University College Cork: Rankings, Fees, Admission 2026 Programs, Placements
Dublin, Ireland • Public
University College Cork
Overview
University College Cork (UCC), founded in 1845, is one of Ireland's leading research-intensive universities. Located in the vibrant city of Cork, UCC offers a comprehensive range of programs across four colleges: Arts, Celtic Studies & Social Sciences; Business & Law; Medicine & Health; and Science, Engineering & Food Science. With over 26,000 students, including more than 4,000 international students from over 100 countries, UCC provides a supportive, multicultural environment focused on academic excellence and innovation.
UCC Key Highlights 2026
The following table has mentioned the quick highlights of University College Cork.
Aspect | Details |
Institute Type | Public Research University |
Sustainability Ranking | 2nd in the World |
QS World University Ranking 2026 | 246 |
Total Students | Over 26,000 |
International Students | Over 4,000 from 100+ countries |
No. of Colleges | 4 Main Colleges
|
Programmes Offered | Over 150 degrees and professional courses |
Main Intake | September |
Official Website | |
Established | 1845 |
Location | Cork, Ireland |
University College Cork
Programs
Popular Undergraduate Programs
UCC offers internationally recognised undergraduate degrees with placements and research opportunities.
- Medicine (MB, BCh, BAO)
- Nursing and Midwifery
- Pharmacy
- Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Biomedical)
- Business and Commerce
- Law
- Computer Science and Information Technology
- Biological and Chemical Sciences
- Food Science and Technology
- Arts and Social Sciences (Psychology, Economics, Languages)
Many programs include work placements and pathways to professional accreditation.
Popular Postgraduate Programs
UCC provides over 100 taught masters and research degrees, emphasising innovation and industry collaboration.
- MSc in Data Science and Analytics
- MSc in Biotechnology
- MBA
- MSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences
- LLM in International Human Rights Law
- MSc in Sustainable Energy
- PhD programs across all disciplines
Research centres like APC Microbiome Ireland and Environmental Research Institute support cutting-edge projects.
Tuition Fees for Non-EU Students
University College Cork fees vary by program and are reviewed annually.
Course | Annual Fee |
Arts/Humanities/Business | €17,000 - €20,000 |
Science/Engineering | €20,000 - €23,000 |
Medicine | €45,000 - €50,000+ |
Postgraduate Taught | €18,000 - €25,000 |
Note: Additional charges for registration and services apply.
MBBS
Bachelor of Arts [BA]
Bachelor of Commerce [B.Com]
Master of Arts [MA]
University College Cork
Admissions
University College Cork: Entry Requirements
Requirements vary by program and applicant background.
Criteria | Requirements |
UG Program | School leaving qualification equivalent to Irish Leaving Certificate; specific subjects and grades required for competitive courses |
PG Program | Relevant bachelor's degree (typically 2.1 honours or equivalent) |
English Proficiency | IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) or equivalent; higher for some programs |
Important Note: Medicine requires additional aptitude tests. Country-specific equivalencies available on ucc.ie.
Application Process for International Applicants
- Apply directly online via ucc.ie application portal.
- Submit transcripts, certificates, English proficiency proof and supporting documents.
- Rolling admissions for most programmes; early application advised.
- Medicine applications through specific pathways.
- Pay acceptance deposit upon offer.
University College Cork
Student Life and Support
UCC campus thrives with over 100 societies, 50+ sports clubs, cultural events and volunteering opportunities. Facilities include Mardyke Arena, student centre and dedicated international support.
- Orientation programmes and welcome events
- Career services with placement support
- Counselling, health and academic skills centre
- Students' Union organising festivals and representation
Cork city offers festivals, music, restaurants and proximity to scenic landscapes. High graduate employability with strong industry links.
Top Recruiters
University College Cork
Scholarships
UCC offers merit-based scholarships for non-EU students, including college-specific awards and excellence scholarships.
- Reduction on fees is up to €5,000-€10,000.
Automatic consideration for many upon application. Additional options include Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships and faculty awards. External funding and education loans commonly used.
University College Cork
Faculty
Computer Science & Information Technology
Anatomy & Neuroscience
Cork University Business School (CUBS)
Anatomy & Neuroscience
Computer Science & Information Technology
University College Cork
Infrastructure
UCC's main campus is set along the River Lee, combining historic Gothic architecture with modern developments. Key facilities include the Boole Library, state-of-the-art laboratories, the Tyndall National Institute for photonics research, CÚRAM medical devices centre, and the Mardyke Arena sports complex with gym, pool and climbing wall.
The campus features green spaces, student hubs, cafes and dedicated research buildings. Additional sites support clinical training for medicine and health programmes. The compact layout ensures easy access to all amenities within walking distance.
University College Cork: Hostel Accommodation
On-campus residences provide modern apartments in complexes like University Hall and Castlewhite. Applications open early; places limited.
Off-campus private rentals popular in areas near campus. Monthly rent €600-€900 for shared options.
International office assists with housing advice. Living costs in Cork €1,000-€1,400 per month including food, transport and utilities.
Facilities
Hostel
Accommodation
Wifi
Wifi
Medical
On-Campus Dispensaries
Library
Central Library
Labs
Advanced Labs
Computer Labs
Advance Computer Lab
Cafeteria
Food Zone
Classrooms
College Classrooms
Auditorium
Auditourm & Confrence Hall
