhD programmes in your field of interest. Look for specific faculty members or research groups whose work aligns with your research interests.

2. Contact Potential Supervisors

You may need to reach out to potential supervisors to discuss your research interests and determine if they have available positions or funding opportunities currently available. This step is crucial, as many PhD programmes in Ireland require you to secure a supervisor before submitting the application.

3. Review Admission Requirements

Visit the websites of your chosen universities and departments to review their specific admission requirements for PhD programmes. Familiarize yourself with the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, required documents, and any language proficiency requirements (usually English in Ireland).

4. Prepare a Strong Research Proposal

Your research proposal is a critical component of the final application. It should demonstrate your knowledge of the field, outline your research objectives and methodology, and also explain why your research is significant and relevant. You may seek feedback from potential supervisors or mentors to refine your proposal.

5. Submit Your Application

Complete the application form online or submit the required documents by the specified deadline. Also, pay attention to any additional instructions or submission requirements provided by the university or department.

6. Application Review and Interviews

Once your application is submitted, it will go through a review process by the admissions committee. In some cases, you may be invited for an interview, either in person or via video conferencing, to discuss your research proposal and suitability for the programme.

7. Acceptance and Enrollment

If your application is successful, you will receive an offer letter from the university.

Study a PhD in Ireland

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Are you considering studying for a PhD in Ireland?

On MyPhD.ie, you can find out what to expect while studying, discover useful information and advice and get answers to questions such as: 

What is the value of a PhD?

What skills do people learn when studying a PhD? 

How do I apply for a PhD? 

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How do PhD graduates benefit society? 

For employers interested in the value a PhD graduate can bring to your organisation, you can learn more about the skills PhD graduates have to offer and access contact details for Irish higher education institutions offering PhD programmes.  

You can also learn more about how the Irish government’s strategic investment in doctoral education has benefitted Irish society and ensured Ireland’s global reputation as a location for investors focused on cutting edge innovation and research.  

The Publications section includes relevant national publications which support and promote doctoral education in Ireland.

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You are here Students > Explore career options > Postgraduate study > How to find a PhD

How to find a PhD

If you are interested in pursuing a career in an academic or research and development environment, you will find that a PhD is often an essential requirement. Choosing and preparing for the PhD application can be challenging and therefore, take time to prepare. Below, you will find useful information helping you to find a PhD.

National variations

The structure of a PhD varies from country to country and therefore it is important to look at the differences:

• Ireland/UK: thesis of 80-100,000 words; a private oral examination with varying stringency
• Nordic Countries: 3 - 5 publications required
• USA: rotation and advanced courses in addition to research
• Germany: oral examination on broad range of topics plus research
• France, Netherlands: Public examination

The Structured PhD in Ireland

• Original Research
• Formalised integrated programme of education, training, personal & professional development
• Discipline specific knowledge, research skills & generic/transferable skills
• Declared outcomes & graduate attributes in line with national and international best practice
• Designed to meet an employment market that is wider than academia

Choosing a PhD project

When choosing a PhD topic you may want to think about the following:

• Subject interest
• Specific career choice
• Broader career choice
• Enjoy the academic environment
• Choose a problem that interests you

How to write a good PhD application

Writing a PhD application takes a substantial amount of time, therefore, taking time to prepare is essential. Here are the following things you want to consider:

• Start early – It is important to start thinking about your PhD application early due to availability of opportunities, for example, funding deadlines and advertised PhD positions.
• Do your research – Think about what institution you would like to undertake your research, location, research topic and what kind of supervisor is required to assist you you’re your research.
• Make contact with supervisor and/or institution
• Present yourself effectively on paper – Take time to write your PhD application as you want to highlight your motivation, knowledge and suitability for conducting PhD. Yu will have an opportunity to talk about this in your personal statement. Click here (link to Personal statement) to view how to write personal statement.
• Make an informed choice

Choosing a supervisor

During your PhD your supervisor will act as adviser and mentor who will be providing support throughout your PhD. Choosing a supervisor is an important step when opting for PhD and you need to consider this:

• Take into consideration your work style
• Talk to former and current students
• Visit the research group or laboratory

Click here for information on postgraduate funding opportunities

Writing a personal statement

Click here for information on personal statements

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Irish Studies (Structured PhD )

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Course Overview

Course fees.

