Incoming Student Guide - University of Limerick
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PRACTICAL INFORMATION 1 1 UNIVERSITY OF LIMERICK FACULTIES & DEPARTMENTS IN UL 2 2 #ONE INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION DIVISION 3 ERASMUS CONTACTS 3 ORIENTATION PROGRAMME 4 GETTING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF LIMERICK 4 ■ By Air 4 ■ Airport Collection – Shannon Airport Only 4 ■ By Train 4 ■ By Bus 4 STUDENT SERVICES 6 ■ Visa & Immigration Requirements 6 ■ Health Insurance 7 ■ Student Counselling 7 ■ Chaplaincy 8 ■ Student Health Centre 8 ■ Disability Services 9 ■ Cost of Living 10 STUDYING AT UL 11 ■ Academic Calendar 11 ■ Public Holidays 11 ■ Enrolment 12 ■ Module Registration 12 ■ SULIS 13 ■ Examinations & Assessment 13 ■ Class Timetable 13 ■ English Language Requirements 13 ■ UL Erasmus Academic Coordinators 13 ■ Working in Ireland 14
FACILITIES ON CAMPUS 16 2 BUILDINGS ON CAMPUS LIBRARY 18 20 #TWO COMPUTER FACILITIES 20 E-MAIL 20 SPORTS 21 UNIVERSITY RESTAURANTS 22 CAMPUS BARS/RESTAURANTS 22 BANKING 22 CRECHE 22 USIT TRAVEL OFFICE 23 BOOKSHOP 23 SMALL FOODSTORE 23 OTHER FACILITIES 24 STUDENTS UNION 24 ■ Clubs & Societies 24 ACCOMMODATION 26 ■ On-Campus Accommodation 26 ■ Off-Campus Accommodation 28 LIVING IN IRELAND 30 3 GEOGRAPHY ■ Landscape 32 32 #THREE ■ Climate 32 ■ Time Zone 32 ■ Currency 32 ■ Banking 32 ■ Credit Cards 33 ■ Postal Service 33 ■ Religion 33 ■ Safety 33 ■ Electricity 33
■ Telephone 34 ■ Radio & Television 34 ■ Newspapers & Magazines 34 ■ Driving in Ireland 34 ■ Public Holidays 34 LIMERICK CITY 35 ■ Limerick at a Glance 35 ■ Entertainment 37 ■ Sport 38 ■ Shopping 38 ■ Eating Out 38 ■ Cinema 38 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 40 4 #FOUR APPENDICES 44 5 APPENDIX 1: USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS APPENDIX 2: MAP OF REGION 46 47 #FIVE APPENDIX 3: CAMPUS MAP 48 APPENDIX 4: CAMPUS RESIDENCES MAP 49 APPENDIX 5: COUNSELLING INFORMATION 50 APPENDIX 6: HOTELS AND BED & BREAKFAST ACCOMMODATION 51 APPENDIX 7: ADMINISTRATION AND DEPARTMENT OFFICES 52
University of Limerick The University of Limerick is an independent university established as the National Institute for Higher Education by the Government of Ireland in 1972. It is located in the 600-acre National Technological Park on the banks of the river Shannon, 4km east of the medieval city of Limerick. A map of the region can be found in Appendix 2. The University was developed to help meet the rapidly changing economic and social needs that emerged on Ireland’s accession to the European Union in 1973. It is a dynamic institution, which plays a pivotal role in the economic development of the Mid-West region of Ireland. The University has also become a focus for a wide range of artistic activity and is home to the Irish Chamber Orchestra and the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance. Some fine collections of Irish Art are also housed in various locations on campus. The compact nature of the campus and the University’s size foster a close sense of community. The University believes strongly that the creation of a friendly, caring and cooperative atmosphere is essential to the successful pursuit of any study programme. Faculties & Departments in UL The University of Limerick undertakes programmes of education and research in its five constituent faculties: Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences Kemmy Business School Education & Health Sciences Science & Engineering Irish World Academy of Music & Dance More information on the faculties can be found on www.ul.ie & www3.ul.ie/courses/ Student enrolment is on average over 13,500 including undergraduate and graduate students; 17% of these students are international. 02 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
International Education Division The International Education Division (IED) at UL was first established in 2001 and is responsible for: • The European Union’s exchange programmes under: ERASMUS+ • International Student Exchanges with countries outside the European Union. • The Study Abroad Programme which attracts students for one study semester or for a full academic year from the USA and other countries. • The recruitment of international students from Non-EU countries on full-time undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at the University of Limerick. • 3 week Summer Schools in Irish Studies and Engineering Studies. IED provides information and assistance to all international students and University of Limerick students undertaking a study placement abroad through Erasmus or International Exchange. It also provides an orientation programme to give all incoming students further information, advice and support on arrival at the University of Limerick. Erasmus Contacts Dr. Patricia O’Flaherty Dearbhla McNamara Erasmus Institutional Coordinator Incoming Erasmus Administrator T: +353 61 202304 T: +353 61 213133 F: +353 61 213062 F: +353 61 213062 E: patricia.oflaherty@ul.ie E: incoming.erasmus@ul.ie www.ul.ie/international www.ul.ie/international Address: International Education Division Room EO-020, Main Building University of Limerick Limerick Ireland T: +353 61 213153 www.ul.ie/international F: +353 61 213062 Office Hours: Monday to Friday – 9.30am – 12.30pm & 14.30 – 16.30 Erasmus Institutional Code: IRL LIMERIC01 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 03
Orientation Programme An Orientation Programme, organised by the International Education Division, introduces students to services and systems in operation at the University of Limerick, e.g. academic regulations, enrolment and module registration as well as health services, sports facilities, arts and entertainment. The Orientation Welcome Week for students takes place the week prior (referred to as Week Zero) to the commencement of classes. The Thursday & Friday of Week Zero are specific to Erasmus Students, so are compulsory. Getting to the University of Limerick By Air Shannon International Airport (SNN) is the nearest airport to Limerick City. Before leaving the airport ensure you have enough Euro (€) with you until more permanent banking arrangements have been made. There is an ATM in the Arrivals terminal. There are taxis available from the airport to the campus. The average cost is approximately €40- €60.Plassey Cabs (http://www.plasseycabs.ie/) a local taxi service will collect from the airport and bring to student accommodation. They offer a special student rate of €40 per car. Advanced booking is essential. There is a regular bus service from Shannon Airport to Limerick City outside the Arrivals terminal. Fares cost approximately €10.00 and the journey takes 45-50 minutes. Stay on the bus until it reaches Limerick Railway Station (Colbert Station). There are taxis at the station and they will take you to the University campus or to your residence. The cost is approximately €12.00. A regular bus service runs between the city centre and the University campus. A single fare costs €2 or €4.20 for a day saver ticket which allows you to use any Limerick City bus service for a full day. The City Centre-University Bus departs from lower William Street. Airport Collection You may be able to avail of Airport Collection offered by the International Education Division from Shannon Airport only on specific dates and times. Information regarding this collection system will be sent to you by e-mail. Airport Collection – Shannon Airport Only: The arrival guides will be dressed in yellow t-shirts and are very easy to identify in the Arrival Terminal in Shannon Airport. 04 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
