Dublin, Ireland – A surge in applications for health science programs, particularly veterinary medicine, is reshaping the landscape of higher education in Ireland. New figures released by the Central Applications Office (CAO) reveal a near tripling in the number of prospective students seeking to study veterinary medicine, coinciding with the expansion of educational opportunities in the field. This dramatic increase reflects a growing interest in animal health and a response to the opening of new veterinary colleges, but also highlights broader trends in demand for healthcare professions.
The CAO received a total of 88,817 applications by the February 1st deadline this year, representing a 6.5 percent increase compared to the same period last year. While overall applications are up, the most striking rise is in veterinary medicine, with applications jumping 198 percent from 902 in 2025 to 2,692 in 2026. This surge is directly linked to the establishment of new veterinary medicine programs at South East Technological University (SETU) and Atlantic Technological University (ATU), which will welcome their first cohorts of students in September. Prior to this expansion, University College Dublin (UCD) was the sole provider of veterinary science degrees on the island of Ireland.
Expanding Access to Veterinary Education
For decades, aspiring veterinarians in Ireland faced limited options, with UCD serving as the primary, and often highly competitive, entry point into the profession. The introduction of programs at SETU and ATU significantly increases access to veterinary education, offering more students the opportunity to pursue their passion for animal health. This expansion is a direct response to growing demand and a recognized need for more qualified veterinary professionals in the country. The increased capacity is expected to alleviate some of the pressure on UCD and provide a more diverse range of learning environments for students.
The establishment of these new colleges represents a substantial investment in Ireland’s agricultural sector and animal welfare infrastructure. Veterinary professionals play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of livestock, companion animals, and wildlife, contributing to both the economic viability of the agricultural industry and the overall quality of life for pet owners. The increased number of veterinary graduates is anticipated to address existing shortages and support the evolving needs of the sector.
Broader Trends in Healthcare Applications
The surge in veterinary medicine applications is not an isolated phenomenon. The CAO figures demonstrate a broader trend of increased interest in health-related disciplines. Pharmacy applications saw the largest percentage increase, rising by 69 percent from 2,913 in 2025 to 4,924 in 2026. This substantial growth may be attributed to the vital role pharmacists play in healthcare delivery, particularly in medication management and patient counseling. The American College of Veterinary Pharmacists highlights the importance of specialized training for veterinary pharmacists, emphasizing their role in optimizing animal care through effective pharmacotherapy. Learn more about the ACVP.
Medicine and physiotherapy also experienced significant increases in applications, with rises of 32 percent (from 14,356 to 19,020) and 26 percent, respectively. Nursing, midwifery, and dentistry saw more moderate increases of 13 percent and 11 percent. These trends suggest a heightened awareness of career opportunities in healthcare and a growing desire among students to contribute to the well-being of others. Minister for Higher Education James Lawless has previously announced that over 1,100 new places will be available in health-related courses this year, reflecting the government’s commitment to expanding healthcare education and addressing workforce needs.
The Appeal of Pharmacy and Specialized Healthcare Roles
The remarkable 69 percent increase in pharmacy applications is particularly noteworthy. This surge could be linked to several factors, including the expanding role of pharmacists in providing healthcare services beyond traditional dispensing, such as vaccinations and health screenings. The growing complexity of pharmaceutical treatments and the increasing demand for personalized medicine may be attracting more students to the field. The Veterinary Compounding Essentials course offered by the American College of Apothecaries demonstrates the growing need for specialized skills within pharmacy, including compounding medications for animals. Explore veterinary compounding training.
Beyond Health Sciences: Growth in Other Fields
While health-related disciplines dominated the application increases, other fields also experienced notable growth. Architecture and construction-related courses saw a 12 percent rise, reaching 18,309 applications, likely driven by ongoing housing demand and infrastructure projects. Engineering applications increased by 10 percent to 30,789, reflecting the continued importance of these fields in driving innovation and economic growth. Even arts degrees saw a 9 percent increase, with 44,857 applications, demonstrating a sustained interest in humanities despite recent debates about their value in the job market.
Trinity College Dublin experienced a particularly strong surge in arts applications, with a 6.5 percent increase overall. Notably, programs in Middle Eastern, Jewish, and Islamic civilizations (up 67 percent), law and German (up 41 percent), and film (up 47 percent) saw the most significant gains. This trend challenges recent discussions questioning the relevance of arts degrees, as highlighted by Trinity’s vice-provost and chief academic officer, Orla Sheils, who emphasized the unique human skills honed through arts education, skills increasingly valuable in the age of artificial intelligence. The University of Galway is also re-evaluating its arts provision, proposing a “transformation” of the program in response to declining popularity, as previously reported by The Irish Times.
The Enduring Value of Arts Education
The contrasting trends at Trinity College Dublin and the University of Galway underscore the ongoing debate about the role of arts education in the 21st century. While some institutions are adapting to perceived shifts in student demand, others are reaffirming the inherent value of a broad-based education that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills. In an era increasingly shaped by automation and artificial intelligence, these uniquely human skills are becoming ever more essential for success in a wide range of professions.
The CAO application figures provide a valuable snapshot of student interests and priorities, offering insights into the evolving landscape of higher education in Ireland. The dramatic increase in applications for veterinary medicine, coupled with broader gains in health-related fields, reflects a growing commitment to addressing critical societal needs and investing in the future of healthcare. The continued demand for arts and humanities programs, despite recent challenges, underscores the enduring value of a well-rounded education that prepares students for a complex and rapidly changing world.
The CAO is expected to release final offer rounds in August 2026, providing clarity on admission decisions for prospective students. Applicants are encouraged to regularly check the CAO website for updates and guidance throughout the offer process. Further information on veterinary medicine programs at SETU and ATU can be found on their respective websites.
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