IFSA-Butler at NUI, Maynooth

  Ireland

Maynooth

Term: Academic Year, Fall, Spring 
Dates: September - June

Description: The National University of Ireland, Maynooth is located in the town of Maynooth, 15 miles west of Dublin city in the county of Kildare. Maynooth College was established as a national seminary by royal charter in 1795. It has been independent and self-governing since 1997. The university has long since expanded beyond its original role. It now welcomes more than 5,000 students in the faculties of Arts, Celtic Studies, Philosophy, Science, Engineering and Theology.

Highlights: Ireland is divided into four provinces: Ulster, Leinster, Connacht and Munster. These provinces are in turn are divided into 32 counties. Six of Ulster's nine counties make up Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. The remaining three counties of Ulster and the other provinces constitute the Republic of Ireland.

Apart from the spectacular beauty of the country and the richness of its history, Ireland is famous for music, art and folklore. This heritage is treasured around the world by the descendents of emigrants and the people among whom they settled. From the end of 19th and into the 20th century, a surge of pride in Irish nationalism yielded some of the world's greatest literary works and contributed heavily to the impetus for Irish independence from Britain. Although most students think of Ireland as a place to undertake courses in Irish studies or liberal arts, curricula in science, engineering and computer science are widely available.

The intellectual traditions of Ireland and her reverence of scholarship date back to medieval times. Schools and monasteries flourished to such an extent that for several centuries they were the centers of learning and religion for all of western Europe. This heritage is reflected today in the academic excellence and prestigious reputation of Ireland's colleges and universities.

The academic year in Ireland runs along roughly the same time frame as the American academic year. It begins in late September and ends in mid- June. Teaching terms usually consist of three ten-week periods separated by two four-week breaks, although some universities have switched over to the semester system.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: Inquire for more info.

Experience Required: no