At the core of every business or organisation's success is the ability to analyse and interpret the ever-expanding data into meaningful reports to take further action. This demand has increased the job opportunities available for data science graduates, who must now be educated with the latest skills for better career prospects.
Ireland has a thriving tech industry, with many multinational companies such as Google, Facebook, and Microsoft having their European headquarters in Dublin. This provides numerous opportunities for data science graduates to work in the tech industry after pursuing higher study options in the country and gaining valuable experience. Irish universities are known for providing high-quality education in many fields, including data science, and by studying data science in Ireland, international students will gain highly sought-after skills and knowledge, making them employable in the country and other parts of the world.
Keep reading ahead to find the best universities for studying data science. If you have a passion for big data and want a successful career in this growing sector, book a free consultation with SI-Ireland today to discuss your options.
Best Universities in Ireland for Data Science
University College Dublin
UCD is one of the top-ranked universities in Ireland that is renowned worldwide for its high-quality education. The university provides full-time and part-time programmes in data science, wherein students can earn diplomas and degrees according to their choice. The specialised education in the field has courses designed to equip students with skills necessary for the job market, and interested students also pursue further education and research opportunities.
Suggested course: MSc Data & Computational Science
International fees: €21,460
Dublin City University
One of the popular universities in Ireland, Dublin City University, offers a specialised Bachelor's in Data Science that combines the three key skill sets of mathematics, computing, and enterprise to provide core knowledge in the areas needed in the job market. The university has industrial partnerships, allowing students to engage with real-world problems and data sets.
Suggested course: BSc Data Science
International fees: €15,500
Maynooth University
A top-ranking Irish university with a strong reputation for excellence in education, Maynooth University provides courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels. In these courses, students take up computer science, statistics and mathematics as the major subjects. They become equipped with tools to collect and analyse large volumes of data to solve problems businesses and organisations face. As data literacy is one of the top skills employers are looking for, these degrees can make the students' job ready with the right skill sets and knowledge.
Suggested course: BSc in Data Science
International fees: €15,000
University of Galway
The University of Galway is a top-ranking public research university established in 1845. The advanced MSc programme in the subject is taught to computer science graduates. They are provided with in-depth knowledge and skills in the emerging sector of Data Analytics and Data Science, and the course is delivered by a team of internationally recognised experts in the field, who cover areas such as large-scale data analytics, deep learning, natural language processing, advanced data mining and machine learning, among others. Students can also complete a project in collaboration with the university's research groups or industry partners.
Suggested course: MSc in Computer Science (Data Analytics)
International fees: €25,090
Trinity College Dublin
Among Ireland's oldest higher education institutions, Trinity College Dublin is a world-renowned university known for its impeccable academic courses. The data science postgraduate programme at the university is a great choice for students looking to have a solid career in the field. Leading experts in the industry deliver the course and include taught modules involving attendance at labs and lectures, followed by dedicated research work for the dissertation. Students can choose to complete the course with a specialisation in one of the four exciting areas: Intelligent Systems, Data Science, Future Networked Systems and Augmented & Virtual Reality.
Suggested course: MSc in Computer Science - Data Science
International fees: €25,240
University College Cork
University College Cork (UCC) is a prestigious institution in Ireland that is recognised for its academic excellence and research contributions. The university offers a robust MSc in Data Science and Analytics programme designed for students from diverse academic backgrounds, including computer science, mathematics, and engineering. The course curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, covering topics such as machine learning, data visualisation, and big data management. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and industry collaborations, preparing them for successful careers in Ireland's growing tech sector.
Suggested course: Data Science and Analytics
International fees: TBC
TU Dublin
Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) is Ireland’s largest technological university and a hub for innovation and applied learning. TU Dublin offers a well-structured MSc in Data Science programme designed to equip students with advanced technical skills in data analysis, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. The course combines theoretical understanding with industry-focused projects, enabling students to tackle real-world challenges effectively. Graduates are highly sought after in fields such as finance, healthcare, and IT, reflecting the university's strong ties to the industry.
Suggested course: Data Science
International fees: €3,150
Data Science Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for data science degrees in Ireland vary by institution and level of study.
Undergraduate academic requirements include the completion of secondary education equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate. Mathematics is usually a required subject, with a strong performance expected (e.g., a minimum of grade H4 or equivalent), while some universities such as Galway may also require a science subject, such as physics or computer science. For postgraduate students, a recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as computer science, mathematics, statistics, or engineering. Most programmes require a minimum of a 2:1 grade or equivalent.
For non-native English speakers, tests like IELTS (minimum overall score of 6.0–6.5) or TOEFL are commonly accepted. Applications are typically made through the Central Applications Office (CAO) in Ireland.
Study Data Science in Ireland
If you want to learn more about which data science courses and universities you can study in Ireland, arrange a free consultation today.