By Train Colbert Station is Limerick’s only train station and trains arrive regularly from Dublin and Cork. Train timetables can be checked on the Irish Rail website: www.irishrail.ie Taxis are available outside the station for transfer to the University, which will cost approximately €10.00. See Appendix 1 for taxi telephone numbers. By Bus The national bus company, Bus Éireann, operates daily services from all the major cities to Limerick. Bus timetables can be checked on the Bus Éireann website: www.buseireann.ie Weekly and Monthly Commuter tickets for students are available. See link http://www.buseireann.ie/inner.php?id=271 These can also be purchased on the bus or at Limerick bus station, next to Colbert Railway Station. Eir Eagle bus service provides a direct transport link from Dublin airport to Limerick with information available at http://www.eireagle.com/routes/limerick-dublin-airport Dublin Coach is also a reasonably priced and comfortable bus service to the University from Dublin Airport. The N7 Service will bring you to the Red Cow LUAS stop. Change here and join to M7 Express Service which will bring you directly to the University. Please see www.dublincoach.ie The JJ Kavanagh bus service leaves directly from Dublin Airport to the UL main entrance. See the following link: http://www.jjkavanagh.ie/images/stories/timetable/Shannon-Dublin.pdf “Shannon International Airport (SNN) is the nearest airport to Limerick City. ” ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 05
Student Services Visa & Immigration Requirements Visa Applications Information about VISA requirements is available at the following website: www.educationinireland.com/en/how-do-i-apply-/get-your-student-visa/for-higher-education/ registration-gnib-.html Further information about visa application is available at www.ul.ie/international/en/home/quicklinks/visa-and-immigration/ If you are an EU citizen, there are no visa requirements when entering Ireland. International students who are citizens of a Non-EU country are advised to contact their local Irish Diplomatic Mission. Those who do not have an Irish Diplomatic Mission in their home country should apply directly for a visa application form, well in advance of their departure, to: Visa Section T: + 353 1 6167700 Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (From 14h30 to 16h00 Monday to Friday) 13-14 Burgh Quay F: +353 1 4751201 Dublin 2 E: visamail@justice.ie Ireland Further information on student visa requirements for individual countries is available on the following web site: www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/Students Immigration All Non-EU students must register with the Immigration Authorities in Limerick within one month of arrival in Ireland. The International Education Division will organise an appointment with the Immigration Officer, details of which will be sent to you by e-mail. At this meeting you will be required to provide the following: • Registration Certificate Fee of €300 (payable by credit card or bank giro – the owner of the credit card must be present) • Valid passport • Recent passport photographs (4). • Proof of medical insurance. • Proof of financial security to cover your stay in Ireland. This can consist of a bank statement, letter from a parent or the home university guaranteeing financial support. • Completed UL immigration letter (sent to students by e-mail). 06 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
Non-EU students who wish to travel within Europe while on Erasmus in Ireland will be required to obtain a re-entry visa or a multiple-entry visa. A letter of support can be requested from the International Education Division and should be submitted to The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service Office in Dublin accompanied by an application form, relevant documents and the appropriate fee (Re-Entry Visa: €60; Multiple Entry Visa: €100). It is not necessary for students from the EU/EEA to register with the immigration authorities. Health Insurance All EU nationals are required to obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from the home country. Please contact the Health Authorities in your home country for information. Further information can be obtained from the following website: http://www.ehic.ie/ under Visitors to Ireland. Please note that the card provides entitlement to public health care only. The EHIC is available to all EU citizens without payment of a fee. A €120 charge applies to accident and emergency treatment at hospitals in Ireland, unless a doctor’s referral letter is produced. Attendance at a General Practitioner in Ireland normally carries a fee. The Castletroy Park Medical Centre (opposite Castletroy Park Hotel) recognises the EHIC, so that the patient does not have to pay for the service directly at this practice. Non-EU nationals are required to hold medical insurance for the duration of their stay in Ireland. This is an immigration requirement and the immigration authorities will require proof of medical insurance. Students may extend medical policies from their home countries to cover the period of study in Ireland or, alternatively, policies are available from the following Irish health insurance companies: • Voluntary Health Insurance: www.vhi.ie • Aviva: www.avivahealth.ie • Laya Healthcare: www.layahealthcare.ie The International Education Division at the University of Limerick has negotiated special medical insurance discounted rates for international students. Please see www.odon.ie/ul Student Counselling Student counsellors provide a confidential counselling service, free of charge at UL. The service can help students deal with a wide range of problems common to student populations. Counselling also offers services for students, including Stress Management, Personal Development and Study Skills. The drop-in times are 11 to 12 am and 3 to 4 pm every weekday. Mindfulness and Positive Thinking sessions are available throughout the academic semester. Counselling Service www.ul.ie/counselling Room: CM073 Please see also Appendix 5: Counselling Information
