Summer in Limerick

Athlete Friendly
Green Campus
LGBTQIA+ Friendly

Adore summer in one of Ireland's oldest cities

Learn about Ireland’s fascinating culture through great classes and exciting trips. Come to the lush and verdant University of Limerick for three weeks and take experiential courses in Irish culture, history, film, law, art, mythology, and engineering – taught by distinguished Irish faculty. During our Summer in Limerick program, you’ll fall in love with Irish culture and your new home in Ireland’s fourth-largest city, known for its preserved Irish history, 12th century castle, charming pubs, and art galleries.


What to Expect:

  • Language: English
  • Average Courseload: 1 course (3 U.S. credits)
  • GPA Requirement: 2.5

Highlights:

  • Ireland's "2015 University of the Year"
  • Strong support from the University of Limerick International Office
  • Nearby 12th-century castles and excursions to explore the rugged, natural beauty of western Ireland
  • Meal plan that covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner Monday through Friday
  • Eat local pub food and marvel at Irish dancers

Program Details

University of Limerick

The University of Limerick’s (UL) reputation has skyrocketed as a top university. In Ireland and around the world, students are impressed by UL’s innovative courses and high academic standards. Although a young university, the energetic, enterprising UL has a proud record of excellence in research and scholarship. It’s also one of the most diverse universities in Ireland, attracting students from more than 95 countries. Founded in 1972, the Sunday Times named UL the University of the Year in 2015.

Over 13,000 students enjoy the University of Limerick’s riverside campus, which is at the heart of a 600-acre park three miles above the ancient city of Limerick. The campus facilities are spread out over the beautiful campus grounds. The Shannon River runs right through the center. UL is proud to be one of the top “green” institutions in Europe. You’ll find outstanding fitness facilities, with weight rooms, an indoor track and basketball arena, and an Olympic-size swimming pool. From the on-campus pub to the outdoor farmer’s market on Tuesdays, everything you need is right on campus.

The University of Limerick is home to collections of fine Irish art, the Irish Chamber Orchestra, and the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance. UL hosts an array of artistic events, including music and drama performances, as well as art and photography displays. You can join over 70 clubs, societies, and volunteer opportunities, allowing you to make new friends and explore new interests all semester long.

Accreditation(s): AACSB-accredited (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), Department of Education and Skills, Ireland

Areas of study with at least 2 classes available

  • Art & Design
  • Business
  • Education
  • Communications

Don't see your major listed here? There may still be courses available. Browse our programs by major.

Areas of study with 3 to 7 classes available

  • Health
  • Humanities

Don't see your major listed here? There may still be courses available. Browse our programs by major.

On Summer in Limerick, you’ll take one course in Irish Studies, Education Health Sciences, Law, or Business Studies at the University of Limerick (UL), which has quickly gained a reputation among its peers for its innovative courses and high academic standards. The University is also home to some fine collections of Irish art, the Irish Chamber Orchestra, and the Irish World Music Centre.

All courses are taught by University of Limerick faculty and are worth 6 ECTS credits, or 3 US Credits, and you will enroll in one course.  Please select one first-choice module and two backup modules.

You can find the course options here on the UL website and there is additional course information in their module booklet, which can be downloaded from the same website.

Irish Studies:

Irish Life and Literature: This module will offer students an opportunity to explore, analyse and contextualise the culture, history and traditions of modern Ireland. You will assess writers, explores social, political and economic developments and discusses folklore, music and song in a supportive and guided environment.

Modern Irish Theatre: This module will offer students an opportunity to explore Irish theatre from the beginning of the Irish Literary Theatre in 1899 to 1999. This course will provide an introduction to Irish drama in the 20th Century as well as explore the relationship between Irish nationalism and Irish theatre in a supportive and guided environment. Students will attend professional theatre productions in Dublin

Taking Action: Campaigning for Social Justice: Explore a range of global issues of major interest and concern today in areas including climate change, migration, identity and inclusion, well-being and mental health, to develop knowledge and strategies in relating to building and running a high impact social media campaign.

Irish Traditions, Folklore and Culture: Ireland is well-known for its rich traditions and culture, including themes around dance, folklore, music and festivals. Join this module for a journey of mythical stories and cultural themes, and participate in workshops on Irish dancing, hurling and storytelling.

Law:

Terrorism, Crime & Justice: Terrorism represents one of the most challenging international crimes in contemporary times. This summer school will introduce students to the criminal justice system and theories relating to crime and terrorism. It will include an introduction to criminological and penological theories. In particular drawing on the Irish experience, students will be provided with an insight into trends and theories on terrorism.

Education Health Sciences:

Developing Self as a Healthcare Practitioner: This summer school provides a unique opportunity for students across a variety of disciplines to develop a greater awareness of the self in transforming practice. it will explore strategies for developing individual and collaborative approaches within contemporary healthcare practice, incorporating Celtic spiritual dimension to healthcare and gaining insights through reflection. It aims to foster an engaged connected learning environment in the spirit of creativity, dialogue and diversity.

Business Studies:

International Financial Markets and Trading – Bloomberg Certification This module introduces students to international financial markets with an emphasis on the investment decision process, as framed by behavioural finance. The concepts of psychological and cognitive biases are contextualised through the experience of active investment trading using the bespoke KBS Trading Floor, a simulated trading environment sponsored by Bloomberg. Students will be eligible to do the exams to gain Bloomberg’s Trading Floor Certification.

