Undergraduate Offer Pack 2021-2022 - University College Dublin
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
2021-2022 Undergraduate Offer Pack
for e
unity
commlobal
duca
No.1
No.1
for g
tion
l
na
fo
r a tio
re N n re
se o 1 er a
ar .1 o. t t c
ch N r in en
fo tud
s
N
for s o.1 No.1 lobal
taff for g ections
conn
No.1
Ireland’s Global No.1
for sp
fo r s t u dents University ort
Undergraduate Offer Pack
Welcome 01
CONGRATULATIONS
Welcome to University College Dublin and This UCD Undergraduate Offer Pack has been prepared
congratulations on being offered a place to study in with the intention of making your transition to UCD as
Ireland in one of Europe's leading research-intensive smooth as possible. In the coming pages, we have
universities. We have a diverse community of almost included what we think might be some helpful
33,000 students enrolled in study at UCD with over 29% information to you as a new student. This includes
of our students choosing UCD from outside of Ireland. information about the admissions process and what you
must do next in order to accept your offer, as well as
At UCD we want each student who comes to the information about the University and the city of Dublin.
University to experience a unique educational journey,
supporting their academic development with excellent Upon entering one of our undergraduate programmes
teaching while also encouraging their own social and you will begin on a path of intellectual stimulation,
personal growth. To assist in that goal UCD offers a acquiring new knowledge and skills enabling you to
unique, spacious campus environment with world class become a highly-qualified graduate in your chosen
degree programmes and research sitting alongside a discipline. In broader terms I know that you will also find
wide array of clubs, societies, sporting facilities and studying in UCD a life-changing experience, where you
on-site student residences. We also have increasing will be helped to grow both personally and professionally,
opportunities for work-based internships, field trips and preparing you for a rewarding career.
also chances to become involved with volunteering and
community-based co-curricular activities. I look forward to welcoming you to your studies at UCD.
We encourage our students to “Learn Today, Lead
Tomorrow” and we are proud that so many of UCD's
students have gone on to leadership positions in
Ireland and across the globe in academia, the health
professions, engineering, business and law, the arts, Associate Professor Marie Clarke
sports and politics. UCD graduates are consistently Dean of Undergraduate Studies
ranked highly by international employers and enjoy
excellent job prospects.
02 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
Undergraduate Offer Pack
Contents 03
CONTENTS
What to Do Now 05
Financial Information 10
Funding and Scholarships 13
Accommodation 14
Visa Information 16
Staying in Touch 20
Alumni Supports 21
Registration 22
Orientation 23
Destination UCD 24
UCD Global Centres 29
Student Support Services 30
Sport and Recreation 34
Destination Ireland 36
Destination Dublin 38
Visiting UCD 40
Recommendations from our Students 42
04 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
Congratulations on receiving an offer to come
and study at University College Dublin, Ireland’s
most international university.
At UCD, we pride ourselves on our excellent
teaching and research, our broad and diverse
curriculum, and our brilliant student body,
29% of whom hail from over 140 countries
around the world.
Undergraduate Offer Pack
What to do now 05
What to
DO NOW
As soon as you receive your offer you need to:
ACCEPT DEFER or DECLINE
ACCEPTING YOUR OFFER
You must accept your offer in order to reserve your place TYPES OF OFFER
at UCD. You may be required to pay a non-refundable
deposit which will then be deducted from your fee Unconditional Offer or Full Offer
obligations. The deadline for accepting your offer will be An Unconditional Offer or Full Offer means
stated in your official online offer letter. An offer, whether that you have met all the entry requirements
conditional or unconditional, will be made in good faith for the programme.
taking into account information as supplied by the
applicant and/ or referee at the time of the application. Conditional Offer
A Conditional Offer means that you will be
UCD reserves the right to withdraw any offer if deemed accepted if you meet certain entry requirements,
necessary at a later stage. By accepting the offer of as specified in your offer letter.
admission, the applicant agrees to the rules, regulations,
and policies of the University.
06 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
• Log in to your application account at
www.ucd.ie/global/apply
• Upon logging in, you will see that your application
appears with the status of ‘OFFER’. Click on ‘ACCEPT OR
REJECT’ and it will bring you to the page where you can
accept the offer, and pay the deposit, if appropriate.
ACCEPT • Your acceptance will not be complete until you
A FULL OR successfully submit your acceptance online and, where
CONDITIONAL appropriate, pay the deposit.
OFFER
• Upon acceptance of your offer UCD will automatically
create a student record for you. Following this you
will receive an email confirmation of your acceptance,
including your student number.
• If for some reason you are unable to take up your offer
of a place at UCD, please contact the UCD Global
DEFER Admissions team so see if you can defer your offer
to the next academic year. You can view the Deferral
AN OFFER
Policy on our website at www.ucd.ie/registry
Undergraduate Offer Pack
What to do now 07
• Log in to your application account at
www.ucd.ie/global/apply
• Upon logging in, you will see that your application
REJECT appears with the status of ‘OFFER’ or ‘CONDITIONAL
AN OFFER OFFER’. Click on ‘ACCEPT OR REJECT’ and it will
bring you to the page where you can reject the offer.
Please indicate your reason for doing so.
MEETING THE CONDITIONS OF YOUR OFFER required in the Internet based TOEFL (iBT) with a score
English language condition of at least 20 in each section OR a minimum score
All UCD programmes are taught through English, and of 600 in the paper-based Test of English as a Foreign
all applicants must provide evidence of competence in Language (TOEFL PBT), with Test of Written English at
English language through a recognised English language 475 +. UCD TOEFL DI Code 0087. Additional recognised
test, or equivalent. English language tests are listed here:
https://www.ucd.ie/registry/
The minimum English Language Requirements in
relation to IELTS are an average score of 6.5 over all For all proficiency tests the results must be less than
components and a minimum of 6.0 in each band three years prior to the programme start date. Some
on the Academic Version. The English Language programmes have higher English language requirements.