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Chaplaincy Chaplains are available to provide help and support to students of all denominations. Various activities, including a Community Outreach Programme, are organised to foster student interest in both spiritual and personal development. A wide range of religious services are provided on campus on a scheduled basis. The courtyard area of the Student Centre houses a contemplative space. This area is designed for quiet contemplation and prayer. Chaplains are located near the Student Health Centre on campus: Roman Catholic Chaplain Fr.John Campion Sr. Sarah O’Rourke Room: CM-071 Room: CM-071 University of Limerick University of Limerick Limerick Limerick Ireland Ireland T: +353 61 202180 T: +353 61 213635 E: john.campion@ul.ie E: sarah.orourke@ul.ie www.ul.ie/chaplain Teach Fáilte, Student Welcome Centre, in the courtyard outside the Students’ Union (061-233635) Student Health Centre An acute care advisory service is provided to all registered students. There is a fee to use this service. There is a full time nursing service and appointments may be made to see a doctor. A consultant psychiatrist and chartered physiotherapist are available through internal referral. All students are recommended to register with a local General Practitioner to cover minor ailments and ‘non-office’ hours/emergencies. The Student Health Centre is open Monday to Friday from 09h00 to 16h00. For further information contact: Student Health Centre Room CM-060 University of Limerick Limerick Ireland T: +353 61 202534 www.ul.ie/medical 08 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
There is a private clinic, Castletroy Park Medical Centre, situated opposite the Castletroy Park Hotel (opposite UL). Castletroy Appointments: No appointments are necessary although priority will be given to those who have called in to make an appointment. Castletroy Park Medical Centre 15 Pery Square, Castletroy, Limerick Limerick T: +353 61 507200 T: +353 61 314810 E: info@cullenhanlyfamilydoctors.ie Disability Services The Disability Services Office provides support for students with learning, physical, sensory and other disabilities. Students with a disability who require assistance during their period of study at the University of Limerick should notify the Disability Services Office before their arrival. Website: www2.ul.ie/web/WWW/Services/Student_Affairs/Student_Specialised_Supports/Disability_ Support_Services/Disability%20Support%20Services%20Staff Brenda Shinners-Kennedy Peter Dooley Disability Officer Disability Officer Room GL0036 GL0014 (ground floor, Main Library) University of Limerick University of Limerick Limerick Limerick Ireland Ireland T: +353 61 202346 T: +353 61 234191 E: Brenda.Shinners-Kennedy@ul.ie E: peter.dooley@ul.ie Additional financial support to meet the student’s needs is available on application through the home University to the EU Commission. This additional financial support should be sought well in advance (one year preferably) of the Erasmus placement. A quotation on cost of services (personal assistant, technical support, hire or purchase of equipment, etc) may be sought in advance from the Erasmus Administrator or Coordinator at UL. ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 09
Cost of Living The estimated cost of living for students in Ireland is at approximately €800.00 per month. Estimated Cost of Living for an Academic Year: E • Books and other academic requisites 450 • Campus accommodation (Plassey Village) 3,380 • Food 2,630 • Immigration registration fee 300 • Health Insurance 120 • Airfare 1,000 • Clothing 800 Total 8,680 * On-campus accommodation includes electricity and heating charges. ** Based on cheapest accommodation option. This does not include travel within Ireland or social expenses. “The University of Limerick operates an academic year which consists of two semesters... ” 10 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
Studying at UL Academic Calendar The University of Limerick operates an academic year which consists of two semesters, the Autumn semester (September to December) and the Spring semester (January to May). Students are advised to arrive at least a week before classes commence to allow time to settle in, prepare for courses and participate in orientation. Autumn and Spring Semesters (Weeks 1 – 15): • Teaching Semesters/Terms take place over a 12-week period (referred to as Weeks 1 - 12), • Followed by a reading week (Week 13) before examinations. • Examinations take place over a two week period (Weeks 14 – 15). For exact examination times, please see exam timetable, published online in week 9. Examination dates and times are not available before this date. The link for this timetable is available at www.saa.ul.ie * Students may remain in their accommodation during holiday breaks. There is a one week holiday during Spring semester for Easter, subject to calendar. Please note: Reserve departure arrangements for after the final date of the examinations. Enrolment Prior to your arrival at the University of Limerick, you will receive an e-mail advising you to enrol online using your student ID number. The link and procedure for online enrolment will be sent to you by e-mail some weeks prior to Orientation. Once you complete the online enrolment, you will receive an email confirmation which should be printed and signed by you. This confirmation must be presented during Orientation in order to receive the University of Limerick Student Identity Card. ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 11
Module Registration In order for ERASMUS students to register for the modules they wish to study at the University of Limerick, the following procedure should be followed: • A Module Registration Form will be provided at Orientation. • This form is to be completed by the student and signed by the Erasmus Academic Coordinator (details below) for your subject area. • The completed and signed form is submitted to the International Education Division by the end of week 2. N.B. ERASMUS students are required to take a minimum of 3 modules (from within the subject area under which the student is nominated) and a maximum of 5 modules (2 may be taken from any other subject area) per semester but restrictions apply within Journalism, Psychology and Sport Sciences. A bilateral agreement must exist between universities, within these subject areas, in order for students to be nominated and study at the University of Limerick. . Each module is awarded 6 ECTS credits (there may be some rare exceptions). Registration must be completed by the end of week 2 of each semester. Every ERASMUS student is assigned an Academic Coordinator who will assist students on their module selection and sign their Module Registration Form. During the first week of the semester all students will have an opportunity to meet with an Academic Coordinator from the specific subject area. It is very important to note that the initial selection of modules is by its very nature provisional. It is advisable to make a provisional selection of six or seven modules, in order to deal more efficiently with inevitable clashes or unsuitability of modules. The module booklet is only a guide to courses, because the timetable depends on the availability of certain modules and the availability of specialised Lecturers. It is also highly likely that certain modules will clash and that the student will be obliged to choose an alternative. It is not possible to change the timetable. Once it is published, it is definitive. It takes at least one week and usually two to make a final decision about which modules to register for. Students are entitled to attend as many modules as they wish in the initial two-week period of the semester, in order to ensure that modules are suitable for studies at the home University. Failure to submit the Module Registration Form to the International Education Division by the end of Week 2 will result in a €20 fine. Please note that all students are expected to sit examinations in all subjects for which they have registered. 12 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
