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Immersion - Ireland Universities

As both a modern, technological society and a country steeped in history, Ireland, land of poets and writers, beckons with its lush green hills and friendly people. EAP offers intellectually stimulating and culturally rewarding academic programs in three distinct yet quintessentially Irish locations:

  • Dublin is the republic’s political capital, the home of past and present writers of international stature, and the center of the island’s phenomenal economic growth. Dublin also affords easy access to the countryside, seashore, and mountains.  
  • Known as the cultural capital of Ireland, Galway hosts numerous festivals, celebrations, and events, and is home to a large Irish-speaking population that proudly maintains the native language. Although Galway’s economy and population continue to grow, it remains a small city easily navigated on foot.
  • Referred to by locals as the “real capital” of Ireland, Cork is an energetic city with vibrant music, arts, and sports scenes. However it also has laid-back Irish charm, including breathtaking scenery, lively pubs, bustling colorful streets, and friendly people.​
Students attend classes with host country students.

Course Opportunities

Attend the same classes as Irish university students, choosing from a wide range of disciplines. Each institution offers a wide range of disciplines and provides consistently strong undergraduate education. The academic program is characterized by relatively small classes, independent and self-directed study focused in the major, and easily accessible professors.

Use the following resources to learn about courses on EAP:
 
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Units

You are required to take a full-time course of study while abroad; 21 to 24 UC quarter units are required each semester or 14 to 16 units per quarter. A total of 42 to 48 UC quarter units are required each year.
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Language of Instruction

English


Language Study

None


Internships, Research, and Independent Study

Independent study and internships for academic credit may be possible in this program. At the University College Cork, internship opportunities specifically designed for international students are offered through campus departments and organizations. Internships offer you an opportunity to gain professional experience while earning academic credit. Past EAP participants have interned for a member of the European Parliament, the Dublin City Council, and with such organizations as the International Education Office, Irish Center for Migration Studies, International Famine Center, and with various campus departments, faculties, and labs.
 
Arrangements are generally made at the EAP Study Center after arrival, and predeparture preparation may be required.
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Duration

Go to the Participants section to see current or past calendars.
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Fall :  
September to December​

Spring :  
January to late May or mid/late June​

Year :  
September to late May or mid/late June​
 

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Due to the success of its Access Programme University College Cork had the highest combined number of fulltime mature students, students with a disability, traveller students, and students from lower socio-economic backgrounds among Irish universities.
 
For the third time, UCC has been chosen as ireland's University of the Year.

Housing

You can choose to live in a university dorm or in private housing off campus. Dormitory space is limited at most sites, so timely housing application is important. Students often arrive in Ireland a week or two early to locate private housing to share with Irish or other international students. EAP students have noted that dormitories are usually deserted on the weekends, when most local students return home, so compare the benefits of both dormitory living and private housing before choosing your housing option. Students have been pleased with their housing, regardless of option. Extensive housing information is available on the host institution websites, in the online EAP Program Guide, and at the EAP Study Center in Edinburgh.
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On-site Support

The EAP program in Ireland is currently overseen by the EAP Study Center in Edinburgh. EAP students are supported by UC's network of EAP offices at every UC campus and partnerships with EAP host universities throughout the world. UC and local staff abroad help students integrate into Irish culture and provide assistance with academics, safety, and other issues.
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See the EAP Program Guide (PDF) for program-specific details about host institutions, program structure, and courses; academic culture and conduct; internships, research, & independent study; units, exams, and grades; orientation; housing; and information about the intensive language program (if applicable).​

Host Institutions

As part of the application process, you will be asked to rank your university preferences; therefore, EAP recommends that you explore carefully the host university websites. In evaluating the differences between universities, you might consider whether courses in your major are offered to exchange students, the number of students enrolled, the layout of the campus, the size of the nearest city, nearby attractions, the comments of knowledgeable family/friends/returnees, and your preference for an urban/suburban/rural locale. You will notice that these universities offer all the usual campus amenities, sports facilities, and cultural learning opportunities:
 

 

National University of Ireland, Galway

National University of Ireland, Galway
The National University of Ireland, Galway enrolls about 15,000 students; international students comprise approximately 10 percent of the total student population. The university is home to the faculties of Arts, Celtic Studies, Commerce, Engineering, Law, Medicine, and Science. Strong disciplines available include Anglo-Irish literature, archaeology, biological science, chemistry, ecological/environmental sciences, geology, history, physics, and women’s studies. Admission to the Celtic Studies Program is limited.
 
The campus consists of Victorian and modern buildings, including a library, lecture halls, laboratories, and social and recreational facilities. The university is located close to the center of Galway City, an academic, industrial, and tourist center.
 