Requirements in relation to TOEFL administered by Please make sure to check the English language
Princeton University are a minimum score of 90 is requirements for your chosen programme of study.
08 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
Academic condition
PRE-ARRIVAL CHECKLIST
If your offer is conditional upon obtaining your final
high school results, the offer letter will state the level
and grades required. When your results are known, please Pay your fees
upload a certified copy of your results. We may also ask
for original transcripts to be mailed. Official translations
must be provided with the original/copy documents where Organise health insurance
documents are not in English. Any offer will be conditional
until we have received satisfactory official final transcripts.
pply for a visa
A
Deposit condition (if applicable)
A deposit of c500 is payable to secure a place on most
courses. Deposits are non-refundable. The deposit amount
ake accommodation
M
will be deducted from your fee obligation. arrangements
Proof of identity
Applicants should be aware that, if admitted to a Make travel arrangements
programme, they will be required to present either
their birth certificate or passport as part of the registration
process. Participate in the Jumpstart
Programme
Join the UCD Alumni Network
Start registration
rrive in time for
A
orientationUndergraduate Offer Pack
What to do now 09
Photo by UCD Student Diana Markina10 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
FINANCIAL
Information
PROGRAMME FEES your local Irish embassy or consulate to ensure that
In order to complete the registration process, you must you have paid an adequate amount. Please ensure
confirm your registration and pay the appropriate fee. that you have paid and received a receipt to the
A detailed breakdown of your fee obligation is available value of the minimum visa payment so as to avoid
while registering in the SIS (Student Information System) visa refusal on the basis of incomplete tuition fee
through your UCD Connect account. payment.
When to pay fees to UCD Note 2: Where a student is receiving funding from a
Students may pay fees by semester: third party source, students must pay either a half or a
• You may pay one third of your fee in semester third (whichever is applicable to the programme) of any
one and the remainder in semester two balance of fees and charges in order to be a registered
student of the university.
Further information on payment dates is available at:
www.ucd.ie/students/fees Note 3: Using TransferMate is the quickest method to
receive a fee receipt for visa purposes.
If you require a visa to study in Ireland, you normally
pay the greater of c6,000 or half the tuition fee prior to HOW DO I PAY FEES?
submitting your visa application. You can pay directly by credit or debit card using
UCD’s online payment facility. This is available at
You should also check the requirements of the visa office www.ucd.ie/sisweb. A receipt will be emailed to you at
you are applying through. your default email address or another that you specify.
Note 1: If you require a visa to study in Ireland please Pay via the TransferMate payment facility. This facility
be advised that the Irish Government will only issue is especially useful for students who require a visa
a student visa to students who have paid their tuition to travel and/or study. You may access this service
fees in full or paid a minimum deposit. This is usually via webpage: www.ucd.ie/students Students making
c6,000, but varies in some countries. Please contact payments from outside Ireland may also pay UCDUndergraduate Offer Pack
Financial Information 11
directly by International Bank Transfer to: For further information on UCD fees visit
UCD Fees Account, Bank of Ireland, College Green, www.ucd.ie/fees
Dublin 2, Ireland.
IBAN: IE82 BOFI 9000 1720 6115 11
BIC: BOFI IE 2D
IMPORTANT NOTES
Please ensure you enter your Student Number or
UCD regrets that it cannot accept cash
Applicant Number as the narrative/description on
payments for any portion of a student’s fees.
the transfer so it can be identified as your payment
and added to your record.
If you pay UCD directly by International Bank
Transfer it is essential that you include your
Third Party Payment allows individuals and
student number (or Applicant number) as the
organisations to pay fees on behalf of a UCD student by
sole narrative. A copy of the Bank Transcript should
debit or credit card without having access to confidential
also be sent to UCD at student.payments@ucd.ie
student information. Further information is available at
or faxed to +353 1 716 1228.
www.ucd.ie/students/fees/thirdparty
UCD does not issue invoices to individual
RECEIPTS
companies or to students for the purposes of
If you pay by bank transfer, you will need to contact
paying fees. If you are in a situation whereby you
UCD for receipts relating to visa applications etc. This
are in receipt of private sponsorship this is a
may take some time; therefore we urge international
matter between you and your sponsor directly.
students to use the TransferMate option to expedite
The fee liability for your programme rests in full
payment and visa applications.
with you as a student
of UCD. You can upload your sponsorship letter
If you pay online you will be emailed a receipt. You may
at www.ucd.ie/students/studentdesk/
also print your own receipt for the current year. Log into
fundingletter
www.ucd.ie/sisweb12 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
COST OF LIVING This is based on 2020 costs and is to help you work out
This table gives a rough guide to the cost of living in the costs for living expenses such as accommodation,
Dublin over the course of one month. food and other basics. Lots of things can affect how
much money you’ll need, so these numbers are indicative
MONTHLY COSTS only and subject to change.
Rent (based on UCD Merville These estimates do not include the cost of flights or
accommodation rates) €835 insurance. You should also budget for any initial costs
Electricity/Gas/Bills €30 you will likely incur (e.g. you might need to budget for
short-term accommodation upon arrival in Dublin).
Food (including lunches) €250
Also please note that all non-Irish nationals, who are
Travel (Student Leap card) €80
not citizens of the EU/EEA or Switzerland, must register
Books and materials (including in person with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration
photocopying and printing) €70 Service (INIS) after arrival and after completion of
registration at UCD. The INIS will issue you with a
Clothes / medical €45
residence permit/card. As of June 2020, the fee for this
Mobile phone (excluding card is c300 and should be included in your budgeting
handset cost) €20 calculations.