As part of the doctoral training available on the Structured PhD programme, students avail themselves of a range of interdisciplinary taught modules. The wide menu of available options include modules that:

• are discipline-specific in that they augment the student’s existing knowledge in their specialist area
• are dissertation-specific in that they supply core skills which are essential to completion of the research project, e.g., additional language skills
• acknowledge a student’s professional development e.g. presentation of a paper at an international conference
• enhance a student’s employability through generic training, e.g., careers workshops, computer literacy.

Each student will be assigned a primary Supervisor(s) and a Graduate Research Committee made up of experienced researchers to plan their programme of study and to provide on-going support to their research.

Applications are welcome in all aspects of Irish Studies but projects are particularly welcome in the following areas: bilingual and comparative studies of modern and contemporary Irish writing; the politics and practice of translation; historical cartography, colonial and imperial geographies; traditional Irish music and dance.

It is a requirement of all PhD/MLitt candidates at the Centre for Irish Studies that they adopt an interdisciplinary approach to their research.

Programmes Available

Structured PhD (Irish Studies)—full-time  Structured PhD (Irish Studies)—part-time

Applications are made online via the University of Galway  Postgraduate Applications System . 

Learning Outcomes

Entry requirements.

The minimum qualification necessary to be considered for admission to the PhD programme is a high honours, primary degree (or equivalent international qualification), or ’other such evidence as will satisfy the Head of Discipline and the College of his/her fitness’ (University of Galway Calendar). It is more usual, however, for successful applicants to have already gained a Master's degree.

Who’s Suited to This Course

Current research projects.

• ’Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann: reshaping tradition’, Méabh Ní Fhuartháin (IRCHSS Government of Ireland Scholar)
• ’Irish migration to Cuba 1835–1844’, Margaret Brehony, (IRCHSS Government of Ireland Scholar)
• ’The French Connection: the influence of French writing on the Gaelic revival 1893–1939’, Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh, (IRCHSS Government of Ireland Scholar) 

Current funded research opportunity

Work placement, related student organisations, career opportunities, find a supervisor / phd project.

If you are still looking for a potential supervisor or PhD project or would like to identify the key research interests of our academic staff and researchers, you can use our online portal to help in that search

Current Projects

Dr. Louis De Paor — Twentieth-century writing in Irish; translation;  Máirtín Ó Cadhain; Flann O'Brien; Irish bardic poetry.

Dr. Nessa Cronin — Irish and European historical cartography; cultural geography; philosophies of space and place; twentiethcentury and contemporary Irish writing.

Dr. Michelle Comber — Archaeology of Irelands early historic period (approx. 5th to 12th century A.D.), especially its fine metalwork, economy, and settlement; ringforts and settlement economy.

Researcher Profiles

Dr Louis de Paor  Dr Nessa Cronin  Dr Lillis Ó Laoire  Dr Kathy Powell  Dr Mary Cawley  Dr Niall Ó Ciosáin  Dr Niall Ó Dochartaigh  Dr Caitríona Clear  

Fees: Non EU

Extra information.

EU Part time: Year 1 €4,250 p.a. (€4,390 including levy) 2024/25

All students, irrespective of funding, must pay the student levy  of €140.

Dr. Louis De Paor T +353 91 493 660 E louis.depaor@ universityofgalway.ie

What Our Students Say

Méabh Ní Fhuartháin |   Irish traditional music and dance

The value of the Centre for all students as an interdisciplinary hub, drawing on a wide and expert knowledge base across the university, has been essential in my own development as a scholar. The egalitarian ethos of the Centre is especially apparent through the Meitheal graduate research group, a fortnightly opportunity to present work in progress to fellow students and staff from within the Centre and throughout the college. The Irish Studies Seminar Series, also administrated by the graduate student body, offers a chance to hear a wide variety of visiting scholars. One of the most fruitful aspects of my time at the Centre has been the intellectual engagement of visiting scholars with students. The atmosphere created at the Centre for Irish Studies, of intellectual rigor and challenge, and the sense of community at Martha Fox House all serve to make being a graduate student highly rewarding on a personal and professional level, and in my case something which I am certain I would not have found elsewhere. Also important for me is the one hundred per cent completion record of PhD students under the stewardship of all the appointed supervisors.

