Irish Higher Education Student Numbers to Rise 19% by 2034, Driven by Birth Rates
Irish higher education student numbers are projected to rise by up to 19% by 2034, driven by increased birth rates between 2007 and 2012. A new report from the Department of Further and Higher Education provides a stable basis for planning to meet this growing demand, ensuring accessibility and quality.
Student enrollment in Irish higher education institutions is projected to increase by up to 19% from current levels over the next decade, according to a report from the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. The document, titled «Projections of Demand for Higher Education 2025-2045», forecasts substantial growth in demand for full-time higher education places in the coming years.
Demand for these places is expected to reach its peak in 2034, subsequently moderating as 2045 approaches. This anticipated growth is primarily attributed to an increase in the number of Irish school leavers reaching college age, a demographic trend linked to higher birth rates observed between 2007 and 2012. Additionally, continued expansion in postgraduate study is foreseen, particularly among non-EU students.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, James Lawless, welcomed the report's publication, stating, «This report highlights the continued strength, success and attractiveness of Ireland's higher education sector. With more than 200,000 students now enrolled across our institutions, demand for higher education is expected to continue growing over the next decade. My focus, and that of my Department, is to ensure we have the policies and planning in place to meet this demand by keeping higher education accessible and responsive, while continuing to uphold the strong international reputation and quality of Irish higher education.»
The department also noted that these projections, based on the latest available data, offer a more stable foundation for planning compared to the previous estimates released in 2022. The earlier projections were impacted by uncertainties stemming from Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic. This new report is intended to guide future policy development and investment decisions, ensuring the higher education system can accommodate increasing demand while preserving its quality and accessibility.