Want to study abroad but can’t do an entire semester? University of Limerick’s Summer School is the perfect solution, offering compelling courses in a three week programme in Ireland’s mid-west.

Earn 3 US credits and enjoy UL’s award-winning campus and student experience. Choose from 10 exciting classes designed to combine academic learning and cultural experience.

The programme includes guided excursions to the very best of Ireland’s attractions, which may include places like the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, and Dublin city.

UL offers a whirlwind of a summer; the perfect blend of academia and adventure on one of Ireland’s most beautiful campuses.

About University of Limerick (UL)

The University of Limerick is an independent, globally connected university based in the west of Ireland. UL became a university in 1989 and has consistently ranked in the world’s top 100 young universities. It welcomes 15,000 students annually and is known for its focus on international education, with a third of all UL undergrads spending a semester abroad, and a 17% international student population.

UL is progressive, future-focused, and one of the world’s top Green campuses. It prides itself on modern and pioneering facilities. UL’s new library is one of the most digitally advanced in the world with a 10-meter high book vault and robotic crane that allows students to retrieve a book from thousands of drawers at the touch of a button. You’ll find Ireland’s first, and only, academic Flight Simulator here.

UL supports research excellence that has a demonstrable impact for communities, economies, society and culture. Six major research and innovation centres have their home on campus and work closely with PhD students, including the Bernal Institute, lero, HRI and Nexus.

Students talk about their experiences in UL Summer School (and why you have no excuse not to)!

UL Academics

UL has five main departments (known as faculties); the Kemmy Business School; Science & Engineering; Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences; Education & Health Sciences; and the Irish World Academy of Music & Dance. Each school boasts state-of-the-art facilities and offers hands-on experience. Teaching and learning is research-led, with a focus on preparing students for the challenges of the future.


If you are a Business major or considering classes in it, you’ll be pleased to know the Kemmy Business School has AACSB accreditation – putting it among the top 5% of international business schools. Over 50 programmes are accredited by professional bodies.


In Science & Engineering, there is a particular research focus in the areas of materials, advanced manufacturing, software, and applied mathematical sciences.


Those studying sport, physical education or sports science may already be aware that UL is responsible for some of the leading research in these areas. UL students use the latest sports performance analysis techniques in these programmes, including cryotherapy research and an on-campus altitude training centre.

What can I study?

OPTION 1: Summer School – 3 weeks

There is a range of classes offered across several subjects:

  • Irish Studies
  • Business (taught in the AACSB-accredited Kemmy Business School)
  • Law
  • Education Health Sciences, Sports Science, Physical Education
  • STEM summer research (see below heading for more information)

You may choose one course for your summer programme, please follow this link to course descriptions.

Each class offers an intensive and experiential learning environment. Over 45 hours of study, you’ll be taught in small groups by faculty members who are experts in their fields. Lessons continue outside the classroom with guided tours, field trips and practical labs.

On completion of your course you’ll receive an official UL transcript and attendance certificate.

OPTION 2: STEM SUMMER Research

Are you interested in an Engineering research placement this summer? Look no further! Alongside UL, Learn International is offering research opportunities for Engineering students. This programme is preferable for juniors or sophomores with a strong GPA.

In this capacity, students will conduct 7.5 hours of research per day for 8 weeks with 3 off-campus days for cultural trips with the UL’s summer school. Assessments for this programme include an oral presentation and a final research report.

You can view the Summer 2022 research projects here.

To enroll in this programme, students must have a 2.9/3.0 GPA. Please contact the academic advisor below for further information.

UL Campus Life

UL campus is one of the most scenic in the world and is probably what you picture when you think of Ireland. Set on 148 hectares of green parkland, with the River Shannon running right through it, the campus has its own trails, fountains and ruins to explore as well as distinctive places to hang out like the Living Bridge and UL Pontoon.

On-campus purpose-built student villages, 16 restaurants, the concert hall, and expansive sports facilities all combine to create a community feeling. 

There’s always a packed calendar of on-campus events from free lunchtime concerts to the International Festival. The campus is just a 20 minute drive from Limerick City and its famous nightlife.

Why Limerick?

Limerick was founded by the Vikings over a thousand years ago. A walk around the city today is a lesson in living history. Walk around the magnificent King John’s Castle or St. Mary’s Cathedral, which both date back to the 12th century, and then the Hunt Museum with its extensive collection of antiques.

Limerick city has plenty of festivals, live music, theatres, and outdoor markets to fill your weekend. It was the European City of Sport 2011 and watching a rugby match in the famous Thomond Park is a must-do.

Limerick is a great base to explore the rest of Ireland. The first thing you can tick off your bucket list is the Cliffs of Moher, just 80 minutes from UL. Other areas that demand to be seen are the astounding Ring of Kerry, the Burren and the Wild Atlantic Way.

The capital city of Dublin is two hours away with a bus that leaves straight from campus.
At A Glance
Summer in UL
Dates
Summer school: 29 May-19 June 2024
STEM research: 29 May-24 July 2024
Duration
Standard: 3 weeks

STEM Research: 8 weeks
Apply By
24 March 2024
What's included?

Airfare, materials for class, in-country transportation, weekend meals, and spending money aren’t included.

2024 Fees

3-week summer school (2024): €4,250

8-week STEM research: TBD

Application fee

€95 Non refundable

Commitment fee

€500 Non refundable

*Application and Commitment fees are in addition to the programme fee.

Scholarship
Up to €500