- Ireland’s 1-year MS in Data Science delivers job-ready skills in AI, machine learning, big data, and analytics with hands-on projects.
- Graduates can work up to 24 months post-study, earning €35,000–85,000 (₹31–76 L) while gaining real-world industry experience.
- Top universities in Ireland offer advanced curricula with industry ties, offering exposure to cloud computing, data visualization, and emerging tech.
- Quick Facts: MS in Data Science in Ireland
- Top Universities in Ireland for MS in Data Science
- Eligibility Criteria and Admission Requirements for MS in Data Science in Ireland
- What You’ll Learn in an MS in Data Science Program
- Career Opportunities and Salaries After MS in Data Science from Ireland
- Post-Study Work Opportunities in Ireland
- Key Takeaways by AdmitX
- FAQs
Looking to kickstart your data science career in Europe? Ireland might just be your golden ticket. This tech-friendly island has quietly become a hotspot for data science students, and here’s why: major tech companies have set up shop here, the programs are top-notch, and you get to work for up to 2 years after graduation.
Plus, everyone speaks English, so no need to learn Irish Gaelic for your grocery runs!
Quick Facts: MS in Data Science in Ireland
Ireland’s data science programs offer a unique mix of affordable tuition, English instruction, and direct access to Europe’s tech hub. Use this fact sheet to compare costs, requirements, and career outcomes before shortlisting universities.
| What You Need to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Duration | 1 year full-time (most common) - Some unis offer 1.5-2 year options |
| Career Opportunities | Data Analyst, Big Data Architect, Data Scientist, Business Intelligence Analyst, Big Data Engineer, Multimedia Systems Developer |
| English Tests | IELTS 6.5 overall (no band <6.0) TOEFL 90-100+ PTE Academic: 63+ Duolingo: 120+ (vary by university) |
| Academic Requirements | Indian Education: 4-year Bachelor's OR 3-year Bachelor's + 1-year Master's in computer science, engineering, mathematics, statistics, or related field. Irish Equivalent: Level 8 Honours degree (2.2 or higher on NFQ) - Minimum Marks: 70% aggregate (GPA scores should be 3.08 or higher). |
| Annual Salary Range | €35,000 (₹31 lakh) – €85,000 (₹76 lakh) |
| Post-Study Work Visa | Third Level Graduate Scheme (Stamp 1G): Up to 24 months for graduates of Level 9 (Master’s) or higher. Graduates must demonstrate active job search efforts. Extension beyond 12 months depends on evidence of such activity. |
| Program Structure | 90 ECTS credits: Core modules (30) + Electives (30) + Dissertation/Project (30) |
Assess your academic eligibility effortlessly using our precise CGPA Calculator, helping you target the right programs with confidence
Why Choose Ireland for MS in Data Science?
Ireland combines world-class education with real career opportunities, making it a smart choice for data science students. From generous post-study work rights to strong industry connections, here’s what makes Ireland stand out for your masters degree.
Growing Tech Demand
- Ireland’s tech sector has experienced remarkable growth, with AI-exposed job postings increasing by 94% since 2019 according to PwC Ireland’s 2025 AI Jobs Barometer.
- The ICT sector now dominates the market, with 13.9% of job postings requiring AI skills, a significant jump from just 6.3%.
Government Support Available
The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES) programme supports high-calibre international students who wish to study at NFQ levels 9 or 10 (master’s, postgraduate diploma or PhD) in Ireland.
Industry Growth Creates Career Opportunities
- The transformation happening in Ireland’s job market benefits data science graduates directly.
- According to PwC Ireland’s 2025 report, AI-exposed roles now require 2.78 times more skill changes than traditional roles, creating demand for fresh graduates with updated skills.Â
Top Universities in Ireland for MS in Data Science
Ireland’s compact Data Science programs at leading universities deliver targeted expertise, practical projects, and industry engagement across data analytics, machine learning, and computational techniques, making graduates job-ready in just one year.