SULIS Language Requirements SULIS is an on-line teaching and learning As ERASMUS students are required to possess platform used in UL, which lecturers use to sufficient language skills to attend lectures and communicate course material with students. sit examinations at the University of Limerick, Information will be given at the beginning of the students should be competent to communicate semester on how students are entered onto the through the medium of English. SULIS system. Courses are offered by the University of Limerick Studentsareadvised toretaininformationon USB Language Centre situated in the Languages memory sticks and photocopy all assignments Building. The courses are optional and are not submitted to the lecturers (professors). regarded as part of the ERASMUS programme. For further information refer to the website: Examinations & Assessment www.ul.ie/languagecentre It is possible to register for a module in English Assignments, reading lists and assessment as a Foreign Language as part of studies at the procedure for each course are usually described University. A test is conducted at orientation to and documented at the first lecture. Assessments determine the student’s level of English, so that vary from class to class. Assessment may consist they may be allocated to the right level of class. of a 100% exam or a division of marks between If a recent IELTS or TOEFL test has been taken by assessments and final examination. Past the student, this certificate will serve as criteria examination papers are a source of information for allocation to a class and it is not necessary to and can be accessed on SULIS. take the test. Class Timetable Erasmus Academic Coordinators The class timetable is published just before the An Erasmus Academic Coordinator is appointed beginning of the semester and will be e-mailed to students for each subject area. to students once it is released. It contains the This Coordinator will: lecture, tutorial and laboratory times and room for each module. The number of teaching hours • Provide a more detailed overview of modules per module varies, depending on the subject • Assist in module selection being covered and the size of the class. Lectures • Sign the Module Registration Form and and tutorials are usually of 50 minutes duration Learning Agreement (beginning on the hour and ending 10 minutes • Assist in and advise on academic matters to the hour), with laboratory classes lasting for 2-3 hours. The student will have the opportunity to meet with the Erasmus Academic Coordinator during the first week of the semester. Details of this meeting will be sent to students by e-mail. ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 13
Working in Ireland EU/EEA students are allowed to work in Ireland without restriction on the number of hours or on the type of work. Non-EU/EEA students are not permitted to work during the course of their stay in Ireland. Before starting employment, a PPS number is required. The application is made at the Social Welfare Office in Limerick. Social Welfare Office Dominic Street Limerick Ireland T: +353 61 414799 Office Hours: Monday to Friday from 09h15 to 12h00, 14h00 to 16h00 Applicants must present the following documents in person, fill out an application form and return to the office two weeks later to collect the PPS number: • Offer of Employment • Completed application form • Passport + one other form of identification • Proof of address in Limerick • Support letter from the University of Limerick which may be requested online from the International • Education Division at www.ul.ie/international/en/index.php/information-for/current-ul-students/online-letter-request-form 14 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
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2 #TWO Facilities on Campus
Buildings on Campus There are sixteen buildings on campus: Main Building, Foundation Building, Glucksman Building (Library), Lonsdale Building, Schrödinger Building, Schumann Building, Physical Education Building (PESS), Languages Building, Computer Science Building, Kemmy Business School, Health Sciences, Engineering Research, Irish World Academy, Medical School, Millstream and the University Sports Arena. The administrative services (Admissions, Student Academic Administration, International Education Division, etc.) are all located in the Main Building. The Foundation Building houses a 1,000- seat concert hall. For a full list of administration and department offices refer to Appendix 7. BUILDINGS SERVICES Main Building Admissions, Student Academic Administration, Fees, Block designation: International Education Division, Student Health Centre, A, B, C, D, E Restaurants, Computers, Laboratories, Classrooms Foundation Building Concert Hall, Restaurant/Café, Classrooms Block designation: F Glucksman Building Library, Restaurant/Café, Computers Block designation: G Lonsdale Building Chemistry/Physics Laboratories, Classrooms Block designation: L Schrödinger Building Life-Science Laboratories, Computers, Classrooms Block designation: SR Schuman Building Computers, Restaurant/Café, Classrooms Block designation: S Physical Education Building Restaurant/Café, Classrooms Block designation: P Computer Science Building Restaurant/Café, Computers, Classrooms Block designation: CS Engineering Research Building Classrooms, Research areas Block designation ER Health Sciences Building Restaurant/Café, Computers, Classrooms Block designation HS 18 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
Irish World Academy Restaurant/ café, Music rooms, Classrooms, Block designation IW Practice rooms, Performance spaces Millstream Building Restaurant, Staff Common Room Medical School Block designation GEMS Classrooms, GEMS Administration, Computers, Café Languages Building Classrooms, Language Resource Area Block designation: LC Kemmy Business School Restaurant/ Café, Classroom, Lecture Theatres, Block designation KB Simulated Trading Floor, Computer Labs University Sports Arena 50m Swimming Pool, Gym, Sports Hall, Sports Bar/Café Classrooms in the university are designated by letters and numbers e.g. if Chemistry 1 is timetabled to be in classroom A1-050, the room can be found as follows: • Building designation: Block A, Main Building • Floor designation: Level 1 • Classroom number: 050 (For a full map of University Buildings refer to Appendix 3) ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 19
