University of Limerick Logo University of Limerick

Address: Castletroy, Limerick, Ireland
Phone: +353 61 202 700
Email: admissions@ul.ie
Website: www.ul.ie


The University of Limerick (UL) requires international students from non-English-speaking backgrounds to demonstrate English language proficiency. Accepted tests and minimum scores are as follows:

  1. IELTS (Academic):

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

  2. TOEFL iBT:

    • Minimum overall score of 90, with at least 21 in speaking and writing, and 20 in reading and listening.

  3. PTE Academic:

    • Minimum overall score of 61, with no section below 59.

  4. Cambridge English:

    • C1 Advanced (CAE): Minimum score of 176, with no section below 169.
    • 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 a pass in all components.

The University of Limerick (UL) is known for its diverse and industry-focused programs across various fields. Here are some key areas of specialization:

  1. Engineering and Technology: UL is renowned for engineering disciplines like mechanical, civil, electronic, and aeronautical engineering. The university's emphasis on industry placements and hands-on experience makes its graduates highly employable.

  2. Business: The Kemmy Business School offers programs in accounting, economics, human resources, and entrepreneurship. Known for its practical approach, the school encourages innovation and often partners with businesses for student internships and projects.

  3. Health Sciences: UL offers programs in medicine, nursing, physiotherapy, and public health. The Graduate Entry Medical School is one of Ireland’s few such programs and focuses on a patient-centered approach. Health sciences students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical placements.

  4. Computer Science and Digital Media: UL’s School of Computer Science and Information Systems offers programs in software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity, along with a renowned digital media program that emphasizes animation, gaming, and multimedia production.

  5. Education and Teaching: UL is recognized as a leader in education and teacher training, offering programs for primary and secondary education. The School of Education emphasizes modern pedagogical methods and practical training in real classroom settings.

  6. Humanities and Social Sciences: UL offers courses in sociology, law, history, and psychology. It is especially noted for its research in Irish cultural studies and offers unique programs focused on Irish language, literature, and heritage.

  7. Sports and Exercise Science: UL has Ireland’s only specialized sports campus and is known for its programs in sports science, physical education, and coaching. The campus includes high-quality sports facilities and research labs that support athletic performance and wellness studies.

  8. Science and Mathematics: The university offers programs in fields like biochemistry, environmental science, and mathematics, with a focus on research and real-world application in these sciences.

The University of Limerick (UL) has several distinguished faculty members who are known for their research, academic contributions, and industry expertise. Here are some notable professors:

  1. Professor Kerstin Mey (Art and Education): Serving as UL’s President and previously Vice President for Academic Affairs, Professor Mey is a leader in arts and humanities research. Her work focuses on contemporary visual culture and the intersection of art, technology, and public engagement.

  2. Professor Colum Dunne (Health Research): Head of the Graduate Entry Medical School and Director of Research in the School of Medicine, Professor Dunne is renowned for his research in translational medicine, particularly in infection control, health systems, and patient safety.

  3. Professor Alan Donnelly (Sports Science and Exercise Physiology): Known for his research in physical activity and public health, Professor Donnelly studies physical fitness, exercise physiology, and wellness, making significant contributions to Ireland’s physical health guidelines.

  4. Professor Norelee Kennedy (Physiotherapy): UL’s Vice President for Research and a professor in the Department of Physiotherapy, Professor Kennedy’s work is recognized internationally for her contributions to chronic disease management and rehabilitation science.

  5. Professor Stephen Kinsella (Economics): Known for his expertise in applied economics, Professor Kinsella is frequently consulted on economic policy matters. His research includes fiscal policy, healthcare economics, and economic modeling, making him a prominent voice in Irish and European economic circles.

  6. Professor Helena Lenihan (Economics): A professor at Kemmy Business School, Professor Lenihan is recognized for her research in economic policy, specifically in innovation and firm performance. She advises policy on economic development and is widely published in economic policy and entrepreneurship.

  7. Professor Edmond Magner (Chemistry and Materials Science): Professor Magner specializes in biomaterials, electrochemistry, and catalysis. His research contributes to advancements in materials science, renewable energy, and biomedicine.

