Semester in Limerick
University of Limerick

Why Life in Limerick

Limerick is a small, unique city of 94,000 people located on Ireland’s west coast. It’s historic, yet modern in its architecture, industry, and ambiance. Georgian cathedrals and castles contrast with recently built high-rises. Residents treasure Limerick for its laid-back atmosphere, rich history, beautiful castles, and diverse population.

Walk the streets of Limerick to get a real taste of Irish culture. Enjoy the up-and-coming riverfront scene, fantastic museums, and the city’s proximity to the natural beauty of Ireland’s west coast. During your time in Limerick, you may become a die-hard rugby fan (the city’s favorite sport). For an authentic experience, cheer on Munster at Thomond Park alongside the locals. Traditional pubs are scattered throughout the city, where you can hear Irish fiddlers play their tunes at night.

The city is renowned as a center for excellence in technology. It’s home to the National Technology Park and to many international technology firms. Limerick is also known for its playwrights and actors, and there are always theatrical events to attend. In the surrounding countryside, you’ll discover peaceful farmland dotted with the remains of hundreds of castles.

Conveniently located only 20km from Shannon Airport, Limerick makes travel affordable and easy. Your options are endless, including visiting Dublin, flying to continental Europe, or driving up the coast to see the Cliffs of Moher. The University of Limerick is located just outside of town. Transportation to and from the city is quick, so you’ll always be connected.

Live The Local Life

• Food Festivals

  Ireland has undergone a food revolution in the last twenty years. Try out the Farmers’ markets where you get the best meat, cheese, milk, butter, yoghurt and juices. It is worth checking out the Milk Market in Limerick city on a Saturday morning, Ireland’s oldest market. It has lots of lovely artisan and local food.

• Hurling and Gaelic Football

  Yes Ireland has two sports of its own. Go to both and you will not be disappointed.

• Thomond Park

  There’s nothing like experiencing the “Munster roar” in Thomond Park and seeing the unique synergy between the Munster rugby team and the fans at a live game. It gets better with the "behind the scenes" Thomond Park tour, with access to places normally reserved for players and coaches.

• Adare - “Ireland’s prettiest village”

  Just half hour from Limerick City, the heritage town of Adare on the banks of the River Maigue is a required stop on any tour of Limerick. It’s a postcard that has no shortage of attractions. There’s the 19th Century Adare Manor, the gorgeous thatched cottages that once housed the manor’s workers, the ruins of three ancient monasteries, the impressive Adare Heritage Centre, a celebrated golf course and a 2km riverbank walk that takes in some of its best historic buildings.

Location

Semester in Limerick students live in a campus village located on the River Shannon and close to the campus sporting facilities. Living here is a great way to form a community with Irish and international students and will certainly be a highlight of your time in Limerick!

Watch Abby’s and Shelby’s housing tour videos to get an idea of what your housing could be like.

Meals

Your accommodation comes with a fully-equipped kitchen so you can cook your own delicious meals. There are several grocery shops and a supermarket located close to the university where students can purchase food and other supplies.

For those interested in fresh food or who want to try an international dish, Limerick has options for you. Once a week, there is a market in the city that sells fresh fruit and vegetables at a reasonable price, as well as a farmers market right on campus! International grocery stores abound in Limerick and you’ll find options that sell Russian, Asian, African, and Caribbean products.

Inclusions and Amenities

• BathroomEnsuite
• Bed linens
• CommuteWalking
• Desk
• Kitchen Equipment
• Laundry
• Single Room
• Television
• Wi-Fi

Inclusions

Program fees are in U.S. dollars and include the following:

• Full-time tuition and fees
• Accommodation
• Cultural Excursions
• Academic advising
• Medical and accident insurance
• CIS Abroad support services before, during, and after the program
• Financial aid counseling
• Assistance with travel arrangements
• Online pre-departure orientation
• Airport pickup
• On-site support
• University of Limerick orientation
• Student Union fees
• Gym membership
• University of Limerick official transcript
• The Local Life cultural program

Welcome & Orientation

Upon arrival, take part in a comprehensive orientation program. Learn the “do’s and don’ts” of living in Ireland from your site director, like where to go out, how to stay safe, and where to shop. They’ll also give you tips on how to blend in like a “Culchie” (anyone born outside of Dublin) or a “Jack” or “Jackeen” (anyone born in Dublin). Enjoy a traditional welcome meal (Ever had Coddle? Think sausages in soup!) so that you can start to taste the local flavor. Also learn the lingo – you simply must say “lovely” or “grand” every time you would ordinarily say “awesome.”

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

Though you’re not an astronaut returning from space, re-entering your home culture after being abroad can be shocking to the system. Your site director will walk you through some of the things to expect and help you reflect on your time abroad so that you can remember the highlights. And – of course, one last group meal as part of our farewell to Ireland and the “Cead Mile Failte” (Hundred Thousand Welcomes) you received.