Postgraduate Prospectus 2024 PDF (3.3MB)

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Irish Research Council

Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme

Eligible HEIs and RPOs

The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is an established national initiative, funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, and managed by the Council.

The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is unique in the Irish research landscape and complements other channels for funded postgraduate education in the Irish ecosystem. Among its features are:

• individual, prestigious awards for excellent research in the name of the applicant;
• an objective selection process using international, independent expert peer review;
• funding across all disciplines, from archaeology to zoology; and
• awards for bottom-up, non-directed research, with the exception of those funded by our strategic funding partners.

Pioneering proposals addressing new and emerging fields of research or those introducing creative, innovative approaches are welcomed. Proposals of an interdisciplinary nature are also encouraged as it is recognised that advancing fundamental understanding is achieved by integrating information, techniques, tools and perspectives from two or more disciplines.

The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is highly competitive, with an average success rate of 18% over the past five years. Successful awardees under the programme are recognised as demonstrating world-class potential as future research leaders.

Strategic funding partners

A number of government departments and agencies partner with the Irish Research Council to support the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme as a mechanism to deliver on shared national objectives. The Irish Research Council’s strategic funding partners for 2024 are:

• Environmental Protection Agency
• Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth
• Department of Foreign Affairs
• Met Éireann

What we offer

The value of the scholarship will be up to a maximum of €28,000 per annum in any approved year and will consist of the following:

• a stipend of €19,000 per annum;
• a contribution to fees, including non-EU fees, up to a maximum of €5,750 per annum; and
• eligible direct research expenses of €3,250 per annum.

How to apply

Potential applicants should read the call documentation carefully to ascertain whether or not they are eligible to apply. Indicative versions of the applicant and supervisor forms are provided for information purposes only. All participants must create and submit their forms via the online system.

Please note that the timings provided here are indicative and may be subject to change.

If you do not find the answer to your query in the call documentation, you should contact the research office in your proposed institution which will provide information and clarification on the call. Research offices can send any queries they are unable to clarify to  [email protected] .

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Pest infestation at asylum seeker centre saw child hospitalised, inspections find

Residents feel ‘unsafe’ and some staff are not garda vetted, hiqa inspections of accommodation find.

Asylum seekers are being accommodated in centres with pest infestations, where they feel 'unsafe' and where some staff do not have Garda vetting, according to the health and safety watchdog. Photograph: Gareth Fuller/PA Wire

Asylum seekers are being accommodated in centres with pest infestations, where they feel “unsafe” and where some staff do not have Garda vetting, according to the State’s health watchdog.

Inspections carried out earlier this year by the Health Information and Quality Authority (Hiqa) found a child living in a Co Monaghan centre was hospitalised as a direct result of pests in their family accommodation.

Hiqa conducted its first review of asylum seeker accommodation in January after assuming the role of monitoring and inspecting permanent International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) centres. It follows a commitment by Government, in its 2021 White Paper on ending direct provision , that inspections of centres would be carried out by the watchdog.

Inspectors who visited the Knockalisheen accommodation centre on the outskirts of Limerick city, which is operated by Aramark, found “significant deficits” in standards and noted the housing was “unsuitable” with “underdeveloped governance and oversight”. The centre currently houses 278 people, including 35 children, but has capacity for 354 residents.

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Number of homeless asylum seekers increases to 1,780, up 80 from last week*

Garda vetting was not in place for a number of staff and international police checks had not been carried out on others who had lived abroad, rendering recruitment practices at the centre “not sufficiently safe or effective”, inspectors said. Eleven staff members had not undergone mandatory Children First training, the report notes.

Hiqa warned that the 52 male residents staying in “military-style tents” on the grounds of Knockalisheen were living in conditions that posed “potential risks to their health, safety and welfare”. Men in these tents had “no private space to change their clothing, no privacy screens between beds and no access to storage for personal belongings”, impacting their basic human rights, inspectors said.

