Fairfield University: Galway - Semester or Year in Ireland

GALWAY, IRELAND Galway, the third largest city in the Republic of Ireland, has a population of 80,000. Located on Ireland's west coast, it is one of Europe's fastest growing cities. This seaport city on Galway Bay has been a center of trade since its founding in the 12th century, and traces of its medieval past still survive. Galway is known as the cultural capital of Ireland because of its pioneering role in theater, arts, and culture. In nearby Connemara, the country's largest Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking community) carries the native language and culture into modern times. While Galway's economy and population continue to grow, it remains a small city that is easily navigated on foot. Eyre Square, the city's center, is ringed by streets full of boutiques, pubs, restaurants, theaters, and everything else you need to make your stay enjoyable and interesting. The National University of Ireland at Galway (NUIG) is a short walk from Eyre Square. Its original quadrangle dates from the 1840s, but modern buildings and state-of-the-art facilities reflect its growth. With an enrollment of over 15,000 students, NUIG contributes significantly to Galway's rich cultural and social life. ACADEMICS Fairfield University, a Jesuit institution, is fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, which accredits schools and colleges in the six New England states. At the National University of Ireland at Galway, there are a wide variety of courses from which to choose. You'll receive Fairfield University credit and grades for all coursework. HOUSING The choice is yours! There are a number of options, including homestay with an Irish family, which can be arranged on request. You can request to live with a friend, or ask to be matched with other students attending NUIG. Fairfield offers a limited number of beds in specially-reserved apartments for early applicants. You can also choose housing from a list of suggested lodgings. Simply contact the management and reserve your placement; you pay directly, and the cost is often less than dorm housing in the U.S. Apartments are all fully furnished, well-maintained, and within a 20-minute walk to campus. You'll have a full kitchen so you can cook your own meals.You can also eat inexpensively at NUIG's restaurants and snack bars. Galway's dining scene offers everything from fast food to fine cuisine. ACTIVITIES There are many extracurricular activities available at NUIG; joining is a great way to meet Irish students. There are over 50 athletic clubs, from archery to windsurfing, and 60 other societies, ranging from academic groups to choir to volunteer opportunities. The River Corrib, the shoreline, mountains, and hills nearby all provide opportunities for outdoor activities, and you'll have use of the Recreation Center, computer labs, the campus travel office, and, of course, health and counseling services. The International Student Office sponsors events and trips for visiting students, and is also a resource for any concerns you may have, whether academic, social, or health-related. Each semester there will be approximately three events provided for students on the Fairfield program. The offerings may change in response to the seasons and timing of special events, like festivals. Here is a sample: Overnight trip to the Aran Islands, including boat, bus, and bed and breakfast (B&B) Weekend in Dublin, including train, B&B, entrances to museums and galleries Theater performance/music festival PROGRAM COST INCLUDES: 15 Fairfield University undergraduate credits and grades Onsite student support with 24-hour emergency coverage Orientation in Galway Cultural Activities Access to Fairfield University library resources online Study skills assistance/tutoring Internship option Insurance, including full medical coverage and medical evacuation insurance