University College Cork Logo University College Cork

Address: College Road, Cork, Ireland
Phone: +353 21 490 3000
Email: info@ucc.ie
Website: www.ucc.ie


University College Cork (UCC) requires international students whose first language is not English to meet specific English language proficiency standards. Here are the main accepted tests and their minimum scores:

  1. IELTS (Academic):

    • Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no individual section below 6.0.

  2. TOEFL iBT:

    • Minimum overall score of 90, with at least 21 in writing, 19 in reading, listening, and speaking.

  3. PTE Academic:

    • Minimum score of 63, with no section score below 59.

  4. Cambridge Exams:

    • Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE): Minimum score of 176, with no section below 169.
    • Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE): Minimum score of 180, with no section below 169.

  5. Duolingo English Test:

    • Minimum score of 110.

  6. Trinity ISE:

    • Integrated Skills in English (ISE) III with at least a pass in all components.

University College Cork (UCC) offers a diverse range of specialized programs across various disciplines. Here are some of the key areas of specialization:

  1. Business and Management: UCC’s Cork University Business School (CUBS) offers programs in business administration, finance, marketing, and international business. It is known for its strong emphasis on research, entrepreneurship, and corporate social responsibility.

  2. Science and Engineering: UCC has a robust science faculty with programs in chemistry, physics, biochemistry, and environmental science. The School of Engineering offers disciplines such as civil, mechanical, and biomedical engineering, with a focus on innovation and sustainability.

  3. Health Sciences: UCC has a strong reputation in health-related fields, particularly medicine, pharmacy, nursing, and public health. The School of Medicine is known for its research and training programs that integrate clinical practice with education.

  4. Arts and Humanities: The College of Arts, Celtic Studies, and Social Sciences offers programs in English, history, philosophy, and sociology. UCC is particularly noted for its strengths in Irish studies, creative writing, and cultural studies.

  5. Law: UCC’s School of Law is highly regarded for its comprehensive law programs, including commercial law, international law, and human rights law. The school emphasizes practical skills and research, preparing students for various legal careers.

  6. Food Science and Technology: UCC is a leader in food science education and research, offering programs that cover food innovation, sustainability, and quality assurance. The university has strong links with the food industry in Ireland.

  7. Computing and Information Technology: UCC offers programs in computer science, software engineering, and data analytics. The School of Computer Science and Information Technology focuses on cutting-edge research and development in areas like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

  8. Social Sciences: UCC provides programs in social work, psychology, and sociology, emphasizing research and practical applications. The university is known for its commitment to social justice and community engagement.

University College Cork (UCC) has several distinguished faculty members known for their contributions to research, academia, and public engagement. Here are some of the top professors associated with UCC:

  1. Professor John O'Halloran (Biology and Environmental Science): A leading researcher in ecology and biodiversity, Professor O'Halloran is known for his work on conservation biology and sustainable development. He has made significant contributions to environmental policy and education.

  2. Professor Mary Horgan (Medicine): An expert in infectious diseases and a prominent figure in the medical community, Professor Horgan is known for her research on HIV and other viral infections. She has served in various leadership roles in health organizations and has contributed significantly to medical education in Ireland.

  3. Professor Patrick O'Shea (Engineering): The President of UCC, Professor O'Shea is a prominent figure in engineering education and research, particularly in the fields of electrical and electronic engineering. His work focuses on telecommunications and systems engineering.

  4. Professor Niamh Brennan (Corporate Governance): A leading scholar in corporate governance and business ethics, Professor Brennan has influenced both academic research and practical applications in corporate policy. She has also contributed to public discourse on ethical business practices.

  5. Professor Siobhan O'Sullivan (Politics and Sociology): An expert in social policy and welfare, Professor O'Sullivan's research focuses on issues related to social justice, poverty, and equality. She is known for her advocacy work in the community and her contributions to public policy discussions.

  6. Professor Michael O'Leary (Economics): A recognized economist with expertise in labor economics and public policy, Professor O'Leary's research has had a significant impact on understanding labor markets and economic development in Ireland and beyond.

  7. Professor Louise McCrory (Philosophy): Specializing in philosophy of mind and cognitive science, Professor McCrory is known for her work on consciousness and the nature of mental states. She has published extensively in philosophical journals and contributed to interdisciplinary discussions on philosophy and science.

  8. Professor Jane Grimson (Computer Science): A leader in the field of computer science, particularly in artificial intelligence and human-computer interaction, Professor Grimson has contributed to advancements in technology and its application in various fields.

University College Cork (UCC) has connections to several notable figures who have received the Nobel Prize, particularly in literature and peace. Here are some prominent Nobel laureates associated with UCC:

  1. John Hume (Peace, 1998): An alumnus of UCC, John Hume was a key figure in the Northern Ireland peace process. He co-recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in fostering peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland, particularly through dialogue and negotiation.

  2. Seamus Heaney (Literature, 1995): While primarily associated with Queen's University Belfast, Heaney studied at UCC and became one of Ireland's most renowned poets. Heaney was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his powerful poetic voice and his ability to convey the complexities of Irish identity and experience.