Residents reported regular incidents of “drug use, alcohol use and aggressive behaviours” and the centre had an “ineffective risk management system”. Some residents told inspectors they often felt “unsafe”.

The centre also needed “a deep clean” while the manager confirmed there was “little engagement with children”.

Inspectors took the “unusual steps of issuing an immediate action, requesting the service provider to complete a full analysis of all risks in the centre, including risks relating to residents”.

A separate inspection, carried out at St Patrick’s Accommodation Centre on the outskirts of Monaghan town in January, reported “ongoing issues related to pest control” and “high levels of noncompliance” with the national standards.

The centre, which provides own-door accommodation to 338 residents, including 155 children, is operated by Tattonward Limited.

The service provider was directed to take immediate action after inspectors found there were “infestations” in living quarters. In one case, a child was “admitted to hospital as a direct result of the presence of pests in their family accommodation”.

Many bedrooms were overcrowded, with some adults and children sharing beds. In one case, a family of five, who were expecting another baby, were living in small quarters and had no space for a crib. Children also reported a lack of space to do their homework.

Recruitment practices at the centre were “not safe or effective” with no Garda vetting checks on some staff and no police checks on others who had lived outside Ireland. No member of staff had attended training on first aid, human trafficking, disability, anti-bullying or conflict resolution as required by the national standards.

Hiqa inspections also took place in January at Hanratty’s Hotel in Limerick, where 95 people live, and the Hazel Hotel in Kildare, which also has 95 residents.

Residents in Hanratty’s Hotel said they were satisfied with services at the centre and spoke highly of the staff. While recruitment practices were not found to be fully safe and effective, inspectors said the centre was “a supportive space where staff and managers were readily available to residents”.

The Hazel Hotel required “some improvements” but provided a “high-quality service” in a centre where the general welfare of residents was “well promoted” and concerns were effectively dealt with. However, some residents told inspectors they did not always feel safe in their accommodation.

Staff at the four centres inspected in January were given advance notice of the Hiqa review. However, the health and safety watchdog is set to carry out unannounced inspections over the coming months.

There are 6,891 asylum seekers living in 49 permanent IPAS centres, with the vast majority of asylum seekers living in emergency accommodation, which does not fall under Hiqa’s inspection remit. A total of 28,875 international protection applicants are living in 282 centres around the country.

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Rajiv R. Mohan, PhD, named 2023 AAAS Fellow

Rajiv R. Mohan, PhD, was one of five University of Missouri professors named 2023 AAAS Fellows, announced Thursday by the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Mohan was recognized for distinguished contributions to the fields of ophthalmology and molecular medicine, particularly in the development of novel therapeutic strategies to improve function and health of the eye.

His research focuses on therapies to treat corneal diseases and enhancing the understanding of precisely how the cornea heals itself. Mohan’s efforts have helped the development of therapeutic strategies to restore vision and improve the visual function and health of the eye for humans, companion animals and service animals.

“This recognition motivates me to continue to innovate in the field of ophthalmology and molecular medicine,” Mohan said. “The people here at Mizzou are incredibly talented and smart – full of energy and brightness. For the past 18 years, the most satisfying part of my time at Mizzou is getting the opportunity to train over 100 students in my lab, and these bright students have been in all stages of their young careers – undergraduates, doctoral students, medical students, post-docs, clinical fellows and residents. I want to help them achieve their dreams too.”

Joining Mohan as 2023 AAAS Fellows are the following MU professors:

• Jianlin Cheng, PhD – Engineering // NextGen Precision Health
• Ron Mittler, PhD – College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources // Bond Life Sciences Center
• Timothy Trull, PhD – Arts and Science
• Christopher K. Wikle, PhD – Arts and Science

To read more about the 2023 AAAS Fellows, visit Show Me Mizzou.

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) is the world’s largest general scientific society and publisher of the journal Science. Founded in 1848, the nonprofit fulfills its mission to “advance science and service society” through initiatives in science policy, international programs, science education and public engagement.

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