Please note that students must be 18 years of age by October 15, 2025 in order to participate in N.U.in Ireland.
Ireland: Ireland is an island nation and is the third largest island in Europe. The island itself is divided between two countries, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. Students in the N.U.in Ireland program will be studying in the Republic of Ireland. Ireland has a population of just over 5 million. The island features mountains surrounding and winding through large sections of flatlands. Ireland does not experience extreme lows and highs of temperatures, and central air conditioning is not common. That being said, bring a raincoat and your boots as this bog and marsh-rich land also experiences frequent rain.
Dublin: Dublin is Ireland’s largest city with a population hovering just over 1 million residents. It is a city that exists within the Wicklow Mountain Range. The population of greater Dublin is 2 million people, or roughly 40% of Ireland’s total population. It is the hub of education, art, commerce, and politics for this island nation. It is ranked as one of the top 30 cities in the world. If you like music, you won’t be alone! Dublin is known for live music events throughout the city and its restaurants.
Neighborhood: University College Dublin is located in the southern Dublin suburban neighborhood of Belfield. While not located at the heart of the city, this area has easy access through buses, taxis, and trams to Dublin proper. This neighborhood is close to the shopping district of Donnybrook, and very close to the large public beach, Sandymount. The UCD campus is also within walking distance of the local medical center and emergency department, Saint Vincent’s Hospital. This is a quiet family community which gives the sense of safety and coziness even on the wettest days.
Campus: Located just 3 miles south of the city center in Belfield, UCD is set in an enclosed campus setting that resembles a self-contained “mini city,” surrounded by hiking and walking trails. The 330-acre picturesque campus combines the beauty of old European-style architecture with modern commercial buildings woven between gravel walking paths, fields, and ponds. Students have easy access to a grocery store, restaurants and cafes, a hair salon, a pharmacy, a health center, libraries, bookstores, movie theaters, music venues, and more. UCD is well-connected by buses and other public transportation, making it easy to get in and out of the campus. The university also boasts a robust international student support structure, complemented by excellent student health services and a wide selection of activities, sports, clubs, and societies.
Climate: Dublin experiences a mild maritime climate with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing in winter or rising above 68°F in summer. Rain is common, so be sure to bring raincoats, an umbrella, appropriate shoes, and rain boots. We recommend bringing clothes that can be layered and mixed and matched, since the weather will vary greatly. Below is a chart of average temperatures and precipitation:
| Month | Avg. Low | Avg. High | Precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| September | 50°F | 63°F | 2.36 in |
| October | 46°F | 55°F | 3.15 in |
| November | 41°F | 50°F | 2.36 in |
| December | 38°F | 46°F | 3.15 in |