Higher Learning Institutions

Mitchell Scholars may study or conduct research at institutions of higher learning including the seven universities in Ireland and two of the Institutes in Dublin. For the 2017-2018 selection process, applicants may not choose the two universities in Northern Ireland: Queen's University, Belfast and the University of Ulster.

When assigning Mitchell Scholars to programs in Ireland, we will draw from only the programs identified in the applications at the schools listed. Once your application is submitted, you may not add a program to your list, and you may not change the prioritized order in which programs are listed. Please do your research in advance to make sure you are satisified with your program choices and have thought carefully about the order in which those preferences are listed in your application.

The following is provided to give students a general idea about the universities and the fields of study Mitchell Scholars may pursue. Applicants are responsible for obtaining additional information about the institutions and programs of interest to them by contacting those institutions directly. Prior to applying, prospective applicants should confirm that their plan of study is feasible, and that they have the undergraduate pre-requisites for the programs proposed in the application.

EDUCATION IN IRELAND is a searchable database of programs available to international students. It is a tremendous resource and can aid in your research regarding program and university selection. In addition, each of the Irish and Northern Irish universities has a webpage listing the available one-year post-graduate programs at their schools.

The Education System in Ireland

Ireland has a long and reputable tradition in education, dating back to the middle ages when it held the position of one of the principal education providers to the western world. Today education is held in very high regard in Ireland and this is reflected in the priority given to it by successive Governments and by the fact that it has one of the highest participation rates in the world. In addition, parents take a keen interest in educational standards and considerable attention is paid to educational issues in the national media, thereby strengthening Ireland's reputation for providing a very high quality system of education.

Overall responsibility for education in Ireland lies with the Minister for Education and Science who is a member of the Irish Government and responsible to the National Parliament.

While the Irish education system is provided by a combination of State and private institutions it is substantially State-funded and State-regulated. Primary and secondary education is largely free to Irish students and third level education is heavily subsidized.

The Academic Year

The university academic year runs from September to June, typically divided into three terms. In recent years, however, some institutions have introduced a two-semester system.

Accommodations

Mitchell Scholars will be provided with living accommodation (meals are not included). Accommodations at the universities vary but, in general, accommodation will be in a shared apartment in a dedicated, on-campus development, or in an individual room in a Hall of Residence.