Library The University Library, which is fully computerised, is a designated European Documentation Centre and receives all official publications of the European Union. The current collections in the library number 200,000 books and 7,250 audio-visual items. There are subscriptions to approximately 5,500 journals and periodicals and seating for 1,450 people. The library is open: Term Time Opening Hours Library Building Days Staffed Service Self Service Monday – Friday 08.30 – 23.00 09.00 – 21.00 Saturday 10.00 – 19.00 10.00 – 16.30 Sunday 11.00 – 18.00 Closed Please also check the screens in the library foyer and the library website for extended opening hours prior to exams and non-term time opening hours. Computer Facilities The Information Technology Department (ITD) provides computer facilities for all University of Limerick staff and students. PCs are available to students on an open-access basis, except when they are booked for classes. Most PCs are heavily booked between 09h00 and 17h00 during the semester. However, the biggest PC cluster (Room A0-060) is not block booked, and is open 24 hours a day on a ‘first-come, first-served’ basis. ITD PC clusters are open from 09h00-22h00 during the semester. The software applications available to students are based on Microsoft Windows. Students do not require their own software copies as all software is centrally maintained on file savers. The same group of applications is available in all PC clusters. Some familiar Windows software applications available are: MSWord, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, SPSS, CD-ROM database access, etc. More specialised applications on offer are outlined on the ITD website: www.ul.ie/ITD. Network connections are available in all on-campus accommodation at a charge of €68.00 per semester. E-mail ITD issue all students with a personal email account which can be set up after online enrolment. Instructions will be sent to students by e-mail after successfully enrolling online. This is the email account to be used by students for the duration of their stay at the University of Limerick. 20 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
Sports The University of Limerick offers extensive and first class on-campus sport facilities. The diverse range of facilities is unmatched anywhere else in Ireland. People from Olympic class athletes to staff and students can avail of all facilities, which include the following: • Olympic size 50m indoor swimming pool • Indoor diving pool • Steam room • Sauna • Four full sized indoor courts • Cardio-fitness suite • Elite training facility • Aerobics studio • 60m six-lane indoor sprint track • 2 squash courts • 225m suspended three lane indoor jogging track • Indoor climbing wall • 4 outdoor tennis courts • 8 lane 400m outdoor athletics track • Over 40 acres of playing fields • Floodlit astro turf • Extensive changing facilities A detailed description of all sport facilities is available at: www.universityarena.com. In addition, students can enjoy horse riding, orienteering, sailing, canoeing and windsurfing at the University of Limerick Activity Centre in Killaloe, Co. Clare. “The diverse range of facilities is unmatched anywhere else in Ireland. ” ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 19
University Restaurants There is a wide choice of restaurants and bars on campus, The student centre complex has the Stables bar and The Paddocks restaurant, two restaurants are located in the Main Building and a further six in other buildings on campus. These restaurants are open all day with a basic meal costing approximately €5.00 - €6.00. Campus Bars/Restaurants There are three bars on campus: the Stables Club, the Sports Club and Scholars. Each bar provides hot food daily, there is free entertainment nightly in the Stables bar, in the form of live music, comedy, table quizzes etc. Banking The University has one bank on campus: Bank of Ireland (BoI). The Bank of Ireland offers free student banking, Bureau de Change and ATM facilities. Two mobile banking ATM units are in place on campus between the Glucksman Library Building and the Stables Complex and the other on the North side of the campus near the Medical School Building. Permanent ATMs – two in the student courtyard outside the bank and one each at the Arena and Pavilion buildings and in the Red Raisins Café, Main Building. Crèche Silver Apples is a custom-built crèche situated on the university campus. The crèche has been built to comply with the relevant childcare regulations in Ireland. The crèche caters for children in a happy, relaxed environment. A number of places are available to students with families each year. For further information contact: Oliver Moloney T: +353 61 213468 Silver Apples Crèche E: silverapplescreche@ul.ie University of Limerick Limerick Ireland www.ul.ie/creche 22 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
USIT Travel Office An International Student Identity Card can be obtained at the USIT travel office, which is located at the student centre courtyard on the university campus. To receive up to 50% discount on trains and buses in Ireland, students will need to purchase a Travel save Stamp. This stamp entitles students to discounts on Bus Éireann, Irish Rail and Irish Ferries. When applying for the USIT Student Identity Card and the Travel save Stamp, students will need to bring their UL student identity card, one photograph and €13.00. A colour passport photograph machine is located in the travel office. The USIT travel office is open Monday to Friday from 10h00 to 17h00. Bookshop O’Mahony’s Bookshop is located in the student centre complex on campus. It stocks all academic course titles, novels, stationery, newspapers and magazines. The bookshop is open Monday to Friday from 08h30 to 17h00. Small Foodstore Spar Foodstore is located in the Student Centre Complex. The store sells fruit, vegetables, frozen foods, dairy, and also has a delicatessen section where sandwiches and rolls are made to order, along with hot food. Academic Semester Opening Hours Monday to Thursday from 08h30 - 18h00 Fridays from 08h30 - 17h00 Saturdays from 10h30 - 14h00 Other Facilities Other facilities on campus include: • Laundrette • Farmers Market every Tuesday 12-5pm • Snap Printing ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 23
UL Students Union All students’ of the University of Limerick automatically become members of the students union on enrolment. The purpose of the union is to represent students’ views within the university and on local and national issues. It is also responsible for providing a variety of services to students, such as entertainment events, clubs and societies. The union is run by students for students, independent of the university. The Student Union Offices are located in the Student Centre. For further information refer to the website: www.ulsu.ul.ie Clubs and Societies The Clubs and Societies Office is located in the Student Centre and is fully equipped to facilitate exclusively the development of student activities by its students. Clubs and societies are administered by the Students Union and their full time Clubs and Societies Development Officer. There is a wide variety of clubs and societies on campus such as the Drama Society, GAA Club etc. Students can join during weeks 1 and 2 of each semester and there is a small fee for membership: wwwulsu.ie/ulwolves “There is a wide variety of clubs and societies on campus...” 24 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