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.

Housing in Limerick

Location

Summer 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 and will certainly be a highlight of your time in Limerick!

Meals

Students spending the summer in Limerick will have a meal plan that covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner on weekdays. The accommodations also come with a fully-equipped kitchen.

For those interested in different options or who want to try an international dish, Limerick has plenty of on-campus restaurants for you!

Once a week, there is a market in the city that sells fresh fruit and vegetables at a reasonable price and throughout the city center there are various stores that sell international food which includes Chinese, Russian, Asian, African, and Caribbean products.

Inclusions and Amenities

  • 24-hour security
  • BathroomEnsuite
  • Bed linens
  • CommuteWalking
  • Desk
  • Kitchen Equipment
  • LaundryOn-site
  • Meal PlanIncluded
  • Single Room
  • Study Areas
  • Television
  • Wi-Fi

What's Included

Inclusions

Program fees are in US dollars and include the following:

  • Full-time tuition and fees
  • Accommodation
  • Excursions throughout Ireland
  • 3 meals per day, 5 days a week
  • Academic advising
  • Medical and accident insurance
  • CIS Abroad support services before, during, and after the program
  • Financial aid counseling
  • Assistance with travel arrangements
  • Predeparture orientation
  • Airport transfers to and from Shannon airport
  • University of Limerick orientation
  • On-site support
  • Internet access
  • Gym membership at the University Sports Arena
  • University of Limerick official transcript
  • The Local Life cultural program

Welcome & Orientation

Upon arrival you’ll take part in both the university and CISabroad orientation program. You’ll learn the “do’s and don’ts” of living in Ireland. Where to go out, how to stay safe, where to shop are just a few of questions that will be answered by our staff. 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). Oh, and we’ll throw in a welcome meal, something traditional and yummy (ever had Coddle? Think sausages in soup!) so that you can start to taste the local flavor.

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. We’ll walk you through some of the things to expect, rehash your time abroad so that you can remember the highlights and, yep, we’ll feed you again as part of our farewell to Ireland and the “Cead Mile Failte” (Hundred Thousand Welcomes) you received.

Program Excursions

While participating on a CIS Abroad program, you'll be able to take part in built-in day trips at no additional cost. These trips are subject to change from term to term; listed below are excursions that have run in the past.
Adare

Adare

Enjoy a day trip to this quaint, traditional village outside of Limerick. Highlights include the River Maigue, Adare Manor, Desmond Castle, cobblestone streets, and thatched roof cottages.

Limerick City Tour

Limerick City Tour

Get acquainted with your new home on a guided tour of Limerick. You’ll learn about how to get around, where to buy essentials, and get some recommendations for dining and entertainment. We’ll visit a few top spots, including King John’s Castle.

Site Director

Karina Tarrat Byrne
Travel Tip:

Travel with an open heart and an open mind. Temporarily step away from your own culture to experience something new.

Travel Tip:

Travel with an open heart and an open mind. Temporarily step away from your own culture to experience something new.

About:

Karina was born in Ireland where she lived until she was 16, when her family relocated to New York. She finished high school in New York and continued on to college where she completed her undergraduate degree. She subsequently returned to Ireland to pursue a master’s degree.

Having experienced education in different countries herself, a career in study abroad really appealed to her. Prior to joining CIS Abroad, she spent several years working for the Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University. In her previous role, Karina was in charge of student orientations, cultural programming, general onsite logistics and student support services.

She is excited to once again have the opportunity to introduce participants to Ireland and its culture, history, and beauty. Having been a visiting student herself, she knows she can relate to many of the experiences and difficulties students have as they settle in to life abroad, and she is looking forward to helping our participants have a wonderful time in Ireland!

Your Support Staff

Syd O
Travel Tip:

Make sure to explore the city that you’re in! Although the beauty of study abroad is you have the chance to travel all over the country and to other countries as well, sometimes people forget how many amazing things there are right there in the city they’re studying in! Make some local friends, participate in holidays and festivals, find that local beloved restaurant. Although I have many travel memories to talk about, some of my fondest or most nostalgic moments I have were the ‘in betweens’ so to speak – going grocery shopping with friends, hanging out in the school courtyard at night when the temperature outside was finally bearable, saying hello to the neighborhood cow (yes, there was in fact a neighborhood cow). Don’t neglect what you have right in front of you!

Advising and Enrollment
Travel Tip:

You’ll be supported every step of the way!

Advising

Kaylee Klinger, our student advisor and 2x CIS Abroad alum, can help match you with a program that fits your academic and personal objectives. It’s not always an easy choice, but you can’t go wrong! Once you’ve decided, we’ll guide to you submit an online application.

Enrollment

Once you’ve submitted your initial application and the fee, you’ll be assigned a Program Enrollment Coordinator. We’ll work closely together to guide you through the enrollment process and prepare you for a life-changing experience!

Dates & Prices

ADVISOR TIP: Please WAIT to book flights until you have received confirmed dates in your acceptance paperwork. Dates posted here are subject to change.

  • Application Deadline: Mar 15 (Estimated)
  • Arrival: May 22 (Estimated)
  • Departure: June 12 (Estimated)
  • Price: $5,660 (Estimated)
Additional Information:

As with all study abroad programs, you should count on a few additional expenses.

CIS Abroad reserves the right to alter fees at any time due to currency fluctuations and/or fee changes made by our partner universities.