  8. Professor Sarah Jayne Blakemore (Psychology and Neuroscience): Known internationally for her research on adolescent brain development, Professor Blakemore's work in psychology and neuroscience has informed policies and programs supporting adolescent mental health and education.

  9. Professor Michael Zaworotko (Chemical Sciences): One of the most cited researchers in materials chemistry, Professor Zaworotko focuses on crystal engineering, particularly for applications in gas storage and separation. His work on materials science has been influential globally.

The University of Limerick (UL) does not have any Nobel laureates among its alumni or faculty. However, it is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation across various fields. While UL has not produced Nobel Prize winners, its faculty and researchers are engaged in impactful work, contributing to knowledge in areas such as health sciences, engineering, and humanities.

The university fosters a collaborative research environment and participates in international projects that often involve Nobel laureates and esteemed institutions, highlighting its commitment to addressing real-world challenges through high-quality research.

The University of Limerick (UL) is an independent, internationally focused University with over 15,000 students and 1,500 faculty and staff. It is a young, energetic and enterprising University with a proud record of innovation in education and excellence in research and scholarship. UL’s mission is to promote and advance learning and knowledge through teaching, research and scholarship with a particular focus on the generation of knowledge which is relevant to the needs of Ireland’s socio-economic development. The university offers a range of programmes up to doctoral levels in the disciplines of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Business, Education and Health Sciences, Science and Engineering.

UL offers high quality, innovative degree programmes which are relevant and current for the world in which we live. Our broad range of full and part-time postgraduate programmes, combine innovative teaching methods and award-winning faculty with state-of-the-art facilities. The University has an established reputation as an institution that has strong links with industry, commerce and the professions as well as the public sector.

 

UL graduates continue to enjoy exceptional employment prospects with a graduate employment rate that is consistently higher than the national average. Part of the reason for this is that UL has built an outstanding reputation and excellent relationships with employers through a variety of partnerships and through the university’s Cooperative Education programme, one of the largest in Europe. Each year, approximately 2,000 UL students across 56 degree programmes undertake a six- to eight-month placement as part of their undergraduate degree programme, one fifth of which are with international companies. This means that as well as having the academic credentials, students graduate from UL with professional experience that provides them with a solid career foundation.

The University of Limerick (UL) is widely recognized for several unique qualities that make it one of Ireland's leading institutions:

  1. Innovative Cooperative Education (Co-op) Program: UL is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and was the first Irish university to introduce a cooperative education program. This program integrates paid work placements into many degrees, giving students hands-on industry experience and making them highly employable.

  2. Research Excellence and Industry Collaboration: UL has a strong research focus, particularly in areas like materials science, biomedical engineering, data analytics, and renewable energy. It has partnerships with various industries, fostering a collaborative approach to research and development that connects academia with real-world applications.

  3. Graduate Entry Medical School: UL's Graduate Entry Medical School is the first of its kind in Ireland. This program attracts students from diverse backgrounds and emphasizes a patient-centered approach to healthcare, clinical practice, and community service.

  4. Top-Notch Sports Facilities: UL is home to Ireland's most comprehensive sports campus, which includes the National 50m Swimming Pool, an indoor arena, and a rowing club. Its programs in sports and exercise science and physical education are well-regarded, and many of Ireland’s top athletes train at UL.

  5. Emphasis on Innovation and Entrepreneurship: UL encourages a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship through various programs and initiatives. It has business incubation facilities like the Nexus Innovation Centre, which supports startups and entrepreneurial students, helping to drive economic growth in the region.

  6. Commitment to Irish Culture and Heritage: UL is known for promoting Irish culture and language, and it offers specialized programs in Irish studies, music, and literature. Its Irish World Academy of Music and Dance attracts international students and researchers interested in traditional Irish music and dance.

  7. Picturesque Campus: Located along the scenic River Shannon, UL has one of the most beautiful campuses in Ireland, blending modern architecture with natural landscapes. The university's surroundings, including trails, gardens, and the Living Bridge, make it an appealing place to study.

  8. Community Engagement: UL actively engages with the local community through initiatives in education, health, and social services, contributing to the economic and cultural life of Limerick and the surrounding area.