Why STEM Students Should Study in Ireland

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When you think of Ireland, you may picture beautiful natural landscapes, rich culture, and an inclusive atmosphere. However, Ireland is also claiming its worldwide status as a major tech hub, giving students more reasons to study in Ireland. It’s home to leading tech companies like Google, LinkedIn, Pfizer, and Microsoft. Ireland is even the world’s second-largest exporter of computer and IT services, making it an attractive option to STEM students.

Technology plays an important role in our lives. As technology continues to develop, it can be used in almost any field of study. Careers in technology are in high demand and can offer above-average salaries and flexibility. So, studying abroad in Ireland and starting your career there is an incredibly smart move.

Read on as we explore some leading tech fields in Ireland, course suggestions, and career opportunities!

You can also check out our blog to find out some of the most in-demand careers in Ireland.   

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BioTechnology

If your sights are set on a career in the health sector, then choosing a biotechnology course to study in Ireland may be a great fit for you. Its grads are in high demand. Incorporating technology in the health field creates careers which focus on digital health solutions, telemedicine, healthcare analytics, and more. Some popular biotechnology companies in Ireland include Pfizer and AstraZeneca. 

Maynooth University’s Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biotechnology offers students the opportunity to understand both the theoretical and practical aspects of biological processes. You’ll be able to learn from leaders in the field, and potentially find career opportunities in fields including MedTech, PharmTech, genetics, and food technology.

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Agricultural Technology (AgriTech)

If you have the passion to make a change in agribusiness on a global and economic scale, you’re in the right place! 

Having a degree in agriculture combined with technology can take your career to the next level. Combining strengths from these two fields makes for the best of both worlds. You’ll be able to make a difference in farming practices and drive societal change on a large-scale level. 

University College Dublin’s Master of Science in Agriculture in Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development course focuses on the development of rural areas and the prioritization of new practices. Some of these practices include safe and ethically produced food, a healthier environment, as well as sustainable energy. The course teaches students analytical, communication, and entrepreneurial skills for future leadership roles. It also teaches students the theory, policy, and practice of rural development. 

Considering a graduate degree in Ireland? Read an overview of the postgraduate application process on our blog.

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Data Tech 

Data technology is perhaps one of the most diverse fields of technology. Skills picked up from this field are transferable across different industries. If you’re interested in the tech field but want to take a more general course with a high number of career opportunities, then data technology is for you. Some of Ireland’s big data technology companies include Microsoft, Eir, AIB, Irish Life, Citi, and Workday. 

National College of Ireland’s Bachelor of Science in Data Science (Honours) equips STEM students with the skills to discover new information through analyzing data. The course is very affordable compared to other Irish university courses when choosing programs to study in Ireland, and offers a six-month work placement in the third year, often at well-known tech companies like AIB, Vodafone, and Intel. 

With this degree, you can find work in fields ranging from Financial Tech (FinTech) to Space Tech and beyond. 

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AI Tech

If you’re fascinated by artificial intelligence, and have a background in computer science and engineering, then applying for an AI degree is for you! Now more than ever, AI is becoming prevalent on a global scale never seen before. In fact, Ireland holds the highest ratio of AI talent across Europe on a per capita basis. 

University of Limerick’s Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning equips STEM students with the ability to learn both artificial intelligence and machine learning, to address the challenge of creating machines using AI. 

This degree can lead to a number of exciting careers with diverse opportunities, such as AI-powered surgery, search engines, language translation, video game writing and programming, and even self-driving cars. 

Great news—if you’re a student from an eligible country, you don’t need to apply for an Irish student visa! Find out more on our blog

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Digital Arts and Humanities Tech 

If you find yourself drawn to the humanities, tech can also supplement your course! Digital humanities courses allow you to study the past and present in the context of culture and society. Implementing technology into your work allows you to take your knowledge of humanities one step further. This helps students specialize in data technologies that help them learn more about the world around them.

University College Cork’s Bachelor of Arts in Digital Humanities and Information Technology bridges the worlds of art and technology. Students look at how technology influences human culture and society in the digital age. The course studies how technology can affect language, literature, philosophy, and politics. Some popular digital humanities careers include social media manager, digital art director, and manager of public programs.

 



As the world evolves, careers in technology continue to be in high demand, and Ireland is no exception as a world-leading tech hub. With higher salaries and flexibility compared to other jobs, choosing a tech program is a wise choice for STEM students to study in Ireland. 

We hope this blog helped you learn about a tech field that fits you and supports your future endeavours. We wish you the best of luck in your study abroad journey! 

Explore all of the different tech courses and programs on the ApplyBoard Platform today!

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