Student numbers to rise by 19% over next decade - report

Ireland's higher education sector is anticipating a significant surge in student numbers over the next decade, with projections indicating an increase of up to 19% from current levels.

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This report highlights the continued strength, success and attractiveness of Ireland's higher education sector.

A report by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, titled "Projections of Demand for Higher Education 2025-2045," forecasts that demand for full-time higher education places will peak around 2034 before gradually easing by 2045. This anticipated growth is primarily attributed to an increasing number of Irish school leavers reaching college age, a demographic trend stemming from higher birth rates between 2007 and 2012. Additionally, the report anticipates continued expansion in postgraduate studies, particularly among non-EU students.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, James Lawless, welcomed the report, emphasizing the continued strength and attractiveness of Ireland's higher education system, which currently enrolls over 200,000 students. He stated that his department's focus is on developing policies and planning strategies to accommodate this growing demand. The aim is to ensure higher education remains accessible and responsive to student needs while upholding the high international reputation and quality standards of Irish institutions.

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With more than 200,000 students now enrolled across our institutions, demand for higher education is expected to continue growing over the next decade.

The department highlighted that these projections, based on the latest available data, offer a more stable foundation for planning compared to previous estimates. The report's findings will guide future policy development and investment decisions, ensuring the higher education system can effectively manage the increasing demand while preserving its quality and accessibility for all students.

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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.