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Dublin City University
Ireland's University of Enterprise | Ranked #410
Overview
Founded in 1975 and granted full university status in 1989, Dublin City University is one of the youngest Irish universities to enter the world's top 500. Located on a modern campus in Glasnevin, just 15 minutes from Dublin city centre, DCU has earned a reputation as Ireland's University of Enterprise, championing innovation, industry engagement, and entrepreneurship.
DCU operates across three distinct campuses: Glasnevin (main campus with engineering, science, and computing), All Hallows (humanities and social sciences), and St. Patrick's (education). The university is home to leading research centres including INSIGHT Centre for Data Analytics, ADAPT Centre for AI-driven Digital Content, and the National Centre for Sensor Research, attracting over €40 million in annual research funding.
With over 18,500 students including 4,000+ international students from 115+ countries, DCU offers a dynamic and diverse learning environment. The university's flagship INTRA programme, Ireland's largest structured work placement scheme, ensures students graduate career-ready, contributing to DCU's outstanding 90%+ graduate employment rate within six months.
Why Choose Dublin City University
Enterprise Focus
DCU is Ireland's University of Enterprise, with deep links to industry, a dedicated Innovation Campus, and Ireland's first university-based venture fund, driving real-world impact.
Career-Ready Graduates
INTRA, Ireland's largest structured work placement programme, ensures students gain professional experience. Over 90% of DCU graduates are employed within 6 months of graduating.
Three Unique Campuses
Glasnevin, All Hallows, and St. Patrick's campuses offer modern facilities, green spaces, and a vibrant student community just 15 minutes from Dublin city centre.
Research Excellence
Home to world-class research centres including INSIGHT (data analytics), ADAPT (AI), and the National Centre for Sensor Research, attracting over €40M in annual research funding.
International Community
Over 4,000 international students from 115+ countries create a diverse, multicultural campus. Dedicated international student support services ensure a smooth transition to Irish life.
Modern Facilities
State-of-the-art engineering labs, The Helix performing arts centre, a sports complex with Olympic-sized pool, and brand-new student residences on campus.
Popular Courses for International Students
Undergraduate Programmes
BSc Computer Science
Software development, AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing
BSc Business Studies
Management, marketing, finance, international business, INTRA placement
BEng Engineering
Mechanical, electronic, mechatronic, biomedical engineering
BA Communications
Journalism, media, digital communications, multimedia production
BEd Education
Primary and post-primary teaching, STEM education, school placements
BSc Science
Chemistry, physics, biology, environmental science, lab-based learning
BSc Biotechnology
Molecular biology, genetics, bioprocessing, pharmaceutical science
BSc Multimedia
Web development, UX design, digital media, interactive technologies
Postgraduate Programmes
MSc Computing
Software engineering, AI, cloud computing, data management
MSc Electronic Commerce
Digital business strategy, fintech, data analytics, e-commerce platforms
MBA
Leadership, strategy, innovation management, global business
MSc Data Analytics
Machine learning, statistical modelling, big data, Python & R
MSc Communications
Political communication, journalism, digital media, public relations
MSc FinTech
Blockchain, digital payments, financial regulation, data-driven finance
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- Academic: Completion of 12 years of education with strong grades equivalent to Irish Leaving Certificate points
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
- TOEFL: 92 (internet-based)
- PTE Academic: 63
- Application: Via CAO or DCU International Office for non-EU applicants
- Documents: Transcripts, personal statement, passport, English test results, reference letter
Postgraduate
- Academic: Bachelor's degree with Second Class Honours (2:1) or equivalent GPA
- IELTS: 6.5 (no band below 6.0)
- TOEFL: 92 (internet-based)
- PTE Academic: 63
- Application: Direct via DCU's online application portal
- Documents: Transcripts, CV, personal statement, 2 academic references, portfolio (some programmes)
Application Deadlines
- September Intake (Main): February 1 (CAO) / July 1 (DCU Direct, recommended: April for visa processing)
- January Intake: Limited programmes; check specific course pages
- Rolling Admissions: Some postgraduate programmes accept applications year-round
Scholarships for International Students
DCU International Scholarship
Up to €4,000
High-achieving non-EU students applying to full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programmes
Postgraduate Merit Award
Up to €2,000
International postgraduate students with strong academic records and relevant experience
INTRA Excellence Award
€1,500
Students who demonstrate outstanding performance during their INTRA work placement
Sports Scholarship
Up to €5,000
Elite athletes competing at national or international level while studying at DCU
Government of Ireland Scholarship
€10,000 + full fees
High-achieving non-EU students (national competition via HEA)
DCU Women in STEM Award
Up to €3,000
Female international students enrolling in engineering, computing, or science programmes
Campus & Student Life
Campus Facilities
- Three campuses: Glasnevin, All Hallows, and St. Patrick's
- The Helix, a world-class performing arts venue on campus
- DCU Sport: Olympic-sized swimming pool, gym, and pitches
- Modern engineering and science laboratories
- DCU Innovation Campus: startup incubator and enterprise hub
- O'Reilly Library with 24/7 study spaces and digital resources
- On-campus student residences (2,000+ bed spaces)
- Multiple restaurants, cafés, and a student bar (The Venue)
- Interfaith Centre and counselling services
- Free inter-campus shuttle bus connecting all three campuses
Student Life
- 140+ clubs and societies covering sports, arts, culture, and academic interests
- DCU International Students Society
- Enactus DCU: award-winning social entrepreneurship programme
- Sports clubs: GAA, soccer, rugby, basketball, martial arts, swimming
- Cultural societies: drama, music, photography, film, gaming
- Students' Union with events, advocacy, and welfare support
- Part-time work: 20 hours/week during term, 40 hours during holidays
- Annual DCU Fest and campus events throughout the year
- Career fairs with top Irish and multinational employers
Location & Contact
Address
Glasnevin, Dublin 9, D09 W6Y4, Ireland
Getting There
- From Dublin Airport: 20 minutes by bus (16/33/41) or taxi (€15–€25)
- Bus: Routes 4, 9, 11, 13, 44 stop near Glasnevin campus
- DART (Train): Drumcondra Station (15 min walk)
- Cycling: Dublin Bikes station at main campus entrance
Contact Information
- Phone: +353 1 700 5000
- Email: international.office@dcu.ie
- Website: www.dcu.ie
- International Office: www.dcu.ie/international
Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (GMT/IST)
Ready to Study at Dublin City University?
Join 4,000+ international students at Ireland's University of Enterprise. Our team will guide you through every step, from application to arrival in Dublin.