Clubs American Football Ladies Rubgy Archery Men’s Hockey Athletics Men’s Rugby Badminton Mountain bike Basketball Outdoor Pursuits Boxing Parkour Capoeira Rowing Chess Sailing Dance UL Skydive Darts Soccer Equestrian Sub-aqua Fencing Surf GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) Swim Handball Tae-kwon-do Karate Shotokan Trampoline Kayak Ultimate Frisbee Krav Maga Windsurfing Ladies Hockey Societies Africa Club Marketing Animal Welfare Medical Anime and Manga Mature Student Architecture Music Christian Union Ogra Fianna Fail Comedy Out in UL Computer Photographic Cumann Gaelach Poker Debating Union Psychology Drama Racing/Motorsport Enactus UL Science Engineering Sinn Féin Fan Forum Surgical Club Games Tea Appreciation History UL Give Club International Society ULFM Law Young Fine Gael Literary The International Society offers international students an opportunity to meet and participate in cultural events, e.g. International Food Fairs, and organises weekend excursions to various parts of Ireland. The society is open to both international and Irish students, with the aim of encouraging integration and creating an atmosphere from which students will benefit. ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 25
ACCOMMODATION On-Campus Accommodation A number of single rooms have been reserved for ERASMUS students in the five student villages on campus. On-Campus Accommodation at UL consists of: Thomond Village 4 and 6 bedroom apartments Plassey Village 8 and 4 bedroom houses Kilmurry Village 6 bedroom houses Dromroe Village mainly 6 bedroom apartments Cappavilla Village 6 bedroom apartments These residences are of a very high standard. All houses, unless otherwise requested, are mixed, with Irish and non-Irish students. The shared amenities of each house are a fully equipped kitchen/living room with cable TV and two shower/ WCs. Houses also contain a card-phone, credit for which can be bought in the village reception. All bedrooms in Dromroe, Thomond and Cappavilla Villages are ensuite. Individual study-bedrooms contain a bed, desk, wardrobe and washbasin. Duvets are supplied. However, bed linen and pillows are required. The Village Centre also has a mini-supermarket, hairdressing salon and launderette. “These residences are of a very high standard.” 24 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
Please note that on-campus accommodation is very limited and is allocated on a‘first come first served’ basis. Furthermore, priority is given to full-year students. There are various off-campus residences as an alternative: for example Parkview Hall and Groody. The on-campus online accommodation application must be accompanied by a €250.00 booking deposit to confirm the reservation. Students requiring on-campus accommodation should select more than one option in order of choice. Every effort will be made to allocate students their first preference. Enquiries and applications should be submitted to: Ms. Deirdre Ryan T: +353 61 202433 International Bookings E: Deirdre.ryan@ul.ie Accommodation Office University of Limerick Limerick Ireland Prices are for the semester (15 weeks), and are inclusive of an estimate of heating and electricity and a service charge. If you secure a room on-campus, you are advised to arrive during office hours Monday to Friday from 09h00 to 17h00. If this is not possible, arrangements must be made by you to have your keys left at the University’s Main Reception, which is open 24 hours a day. You will need to inform the Village Manager of your date and time of arrival approximately a week in advance in order to avail of this facility. Please confirm with your village their arrival dates for each semester. Please note: • All payments must be made payable to Plassey Trust Co. Ltd. • The total rent for one semester plus the deposit must be paid on or before arrival. Students will not have access to their accommodation until full payment has been made. • It is not possible to pay by instalments. • Payment can be made by Credit Card, where a surcharge of 2% will be added, or by Bank Wire Transfer. See accommodation form for more information. • International Postal Money Orders are not accepted. • Euro cheques and Personal cheques are not accepted. • Once village accommodation has been assigned, living arrangements may not be changed upon arrival at the University. • Students may remain in village accommodation during holiday breaks. ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 27
If you are a resident in one of the villages, your address is: Name Name Name House No., Room No. House No., Room No. Apt. No., Room No. Plassey Village Kilmurry Village Dromroe Village Plassey Park Road Castletroy Castletroy Castletroy Limerick Limerick Limerick Name Name Apt. No., Room No. Apt. No., Room No. Thomond Village Cappavilla Village Castletroy Castletroy Limerick Limerick Ireland Ireland (For a full map of on-campus accommodation refer to Appendix 4) Off-Campus Accommodation (outside of and not affiliated with the University) There are 2 options in this regard: 1. student residence (Parkview, Groody, etc) in which private rooms are provided, usually with bathrooms and communal kitchens and living rooms 2. privately (landlord) owned house, rented with other students. Students are advised to be cautious about reserving private off-campus accommodation prior to their arrival in Limerick. Private sector accommodation, where a house is rented with other students, should be viewed before reservation. This is not always practical, especially as accommodation is increasingly difficult to find. The best is often taken well before the start of the semester. If at all possible, it may be prudent to travel to Limerick to reserve accommodation well in advance. Students are advised to book a room in temporary accommodation (bed & breakfast, hotel) in order to look for suitable accommodation on arrival. A list of bed & breakfast and hotel accommodation is available in Appendix 6. Alternatively, call any Irish Tourist Board Office or visit the following website: www.shannondevelopment.ie/Tourism/ The accommodation office or the international office provides a list of off-campus accommodation, owned by private landlords. 28 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
Accommodation Office T: +353 61 202331 Room D0-035 F: +353 61 202827 University of Limerick E: accommodation@ul.ie Limerick Ireland www.ul.ie/international/en/home/quicklinks/accommodation/ Office Hours: Monday to Friday from 9h00 to 13h00, 14h00 to 17h00. Rooms in private accommodation are of a varying standard, but are generally clean and comfortable. They are usually in houses with non-resident landlords. Duvets and bed linen are not provided and study desks are not always available. Students share all other facilities. Kitchens are normally fully equipped. Weekly or monthly terms as agreed with the landlord, are currently approximately €250- €350 per month. Electricity, heating and refuse collection charges are additional to rent. Please note: A deposit of one month’s rent and an electricity deposit are generally required. It is advisable to inspect a number of properties carefully before reserving a room. Students may remain in self-catering accommodation during holiday breaks. ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 29
3 #THREE Living In Ireland