Social life / miscellaneous €130
Total: €1460Undergraduate Offer Pack
Funding and Scholarships 13
FUNDINGand Scholarships
Check out www.ucd.ie/global for information on scholarships and funding available.
US FEDERAL STUDENT LOANS SPONSORED STUDENTS
For comprehensive information on loans If you are receiving funding from your government or
and aid for North American students, please another organisation, you are required to submit official
check go to the Scholarships and Finance confirmation of sponsorship prior to, or on registration.
option at www.ucd.ie/global/studyatucd. Failure to do so may result in you being liable for tuition
United States (US) citizens and permanent fees. You may email your sponsorship letter or financial
residents attending UCD are eligible to guarantee letter to sponsors@ucd.ie
apply for Federal Student Aid from the US
Department of Education. UCD participates in Some sponsors will require you to provide them with
the William D. Ford Direct Loan programme. a fee statement prior to confirming your sponsorship.
Additionally, it recognises aid provided for US You can access your fee statement online via your
Veterans through the GI Bill. Students may SISWeb account. Log into your account, click on
also be able to access private loans and 529 the 'Registration, Fees and Assessment' tab. Select
plans, if necessary. 'Programme Fee & Payments'. On this page there
is a 'Generate Statement' button. Click this to
CANADIAN STUDENT AID download a PDF fee statement.
The government of Canada offers Canadian
Student Aid to full-time and part-time If you have any questions, please contact
post-secondary students who demonstrate sponsors@ucd.ie
financial need in most provinces and
territories across Canada. UCD is approved
to administer these loans.
CONTACTS
LOANS FOR STUDENTS FROM OTHER UCD Fees
COUNTRIES www.ucd.ie/fees
The University does not currently administer
loans from countries other than Canada UCD Global Applications Team
and the US. You should check with your Tel. +353 1 716 8500
country’s government whether it provides internationaladmissions@ucd.ie
loans for study in Ireland and what the
process is to apply for one. International Scholarships Information
www.ucd.ie/global14 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
ACCOMMODATION
Ireland’s largest university campus, UCD is a vibrant student community
with over 3,000 students living on a state-of-the-art campus only 5km
from Dublin city centre.
UCD RESIDENCES PROVIDES accommodation in you may need a little more support to help you get
single-room, apartment style halls, complete with started at UCD. Up-to-date information and allocation
living area and kitchen, with limited options for catered policy will be sent out to you directly by email.
accommodation. As a guideline, accommodation fees
for the 2020/2021 academic year range from HOW TO APPLY?
c6,982 - c11,926 for two trimesters and Please note you are required to have an offer of a
c10,571 - c12,450 for three trimesters, depending place of study to apply for on-campus
on the type of accommodation. Please note, accommodation. Students, with a conditional accept
accommodation fees may change from year to year. for their course, are also eligible to book a room.
Application is made online via the Incoming Student
The “Res Life” social programme helps to foster a sense Portal. Communication will be sent to you regarding
of community within the residences. There are games on-campus accommodation in early summer and
rooms located in three of our residences, and a gym in this will include details of application dates and
one of our newest builds. Specially adapted facilities are deadlines.
provided for students with disabilities.
www.ucd.ie/residences
UCD seeks to guarantee first year non-EU undergraduate residences@ucd.ie
students on-campus accommodation, as we recognise Tel: +353 1 716 1031Undergraduate Offer Pack
Accommodation 15
OFF-CAMPUS LIVING
If you are looking for information on off-campus options, CONTACTS
and information on rented, private and family-based
accommodation, please visit www.ucd.ie/residences/ Off-Campus Accommodation Office
bookings/offcampus Merville Residence Reception Office,
University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4
roombookingsupport@ucd.ie
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 09:30 – 13:00
and 14:00 – 17:00
Student Union Accommodation Services
Student Union Centre, University College
Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4
Tel: +353 1 716 3164/3112
accommodation@ucdsu.ie
welfare@ucdsu.ie
The following websites have advertisements
for available accommodation in Dublin:
www.ucdaccommodationpad.ie
www.daft.ie
www.let.ie
www.myhome2let.ie
www.letbynet.com16 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
STUDENT VISA
Information
DO I NEED A VISA? to obtain permission to remain in Ireland. INIS
Most students from outside the EU/EEA require an registration must take place before the expiry date
entry visa for Ireland. You can check on www.inis.gov.ie stamped on their passport by immigration officials at
to see if you require a visa. (Examples – USA, Canadian, the airport. Even if you do not require a visa to enter
Brazilian, Malaysian students do not require a visa whilst Ireland, you are required to register with INIS after
Indian, Chinese, Russian students do). arrival. Further information on registration will be
provided at orientation.
You must make your visa application online using the AVATS
online facility. Completing the online application form is Important note: When you have applied for your visa,
the first step. The application will only be processed when the please alert us by updating your profile on the The
online form is completed AND the required documentation, Incoming Student Portal. The Incoming Student
passport photograph and appropriate fee are received by Portal is available on your SISWEB account.
the relevant office as indicated by the online system.
HEALTH INSURANCE
If you are from China, India, Nigeria, Russia, the United Students from ouside the EU must obtain private
Arab Emirates or the United Kingdom, please also health insurance. You can purchase insurance in your
check the Irish Embassy website for details of further home country, however you will need to ensure that
documentation which may be required. it is valid in Ireland and in any other countries you
plan to travel to. There are different levels of private
You should read the visa application details very health insurance available. Students are advised to
carefully. If you do not provide the documentation read their policy documents carefully. INIS requires
required, your visa will be refused. that, if you have health insurance from your own
country it must cover you up to c25,000 for
INIS REGISTRATION in-hospital treatment.
