Ireland is an island to the northwest of continental Europe. It is the third-largest island in Europe and the twentieth-largest island on Earth. To its east is the larger island of Great Britain, from which the Irish Sea separates it.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.

Part time learning allows one to obtain part-time degrees even if one cannot attend school on a full-time basis. One can learn at his or own pace, gradually accumulating credits which count towards final qualification.