Geography Ireland is the most westerly country of the European Union, separated from Great Britain by the North Channel on the northeast and the Irish Sea on the east. Ireland is an island of 84,430 sq. km (32,598 square miles). Its greatest length is 485 km (302 miles), its greatest width 304 km (189 miles), and its coastline extends for over 5,631 km (3,500 miles). The highest mountain Carrantuohill (1,040 metres/3,414 feet) is part of the Macgillacuddy Reeks range near Killarney in County Kerry. The longest river is the Shannon (370 km/230 miles). The largest lake is Lough Neagh (396 sq. km/153 square miles) in Northern Ireland. The country is divided into four historic provinces; Ulster (9 counties) in the north; Munster (6 counties) in the south; Leinster (12 counties) in the east; and Connacht (5 counties) in the west. The population of the 32 counties of Ireland is approximately 6.3 million. Landscape Currency The landscape varies from bogs and lakes in the The currency of the Republic of Ireland is the Euro central lowlands to mountains and rocky islands (€). Euro notes come in seven denominations: in the west. Between these two extremes, the 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euro. There is island has abundant lush, green pastureland but 100 cent to the Euro and coins are in eight little natural woodland. denominations: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cent, and 1 and 2 Euro. As Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, the pound sterling (£) is in use Climate and denominations are similar to that of the Winters in Ireland are mild and summers Euro. temperate due to the prevailing south- westerly winds and the influence of the warm waters Banking of the North Atlantic Drift. Ireland has a mild climate all year-averaging 2°- 7°C (35°- 45°F) There are five retail banks in Ireland, the Bank in winter and 18°- 24°C (65°- 75°F) in summer. of Ireland (BOI), the Allied Irish Bank (AIB), the May and June are the sunniest months with an Ulster Bank, the Danske Bank and Permanent average of over 7 hours of sunshine per day. TSB Bank. The bank on campus is Bank of Ireland. Most banks are open from Monday to Friday from 10h00 to 12h30 and from 13h30 to 16h00, Time Zone with some branches open through lunch. There Ireland is in the same time zone as Great Britain, is extended opening until 17h00 on one day per Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). The clocks change week (the choice varying from place to place). twice yearly for summer time. The summer time ATM facilities are available is most towns and period starts the last Sunday in March at 1.00am villages. GMT, i.e. the clock goes forward one hour. The summertime period ends the last Sunday in October at 1.00am GMT, i.e. the clock goes back one hour. 32 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
“Ireland is the most westerly country of the European Union,...” Credit Cards Safety All major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard and Euro In the Republic of Ireland the Police are called Card) are accepted in the majority of services the Gardaí (Guards). In the case of an emergency and retail outlets. Some outlets may accept dial 999 or 112 to contact the Gardaí, Ambulance Diners Club and American Express cards. Most or Fire Brigade services. Ireland is a relatively credit cards can be used in ATMs, especially the safe place to live, however it is advisable to take Bank of Ireland and Allied Irish Bank (AIB) ATMs. suitable precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit or back streets in the cities and larger towns at night. If you feel intimated or frightened in an Postal Service area, it is best to avoid eye contact and leave the Post Offices are open from 09h00 to 17h30 scene as quickly as possible. during the week and from 09h00 to 13h00 on Always remember to lock your room and Saturdays. They offer full postal services to all windows before you go out. Always be careful countries and often offer banking facilities. The with your personal belongings and don’t leave closest Post Office to the University is situated at valuables unattended. Castletroy Shopping Centre. Electricity Religion In Ireland, the standard electricity voltage is Ireland is a predominantly Christian state with between 220 – 240 volts, and frequency is 50 approximately 84% of the population professing Hertz the same as in most parts of Europe. If to the Roman Catholic faith. In addition there are your electrical items are not suited to work under Church of Ireland, Presbyterian, Methodist and these conditions you should equip yourself with Baptist Churches, as well as Eastern Orthodox. a transformer. Buildings in Ireland have sockets In addition to the Christian denominations there for 13 amp square pin fused plugs. Adaptors can are centres for Buddhists, Hindus, Bahais. There be bought in most hardware shops to adapt your are also Mosques and Synagogues catering for plugs to fit 3 pin sockets. those of the Islamic and Jewish faiths. ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 33
Telephone Newspapers and Magazines Public telephones have become less common in Popular national daily newspapers include Ireland in recent years. Most people in Ireland the Irish Times, Irish Independent and the have a mobile phone and students are advised Irish Examiner. There are also daily tabloid to purchase a mobile phone on arrival in Ireland. newspapers. Most towns have a local or regional A cheaper option is to purchase a SIM card to use paper. The local paper for Limerick is the Limerick in your own phone. There are four mobile phone Leader. The Limerick Post is a free newspaper companies in Ireland, Vodafone (www.vodafone. that is published weekly and is a good source of ie), O2 (www.o2.ie) Meteor (www.meteor.ie) and information for services and entertainment. All 3 (www.three.ie) offering these services. good newsagents sell a wide variety of special interest magazines, from sport to business. The international dialling code for Ireland is +353 and the area code for Limerick is (0) 61. Driving in Ireland In Ireland, cars are driven on the left-hand side of Radio and Television the road. In towns and cities the speed limit is normally 50 kilometres per hour but on certain Ireland has three state controlled television roads higher limits may apply. A general speed channels, RTE1, RTE2 and the Irish language TG4 limit of 100 kilometres per hour applies on all Teilifís na Gaeilge, and two privately run channels, roads except for motorways where a speed limit TV3, which also has a sister channel 3E and UTV of 120 kilometres per hour applies. Ireland. There are six national radio stations and many local ones. British TV channels can be The laws regarding speeding, drink-driving and picked up in most parts of Ireland on Cable TV wearing seatbelts in Ireland are very strict. There and satellite. is a penalty point system in operation, whereby points will be added to your driving licence for road safety offences. Full details on all road safety offences can be found at www.penaltypoints.ie Public Holidays October Bank Holiday Last Monday in October Christmas Day 25th December St. Stephen’s Day 26th December New Year’s Day 01st January St. Patrick’s Day 17th March Good Friday As per calendar Easter Monday As per calendar May Bank Holiday First Monday in May June Bank Holiday First Monday in June August Bank Holiday First Monday in August 34 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