 
 

Trinity College Dublin

Trinity College Dublin
Trinity College Dublin, the oldest university in Ireland, enrolls about 16,000 students. Trinity College Dublin is the sole constituent college of the university.
The departments open to you at this university are Drama, English, History, and Politics. Although you will take most courses within your major department, there may be opportunities to study relevant courses in other departments. The Drama Department offers courses in theater history, theory, and dance. Acting courses are not available for this program.
 
The campus is located in the center of Dublin on some 40 acres of cobbled squares, green spaces, and buildings that represent the accumulated architectural riches of nearly three centuries. The central location of the university ensures that the academic community is an intimate part of the city’s life.
 
 
 

University College Cork

National University of Ireland, Cork
The University College Cork enrolls about 16,500 students; about 2,000 are international students representing more than 80 countries. The university has seven faculties in Arts and Celtic Studies, Commerce, Engineering, Food Science and Technology, Law, Medicine, and Science. Strong disciplines include Celtic studies, chemistry, engineering (including civil and electrical), English, history, and music.
 
Cork is the second largest city in Ireland and a busy seaport. A variety of educational, sporting, and cultural facilities are available in the city. Among Cork’s cultural offerings are an art school with public painting and sculpture galleries, an opera house, two theaters, and a city museum. The city has an active social life and each year hosts international film, choral, and jazz festivals.
 
 
 

University College Dublin

University College Dublin
Established in 1854, University College Dublin has played a key role in the history of the modern Irish state. The university enrolls over 22,000 students, including 2,000 international students from over 80 countries.
Strong disciplines offered at the university include agriculture, archaeology, architecture, art history, biological science, Celtic studies, chemistry, classics, computer science, economics, engineering (including chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical), English, geography, geology, history, linguistics, mathematics, music, philosophy, political science, psychology, sociology, and women’s studies. Courses offered by the School of Business are not open to EAP students.
 
University College Dublin is the largest of Dublin’s three universities. The campus buildings at Belfield are modern, with well-equipped lecture theaters, laboratories, and seminar rooms. There is a central library building with more than one million printed volumes and a wide range of electronic material. The campus is located in the southern suburbs of Dublin within easy access to the city center. The university provides ample facilities for recreation and sports, including a modern sports center.
 

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Estimated Cost

Participation in UCEAP is a great value! The cost of studying abroad on UCEAP programs is typically less than that of non-UC study abroad programs. The dollar figures listed in the chart represent: 1) the amount of the fees that are paid directly to UCEAP in the current year, and 2) an estimate of the amount needed to cover personal living expenses in this location. Personal travel and entertainment are not included here.
 
Don't forget that you take your financial aid with you and the amount of your financial aid package will take into account the estimated TOTAL COST of this experience, as it is estimated below.
 
These expenses are estimated for 2012-13. Amounts will vary for 2012-13 participation due to potential changes to UC fees, exchange rate fluctuation, etc. Non-Resident Fees apply: If you are subject to out-of-state tuition at your UC campus, you will pay the same fees on UCEAP. For a more detailed breakdown of 2012-13 payment information, visit the Participants Portal and select the appropriate program. 
 
Here’s what is included in the estimate:
 
  • Predeparture expenses (health clearance, student visa, etc.)
  • Round-trip airfare
  • UC fees
  • Cost of attending the host university
  • Accident and medical insurance
  • On-site orientation
  • Room and board
  • Local transportation
  • Optional excursions
  • Books and other incidental expenses
  • Automatic transfer of credits and grades to your UC transcript
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Estimated EAP Costs*

Options Cost
  • Fall
  • Spring
  • Year
  • $16,300 - $16,700
  • $17,900 - $18,500
  • $31,900 - $32,700
*Based on most recent costs to the nearest $100.

Scholarships

UCEAP scholarships for the 2012-13 academic year are available. Please visit our scholarships overview page for general information and details  regarding eligibility requirements and application deadlines.

Application Requirements

Class Level:

Junior, Senior, Graduate

Language Prerequisites:

None

GPA:

3.00 cumulative GPA at the time of application and maintained through the end of the last term prior to departure.
GPA Note: Trinity College Dublin: 3.3 cumulative GPA is required for all departments.

Minimum Criteria:

 All applicants must also have:
  • Serious academic goals and a clear plan for integrating EAP studies into the student's UC degree program
  • Social and cross-cultural sensitivity; maturity; ability to adapt successfully to a different environment and an new education system; ability to assess and exhibit appropriate behavior in a variety of situations
  • A willingness to abide by program regulations
  • An endorsement by the Campus EAP Selection Committee and completion of all campus-specific requirements (an interview may be required)

Deadlines

Application deadlines and information on the application process are available through your Campus EAP Office. Supplemental predeparture materials will be required for many programs, including, but not limited to, host institution applications, visa and housing applications, medical clearances, etc.

For participation in the program, you must meet all deadlines and submit complete application materials.

Visit your Campus EAP Office for more information: