Dublin is not only the capital of Ireland but also the country's largest and most prominent educational hub. Recognized for its long-standing academic history, the city boasts four major universities and a wide array of other higher education institutions, making it a center for learning, research, and innovation. In 2012, Dublin earned the title of European Capital of Science, reflecting its status as a leader in scientific research and development.

Trinity College Dublin stands as the oldest university in Ireland, established in 1592 by Royal Charter under the reign of Elizabeth I. Located in the heart of Dublin on College Green, Trinity College (TCD) has a rich legacy and now accommodates over 18,000 students. Historically, the college was closed to Roman Catholics until 1793 and only opened its doors to them in 1970.

The National University of Ireland (NUI), headquartered in Dublin, includes the renowned University College Dublin (UCD). Founded in 1854, UCD is now Ireland's largest university, with more than 30,000 students. Its main campus, located about 5 kilometers from the city center in Belfield, offers a diverse range of programs and is a hub for research and academic achievement.

Dublin is also home to the Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin), formed in 2019 through the merger of the Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT), Institute of Technology Tallaght, and Institute of Technology Blanchardstown. With a student population of over 28,000, TU Dublin is the second-largest university in Ireland and provides courses in various fields, including engineering, architecture, health, journalism, digital media, and business. Its three major campuses in Grangegorman, Tallaght, and Blanchardstown cater to students across a broad spectrum of disciplines.

Dublin City University (DCU), formerly the National Institute for Higher Education (NIHE), is another prominent institution in the capital. Located in the northern suburbs of Dublin, DCU offers courses in business, engineering, science, communication, languages, and education, and is home to around 16,000 students. In addition to its main Glasnevin campus, DCU hosts various educational institutions, including St. Patrick's College and the Mater Dei Institute of Education.

The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), situated in the city center, is a distinguished medical school that became a university in 2019. RCSI offers medical programs and contributes significantly to Ireland’s healthcare education. Alongside RCSI, UCD and Trinity College also feature large medical schools that train future healthcare professionals.

Dublin is also home to a number of specialized institutions, including the National College of Art and Design (NCAD), which is dedicated to the arts, design, and media, and the National College of Ireland (NCI). The Economic and Social Research Institute and the Institute for Advanced Studies further enhance Dublin’s reputation as a center for research and academic excellence.

In addition to public institutions, Dublin boasts several private colleges, including the Dublin Business School (DBS), which is the largest private higher education institution in Ireland, and Griffith College Dublin. The Institute of Public Administration provides specialized training in public administration and management.

The city’s educational landscape is further enriched by research institutions such as the Royal Irish Academy, whose membership is regarded as Ireland’s highest academic honor. Dublin’s Institute of International and European Affairs is another key institution contributing to the global academic dialogue.

In the suburbs of Dublin, Dún Laoghaire hosts the Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT), which focuses on art, design, business, and media technology education.

In 2019, Dublin joined the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, emphasizing its commitment to lifelong learning and educational development for all.

With its extensive network of universities, research centers, and specialized colleges, Dublin continues to attract students from across the globe, solidifying its place as Ireland's leading educational center.