Jonathan BensonIreland has become one of the most respected destinations in Europe for studying dentistry. With world-class clinical facilities, globally recognised qualifications, and strong research output, Irish dental schools attract both EU and international students every year. Whether you’re looking for a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), Dental Science degree, or dental nursing and hygiene programmes, this guide covers the top 15 dental schools in Ireland and their fees.
If you’re planning to study dentistry in Ireland, this guide will help you compare tuition costs, programme strengths, and career opportunities.
Top 15 Dental Schools In Ireland And Fees
1. Trinity College Dublin – Dublin Dental University Hospital
Trinity College Dublin is widely regarded as the leading dental school in Ireland. Its School of Dental Science operates through the Dublin Dental University Hospital, offering a five-year undergraduate Dental Science programme. The curriculum blends biomedical sciences, clinical skills, and patient care from early years.
Students gain hands-on clinical exposure while learning from experienced practitioners and researchers. Trinity also offers postgraduate programmes in orthodontics, oral surgery, and restorative dentistry.
Approximate Fees:
- EU Students: €3,000–€10,000 (subject to Free Fees Initiative eligibility)
- Non-EU Students: €45,000–€48,000 per year
This is one of the most competitive dentistry programmes in Ireland due to its reputation and research excellence.
2. University College Cork – Cork Dental School & Hospital
University College Cork (UCC) offers a highly respected Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS). The Cork Dental School & Hospital is known for its strong clinical training and smaller class sizes, which allow personalised mentorship.
Students begin clinical skills training early and benefit from modern simulation labs. UCC also emphasises community dentistry and public oral health initiatives.
Approximate Fees:
- EU Students: €3,000–€10,000 (if eligible under state schemes)
- Non-EU Students: €46,000–€50,000 per year
UCC is a strong choice for students seeking balanced academic and clinical exposure.
3. University College Dublin – School of Dentistry
University College Dublin (UCD) provides a comprehensive BDS programme that integrates biomedical sciences with clinical practice. UCD is one of Ireland’s largest universities and has strong international student representation.
The School of Dentistry focuses heavily on research in oral health sciences and innovative dental technologies. Clinical placements are structured progressively across the five-year programme.
Approximate Fees:
- EU Students: €3,000–€10,000 (if eligible)
- Non-EU Students: €40,000–€47,000 per year
UCD is ideal for students seeking research opportunities alongside professional training.
4. Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – School of Dentistry
The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) is internationally recognised for healthcare education. Its dentistry programme focuses on evidence-based practice, clinical competence, and professional ethics.
RCSI has a strong international community and modern teaching facilities. The programme emphasises small group teaching and close mentorship.
Approximate Fees:
- EU Students: Limited places / variable funding
- Non-EU Students: €58,000–€62,000 per year
RCSI is among the most expensive dental schools in Ireland but offers premium training and global recognition.
5. University of Galway – Dental & Oral Health Programmes
Formerly known as NUI Galway, the University of Galway provides oral health and dental-related programmes with strong links to clinical practice. It emphasises preventive dentistry and community engagement.
While it does not offer as many full BDS options as other institutions, it provides strong foundational pathways into dentistry and oral health sciences.
Approximate Fees:
- EU Students: €3,000–€10,000
- Non-EU Students: €16,000–€30,000 depending on programme
6. Technological University Dublin – Dental Nursing & Technology
Technological University Dublin offers dental nursing and dental technology programmes that prepare students for essential roles within dental practices and laboratories.
Students gain practical laboratory skills, assisting techniques, and infection control knowledge. These programmes are shorter than BDS degrees and offer faster entry into the dental field.
Approximate Fees:
- EU Students: €3,000–€6,000
- Non-EU Students: €12,000–€18,000
7. Atlantic Technological University – Dental Technology
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) provides dental technology degrees focusing on the design and production of dental prosthetics.
Students learn CAD/CAM systems, dental materials science, and laboratory techniques. It is ideal for those interested in behind-the-scenes dental innovation.
Approximate Fees:
- EU Students: €3,000–€6,000
- Non-EU Students: €10,000–€15,000
8. University of Limerick – Allied Health & Dental Pathways
The University of Limerick offers health science pathways that can serve as foundations for graduate entry into dentistry.
