Graduate Programme FAQs

The HPRA graduate programme offers two specialised streams. One focuses on medicines, and one focuses on medical devices. Each stream provides broad exposure to different departments and help develop a wide range of professional competencies.

Check our Graduate Programme page for more information about each stream. 

The next programme begins in September 2026.

Yes, we offer an annual salary for graduate positions. You will find details in the role profile. 

The programme is for 12 months.

You will work in the HPRA offices a minimum of two days per week and can work remotely up to a maximum of three days per week. Your manager will confirm which days you’ll be in the office. Please note the HPRA may adjust this arrangement, and you may be asked to work from other locations if needed. 

While a job isn’t guaranteed at the end of the year, the programme is designed to help you gain experience across different areas of the organisation, grow professionally and become a strong candidate for long-term roles at the HPRA. 

We’re committed to supporting your wellbeing and professional growth. Our working environment is guided by a People Strategy shaped through employee consultation and championed by our leadership team. It is built around four pillars – Purpose, Growth, Belonging and Wellbeing – and supports your journey here at the HPRA. Learn more by visiting our careers page. 

You can apply through our recruitment portal. 

Yes, you can apply again. We review all applications during shortlisting, even if you were previously unsuccessful. However, it is important to note we can only consider applications of recent graduates.

We post all our other vacancies on our website. See our careers page for information on non-graduate roles.

No, you do not need previous work experience. The application process allows you to demonstrate your talents gained through life experiences, study, and research.

Yes, you can. However, you should check the role profiles for the qualifications and criteria required for each stream before applying. 

You must be on track for or have achieved a 2.1 honours bachelor’s degree (NFQ level 8) in any of the following:

You will also need to demonstrate:

• Excellent communication, teamwork, and organisational skills
• Interest in contributing to the protection of public health through the regulation of medicines, medical devices, and other health products
• Excellent data analysis skills
• Demonstrate initiative and team working capabilities
• Highly motivated with the ability to manage deadlines

Once the closing date has passed, we will review all applications. If you have been shortlisted for an interview, we will email you to let you know. 

If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to a competency-based interview. This means we will ask you questions that relate to the competencies required for the role. You will meet with a panel of at least two people – usually someone from our HR team and one person from the graduate stream you applied for. The interviews are held virtually via MS Teams. 

Take some time to learn about the HPRA and the work we do. You should also review the role profile, so you understand the key skills and competencies we’re looking for.