University of Limerick
Ireland
University of Limerick
Limerick, Ireland
Founded
1972
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
19,000+
QS World Ranking
#401 (2026)
Discover the University of Limerick: A Leading Irish Research University
Discover the University of Limerick: A Leading Irish Research University
The University of Limerick (UL) is a public research university established in 1972 as the National Institute for Higher Education, Limerick. It was granted full university status in 1989 under the University of Limerick Act, making it the first university established in Ireland since the founding of the state in 1922. Located on a stunning 340-acre parkland campus along the banks of the River Shannon, UL has grown into one of Ireland's most dynamic and innovative institutions.
UL is renowned for its focus on translational research, turning academic discoveries into real-world solutions, with research aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The university's Kemmy Business School holds prestigious Triple Crown accreditation from EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA, placing it among the top 1% of business schools globally. With over 19,000 students including more than 3,300 international students from over 100 countries, UL offers a truly global learning environment.
The university operates one of the largest cooperative education programmes in Europe, integrating paid work placements into degree programmes and maintaining partnerships with over 1,600 employers. This career-focused approach has resulted in one of Ireland's highest graduate employment rates. UL has earned recognition as Ireland's most recommended university in the International Student Barometer and won the Best Student Campus award at the 2025 Irish Education Awards.
Key Milestones
- 1972: Founded as the National Institute for Higher Education, Limerick — the first new higher education institution since Irish independence
- 1989: Granted full university status under the University of Limerick Act, becoming Ireland's first new university since 1922
- 1991: Expanded through incorporation of Thomond College of Education and affiliation with Mary Immaculate College
- 2025: Awarded Best Student Campus in Ireland at the Irish Education Awards and ranked #401 in QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Faculties and Programmes at the University of Limerick
Academic Faculties and Programmes at the University of Limerick
The University of Limerick offers a wide range of programmes from undergraduate to doctoral and post-doctoral levels across four academic faculties. UL provides over 70 undergraduate programmes and more than 200 postgraduate options, with disciplines spanning arts, business, engineering, health sciences, education, and more. The university's innovative curriculum is continually updated to meet the demands of industry and academia.
Faculty of Science and Engineering
Offers programmes in science, engineering, computing, mathematics, and design with strong industry links and research institutes in Materials and Surface Sciences, Software Engineering, and Mathematics.
- Computer Science and Information Systems
- Mechanical Engineering
- Cyber Security and IT Forensics
Kemmy Business School
A Triple Crown accredited business school (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA) among the top 1% globally, offering programmes in accounting, finance, economics, marketing, management, and risk analysis.
- Business Analytics
- Finance and Accounting
- Marketing and Management
Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
A vibrant centre of critical thinking encompassing law, languages, politics, sociology, history, English, and the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance, offering unique programmes not found elsewhere in Ireland.
- Law and Criminology
- Applied Linguistics and English
- Irish Music and Dance Performance
Faculty of Education and Health Sciences
A unique national grouping of six academic departments covering education, medicine, nursing, physiotherapy, psychology, and physical education with strong clinical and school placement programmes.
- Medicine (Graduate Entry)
- Nursing and Midwifery
- Physical Education and Sport Sciences
Irish World Academy of Music and Dance
Founded in 1994, this centre of academic and performance excellence is housed in a state-of-the-art building with two theatres, recording studios, and dance studios, attracting students from over 40 countries.
- MA in Irish Traditional Music Performance
- MA in Contemporary Dance Performance
- MA in Music Therapy
School of Design
Offers innovative programmes in design, architecture, and interaction design, combining creative thinking with practical skills and industry-relevant project work for the built environment and digital sectors.
- Architecture
- Product Design and Technology
- Interaction and User Experience Design
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Academic RequirementCompletion of secondary education equivalent to Irish Leaving Certificate with strong grades in relevant subjects
- IELTS ScoreMinimum 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 90 with no section below 20
- Application MethodEU students apply via CAO; Non-EU students apply directly through UL International Office
- Additional DocumentsAcademic transcripts, passport copy, and English language certificate
Postgraduate Admission
- Academic RequirementRecognised bachelor's degree with minimum 2:2 honours classification or international equivalent
- IELTS ScoreMinimum 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 90 with no section below 20
- Supporting DocumentsPersonal statement, two letters of recommendation, CV/resume, and academic transcripts
- MBA RequirementBachelor's degree plus 3+ years of professional or managerial work experience
Normal closing date for EU/Irish undergraduate applications through the Central Applications Office
Recommended deadline for non-EU international students applying for September entry to undergraduate and postgraduate programmes
Deadline for non-EU international students applying for January entry to eligible postgraduate programmes
Closing date for Autumn semester and full-year Study Abroad and Freshman Programme applications
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at the University of Limerick
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at the University of Limerick
The University of Limerick offers competitive tuition rates, particularly for a research-intensive institution. Fee structures differ for EU and non-EU international students, and many EU students may qualify for free tuition under Ireland's Free Fees Initiative. Contact the university directly for the most current fee schedules.
| Fee Category | EU Students (Annual) | Non-EU Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | EUR 3,000 (Student Contribution) | EUR 12,000 - EUR 17,000 |
| Postgraduate Taught | EUR 6,000 - EUR 12,000 | EUR 12,852 - EUR 23,302 |
| Student Centre Levy | EUR 96 | EUR 96 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | EUR 6,982 - EUR 12,450 | EUR 6,982 - EUR 12,450 |
| Total | Contact UL for programme-specific totals | Contact UL for programme-specific totals |
Kemmy Business School International Scholarship
Merit-based scholarship for non-EU fee-paying students enrolled in Kemmy Business School programmes, awarded as a reduction in tuition fees.