  3. David Trimble (Peace, 1998): Also a co-recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize along with John Hume, Trimble played a significant role in the peace negotiations in Northern Ireland. He was a UCC graduate and served as the First Minister of Northern Ireland.

  4. Prof. William C. Campbell (Physiology or Medicine, 2015): While not a direct faculty member, William C. Campbell is a notable figure in the medical field who studied in Ireland, including at UCC. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for his discoveries related to treatments for parasitic diseases, particularly river blindness.

University College Cork , a world-class university, was founded in 1845 and combines a rich tradition of teaching, research and scholarship.

UCC is unrivalled in the quality of its academic programmes. Its courses are internationally recognised and some approximately 24,000 students take its undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. International students are part of a dynamic, multi-cultural community of scholars, academics and professionals. UCC enjoys a global reputation which draws 4,000 students from over 130+ countries across the world. The university offers a research-led curriculum that attracts the highest calibre of Irish and international students.

The university offers 130 degree and professional programmes based in it’s four Colleges: 

  • Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences
  • Business and Law
  • Medicine and Health
  • Science, Engineering and Food Science.


Situated in Cork, Ireland’s second city, UCC is the comprehensive globally-orientated research led university of the south of Ireland, providing a full range of internationally recognised programmes across all disciplines. UCC researchers work at the leading edge of high-impact academic scholarship, innovation, commercialisation, and industry collaboration. UCC is one of Ireland’s leading research institutions and its research income, collaboration rate with national and international industry is consistently very high.   The university hosts several renowned research centres including the Tyndall National Institute, APC Microbiome Ireland, Environmental Research Institute, Boole Centre for Research in Informatics and Analytical and Biological Chemistry Research Facility, to name a few.  

At UCC there is an emphasis on academic rigour, practical application and participation with many courses including work placements and industry input. It’s why we have graduate employment rates of 96% for undergraduate studies and 96% for postgraduate studies, it’s how UCC helps create graduates that are both work ready and world ready.

Our vibrant and modern campus is located in picturesque Cork, where students can combine heritage and a contemporary lifestyle. It offers students all the advantages of a bustling, vibrant and cosmopolitan city. Cork is permeated with parks, galleries, shops, restaurants, theatres and historical buildings so students are never short of recreational options. The city and university work well together in providing students with a rich academic and extra-curricular experience.  It’s the perfect environment to succeed and excel.

Why UCC

  • An extensive range of highly ranked undergraduate and postgraduate courses to choose from
  • Excellent student services and peer to peer support throughout your time at UCC to ensure your success
  • A truly international student and alumni community that you will be part of for life, with over 200,000 alumni worldwide
  • Career guidance and support with an exceptionally high number of graduates securing employment within three months of graduation
  • A well rounded student experience with first class facilities and services
  • A highly respected university in the top 2% of universities in the world
  • A vibrant student experience, with over 53 sporting clubs and 104 societies to choose from
  • An extensive range of modern, purpose built campus accommodation for international students

 Our performance across various global rankings and accreditations is testament to the quality of our degrees and calibre or our teaching, research and student experience:

  • Ranked in Europe's top 50 for teaching excellence as measured by Times Higher Education
  • Consistently graduate over 200 doctorate graduates per year

UCC has taken a lead role globally in relation to sustainability. This is evidenced by the following:

  • World's first Green Flag campus
  • Ranked 8th in the world by Times Higher Education Impact rankings for sustainable social and economic impact
  • Ranked 7th globally for sustainability as measured by the UI Green Metric Global university ranking

University College Cork (UCC) is recognized for several reasons that contribute to its reputation as one of Ireland's leading universities:

  1. Academic Excellence: UCC is consistently ranked among the top universities in Ireland and globally. Its commitment to high standards in teaching and research across various disciplines has earned it a strong academic reputation.

  2. Research and Innovation: UCC is known for its research output, particularly in areas such as health sciences, food science, renewable energy, and humanities. The university has several research institutes and centers that focus on innovation and societal impact, fostering collaborations with industry and other academic institutions.

  3. Historic Legacy: Established in 1845, UCC is one of Ireland's oldest universities. Its historic campus, with stunning architecture and a vibrant cultural atmosphere, attracts students and visitors alike.

  4. Student-Centered Approach: UCC emphasizes student engagement, with a wide range of extracurricular activities, support services, and opportunities for personal development. The university has a strong focus on creating an inclusive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

  5. Internationalization: With a diverse student body representing over 100 countries, UCC is a global institution. Its international partnerships and exchange programs enhance its reputation and broaden the educational experience for students.

  6. Strong Alumni Network: UCC has a notable alumni network, including prominent figures in various fields such as politics, business, academia, and the arts. Alumni success stories contribute to the university's prestige and appeal.

  7. Cultural and Community Engagement: UCC is involved in various community initiatives and cultural events, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility. The university also hosts numerous public lectures, performances, and exhibitions that enrich the local community.

  8. Quality of Life: Located in Cork, a vibrant and friendly city, UCC offers students a high quality of life, with access to cultural activities, outdoor adventures, and a welcoming atmosphere. The campus’s beautiful surroundings further enhance the student experience.