A list of the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) which provide programmes of initial teacher education in Ireland (primary, post-primary and further education) and the application process for each is outlined below. All accredited programmes of initial teacher education are available here.
Primary
Applications for concurrent (undergraduate) programmes are made through the Central Applications Office (CAO) and selection is based on the CAO points system. Mature applicants should check with the relevant college/university regarding application procedures.
Consecutive (postgraduate) programmes in primary teacher education are advertised in the national media with details of closing dates and application procedures. Places on the programme are awarded on the basis of qualifications, an interview and an oral examination in Irish.
Post-primary
In concurrent (undergraduate) programmes, academic subjects are taught collectively with education and school placement components. Application is made through the Central Applications Office (CAO) and selection is based on the CAO points system.
Applications for consecutive (postgraduate) programmes are made through the Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC), the central application system for NUI colleges and Dublin City University. For other institutions, application is made directly to the individual institution.
Further education
Persons applying to register in the Further Education sector must meet the qualification requirements outlined in Route Three of the Teaching Council [Registration] Regulations, 2016. Any person who meets the degree qualification requirements outlined therein is eligible for conditional registration for a period of three years, in which time a Council accredited teacher education qualification must be completed.