All students from outside the EU/EEA, after they have
registered with UCD, must register with INIS in orderUndergraduate Offer Pack
Visa Information 17
Many of our international students tend to opt for If you get approval for a visa, the embassy to which
a basic medical expenses insurance policy, which you sent your documents will affix a visa to your
satisfies the Irish immigration requirements, and passport. For visa-related queries you can contact us.
can be purchased online for c160 with a company Applying from India: india@ucd.ie
now called Study and Protect, formerly ODON Applying from China: chinaoffice@ucd.ie
www.studyandprotect.com Applying from South East Asia: southeastasia@ucd.ie
Applying from Japan, Korea, Taiwan or Hong Kong:
More comprehensive plans are available from one eastasia@ucd.ie
of the three main private health insurance companies Applying from the Middle East or North Africa:
in Ireland. dubai@ucd.ie
VHI: www.vhi.ie Applying from all other regions:
Irish Life: www.irishlifehealth.ie internationaladmissions@ucd.ie
Laya Healthcare: www.layahealthcare.ie
If you are refused a visa you may appeal the decision
Please note that in order to apply for a policy from within two months. However, as this would affect your
one of these companies you will need to provide an date of arrival in UCD, you would need to seek advice on
address in Ireland. Also note that medical cover does final acceptable arrival date from the course director/
not normally begin immediately with VHI. There is administrator.
usually a ‘waiting period’ of six months.
LIVING AND WORKING IN IRELAND
CHECKING ON YOUR VISA STATUS Entitlement to work (casual employment)
You should apply as early as possible for your visa as it Students who are attending a full-time course of at least
can take eight to twelve weeks for it to be processed. You one year’s duration are entitled to seek employment on a
can check online at Visa Decisions to see if your visa has casual basis. Casual employment means you can work for
been processed (using your Visa Application Number). 20 hours per week during term time or full-time (up to 40
This list is updated weekly. hours) for the months of June, July, August and September
and from 15 December to 15 January inclusive.
NEED MORE HELP? UCD Global provides information about living
and working in Ireland on its website: www.ucd.ie/global
Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service
www.inis.gov.ie18 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
When making a visa application you must:
Complete an
online application
E nsure your passport is
valid for 12 months
Check the Irish Embassy details
where your documentation is
to be sent
Have private health insurance
(please visit UCD Global Student
Support Services for information on
health insurance providers). Please
P rovide a passport
note that private health insurance
sized photo
is not provided by UCD
Show that you have enough
Pay the application fee money to support yourself
while in Ireland (bank account
statements for six months
previously, evidence of access to
c7,000, sponsorship letter, etc.)
Provide a signed letter of
application which explains Show evidence of language proficiency.
why you require the visa INIS requires IELTS of 5 (or equivalent),
whereas UCD generally requires IELTS of
6.5 or higher (or equivalent).
Provide your final Offer Letter as
evidence that you have been accepted
Any other documents as requested
on a full-time course of study
by INIS or the Irish Embassy
through which you are applying
Show evidence of tuition fees paid
Make sure you keep copies
of all documents submittedUndergraduate Offer Pack
Visa Information 1920 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
Staying in
TOUCH
CHECK YOUR EMAIL ACCOUNT OFTEN! SOME IMPORTANT FEATURES AND
You will receive regular communications from the WAYS TO ENGAGE
University to the email address detailed in your • Update your Visa Application Status
application to UCD and you should take careful (if you require a visa to study in Ireland)
note of any instructions in these emails. • ‘Make Connections’ with other incoming students
• Download a Cost of Attendance (sometimes required
LOGIN REGULARLY TO THE INCOMING if looking to secure a bank loan to cover the cost of
STUDENT PORTAL your studies)
The Incoming Student Portal is a dedicated portal • Check out UCD’s jargon buster, which will explain
for students with an offer of study to UCD to access words and phrases you’ll hear used in UCD
important information about coming to UCD as well www.ucd.ie/students/jargon
as helping to connect you with other students from • Connect with Alumni via the Incoming Student Portal.
your country/state and with other students on your You can login via www.ucd.ie/sisweb
programme.
Your Programme Director may also post important TIP
messages about your degree programme so remember
Make sure that internationaladmissions@ucd.ie
to check frequently!
and onlineapps@ucd.ie are added to your list
of safe senders so emails from these accounts
HOW TO ACCESS THE INCOMING
do not end up in your spam folder!
STUDENT PORTAL
Log in via www.ucd.ie/siswebUndergraduate Offer Pack
Alumni Supports 21
ALUMNI
for Offer Holders
SUPPORTS
The UCD alumni network is influential, successful, active While you are a student at UCD, you will have access to
and truly international. Many of the 288,000 UCD global a wider set of resources on the UCD Alumni Network. You
alumni network, living in 169 countries, hold positions in can meet a mentor and connect with recent graduates
leading organisations around the world. and experienced alumni in your field of interest.
Now that you are a UCD offer holder, you can join the You can also connect with Alumni on the Incoming
UCD Alumni Network and meet recent graduates who Student Portal. This can be accessed with your Sisweb
are Global Alumni Ambassadors. Find people from your account: www.ucd.ie/sisweb
location, the degree you are considering, or the area you When you finish your degree at UCD, you will officially
hope to work in. Hear about their experience as a UCD join the wider UCD alumni community. They will be there
student, how their degree helped them land their current to support you in the next steps of your career journey.
job, and how staying connected is helping them achieve
their professional goals. Take a look at just some of UCD’s alumni blazing a trail
across the globe.