Below, we provide a clear overview of the top 5 universities and the cost of an MS in Data Science in Ireland.
| QS Rank 2026 | University | 1-Year Data-Science Master’s | Tuition (non-EU, 2025-26) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 75 | Trinity College Dublin | MSc Computer Science – Data Science | €24,669 (₹27.2 L) |
| 84 | University of Galway | MSc Computer Science – Data Analytics | €28,000 (₹25.1 L) |
| 118 | University College Dublin | M.Sc. Data & Computational Science M.Sc. Financial Data Science M.Sc. Data Analytics M.Sc. Social Data Analytics | €20,500 (₹18.3 L) |
| 246 | University College Cork | MSc Data Science & Analytics | €18,000 (₹16.1 L) |
| 401-450 | Maynooth University | MSc Data Science & Analytics | €17,000 (₹15.2 L) |
Eligibility Criteria and Admission Requirements for MS in Data Science in Ireland
Every university will have a different set of requirements when it comes to the admission and eligibility process. We have covered the most common requirements needed by most universities in Ireland.
1. Â A Bachelor Degree
- Required: Recognized undergraduate degree in Engineering, Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related fields.
- Minimum Score: 70% or higher for top universities.
- Skills: Strong foundation in mathematics and statistics, including problem-solving abilities.
2. Â High GPA Scores
Your GPA scores should be 3.08 or higher. If you wish to get accepted into the best universities, having a higher score will push you ahead of the multiple applicants applying for the same.
3. Â Language Requirements
If you are a non-EU student, then taking an English proficiency test is mandatory. A certain level is required to be cleared, such as:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (no section below 6.0–6.5)
- TOEFL iBT: 90+
- TOEFL PBT: 580+
- PTE Academic: 63+
- Duolingo English Test: 120+
Exact score requirements may differ across universities.
4. Â Work Experience
Although having work experience is not mandatory for most institutions, students who have 2 to 3 years of work experience have an added advantage.
What You’ll Learn in an MS in Data Science Program
A Master’s in Data Science in Ireland equips students with a broad skillset, covering statistical modeling, machine learning, big data technologies, data mining, and data visualization.
Below is a typical curriculum for an MS in Data Science in Ireland, outlining core modules, electives, and practical projects.
Core Modules:
- Statistical Modeling: Learn key statistical techniques for analyzing data, including regression, classification, and clustering.
- Machine Learning: Explore supervised and unsupervised algorithms and their real-world applications.
- Big Data Technologies: Gain proficiency with tools for handling massive datasets, such as Hadoop and Spark.
- Data Mining: Discover methods to extract meaningful insights from large-scale datasets.
- Data Visualization: Master ways to present data effectively using tools like Tableau and Python libraries.
- Programming for Data Analytics: Develop skills in Python and R, essential languages in the data science field.
Elective Modules:
- Natural Language Processing (NLP): Learn to analyze and process textual data.
- Deep Learning: Study advanced neural networks and their applications.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Understand AI techniques and how they are applied in data science.
- Cloud Computing: Work with cloud platforms like AWS and Azure for data storage, processing, and analytics.
- Business Analytics: Apply data-driven methods to solve real business problems.
Capstone Project / Internship:
Most programs incorporate a capstone project or internship, giving students hands-on experience to solve practical data science challenges and prepare for professional roles.
Career Opportunities and Salaries After MS in Data Science from Ireland
Ireland’s tech and analytics sectors continue to offer competitive salaries for data science professionals. Below is an overview of typical annual salaries for various roles in the field:
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| Job Title | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Data Analyst | €45,000 – €55,000 (₹40 – ₹49 L) |
| Big Data Architect | €70,000 – €85,000 (₹62 – ₹76 L) |
| Data Scientist | €65,000 – €80,000 (₹58 – ₹72 L) |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | €50,000 – €70,000 (₹45 – ₹63 L) |
| Big Data Engineer | €65,000 – €80,000 (₹58 – ₹72 L) |
| Multimedia Systems Developer | €35,000 – €54,000 (₹31 – ₹48 L) |
The best part? These salaries come with European work-life balance. No 80-hour work weeks here because the Irish actually believe in having a life outside the office.
