Ireland is one of the countries that has been experiencing strong economic growth for a few years, which has created a thriving job market for both domestic and international workers. Ireland's economy has also diversified in recent years, with a focus on technology, finance, healthcare, and education. This has created many opportunities for skilled professionals in these fields, especially for those with advanced education, such as a master's degree from a reputed university.
Ireland is also known for its high quality of education imparted through some of the top-ranked universities and educational institutions spread across the island nation. A great advantage of pursuing a master's degree from Ireland is that you can apply for a post-study work visa to stay in the country for up to two years and start a thriving international career. After completing your master's degree in your particular field, you can have access to a wide range of career opportunities across various industries. The country's job market is highly competitive, but with the right skills and qualifications, you can secure a lucrative and rewarding career in the country.
Are you interested in starting a thriving career in Ireland after completing your master's education? Book a free consultation with SI-Ireland to learn more about the best courses, universities, scholarships, and other relevant information.
Top 10 Career Options in Ireland after a Master's
1. Software Developer/Engineer
Software development is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Ireland, and there is a high demand for skilled software developers and engineers across the country. As a software developer/engineer in Ireland, you could work in a range of industries, from technology and finance to healthcare and education. To become a software developer, you would typically need a computer science degree or a related field. You should have a solid understanding of programming languages, software development tools, and systems.
- Best university for software engineering in Ireland: Trinity College Dublin
- Expected salary: €45,000 per year
2. Data Analyst/Scientist
Data analysis and data science are rapidly growing fields in Ireland, and there is a high demand for skilled professionals across many industries. As a data analyst or data scientist in Ireland, you can work in finance, healthcare, marketing, technology, and other sectors. To become a data analyst in Ireland, you would need a degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or a related field. You should have a solid understanding of data analysis tools, data modelling, and data visualisation.
- Best university for data analyst degree in Ireland: University College Dublin
- Expected salary: €42,000 per year
3. Marketing Manager
With the growth of digital marketing, there is a demand for professionals who can manage online campaigns and develop strategies that drive sales. A master's degree in the subject area of marketing or business administration from a reputed university or college will give you the skills needed to excel in this field. With plenty of courses specialising in marketing and digital marketing, students can learn the latest trends in the field and apply them in their work situations.
- Best university for a marketing degree in Ireland: University College Dublin
- Expected salary: €60,000 per year
4. Financial Analyst
With Ireland being a hub for financial services, there are many job opportunities for financial analysts who can analyse financial data and provide insights to help companies make better decisions. Some of the top industries in Ireland that hire financial analysts include financial services, technology, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare. These industries have a significant presence in Ireland and offer various job opportunities for financial analysts.
- Best university for finance degree in Ireland: Trinity College Dublin
- Expected salary: €43,000 per year
5. Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers are professionals that are responsible for overseeing all aspects of the employee experience in an organisation. This includes recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and much more. In Ireland, the role of a Human Resources Manager is critical in ensuring that an organisation's workforce is supported and engaged. In order to become a Human Resources Manager, a master's degree in human resources management or a related field is often required. Additionally, certification from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development is highly valued in the industry.
- Best university for HR manager degree in Ireland: University of Limerick
- Expected salary: €50,000 per year
6. Doctor/ Physician
Physicians, also known as doctors, are highly skilled medical professionals who diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries in patients. In Ireland, physicians are highly respected and play a vital role in the healthcare system. The healthcare system in Ireland is well-developed and offers ample opportunities for physicians to practice in a variety of medical settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and research institutions. A career as a physician in Ireland can be both challenging and rewarding, offering excellent opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Best university for medicine degree in Ireland: Trinity College Dublin
- Expected salary: €134,000 per year
7. Educator
Educators play a crucial role in shaping the minds of future generations, and a career in education in Ireland can be both rewarding and fulfilling. There are various career options available in the field of education, including teaching at the primary, secondary, or tertiary levels, as well as education administration and policy development. To become a teacher in Ireland, one must complete a Bachelor of Education degree or a postgraduate teaching qualification, followed by a period of supervised teaching practice. Teachers in Ireland must be registered with the Teaching Council to practice in the country.
- Best university for teacher training in Ireland: University of Limerick
- Expected salary: €36,000 per year
8. Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineering is a field that combines principles of engineering, science, and ecology to design and implement possible solutions to environmental problems. As a rapidly growing field in Ireland, environmental engineers play a crucial role in promoting sustainable development and addressing environmental challenges. To become an environmental engineer, one typically requires a degree in environmental engineering, civil engineering, or a related field. Environmental engineers in Ireland are often required to have experience with environmental regulations, such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the European Union's environmental regulations.
- Best university for an environmental engineering degree in Ireland: University College Dublin
- Expected salary: €56,000 per year
9. Project Manager
Project management is a highly sought-after profession in Ireland, as businesses and organisations increasingly rely on project managers to oversee complex projects, ensure that they are completed on time and within budget, and meet the desired objectives. Project managers can work in a variety of industries, from technology to construction to healthcare, and can specialise in different areas of project management, such as risk management, agile methodology, and strategic planning. Project managers in Ireland require strong leadership and communication skills to manage project teams, stakeholders, and clients effectively.
- Best university for project manager degree in Ireland: University College Dublin
- Expected salary: €65,000 per year
10. Lawyer
As a lawyer in Ireland, you could work in a variety of sectors, including private practice, government, and the nonprofit sector. To become a lawyer in Ireland, you typically need to complete a law degree and then an apprenticeship or training with a law firm. After completing your training, you must pass the Law Society of Ireland's Final Admissions Examination to be admitted to the Irish Bar. After you are admitted to the Bar, you can work as a barrister or a solicitor. Barristers are lawyers specialising in advocacy, representing clients in court and giving legal advice. Solicitors, on the other hand, provide legal advice and representation to clients outside of court and may work on a range of legal matters, from corporate law to family law.
- Best university for a law degree in Ireland: Trinity College Dublin
- Expected salary: €75,000 per year
Master's in Ireland FAQ
1. What are the chances of getting a job after a master's in Ireland?
After completing a master's degree in Ireland, your chances of getting a job are generally favourable, as Ireland has a growing job market with opportunities in various sectors, including technology, finance, pharmaceuticals, and more. Having a master's degree demonstrates specialized knowledge and can enhance your employability. Relevant work experience and internships during your program can also greatly improve your chances of getting a job.
2. Which master's degree is most valuable in Ireland?
Master's in fields such as computer science, data analytics, business administration, finance, engineering, and healthcare are most popular and valuable. These areas have a high demand for skilled professionals and offer attractive job prospects.
3. What are the salary expectations after a master's in Ireland?
Salaries after completing a master's degree in Ireland can vary depending on the field and job role. In the IT sector, professionals with master's degrees in fields like software engineering or data science can expect salaries ranging from €40,000 to €70,000 or more per year. In Finance/Banking, job roles such as financial analysts or investment managers can earn between €40,000 and €80,000 annually. Business graduates may earn salaries ranging from €40,000 to €60,000 or higher, depending on their specialization and experience level.
4. How long can I stay in Ireland after graduation?
International students who graduate from Irish universities are eligible to apply for the "Stayback Option" or the "Third Level Graduate Scheme." Under this scheme, students who complete a degree at a recognized Irish higher education institution can stay in Ireland for up to 24 months after graduation to seek employment. During this period, they can work full-time without the need for an employment permit.
