As studying abroad becomes more and more common among students, newer destinations for overseas education have cropped up in the recent past. Initially, only a few leading countries like the US and England were education hubs for international students. However, over the last few decades, other countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and others have gained popularity with international students. There are many reasons for this shift, such as affordability, presence of prestigious universities, future prospects, natural beauty, multiculturalism, as well as potential for settling down abroad. One of the majorly in-demand destinations for overseas education today is Ireland. The country, known for its natural beauty and culture, is fast emerging as a great place for international students. If you are planning to complete your higher education from Ireland, here is all you need to know about the country:
Academic Life in Ireland:
Popular Programmes
Ireland is home to many renowned colleges and universities, all of which offer a wide variety of courses that lets students choose their own interests and niches. Apart from Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate degrees, Irish universities also have more than 50 certificate courses and diplomas that students can opt for. Some of the most popular programmes in Ireland are social sciences, hotel management, tourism marketing, journalism, medicine, pharmacy, and product management
Employment Prospects
Ireland is a great place for those who want to work internationally after completing their education. The Visa regulations in the country are very relaxed and allow students to work even while they study. There are plenty of part-time jobs in all fields that students can take advantage of to gain professional experience, build a resume and earn extra income. Furthermore, after completion of the degree, depending upon their visa duration and course type, students are allowed to stay back and work in the country for a definite time, which can be extended by a work visa.
Student Life in Ireland:
Culture
Ireland is a land with a rich heritage and culture which is a treat to explore for any international student. While the country is largely homogenous in terms of race, culture and ethnicity of the population, the Irish are always warm and welcoming towards foreign visitors. The majority of the population here is Catholic while that in North Ireland (which falls under the UK) is a mix of Protestants and Catholics.
Cuisine
Irish cuisine is a rich cultural aspect of Ireland, which has been traditionally carried down for many generations. A lot of Irish food is similar to and influenced by food in the UK due to their proximity. Potatoes and other such vegetables are a staple and dishes like Irish stew, cabbage and potatoes with bacon, Colcannon, potato pancakes, etc. are very common.
History
Ireland has a rich and thrilling history, that is filled with strife and battles but also stories of courage, sacrifice and heroism. Irish history is linked quite heavily with religious differences that cropped up over the years with the English and the turbulent period in the past still has an impact on the people today. There are lots of museums in Ireland that students can visit to learn more about this country’s interesting history.
Climate
Ireland has a pleasant climate, which is easy to adjust to. The weather is generally mild and humid, because of the extensive coastline. Furthermore, it rains for a large part of the year, and Ireland is one of the wettest places globally. The winters are never too extreme and summers are extremely beautiful.
Music and Dance
Students studying in Ireland can dive into the vast traditional dance and music of the land and enjoy different types of entertainment there. Irish music is traditionally based on instruments such as the harp, uilleann pipes, fiddles and accordions. There are classical, folk as well as modern or contemporary styles of music that are popular there. Furthermore, the famous music festival, Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann is celebrated with great pomp here. Tap dancing is quite popular in Ireland.
Art and Literature
Ireland has a rich heritage in the artistic field, with many famous writers and painters having grown to popularity throughout history. Irish literature includes literature written in both Irish as well as English, making it diverse and rich for study. Ireland has given birth to many renowned writers such as William Butler Yeats and George Bernard Shaw.
Art and Literature
Ireland has a rich heritage in the artistic field, with many famous writers and painters having grown to popularity throughout history. Irish literature includes literature written in both Irish as well as English, making it diverse and rich for study. Ireland has given birth to many renowned writers such as William Butler Yeats and George Bernard Shaw.