Jane Ann McKenna, Bernard Looney, Annie Atkins,
Business Engineering Arts & Humanities
Jane Ann McKenna is Head of Médecins Bernard Looney is chief executive Annie Atkins is a graphic designer for
Sans Frontières (MSF) Strategic Planning. officer of BP. He joined the film based in Ireland. Annie creates
In 2007, Jane Ann left her career in organisation in 1991 as a drilling graphic props and set pieces for movie
banking to join MSF in Darfur where engineer, working in the North Sea, productions shooting all over the world.
she led the organisation’s response to Alaska, the Gulf of Mexico and She has designed the graphics for three
crises in the Central African Republic, Sri Vietnam. He later ran BP’s oil and Oscar-nominated films: the animated
Lanka, Iraq, Ethiopia and most recently gas operations worldwide. He is a feature The Boxtrolls, Spielberg’s Cold
Afghanistan. Jane Ann was appointed committed advocate of diversity and War thriller Bridge of Spies and Wes
Head of Office of Médecins Sans has worked to increase understanding Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel –
Frontières Ireland in 2011. Jane Ann is of and support for mental health in which went on to win the Academy
responsible for the delivery of emergency BP. Bernard is a fellow of both the Award for Best Production Design.
medical aid to some of the most acute Royal Academy of Engineering and the
conflicts in Africa, Middle East and Energy Institute and is a mentor in the
Asia. She leads the strategic growth FTSE 100 Cross-Company Mentoring
and development of MSF’s Irish office, Executive Programme.
focusing on fundraising, communications
and recruitment initiatives.22 Undergraduate Offer Pack
Registration
REGISTRATION
Once you accept an offer the next step is registration. You will need to
register online before you can begin your undergraduate studies at UCD.
Registration allows you to obtain your UCD Student Card (UCARD) and
gain access to the wide range of facilities available to our students.
REGISTRATION FOR the majority of programmes takes Please see www.ucd.ie/students/registration for further
place in August and you will receive notification via details on registration such as times, guides (including
email when registration opens. videos) to registration and other support information.
This website will be updated near registration open time
Registration will be available through UCD Connect in August.
at www.ucd.ie. Please note that your UCD Connect
account will be available 48 hours in advance of online
registration – access is not available immediately. Your
username is your UCD student number, and your
password is your date of birth (in ddmmyy format). PLEASE NOTE
To access UCD Connect email, you will need
In UCD Connect, click on the “Student Life” tab, then
to log into UCD Connect at www.ucd.ie
enter the SIS (Student Information System). If you were
Your username is your UCD student number,
a student of UCD in the last three years your computer
and your password is your date of birth
account and email details remain the same. If you have
(in ddmmyy format).
any questions or problems with the registration process,
please contact your Programme Office directly.Undergraduate Offer Pack
Orientation 23
ORIENTATION
When you come to UCD, you will be among 4,000 other new incoming
students, many of whom you will interact with both during Orientation
and throughout your time at UCD. You are now part of the UCD family!
ORIENTATION IS THE TIME to ask questions, meet You can explore the island of Saints and Scholars
other students, have fun and dive into the Irish culture! through road trips, walking tours, and by taking part
Orientation introduces you to the University and key in celebrations of Irish culture right here on campus.
staff members, and provides you with crucial information There is also an extensive calendar of celebrations of
and advice that will assist you in adjusting to the living different cultures throughout the year, including national
and learning environment of the University. You will day celebrations. All students are invited to attend these
receive academic advice about your course and support events, which are often organised in conjunction with
in how to enrol in the correct units of study. The UCD student societies. Other activities include language cafes
Orientation programme runs over one week. and Buddy Programme meet-ups.
Please note that Orientation Week begins one week ROAD TRIP - TO IKEA!
before classes start so it is wise to arrive in good time. During Orientation Week, UCD Global organises bus trips
to IKEA. There will also be an opportunity for you to collect
Classes begin on 8th September. Please also check free items, including pots and pans, on-campus via the
www.ucd.ie/global for updates on September 2021 Great Donate initiative organised by UCD Students’ Union.
Orientation.
2021/2022 TERM DATES
Alongside student Orientation, we also have an Programmes start at the beginning of the
extensive, fun and dynamic programme of activities academic year in early September. The start date for
for international students. During this time, you will your programme will be stated on your offer letter.
have ample opportunity to meet UCD Global staff
and students through events such as the President’s For details on term, revision and exam dates please
Welcome, Student Café & Fair, social and cultural see the academic calendar for 2021/2022 at
excursions. Many other exciting events take place in www.ucd.ie/students/keydates
the UCD Global Lounge, a multi-functional space which
enables students to build connections with each other Semester Dates Exam dates
and the world around them.
Orientation 2nd September –
7th September
UCD GLOBAL LOUNGE EVENTS
The UCD Global Lounge is staffed by Global Guides Semester One 8th September – 7th-18th
who are student ambassadors. They are available to 30th November December
answer questions regarding student life. You will have
opportunities to interact with our Global Guides during Semester Two 17th January – 3rd - 14th May
Orientation and throughout the year. 22nd April
Once Orientation Week is over, the UCD Global Lounge
calendar of events is packed with opportunities for CONTACT
students to take advantage of their time in Ireland.
Student Desk
www.ucd.ie/askus24 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
Clockwise from above: UCD’s Sports Centre is home to state-of-the-art facilities, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool; the
Bloomberg Trading Room in the Quinn School of Business and UCD’s Sutherland School of Law, overshadowed by the Dublin Mountains.
Destination
UCD
UCD has one of the largest urban campuses in Europe, and
contains not only the buildings in which students live and
study, but also gorgeous parkland teeming with wildlife, art
and fabulous facilities.
RANKED IN THE top 1% of higher education institutes With such a large campus, we have the ability to
worldwide, students love our flexible curriculum, and our house an incredible breadth of amenities (such as the
research-intensive academic staff comprises leading UNESCO-recognised National Folklore Collection), all of
national and international opinion leaders and influencers. which make the UCD experience second to none.