- Amount: Up to EUR 2,500 per year
- Eligibility: Non-EU international students with strong academic records
- Application: Automatically considered upon programme application
Faculty of Science and Engineering International Scholarship
Merit-based scholarship for non-EU students in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, designed to support academically excellent international students.
- Amount: Up to EUR 1,500 per year
- Eligibility: Non-EU students demonstrating academic excellence
- Application: Automatically considered upon programme application
Campus and Facilities at the University of Limerick
Campus and Facilities at the University of Limerick
The University of Limerick occupies a stunning 340-acre parkland campus along both banks of the River Shannon, just 5 km from Limerick city centre. The campus blends modern architecture with natural beauty, featuring green spaces, fountains, and the iconic Living Bridge — a pedestrian bridge that has become a symbol of the university. UL is widely regarded as having one of the most beautiful campuses in Ireland.
A unique inhabited pedestrian bridge connecting the north and south campuses across the River Shannon, serving as UL's most recognisable landmark.
A EUR 28 million sports facility featuring Ireland's first 50-metre Olympic swimming pool, Ireland's tallest climbing wall, and the Munster Rugby High Performance Centre.
A state-of-the-art library providing extensive print and digital resources, study spaces, and learning hubs for the university's students and researchers.
Housing and Dining
On-Campus Accommodation
UL offers on-campus accommodation across multiple student villages, mostly featuring single-bedroom apartment-style living. First-year non-EU international students receive housing priority.
- 8 student residences with modern amenities
- Accommodation costs from EUR 6,982 to EUR 12,450 per year
- 24-hour on-site campus security
Dining and Campus Services
The campus offers a variety of dining options including cafes, restaurants, and the popular weekly UL Farmers' Market every Tuesday featuring local produce.
- Multiple dining venues across both campuses
- Weekly Farmers' Market with local produce
- Student Centre with shops and social spaces
Student Life at the University of Limerick
Student Life at the University of Limerick
Student life at UL is vibrant and diverse, with over 100 clubs and societies catering to every interest. The university's Student Life organisation represents all UL students, and each student automatically becomes a member upon enrolment. International students are offered a dedicated seven-day orientation programme to help them settle in and connect with fellow students before classes begin.
Limerick, Ireland: A Vibrant and Affordable City
Limerick, Ireland: A Vibrant and Affordable City
Life in Limerick
Limerick is a cosmopolitan riverside city in southwestern Ireland that combines big-city amenities with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. With a lower cost of living than Dublin, excellent transport links, and a rich cultural heritage, Limerick is an ideal student city. The campus is just 5 km from the city centre and 20 km from Shannon International Airport.
Affordable Living
Limerick offers a significantly lower cost of living than Dublin, with average monthly student expenses of EUR 800 to EUR 1,000 covering rent, food, transport, and personal costs.
Rich Cultural Heritage
From the 13th-century King John's Castle to vibrant street art and a thriving music scene, Limerick blends medieval history with contemporary creativity and arts.
Gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way
Limerick is the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way, with easy access to the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and the stunning landscapes of County Clare and County Kerry.
Safety and Accessibility
Ireland is consistently ranked among the top safest nations globally. Shannon International Airport is just 20 km from campus, offering convenient international connections.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employers of UL Graduates
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
UL Global provides comprehensive pre-arrival and post-arrival support for international students, including visa guidance, immigration registration appointments, and a dedicated seven-day orientation programme.
Non-EU students typically require a Stamp 2 student visa. UL Global assists with immigration registration within three months of arrival and provides guidance on documentation requirements.
UL offers counselling services, academic advising, the First Seven Weeks support programme for new students, chaplaincy services, and disability support to ensure all students thrive.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Limerick: Worldwide Rankings
University of Limerick: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Limerick has steadily improved its position in major global rankings, reflecting its growing reputation for research quality, graduate employability, and international outlook. UL is ranked in the top 2% of universities globally and has earned a 5-star QS rating for sports facilities, graduate employability, teaching, infrastructure, and internationalization.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Education and Educational Research | US News | #55 |
| Engineering (Mechanical) | QS | #301-350 |
| Business and Management Studies | QS | #560 |
| Electronic and Electrical Engineering | QS | #401-450 |
Features
Strong industry partnerships and co-operative education programme placing 2,000+ students annually in paid internships\n\nResearch-active institution with multidisciplinary centres\n\nFocus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and internationalization\n\nModern campus with excellent student facilities
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - January
Location
Castletroy,\nLimerick, V94 T9PX,\nIreland
Map not found.
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
