Working as a Nurse in Ireland: A Rewarding Career Path
A career in Nursing offers the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives through compassionate care and medical expertise. Whether you want to work in a hospital, a GP clinic, a nursing home, or in the community, there are many different paths you can take.
In this guide, we will explain how to become a Nurse in Ireland, what qualifications you need, where you can work, and what the Nursing payscale in Ireland looks like.
Why Choose Nursing in Ireland?
Nursing in Ireland is guided by evidence-based care, meaning Nurses use the latest research and proven practices to provide safe, effective treatment
Some of the key benefits of a nursing career in Ireland include:
- A good salary with clear pay structures in the public health service (HSE)
- A wide range of jobs in both public (HSE) and private healthcare
- Job security – Nurses are always in demand
- Ongoing support for learning and career development
- Opportunities to work in many different healthcare settings
Pathways to Study Nursing in Ireland
Leaving Certificate
To become a Nurse in Ireland, you must complete a course approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI). The journey typically begins with enrolling in a recognised degree programme that combines theory and practice. These courses are approved by the NMBI and include classroom learning, development of clinical skills and hands on clinical practice in real healthcare settings
If you are sitting the Leaving Certificate Examination, you can apply for Nursing courses through the Central Applications Office (CAO). Mature and international students can apply directly through universities. For overseas-qualified Nurses, registration requires formal recognition of qualifications by the NMBI to ensure alignment with Irish standards.
QQI Level 5
Nurses can apply for nursing degree programs through a full QQI Level 5 Award in Nursing Studies or Healthcare Support, using the Further Education and Training (FET) entry route available at many universities and colleges.
Nurses can apply for nursing degree programs through a full QQI (formerly FETAC) Level 5 Award in Nursing Studies or Healthcare Support, using the Further Education and Training (FET) entry route available at many universities and colleges.
They must hold a full QQI Level 5 Award, and it’s important to check each university’s specific entry requirements, as these can vary. Some courses may require a certain number of distinctions or specific modules.
Mature Applications
If you are 23 or older, you can also apply through the CAO. You can take an assessment without requiring any minimum Leaving Certificate points. The application process for mature students is as follows:
- Complete an application to the CAO
- Using a valid CAO number, register for the assessment tests
- Complete the assessment tests within the timeframe.
The NMBI has created a helpful booklet for mature students to understand the assessment tests required for their Nursing applications. You can download the booklet here to learn more about the process and how to prepare.
Continuous Professional Development
Continuous professional development, demonstrating a willingness to learn and upskill is an important element of any healthcare profession. The NMBI has approved a list of post-registration courses to help Nurses build on their skills and advance their careers. You can view the full list of approved courses here to find options that suit your interests and goals.
Career Options
Where Can You Work?
Nursing jobs are available in a wide range of settings:
- Public hospitals and clinics (HSE)
- Private hospitals and care homes
- GP practices
- Community health services
Nursing offers great career opportunities in both public and private healthcare. There is a strong demand for Nurses in Ireland, particularly in public hospitals, general practices, and community-based public health roles. At the same time, the private healthcare sector is expanding quickly, with more beds and services being added.
Ireland’s healthcare system is well-regulated and built on evidence-based practice that prioritises patient care and professional standards. Nurses benefit from ongoing training, opportunities to specialise, and clear pathways for career advancement. Working in Ireland means being part of a supportive system that values lifelong learning and continuous professional development.
How much does a Nurse earn in ireland?
The payscales for Nurses in Ireland varies depending on experience and role. Public sector roles under the HSE often follow a transparent pay scale, offering incremental increases based on years of service and qualifications. You can view the full HSE payscale here.
Summary
Nursing promises personal satisfaction, professional development, and job stability. With guidance from the Nursing & Midwifery Board Ireland and access to a wide range of career paths, Nursing is a role where you can make a real difference.
To learn more about Nursing jobs in Ireland please feel free to contact our recruitment team nursing@medforce.ie.
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