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Tech & Engineering
Duration
2 years
Level
Postgraduate
Outlook
Growing
This MSc gives you advanced expertise in building and managing the data infrastructure that modern organisations depend on. You study how to design and maintain data pipelines, work with cloud data warehouses such as AWS Redshift, Google BigQuery and Azure Synapse, and handle real-time streaming data using tools like Apache Kafka and Spark. Modules cover data modelling, ETL/ELT processes, analytics engineering and data governance. Practical work is central: you typically complete industry projects with Irish employers across finance, tech and retail sectors, and some programmes offer short-term placements or applied research components. A typical week combines lectures, hands-on lab sessions and collaborative project work with real datasets.
Entry to this MSc normally requires an NFQ Level 8 Honours Bachelor degree (minimum 2.2, preferably 2.1) in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or a closely related discipline. Applicants with a Level 8 in Business or Science who can demonstrate strong quantitative or programming skills may also be considered. Some institutions accept applicants with significant industry experience in data roles in lieu of a traditional computing degree, assessed on a case-by-case basis. Mature applicants with relevant professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply directly to the admissions office. English language proficiency (such as IELTS 6.5 or equivalent) is required for non-native English speakers. There is no CAO points system at postgraduate level; applications are made directly to the institution.
Demand for skilled data engineers in Ireland is strong and continues to grow, driven by digitalisation across virtually every sector. The role consistently appears among the most sought-after tech positions on Irish job boards, with relatively few graduates compared to employer demand. Salaries for entry-level data engineers in Ireland typically range from around €50,000 to €65,000 gross per year, rising considerably with experience and cloud certifications. The combination of cloud skills and analytics expertise makes graduates attractive to both multinational and indigenous Irish employers.
AI and machine learning are deeply intertwined with data engineering, as high-quality data pipelines are the essential foundation for any AI system. AI-assisted tools are increasingly used to automate parts of pipeline monitoring, data quality checks and documentation, meaning graduates must understand how to integrate and govern AI-driven workflows. Rather than replacing data engineers, AI is shifting the role towards higher-level architecture decisions and oversight of automated processes. Staying current with platforms such as Databricks and cloud-native AI services is becoming a core professional expectation.
Providers and indicative points are curated with AI support. Always double-check with the institution itself.
How to apply
Postgraduate MSc programmes in Data Engineering and Analytics are applied for directly through each institution's postgraduate admissions office or online application portal — not through the CAO. Entry typically requires an NFQ Level 8 honours degree (minimum 2.2) in computing, mathematics, engineering or a related discipline, with some programmes accepting relevant industry experience in lieu of a primary degree.
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