THE CAMPUS THE PEOPLE
The UCD Campus has to be experienced to be believed. At UCD, our faculty and staff are focused on ensuring
Our facilities include vaults of historical record, the that all students have the best experience and receive
biggest animal hospital in Ireland (and animal A&E for the best education possible in an exciting, dynamic and
Dublin), world-class teaching and research facilities, supportive environment.
excellent accommodation, a huge sports centre
with Olympic-size swimming pool, and interactive 29% of our student population, and over one third of our
laboratories, some of which are unique to UCD. academic staff, are from outside Ireland.Undergraduate Offer Pack
Destination UCD 25
This ensures that the experience of all students at
UCD is truly global, and encompasses a multitude
of attitudes, formed from different life and learning
29% of our
student population
experiences. A multitude of clubs and societies make it
easy for students to meet each other, and get involved in
is from outside Ireland
activities that not only mean a lot to them, but that also
TOP 1%
offer invaluable life experience.
We also have excellent student support services,
including our Peer Mentor Programme, which pairs of higher education
groups of first year students with a senior student who institutes worldwide
can support them throughout their first year at UCD.26 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
OUR CELEBRATIONS! Our international admissions team are on hand to
At UCD, we celebrate many national days. Organised by, answer any questions you may have about coming to
or in collaboration with, relevant student societies, these UCD and you can find them in Dublin and further afield!
events really make you feel like you are in a home away
from home. Pictured opposite: Holi, the Festival of Colour, run by the UCD
Indian Society.
Indian Cultural Day, hosted in the UCD Global Lounge
Chinese New Year, run by UCD Global and the UCD Chinese Students and Scholars Association.
Thanksgiving dinner, organised by UCD Global. Malaysia Night, run by the UCD Malaysia Society.Undergraduate Offer Pack
Destination UCD 2728 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global UniversityUndergraduate Offer Pack
UCD Global Centres 29
UCD
GLOBAL
CENTRES
UCD has a network of Global Centres located in five countries around the
world. Staffed by UCD employees, these centres are contact and information
hubs for students and parents when students are making an application to
UCD. Make a call, drop them an email, or even visit a Global Centre in person.
Each Global Centre serves a specific region and all other countries are served
through our central Dublin office.
NORTH AMERICA SOUTH ASIA
University College Dublin North America Global Centre, University College Dublin South Asia Global Centre,
12 E. 49th Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10017, USA Access Work Business Centre, Building 8C, 11th Floor,
Email: northamerica@ucd.ie DLF Cyber City, Gurgaon – 122002, Haryana, India
Tel: +91-9384810500 / +91-9940633500
Northeast & Mid-Atlantic Regions Email: india@ucd.ie
Tel: +1-646-690-9024 (Eastern Time)
ASIA PACIFIC
Central Region University College Dublin Southeast Asia Global Centre,
Tel: +1-847-373-6731 (Central Time) Suite 9.07, North Block, The Ampwalk,
West Coast Region No.218, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Tel: +1-650-255-8532 (Pacific Time) Tel: +60 (03) 2715 1662
Email: southeastasia@ucd.ie / eastasia@ucd.ie
CHINA
University College Dublin Global Centre Beijing, MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA
Tel: +86 10 8531 7367/ 7369 University College Dublin Dubai Global Centre
Address: 1702, DRC Diplomatic Office Building, Dubai Knowledge Park, Block 2B, Office F-06, Dubai.
No. 19 Dongfang Dong Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, Tel: +97145898204
China 100125 Email: dubai@ucd.ie
都柏林大学全球中心（中国） DUBLIN OFFICE
chinaoffice@ucd.ie 官方微信：爱尔兰UCD UCD Global,
+86 10 8448 4287/4288 官方微博：爱尔兰都柏林大 Gerard Manley Hopkins International Centre,
学UCD Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
Email: internationaladmissions@ucd.ie
Tel: +353 1 716 850030 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
Student Support
SERVICES
UCD GLOBAL
UCD Global offers a wide range of support to both
international students and Irish students who wish to
study abroad. International students make up about 29%
of the UCD student population. The services offered by
UCD Global include:
• Pre-arrival information for new international
students
• Orientation programmes
• Cultural and social events
• Assistance with University procedures
• Student Immigration Support Officer who assists
with personal and practical issues
or practical issues, and help you to access other
For further information please visit: support services where necessary.
www.ucd.ie/global
For more information, please visit:
STUDENT ADVISERS www.ucd.ie/studentadvisers
Student Advisers provide support for all students
throughout their university experience, particularly UCD PEER MENTORING
during their first year. They are attached either to Every new student in UCD is assigned a Peer Mentor,
particular programmes (e.g. Arts) or to specific groups who is usually a second or third year student from the
of students (e.g. mature students). Student Advisers same or similar subject area as you. They will be your
are there to help make students' time at UCD as informal point of contact during your transition into
fulfilling and enjoyable as possible. They are college, guiding you through Orientation week, helping
available for private meetings with students so you you settle in and arranging group activities in your
can express your concerns regarding social, personal first year. They also provide important advice aroundUndergraduate Offer Pack
Student Support Services 31
assignments and exams and introduce you to other first
year students, making it easier to meet new friends. 1 million
print books are available
UCD LIBRARY
across UCD’s libaries
UCD’s libraries stock one million print books, 650,000
e-books, numerous subject databases and approximately
84,000 print or electronic journals. There are also 3,150
reading places for quiet study time, group learning rooms
and social learning spaces. UCD CAREERS NETWORK
Whether you have a clear vision of what you
Maths Support Centre
want to do upon graduation or are just beginning
Located in the main James Joyce Library, the Maths Support
to look at your career options, the UCD Careers
Centre (MSC) offers free help to students with maths,
Network can help you to:
applied maths and statistics. This support is available to
• Understand the range of national and
all UCD students, whether you are studying maths or not,
inter-national career opportunities
and support is offered on a one-to-one or small group
available to you
basis, with tuition by friendly and experienced tutors.
