Summer Abroad in historic Waterford studying agriculture and animal science. Broaden your perspective and earn US academic credits with hands-on fieldwork, laboratory sessions, and cultural immersion experiences.
Are you pursuing a career in animal science or agriculture? Our Agriculture and Animal Science Summer Abroad Programme delivers a unique opportunity to gain practical, real-world experience while exploring global approaches to nutrition, animal production systems and sustainable farming practices.
Waterford is a coastal gem located in Ireland’s agriculturally rich southeast. From hands-on farm visits and feed mill tours to equine centres and cultural excursions, Waterford offers an ideal setting for a summer of academic exploration, career development, and personal enrichment.
At a Glance
- Study a 4-week programme at Waterford’s South East Technological University (SETU).
- Earn 6 US academic credits. Transcript from the University of Wyoming.
- Strengthen your academic knowledge with field and lab-based learning.
- Accelerate personal growth through cultural & professional immersion opportunities.
- Experience studying abroad with housing, transportation passes, and 24/7 support included.
South East Technological University (SETU)
Established in 2022, SETU is Ireland’s newest university, combining academic excellence with practical, career-focused learning. SETU’s welcoming environment and modern facilities make it ideal for students eager to explore Ireland’s agricultural industries.
With its close industry links, hands-on approach, and supportive international community, SETU offers a unique opportunity to experience sustainable agriculture and innovations in animal science at the heart of Ireland’s southeast coast.
What will I study?
Embark on a unique, hands-on academic journey in Waterford, a destination renowned for its thriving agricultural industries.
Designed for students majoring in animal science and agriculture, this 4-week summer programme combines classroom learning with field-based experiences. You will gain first-hand exposure to agricultural livestock and learn about the principles of animal nutrition from a global perspective.
Based at SETU, you’ll study under the guidance of experienced faculty and hear from guest speakers. Two core academic courses are complemented by structured site visits and professional engagements.
Explore local and national farms, visit food producers, tour equine centres and veterinary facilities, and meet industry leaders to see real-world applications of the academic course content. You’ll also gain insight into Ireland’s role in sustainable agriculture and animal husbandry, observing best practices that connect animal health, food systems, and environmental stewardship.
Programme Overview
COURSE 1: Principles of Animal Nutrition – 3 US academic credits – 45 Contact hours. (Transcript from the University of Wyoming)
Develop your understanding of the principles that underpin animal nutrition through a combination of classroom sessions and real-world experience. You will study how nutrients fuel metabolism, growth, reproduction, and performance in domestic and agricultural animals. Case studies, ration formulation, and feedstuff analysis, will help you to explore how nutrition influences animal health, productivity, and sustainability.
Field visits to Irish farms will bring concepts to life, showing how informed feeding choices support efficient and sustainable livestock production while promoting health and welfare standards.
COURSE 2: Agricultural Animals of the World – 3 US academic credits – 45 Contact hours (Transcript from University of Wyoming)
Explore a diversity of domesticated animals and global production systems with a focus on Ireland’s agricultural heritage and evolving farming practices. You’ll examine the biological, cultural and economic roles of livestock production – including cattle, sheep, swine, goats, poultry, and equine species – while evaluating how management systems must adapt to different climates and changing market needs.
Farm visits and industry engagement will foster an appreciation of Irish and international models, while discussion of livestock’s role in sustainability and food security will develop a global perspective on the future of animal agriculture.
Experiential Learning* – Experiential learning is key to both courses and combines fieldwork, industry engagement, and cultural experiences. In addition, three guest lectures will be delivered to underpin topics covered within the programme.
Farm & Industry Engagement (15-20 hours) – You’ll visit local dairy, beef, and sheep farms across the Waterford region to observe animal nutrition practices, pasture management, and welfare in action.
Tour a feed mill or feed analysis laboratory to understand ration formulation, quality control, and nutrient balancing. Networking opportunities with agricultural cooperatives and food producers will help you to understand Ireland’s farm-to-market systems and how local produce reaches global markets.
Applied Animal Science Activities (10-15 hours) – Get hands-on experience in ration
formulation and feedstuff evaluation using real case studies and farm data. Take part in interactive sessions comparing breed characteristics and production systems.
Round out your learning with a field trip to an equine breeding or training facility, where you’ll experience Ireland’s world-famous horse industry up close.
Global Perspectives & Cultural Context (10–15 hours) – Explore global perspectives and cultural context through a range of engaging activities.
You’ll discuss livestock’s role in sustainability and EU food systems with Irish agricultural policy specialists. Irish and U.S. farming practices will be compared in interactive sessions with SETU faculty, linking course concepts to your own studies.
Cultural Immersion – Your summer abroad is more than textbooks and labs. Experience Waterford for yourself to appreciate how agriculture, community, and Irish heritage are closely intertwined. Typical visits include:
- A tour of Waterford City
- A traditional Irish Sports workshop, such as Hurling
- Visit the Copper Coast
- Visit Kilkenny City and its famous castle
- Day trips and overnight stays to Cork, Dublin City and Wexford.
*Please note: Additional educational, cultural and social experiences are subject to change.
Why Waterford?
If you are seeking a summer abroad programme that blends agriculture, animal science, and Irish culture, Waterford has it all.
As one of Ireland’s most historic coastal cities—known for its medieval architecture, lively markets, and scenic countryside—Waterford is a winning destination for students. With its mix of tradition and innovation, it’s an inspiring place to study sustainable farming, livestock management, and animal nutrition.
You’ll gain hands-on experience through fieldwork, lab sessions, and cultural excursions. Along the way, you’ll discover how Ireland leads the world in sustainable agriculture and animal husbandry initiatives. Why not fuel your future career goals and add a global perspective to your résumé?
