Civil engineering encompasses the planning, construction, and upkeep of the infrastructure and buildings that form the foundation of cities and nations. Civil engineers are crucial in erecting towering skyscrapers, intricate bridges, efficient transportation systems, and clean water supply networks, all essential for the seamless operation of urban areas.
Ireland has increasingly emerged as a centre for high-quality education in civil engineering, boasting some of the finest universities offering specialised programmes that combine scientific principles with cutting-edge technology. Since Irish civil engineering degrees hold global recognition, studying in Ireland opens up diverse career prospects internationally. Furthermore, Ireland's rich cultural heritage and vibrant cities provide an ideal backdrop for civil engineering students to learn from their surroundings.
Learn more about the best civil engineering degrees in Ireland (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023) below, and book a free consultation with SI-Ireland today to learn more about the application process, scholarships and visa processing.
Best Universities for Civil Engineering in Ireland
1. University College Dublin
The UCD School of Civil Engineering is responsible for imparting high-quality civil engineering programmes at the university. Students are given in-depth knowledge for creating buildings, transport systems, urban spaces, water supply, rural environments, bridges and tunnels. The undergraduate courses are being offered in a modular format, meaning they can pursue accredited degree programmes that can be shaped according to their interests. Additionally, postgraduate courses and research opportunities are also provided to students who wish to advance their knowledge and relevant skills in civil engineering.
- QS World Ranking for civil engineering: 101-150
- Suggested Course: ME Civil Engineering
- Entry Requirements: Applicants must have an honours undergraduate degree in the discipline or a related field. International applicants must also provide English language proficiency.
- International Fees: €29,100 per year
- Faculties: UCD School of Civil Engineering
- Campus: Dublin
2. Trinity College Dublin
Trinity College Dublin (TCD), considered among the best universities in Ireland, offers various civil engineering programmes catering to different specialisations, including structural engineering, environmental engineering, transportation engineering, and more. These courses have been meticulously created to equip students with the knowledge, practical skills, and innovation mindset needed for successful careers. Students can also access well-equipped laboratories, advanced software resources, and experimental setups to explore the subject for research outcomes.
- QS World Ranking for civil engineering: 151-200
- Suggested Course: MSc in Environmental Engineering
- Entry Requirements: Applicants must have an upper second honours degree in engineering. International candidates must show proficiency in the English language.
- International Fees: €26,374 per year
- Faculties: Department of Civil Structure & Environmental Engineering
- Campus: Dublin
Other Ireland Universities for Civil Engineering
- University of Galway
The University of Galway offers civil engineering education at various levels, including undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. But, students are also allowed to go for an integrated bachelor's and master's in civil engineering. This system allows them to decide in the third year of their undergraduate course to either exit with a bachelor's in civil engineering of four years or take the combined pathway, which gives them the master's in civil engineering degree within five years. During their academic experience, students can learn through various resources, including laboratories and experimental setups with the latest software. They can also engage in research projects under the guidance of expert faculty members and contribute to advancements in construction methods, sustainability practices, and infrastructure resilience.
- Suggested Course: Master of Engineering (Civil Engineering)
- Entry Requirements: Applicants should have an engineering degree in a related discipline and provide English language proficiency if they are non-native speakers.
- International Fees: €27,000 per year
- Faculties: Department of Civil Engineering
- Campus: Galway
- University of Limerick
The University of Limerick has civil engineering courses fully accredited by Engineers Ireland. The curriculum for most courses has been designed to meet the needs of the overall civil engineering sector. The university embraces a student-centred approach in which teaching is done through techniques such as problem-based learning and active learning. The university courses focus on three main areas: water and the environment, energy in civil engineering and buildings and infrastructure. UL also offers an integrated bachelor's and master's programme, which can make a student an engineer with a master's degree in five years. This pathway also involves eight months of cooperative education in an industrial environment.
- Suggested Course: MSc in Civil Engineering
- Entry Requirements: All applicants must have an undergraduate degree in civil engineering or any related discipline. English language proficiency is also required for international students.
- International Fees: €19,300 per year
- Faculties: Science and Engineering
- Campus: Limerick
- University College Cork
University College Cork (UCC) offers exceptional civil engineering programmes internationally recognised under the Washington Accord. Through the Department of Civil, Structural and Environment Engineering, UCC provides a range of civil engineering programmes at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Students are given access to computer and experimental laboratory facilities during their study years so that they learn through practical experience. Faculty members include academic lectures and professional engineers who engage with students to teach them real-world engineering solutions to complex problems in the field. The university is at the forefront of research and innovation and allows students to participate in these research projects under the supervision of experienced faculty members.
- Suggested Course: BE (Hons) in Civil, Structural & Environmental Engineering
- Entry Requirements: Applicants must have educational qualifications equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate. Non-native speakers of the English language must showcase proficiency through standardised tests.
- International Fees: €23,000 per year
- Faculties: Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering
- Campus: Cork
Study Civil Engineering in Ireland
Start applying for a civil engineering degree at an Irish university by contacting SI-Ireland today.
FAQ
What is the most demanding branch of civil engineering?
One of the most demanding branches of civil engineering is structural engineering. Structural engineers design and analyse the framework of buildings, bridges, and infrastructure, ensuring they can withstand environmental forces, support heavy loads, and maintain safety standards.
What are the benefits of doing civil engineering in Ireland?
Studying civil engineering in Ireland offers students access to universities that strongly emphasise sustainable and innovative teaching practices, and students can get opportunities for practical experience.
Which Irish universities offer 100% scholarships for studying civil engineering?
There are several universities in Ireland offering scholarships and financial aid programmes. Still, it is rare to find 100% scholarships that cover the entire study cost, including tuition, living expenses, and other associated fees. Scholarships typically cover a portion of these expenses.
How can I get a full scholarship to study civil engineering in Ireland?
Full scholarship to study civil engineering in Ireland is impossible as most financial aid options cover a fraction of the tuition fees and other living expenses.
