How do I find an Irish mechanical engineering degree that includes a paid work placement?

Ireland is a strong choice if you want paid industry experience built into an engineering degree, because several universities and technological universities make placement part of the programme. Durations vary by university and course. You should check whether international students are eligible for the same placement as Irish and EU students.

Placement length by Irish university for mechanical engineering

How to compare Irish placement programmes before you apply

• Check whether the placement is compulsory, optional or only offered on a longer five-year route.
• Ask who arranges it, the university placement office or you, and how many international students were placed last year.
• Confirm whether placement years are paid and whether your visa permissions cover the work.
• Look at the list of past employers on the course page to see if they match the sector you want, such as medical devices or manufacturing.
• Remember that an integrated placement does not guarantee a job offer, and some places are competitive.

My Advice

Shortlist the programmes where placement is compulsory first, then use the course contact email to ask how Indian students were matched with employers last year. Treat optional placement courses as a backup, because you may compete with local students for the same roles.

This information is available on: dcu.ie and tus.ie