• Find out what other UCD graduates from
your programme have gone on to do
Writing Support Centre
• Take credit bearing and non credit bearing
Also located in the James Joyce Library, the Writing
programmes & workshops to develop your
Support Centre offers free, high-quality tuition in
skills, competencies and attitudes that
writing to students interested in improving their writing
employers seek
skills. One-to-one tuition and a range of workshops/
• Develop a winning C.V., cover letter and
seminars are delivered by our team of friendly and non-
interview techniques for face-to-face,
judgemental writing tutors, who strive to ensure that
telephone, Skype and group interviews
students are helped to communicate, structure
and learn how best to compete for jobs
and present their knowledge and ideas in writing.
For further information please visit: www.ucd.ie/library32 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
UCD APPLIED LANGUAGE CENTRE (ALC) Catalogue Search facility so you can look up journals
The UCD Applied Language Centre offers foreign on your smart phone. Just search for “UCD Mobile”
language electives and English language courses. in the Android Marketplace or your App store!
For further information please visit: www.ucd.ie/alc UCD Access and Lifelong Learning
UCD Access and Lifelong Learning provides support for
IT SERVICES students with disabilities. The centre assists students in
UCD Belfield is the largest campus in Ireland and is digitally many different ways from academic support to exam
enabled with wireless access available campus-wide support. Registration is confidential. All you need to
(including residences). Online services can be accessed register is a letter from your medical consultant or an
24/7 whether you are at home or abroad through UCD educational psychologist’s report (no more than 3 years
Connect. UCD Connect gives you access to your personal old). You will meet one-to-one with a member of the
files, library resources and online learning resources. A UCD Access and Lifelong Learning team and together
large amount of software is available to students at no you will put in place your individual learning plan. UCD
charge when you come to UCD, including AutoCAD, Access and Lifelong Learning is here to support you.
EndNote, Microsoft Office and SPSS.
You can find more information and contact details at:
There are two IT Centres on campus, located in the www.ucd.ie/openingworlds
Daedalus and Health Sciences buildings. Look out for
our mobile IT Centre which will be on the move across
campus during term time! UCD is a BYOD (bring your
own device) campus so come to us for all your device
queries. UCD also has 1,000 computers available in UCD STUDENT DESK
open-access laboratories across campus.
The UCD Student Desk offers a range of services
to students including registration/student records,
Online support is available at www.ucd.ie/it
fees, assessment, regulations and transcripts to
name but a few.
UCD Mobile
This app gives you an interactive campus map with
For the full range of services available to students
information on campus facilities, tours, a staff directory,
please visit www.ucd.ie/askus
and Blackboard Mobile Learn so you can check
announcements on the go! There is also a LibraryUndergraduate Offer Pack
Student Support Services 33
Great career opportunities
With a one year stay back visa for graduates, many UCD students now choose to stay
in Ireland beyond their studies and start their careers here.
ICT MED TECH ENGINEERING FOOD & FINANCIAL
& PHARMA AGRICULTURE SERVICES
ICT ENGINEERING
Ireland is known as the internet and games capital The engineering industry in Ireland is strong and
of Europe and is home to nine of the top ten global vibrant. It supports a very broad range of companies
software companies, nine of the top ten US tech in various fields, including environmental, biomedical,
companies, all of the top three global security and global aerospace, energy, ICT, and medical devices to name but
enterprise software companies, four of the a few. The industry is also a very strong contributor to
top five IT services companies and all ten of the top Irish exports, generating c5 billion in exports annually.
‘born on the internet’ companies.
FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
MED TECH AND PHARMA The manufacture of food and drink is Ireland’s
Ireland is home to all of the top ten global pharma most important indigenous industry, with over c13
companies and has over 30,000 people employed in billion of product exported every year to 180 markets
the industry. Ireland has exported almost c73 billion in worldwide. Ireland supplies 15% of the world’s infant
biopharmaceutical product. milk formula and three of the four best-selling infant
formula companies in the world are based in Ireland.
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Ireland is the 4th largest provider of wholesale
Financial Services in the EU, and is home to over
400 international financial institutions in world-leading
areas such as fund administration and aircraft leasing.34 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
SPORT and Recreation
SPORT CLUBS rugby, GAA and soccer pitches, and the National
With 56 official sports clubs, a range of excellent Hockey Stadium.
facilities and a huge programme of fitness classes, there’s
something for everyone. So make the most of your time Student Gym Membership entitles current UCD students
in UCD, get involved, get active and have fun! to free access to the UCD Sport & Fitness Gym and
the Performance Gym. Once you activate your Student
UCD SPORT AND FITNESS Membership you can gain access to the pool on a pay-
Our modern Sport and Fitness Centre has an as-you-go basis or can pay a once-off annual charge for
extensive range of amenities, catering for students unlimited access to the pool area.
of all fitness levels, from casual gym-user to Olympic
athlete. Facilities include a 50 metre swimming pool, For more information about our sports facilities,
gym, dance and spinning studios, sauna and jacuzzi, please visit: www.ucd.ie/sportandfitness
three multi-purpose sports halls, four squash courts,
handball/racquetball alley, climbing wall, changing STUDENT SOCIETIES
facilities, performance and squad gyms, 17 natural Regularly recommended by international students as the
grass pitches (including the UCD Bowl, home ground best way to make friends and fill your social calendar
to the UCD rugby and football clubs), six synthetic in UCD, when you get here find a club, society or group
5-a-side pitches, sand-based hockey pitch, synthetic that interests you, and JOIN IT!Undergraduate Offer Pack
Sport and Recreation 35
Student societies and networks are a great way to students, so they understand the issues facing students.
explore your interests and develop new ones. UCD has You can visit the office at any time and have a chat
over 80 active student societies so there is something with them.
for everyone. Many of our societies bring together
international students from different backgrounds, and Throughout the year, the UCDSU Entertainments (Ents)
networks such as the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Office runs class trips and parties, gigs, comedy nights,
and International Student Society run lots of events mystery tours and The Freshers Ball. They also run an
and activities throughout the year, including trips award-winning newspaper, The University Observer.
around Ireland.
