National College of Ireland
At the Heart of Dublin's Financial District
Overview
Founded in 1951, the National College of Ireland (NCI) is a purpose-built, modern college located in the heart of Dublin's International Financial Services Centre (IFSC). NCI specialises in business, computing, human resource management, and data science, with a strong reputation for producing career-ready graduates who thrive in Ireland's dynamic corporate landscape.
NCI was a pioneer in cloud computing education in Ireland, launching the country's first MSc in Cloud Computing. Today, the college continues to lead in technology education with cutting-edge programmes in data analytics, cybersecurity, and FinTech. Its location in the IFSC, home to over 500 financial and technology firms, provides unparalleled access to industry leaders, guest speakers, and employment opportunities.
With over 6,000 students, including 1,500+ international learners, NCI offers a focused and supportive learning environment. Small class sizes, dedicated student support services, and a strong emphasis on employability ensure that every student receives personalised attention and the skills needed to succeed in the global job market.
Why Choose National College of Ireland
IFSC Location
Located in Dublin's International Financial Services Centre, NCI is surrounded by the headquarters of major global companies including Google, Facebook, Citibank, and PwC.
Cloud Computing Pioneer
NCI was the first college in Ireland to offer a dedicated MSc in Cloud Computing, now one of the country's most sought-after tech programmes.
Strong Corporate Connections
Direct partnerships with IFSC employers and leading Irish companies provide internships, guest lectures, and graduate employment pathways.
Small Class Sizes
NCI's intimate learning environment ensures personalised attention, with accessible lecturers and dedicated student support services.
Career-Focused Education
Industry-driven curricula designed in partnership with employers ensure NCI graduates are job-ready from day one, with over 90% employment rates.
Modern City Campus
A purpose-built, state-of-the-art campus on the banks of the River Liffey with modern labs, library, and student facilities in Dublin's Docklands.
Popular Courses for International Students
Undergraduate Programmes
BSc Computing
Software development, data analytics, cloud computing, cybersecurity
BA Business
Management, marketing, entrepreneurship, organisational behaviour
BA HRM
Human resource management, employment law, organisational development
BA Marketing
Digital marketing, consumer behaviour, brand management, analytics
BA Finance
Financial management, investment analysis, corporate finance, banking
BSc Data Science
Machine learning, statistical analysis, big data, programming
BA Psychology
Cognitive psychology, research methods, developmental psychology
BA Management
Strategic management, leadership, project management, operations
Postgraduate Programmes
MSc Cloud Computing
AWS, Azure, DevOps, distributed systems, infrastructure as code
MSc Data Analytics
Machine learning, big data, statistical modelling, Python, R
MSc FinTech
Blockchain, digital payments, financial innovation, regulatory tech
MSc Management
Strategic management, leadership, organisational change, innovation
MSc HRM
Talent management, employment law, organisational development, analytics
MSc Cybersecurity
Network security, ethical hacking, digital forensics, risk management
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- Academic: Completion of 12 years of education with satisfactory grades equivalent to Irish Leaving Certificate
- IELTS: 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5)
- TOEFL: 80 (internet-based)
- PTE Academic: 56
- Application: Via CAO or NCI International Office direct application
- Documents: Transcripts, personal statement, passport, English test results, reference letter
Postgraduate
- Academic: Bachelor's degree with Second Class Honours (2:2) or equivalent GPA
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
- TOEFL: 90 (internet-based)
- PTE Academic: 61
- Application: Direct via NCI's online portal
- Documents: Transcripts, CV, personal statement, 2 academic references, portfolio (some programmes)
Application Deadlines
- September Intake (Main): February 1 (CAO) / July 31 (NCI Direct, recommended: May for visa processing)
- January Intake: Selected programmes only. Check NCI website for availability.
- Rolling Admissions: Some postgraduate programmes accept applications year-round
Scholarships for International Students
NCI International Scholarship
Up to €4,000
High-achieving international students from non-EU countries applying to full-time programmes
NCI President's Award
€2,500
Students demonstrating outstanding academic results and leadership potential
Government of Ireland Scholarship
€10,000 + full fees
High-achieving non-EU students (national competition via HEA)
NCI Early Bird Scholarship
€1,500
International students who accept their offer and pay deposit before the early deadline
Sports Scholarships
Up to €2,000
Elite athletes representing NCI in varsity and national competitions
NCI Alumni Scholarship
10% fee reduction
Graduates of NCI undergraduate programmes progressing to postgraduate study
Campus & Student Life
Campus Facilities
- Purpose-built modern campus in Dublin's IFSC Docklands
- State-of-the-art computing labs with latest hardware and software
- Norma Smurfit Library with extensive digital resources
- Cloud computing and cybersecurity research labs
- Student common rooms and collaborative study spaces
- On-campus cafeteria and student lounge
- Dedicated careers and employability centre
- Student services hub with counselling and welfare support
- Nearby gyms and fitness facilities (partnerships)
- Rooftop terrace with views over Dublin Docklands
Student Life
- 40+ clubs and societies including tech, business, and culture
- International students' society and multicultural events
- Dublin Docklands, a vibrant area with restaurants, bars, and events
- Sports clubs: soccer, basketball, running, martial arts
- Proximity to 3Arena, Convention Centre, and Grand Canal Dock
- Student Union with events, welfare support, and advocacy
- Part-time work: 20 hours/week during term, 40 hours during holidays
- Regular industry talks and networking events with IFSC employers
- Career fairs and graduate recruitment programmes
Location & Contact
Address
Mayor Street, IFSC, Dublin 1, D01 Y300, Ireland
Getting There
- From Dublin Airport: 25 minutes by bus (747) or taxi (€20–€30)
- Bus: Multiple routes stop near Mayor Street and IFSC
- Luas (Tram): Red Line, Mayor Square / NCI stop (at the door)
- DART (Train): Connolly Station (10 min walk)
Contact Information
- Phone: +353 1 449 8500
- Email: admissions@ncirl.ie
- Website: www.ncirl.ie
- International Office: www.ncirl.ie/International
Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (GMT/IST)
Ready to Study at National College of Ireland?
Join 1,500+ international students at Dublin's IFSC campus. Our team will guide you through every step, from application to arrival in Dublin.
