Emergency services and armed forces

The emergency services and armed forces offer flexible, dynamic careers to the right people, along with a strong sense of contributing to their community or their country.

Although a third-level qualification is not a requirement for entry to these sectors (the usual entry route is the same for graduates as non-graduates), a degree qualification will enhance future career advancement. In the case of cadetships within the military, a degree is a prerequisite.

What to expect

Armed forces personnel work to protect a country’s security, to provide multi-national peace-keeping support and to deliver humanitarian aid relief operations. The range of roles within the armed forces include: operational officers, IT, engineering, logistics, healthcare and management. In the Republic of Ireland, the armed forces comprise the permanent defence force – army, naval service and air corps. In Northern Ireland, opportunities exist within the British Army, Royal Air Force, Royal Navy and Royal Marines.

Emergency services deal with protecting and maintaining public safety – they include the fire service, the police force and the ambulance service. Again, these services are separate for Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

The day-to-day reality of working in these sectors means ‘hands on’ experience and great variety within a working day. But, while working in these sectors can be very fulfilling, it can also be very stressful and should not be undertaken lightly. These roles are suited to people who first and foremost are committed to this type of work and who also have the required mental and physical stamina. You will need good organisational ability, good problem solving/analytical skills and the ability to communicate in a clear, concise manner.

• Emergency services and armed forces FAQs: everything you need to know about getting a job in emergency services and armed forces