These programmes emphasise biomedical sciences, anatomy, and clinical research — useful preparation for competitive dental programmes.
Approximate Fees:
- EU Students: €3,000–€7,000
- Non-EU Students: €14,000–€20,000
9. Maynooth University – Biomedical Sciences
Maynooth University provides biomedical science degrees that many students use as stepping stones toward dentistry postgraduate programmes.
The strong research culture and science-focused curriculum help students build competitive academic profiles.
Approximate Fees:
- EU Students: €3,000–€7,000
- Non-EU Students: €15,000–€20,000
10. Griffith College Dublin – Dental Assisting & Hygiene
Griffith College offers practical diplomas in dental assisting and hygiene. These programmes are career-focused and ideal for those seeking shorter study durations.
Students are trained in chairside assistance, sterilisation protocols, and patient communication.
Approximate Fees:
- €5,000–€12,000 depending on course
11. Dublin Business School – Health Services Management
While not a traditional dental school, Dublin Business School offers healthcare management programmes beneficial for future dental practice owners.
These courses cover healthcare administration, finance, and operations.
Approximate Fees:
- €12,000–€15,000 annually
12. Dundalk Institute of Technology – Dental Nursing
Dundalk Institute of Technology provides dental nursing diplomas designed for quick workforce entry.
The programme emphasises infection control, chairside assistance, and dental radiography basics.
Approximate Fees:
- EU Students: €3,000–€5,000
- Non-EU Students: €10,000–€14,000
13. Queen’s University Belfast – Dentistry (Nearby Option)
Although located in Northern Ireland (UK), Queen’s University Belfast is often considered by students in Ireland due to proximity and reputation.
It offers a five-year BDS with strong UK accreditation standards.
Approximate Fees:
- UK/EU: £9,000–£30,000
- International: £30,000–£38,000
14. University of Dublin – Postgraduate Dental Sciences
The University of Dublin umbrella includes postgraduate dental qualifications in orthodontics, prosthodontics, and oral surgery.
These advanced programmes are suited for qualified dentists seeking specialisation.
Approximate Fees:
- €18,000–€30,000 annually
15. International Foundation & Preparatory Dental Programmes in Ireland
Several private institutions in Ireland offer foundation programmes tailored for international students who do not yet meet direct BDS entry requirements.
These programmes focus on biology, chemistry, and English language preparation.
Approximate Fees:
- €12,000–€20,000 annually
Comparison Table: Top Dental Schools in Ireland and Fees
| Institution | Programme Type | EU Fees (Approx.) | Non-EU Fees (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trinity College Dublin | BDS | €3k–€10k | €45k–€48k |
| University College Cork | BDS | €3k–€10k | €46k–€50k |
| University College Dublin | BDS | €3k–€10k | €40k–€47k |
| RCSI | BDS | Variable | €58k–€62k |
| University of Galway | Dental/Oral Health | €3k–€10k | €16k–€30k |
| TU Dublin | Dental Nursing | €3k–€6k | €12k–€18k |
| ATU | Dental Technology | €3k–€6k | €10k–€15k |
| University of Limerick | Health Sciences | €3k–€7k | €14k–€20k |
| Maynooth University | Biomedical | €3k–€7k | €15k–€20k |
| Griffith College | Dental Assisting | — | €5k–€12k |
| Dublin Business School | Health Admin | — | €12k–€15k |
| Dundalk IT | Dental Nursing | €3k–€5k | €10k–€14k |
| Queen’s University Belfast | BDS | £9k–£30k | £30k–£38k |
| University of Dublin | Postgraduate | €18k–€25k | €18k–€30k |
| Foundation Programmes | Prep | — | €12k–€20k |
Conclusion
Studying dentistry in Ireland offers access to globally recognised qualifications, strong clinical exposure, and excellent career prospects. Institutions like Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork, University College Dublin, and RCSI remain the top choices for full BDS degrees, while technological institutes and private colleges provide valuable alternative pathways.
Before applying, always confirm updated tuition fees and entry requirements directly from each university’s official website, as costs may change annually.