Five Reasons to Study at the University of Limerick

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Why Study at the University of Limerick?

Posted 1 February 2023 Best Universities in Ireland Ireland University Profiles

The University of Limerick (UL) is known for its academic excellence and innovation in Ireland. Founded in 1972, UL has grown rapidly to become one of Ireland's leading universities which is consistently ranked among the top institutions nationally and internationally. Key University of Limerick rankings include 151–200th in the THE Young University Rankings and 86th in the THE Impact Rankings. The University of Limerick's acceptance rate is 70%.

At the University of Limerick, international students are challenged and demanded to bring out their best through a wide range of courses catering to individual interests, creating a complete university experience. The University of Limerick was named Ireland’s University of the Year by the Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019, and it is also one of the leading international universities in Ireland, with over 18,000 students enrolled from around the world. Limerick is also a leader in graduate employability and delivers cooperative education in close association with industry. Being a centre for academic excellence and thriving industry-led research makes Limerick a popular choice for international students studying in Ireland

Learn more about why studying at the University of Limerick is a smart choice for international students below. If you are interested in studying in Ireland and want to get detailed information about how to apply, arrange your free consultation with SI-Ireland today.

Five Reasons to Study at the University of Limerick

1. Graduate employability

Limerick is a leader in graduate employability because of the industry-led programs that have been designed in partnership with employers. University of Limerick courses are professional-oriented, so students can gather the specific skill sets needed for the workforce.

The reputation of a UL degree is such that more than 96% of graduates are employed or pursuing higher studies. They also have higher-than-average salaries in the country, and the overall graduate employment rate has been higher than the national average for over 14 years. At the global level, UL has been ranked among the Top 200 Universities for Graduate Employability by the QS Graduate Employability Rankings.

The Award-winning Career Services at the university also ensure that students have access to an extensive range of career development programs, employability-focused activities, and one-to-one consultations to give their career an edge. The team also hosts the country's largest Higher Ed Careers Fair, bringing over 130 employers onto the campus.

The strong employability focus of the university right through the curriculum enables students to be equipped with the competencies and skills they need to build a thriving career. The services and support given by the university during the education programmes, including work placements, make UL graduates among the most employable in the country. 

2. Amazing student campus

The University of Limerick campus is one of the most unique and beautiful in the world, sprawled along both sides of the River Shannon.

Spread across 340 acres of land, with 110 acres on the north bank and 226 acres on the south bank, the entire region makes for a delightful stay for students who can enjoy the pathways along the river and through the forest. The serene landscape of the campus is beautified even more by the exceptional village-style residences for the students. The UL campus is calm and peaceful and has facilities with the latest technologies to help students have the best of both worlds. 

The New Glucksman Library is one of the most digitally advanced in the world. For Aeronautical Engineering students of the University, there is the provision to use Ireland's only campus flight stimulator. UL is known as ‘Ireland’s Sporting Campus,’ as it has the country’s first altitude training centre, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and the National Strength and Conditioning Centre. Students can also explore the different cafes and restaurants on the campus to enjoy the best of Irish cuisine. 

UL campus was adjudged as the "Best Student Campus" in 2019 and 2020 by the Education Ireland Awards for the impact the campus has on key areas of student life.

3. Wide range of courses

The extensive range of University of Limerick courses offered by four faculties helps unlock students' potential based on their specific interests. The Kemmy Business School, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, and Faculty of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences offer more than 200 courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. 

Apart from the full-time degree programmes, professionals can take up part-time professional study options as well, which are available in different formats, allowing students to study online, in-person or in a blended environment. They can opt for short-term courses leading to micro-credentials or ones with longer durations to earn Certificates, Diplomas, Professional Doctorates, and Degrees. The university has also collaborated with the Government of Ireland to offer 100% funded certificate and diploma programmes for the unemployed and returners to enhance their skills. These courses are also available for the employed with 90% funding. 

The University also provides extensive research opportunities supported by over 30 research centres. Courses at Limerick have been made in accordance with the skills needed by the industry, making the curriculum highly job-oriented and academically rich in its approach.

4. Affordable living costs

Limerick is among the most affordable student cities in Ireland. It is Ireland's third largest city, and the living costs for students are relatively lower than in major cities such as Dublin.

International students can choose to live on or off campus, and both options are budget-friendly for students wanting to pursue higher education overseas. They can get plenty of options for the kind of residence, ranging from shared apartments to individual units in and around the neighbourhood. Limerick's utilities and daily expenses are lower than in other major urban centres. Groceries, dining out, transportation, and entertainment options are generally more affordable, allowing students to manage their expenses more effectively. Local markets, discount stores, and student discounts further increase the city's affordability. 

Students can also get numerous opportunities for part-time employment within the city, allowing them to supplement their income and cover living expenses. The city and the campus also provide a safe and stress-free living environment conducive to learning and growing. With careful budgeting and smart financial planning, students can enjoy a fulfilling academic experience in Limerick without unnecessary financial burden.

5. Student support services

A large part of the impeccable student experience at the University of Limerick can be attributed to the strong and responsive Student Support Services available for local and international students looking for guidance. The services range from student personnel services to specific learning support units. 

The Careers Service at the University guides students in developing and implementing career plans ahead of their graduation by providing career advice and information, career fairs, vacancy announcements, and career planning seminars. The Student Affairs Division at the university offers physical, emotional, and academic support to students through a range of professional activities, some of which are also conducted with hell from the local communities. 

The Information Technology Division makes sure that the students can take advantage of the IT resources available at the university. International students needing support with English language skills can avail of the University Language Centre programmes. 

Study at Limerick University

Arrange for a free consultation with SI-Global today to begin your journey towards studying at the University of Limerick.

Universities featured in this article:

  • University of Limerick
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