About the University College Cork (UCC)

Established in 1845 University College Cork (UCC) is located inside Cork city, Ireland. The campus is big, green, and also located near the center of the city. This particular university is considered to be doing a very good job as a research organization and teaching facility. This is among the best universities worldwide when it comes to research work. The university possesses various sports clubs and organizations. The university also has modern classrooms and labs. UCC has strong links with major corporations in Cork, including pharma corporations such as Pfizer. There are over 130 courses that are offered by UCC. Students can study business, engineering, and life sciences. The programs offered are based on projects and work experience to prepare students for employment.

University College Cork (UCC) Popular Programs, Duration & Fees

There are many popular courses at University College Cork for international students. Undergraduate students may pursue the course BE Engineering in Civil, Electrical, Energy, or Pharmaceutical fields. These are a 4-year course costing approximately €24,000 per annum. The other undergraduate Business courses include BComm Commerce and BSc Accounting or Finance, which are 4-year courses and cost approximately €21,700 per annum. In science, courses pertaining to Biological Science, Genetics, Nutrition, or Food Science are pursued. These are 4-year courses with a cost of approximately €24,000 per annum.

University College Cork (UCC) Rankings and Global Reputation

UCC is well ranked among universities in the world. In the QS World University Ranking 2026, UCC is ranked 246 globally. That is a big improvement from 273rd in 2025. It is the third-best ranked university in Ireland, after Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin.

The CWUR 2025 also places UCC in the top 2.6% globally. In the Shanghai, ARWU rankings 2025, it is ranked 301–400 and is joint second in Ireland. UCC has again been ranked 399 globally and third in Ireland in the latest US News Best Global Universities 2025. It stands between 351–400 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025.

University College Cork (UCC) Placements & Career Options

University College Cork (UCC) has excellent employment outcomes. Approximately 93-97% of graduates attain employment within 9 months of completing a course. This is because UCC possesses aCareer Services department. They offer over 30 work placement schemes for students pursuing courses in business, engineering, and the life sciences. Starting salaries for Computer Science, Data Science, and Engineering graduates are normally in the range of €28,000 to €50,000 a year. However, with experience in the biotech/pharma industry, the salary can range between €60,000 to €90,000 a year.

University College Cork (UCC) Eligibility Criteria

Undergraduate

• 80–85% or above in Class 12 (CBSE/ICSE or equivalent)

• Mathematics and relevant Lab Science subjects required

• English studied in Class 12

• IELTS 6.5 overall (6.0 each band) or TOEFL iBT 90

• Higher English scores for Medicine/Health courses

• Program-specific subject requirements apply

• Apply via CAO or directly to UCC (non-EU deadlines around Feb 1)

Postgraduate (PG)

• Relevant bachelor’s degree (Irish Level 8 equivalent)

• 60–70% or 2:1 / 2:2 honors

• Strong subject background in the chosen field

• IELTS 6.5–7.0 or TOEFL iBT 90+

• Documents: transcripts, CV, SOP, and 2 references

• Research, projects, or work experience preferred