Post-Study Work Opportunities in Ireland
After completing a Data Science master’s in Ireland, international students can access structured post-study work opportunities via Ireland student visa that allow them to gain professional experience and explore career options in the country’s growing tech scene.
- Eligible for the Third Level Graduate Scheme (Stamp 1G), allowing work for up to 2 years after graduation.
- Opportunity to gain practical industry experience in analytics, tech, and data roles.
- Helps in networking with companies and potentially securing full-time employment.
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
- Ireland’s one-year MS programs in Data Science deliver a focused blend of theoretical knowledge, practical projects, and elective specialization, preparing graduates to hit the ground running in analytics roles.
- Graduates benefit from up to two years of post-study work rights, accessing competitive annual salaries up to €85,000 and valuable industry exposure.
- Ireland’s top universities integrate comprehensive academic training with strong industry partnerships, offering extensive opportunities for hands-on, real-world experience.
- Prioritize programs that have partnerships not just with tech giants, but also with financial services, pharmaceuticals, and consulting firms, as these sectors actively hire data science graduates.
- Identify roles and internships exposed to AI-driven transformation; early exposure to emerging technologies like generative AI and cloud analytics can accelerate career growth.
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FAQs
What is the duration of a Master’s in Data Science in Ireland?
Most MS Data Science programs in Ireland are one year full-time, although some universities offer extended options of 1.5 to 2 years, which may include additional practical training or placement opportunities.
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Which career roles can I pursue after completing this program?
Graduates can pursue roles such as Data Analyst, Data Scientist, Big Data Architect, Business Intelligence Analyst, Big Data Engineer, or Multimedia Systems Developer, depending on their skills and specialization.
What English language proficiency is required for non-EU students?
Non-EU students must demonstrate English proficiency through tests such as IELTS (minimum 6.5 overall), TOEFL iBT (90+), PTE Academic (63+), or Duolingo English Test (120+), with specific score requirements varying by university.
What are the academic requirements for Indian students?
Indian applicants are required to have a recognized bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related field, with a minimum of 70% marks or a GPA of approximately 3.8 or higher.
Is prior work experience mandatory for admission?
While most universities do not mandate work experience, having 2–3 years of relevant professional experience can strengthen an applicant’s profile and improve chances of admission to top programs.
What does the typical curriculum of an MS in Data Science include?
The core curriculum generally includes Statistical Modeling, Machine Learning, Big Data Technologies, Data Mining, Data Visualization, and Programming for Data Analytics, while elective courses cover Artificial Intelligence, Natural Language Processing, Deep Learning, Cloud Computing, and Business Analytics.
Are there practical or hands-on components in the program?
Yes, most MS programs include a capstone project or internship, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world data science challenges and gain valuable professional experience.
What are the typical salary ranges after graduation?
Data science professionals in Ireland can expect competitive salaries, for example:
- Data Analyst: €45,000–55,000 (₹40–49 Lakh)
- Data Scientist: €65,000–80,000 (₹58–72 Lakh)
- Big Data Architect: €70,000–85,000 (₹62–76 Lakh)
- Business Intelligence Analyst: €50,000–70,000 (₹45–63 Lakh)
- Big Data Engineer: €65,000–80,000 (₹58–72 Lakh)
- Multimedia Systems Developer: €35,000–54,000 (₹31–48 Lakh)
Can international students work in Ireland after completing their degree?
Yes, international graduates are eligible for the Third Level Graduate Scheme (Stamp 1G), which allows them to work in Ireland for up to 24 months following graduation.
Why is Ireland considered a good destination for an MS in Data Science?
Ireland offers high-quality education, strong industry partnerships, ample post-study work opportunities, and a rapidly growing tech sector, making it an attractive destination for students aiming to build careers in data analytics and AI-driven roles.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
