Irish Higher Education System

The Irish higher education system includes universities, institutes of technology, and colleges offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Universities focus on research and academic programs, while institutes of technology emphasize practical skills and applied sciences. Students typically complete a three- or four-year bachelor's degree, with options for master's or doctoral studies. Access often involves completing the Leaving Certificate, a national exam. The system emphasizes quality, international recognition, and flexibility, with opportunities for lifelong learning, vocational training, and collaborations between academia and industry to support economic development.