“Limerick City...is a lively, interesting and attractive place to live and study.” Limerick City Limerick at a Glance The Hunt Museum houses an eclectic and interesting collection. Collected by John and The Vikings founded Limerick over a thousand Gertrude Hunt, the paintings and artefacts were years ago. The third largest city in the Republic originally housed in the University of Limerick of Ireland, Limerick City (population 90,000) is a before moving to their new home in the old lively, interesting and attractive place to live and Customs house in Limerick City. The Museum is study. The city is magnificently sited on one of open Monday to Saturday from 10h00 to 17h00, Europe’s finest rivers, the Shannon. Limerick is a on Sunday from 14h00 to 17h00. city of many contrasts, illustrated in the form of a medieval core with a later Georgian addition. The recent pioneering programme of urban renewal has transformed Limerick, into a thriving, Of particular importance are: energetic and all-embracing modern city. The Mid West Region, which comprises the greater King John’s Castle, built in the 12th Century, to Limerick/Shannon area, is one of the leading defend the river frontier between the Gaelic growth centres of the country. The proximity of West and Norman Munster and Leinster. It is Shannon International Airport ensures that the open daily from 09h30 to 17h00 (Last Admission Region’s important trade links with the global 16.00). market place are maintained. St. Mary’s Cathedral, built c.1172. Originally the Limerick offers an unequalled base from which seat of Donal Mór O’Brien, King of Munster, the to explore the Southwest and West of Ireland. palace was later donated to the church. It is still Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Adare, Lough Gur, in use today as a place of worship. the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, Killarney, and the It is open daily from 09h00 to 17h00. lakes and mountains of Galway and Kerry, are all within easy driving distance. ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 35
“Limerick has long enjoyed a reputation as a major cultural and artistic centre, having contributed to the world of entertainment through its many achievements in theatre, music and the visual arts.” 34 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
Entertainment Limerick has long enjoyed a reputation as a major Limerick was the National City of Culture in cultural and artistic centre, having contributed 2014 and is bidding for the European City of to the world of entertainment through its many Culture 2020 - www.limerickcityofculture.ie/ achievements in theatre, music and the visual arts. Every year the city is home to the EV+A arts festival. At night the city comes alive with music Information about this event can be obtained from and entertainment, and during the summer www.eva.ie. The Belltable Theatre usually hosts a months an almost continental atmosphere variety of artistic events all year round, including is generated among the diners at the many theatre, film, exhibitions, poetry readings and music. street-side cafes, bars and restaurants. Limerick city is host to a wide variety of internationally By night, old-world pubs ring to the sound acclaimed groups and organisations, including the of traditional Irish music, or to the sounds Irish World Music Centre, the Irish Concert Orchestra, of rock, folk and jazz. The many wonderful Daghdha Dance Company, and the Island Theatre pubs include Dolan’s, Nancy Blake’s, The Group. The Lime Tree Theatre, situated on the Locke, Mickey Martin’s, The White House and grounds of Mary Immaculate College in Limerick City, Tom Collins. plays host to a wide range of performances, including theatre, music, comedy, traditional arts, schools’ performances. More information about upcoming events can be found at www.limetreetheatre.ie. “At night the city comes alive with music and entertainment... ” ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE 35
Sport There are plenty of supermarkets and grocery stores in the city, and include many For a city of its size, Limerick can take pride in its multinational companies such as Aldi, Dunnes sporting achievements. New students arriving in Stores, Tesco, Debenhams, Lidl and Centra. There the city will have a wide range of sporting outlets, is a lively farmers market on Saturday mornings with all the mainstream sports well represented. in the Milk Market. Fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, fish, and gourmet foods along with many other Rugby Union is a major sport in the area, with items can be purchased at reasonable prices. Limerick now universally acknowledged as International food stores are located throughout Ireland’s unofficial “Rugby Capital.” Thomond the city centre. These cater for the growing Park is the home of Munster Rugby in Limerick. multicultural population that is now a welcome The Limerick hurling team is always a powerful aspect of modern Ireland. These include Afro/ force in the national game and Gaelic football is Caribbean, Eastern European, and Asian Stores gaining in stature. Horseracing is well catered offering a wide variety of produce and regional for with a new racecourse nearby. There are four specialities top-class golf courses within a six-mile radius of the city centre. Eating Out Tennis and hockey facilities are also well There are several places in Limerick where you can developed, and the river Shannon provides dine, with various price ranges to suit depending a permanent backdrop for many rowing and on your choice of venue. Restaurants in hotels angling clubs with a long tradition of successful can be more expensive and offer classic French activities. cuisine to international contemporary dishes. Casual dining in pubs is very popular in Ireland. Lots of pubs in Limerick have restaurants that Shopping offer either à la Carte or fixed menus. Limerick Shopping in Limerick offers a wide variety of is well catered for by numerous fast food outlets choice and caters for all tastes and ages. The offering a range of foods that mirrors its ethnic city has a reputation for its fashion design and is diversity. All have seating arrangements and renowned for its lace industry. There are several many are open throughout the day till late in shopping malls in Limerick city and surrounding the evening. suburbs as well as many outlets offering all sorts of items from jewellery to the latest Cinema fashion, sports gear and games to antiquities and handmade crafts. Main shopping hours There are three cinema theatres situated in in Limerick city are Monday to Saturday from Limerick. The closest one to the University, Odeon 09h30 to 17h30 with some department stores Cinema, is located in the Castletroy Shopping staying open late at midweek and weekends. Centre complex. The second, The Omniplex, is located in Dooradoyle adjacent to the Crescent Shopping Centre. There is a third cinema, Showtime, located on the Ennis Road outside of the city at the Jetland Shopping Centre. 38 ERASMUS+ INCOMING STUDENT GUIDE
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