For more information about the UCDSU,
For more information on UCD Societies, please visit: please visit: www.ucdsu.ie
www.ucd.ie/sportandsocieties
UCD STUDENTS’ UNION (UCDSU)
All UCD students are automatically members of UCDSU,
which represents students’ views and opinions, and
works on a number of university committees from
all areas of university life as the voice of the student
population. Five elected officers offer support and advice
to students during their time in UCD – the President,
Welfare Officer, Education Officer, Graduate Officer and
Campaigns & Communications Officer.
The UCDSU is there to advise, support and direct
students through any kind of situation in which they
may find themselves. All the UCDSU officers are UCD
UCD Mountaineering Club36 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
Photo by UCD Student Mary-Loup Bonnett Photo by UCD Student Diva Gallo
Destination
IRELAND
Recognised as having one of the best education systems in the world,
and graduates who are sought after in governments, industry, NGOs and
organisations the world over, Ireland is an ideal choice for students who
want the best possible springboard for their futures.
DESPITE BEING a small country with a population of averages. Ireland also ranks in the top 10 globally for:
just under five million, we are a well-connected nation, • Quality of the education system
with over 70 million people around the world who • University education that meets the needs of a
claim Irish heritage. competitive economy
• Knowledge transfer between universities and
DID YOU KNOW? companies.
The United States Census Bureau 2016 Census
reported that an amazing 32.3 million or 10 percent WE’RE SAFE
of people living in the USA claim Irish heritage. Ranked 12th out of 163 countries in the Global
According to the Census Bureau surveys, that’s more Peace Index.
than those who claim to be American (20.1 million)!
WE’RE HAPPY
Ireland is ranked 22nd in the World Happiness Index
OUR EDUCATION SYSTEM IS EXCELLENT 2020. This happiness leads to friendliness, and the Irish
Ireland’s education system is amongst the best in the people are renowned for their friendly and welcoming
world. We lead in the skills race with a higher percentage nature the world over.
of 3rd level graduates than the UK, US and OECDUndergraduate Offer Pack
Destination Ireland 37
Photo by UCD Student Abigail Lynch
DID YOU KNOW?
The Wild Atlantic Way, a stunning drive that stretches all the way from the cliffs around County Donegal, in the far
north of Ireland, all the way down to the beaches of County Cork, is the ‘longest defined coastal driving route in the
world’. The 2,500 km route passes through nine counties and three provinces.
WE HAVE DIVERSE… WEATHER An island located off the western edge of Europe, next
In Ireland, a hot (or cold, or rainy) topic of conversation is to the United Kingdom, Ireland is within easy reach of
the weather! You might experience four seasons in one all major European capitals, so you can enjoy European
day – so be sure to pack your sunscreen, umbrella, rain adventures during your time with us too!
jacket, sweater and sunglasses when heading to class!
YOU’VE SEEN US ON SCREEN
WE’RE YOUNG Ireland is famous for its beautiful countryside, and is
Ireland has the youngest population in Europe with a featured in many films and TV shows. In Kerry you can see
third of the population under 25 years old and almost Sceilg Mhichil (Skellig Michael), AKA planet Ahch-To in Star
half the population under the age of 34. Wars; in Wexford you can wander the beaches featured in
‘Saving Private Ryan’, in Clare you can explore the incredible
WE SPEAK ENGLISH Cliffs of Moher and see the location of the Horcrux Cave
Ireland is the only member state of the European Union from Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, and in Down
(apart from Malta) whose first language is English. you can travel the Kingsroad from ‘Game of Thrones’.
WE’RE COMPACT, EASY TO NAVIGATE WE’RE PROUD OF OUR CULTURE AND HISTORY
– AND CLOSE TO EUROPEAN CAPITALS Ireland’s incredible culture and history is celebrated
As a small country, Ireland’s beautiful landscapes and countrywide. Our two UNESCO World Heritage sites
vibrant cities are easily accessible. Dublin is just a have to be seen to be believed. The neolithic chambers
two-hour drive from Galway in the west and Cork in the of Brú na Boinne, and Skellig Michael (filming location
south, meaning that the entire country can be explored for Star Wars) are unforgettable. With many museums,
with ease while you are based in Dublin. cathedrals, ancient monuments and castles, Ireland’s past
and present can be explored on every corner.38 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
Destination
DUBLIN
Dublin is located on Ireland’s east coast, and is served by a large
international airport which sees over 33 million passengers pass through
annually. With major European capitals just a short flight away, Dublin is an
ideal base from which you can easily explore the rest of Europe.
A COMPACT, COSY, yet bustling city, Dublin is easy to Google, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, AirBnB, Hubspot
navigate and the city centre is within walking distance, and Squarespace.
or just a short bus ride, from UCD.
WE’RE AN EVENTFUL CITY
WE’RE FRIENDLY AND POPULAR! Dubin hosts many annual events such as the St Patrick’s
Dublin is one of the three most visited capital cities Festival, a Chinese New Year Festival, Culture Night, the
in Europe, and is regularly voted friendliest city in Dublin Film Festival, and is home to the national football
Europe by TripAdvisor. and rugby teams. You can catch many Gaelic games at
Croke Park stadium.
WE’RE EUROPE’S TECH HUB
Regarded as Europe’s tech capital, Dublin’s thriving
digital hub is home to international IT giants such as
Photo by UCD Student Kartik SharmaUndergraduate Offer Pack
Destination Dublin 39
Photo by UCD Student Hayley Meyers Photo by UCD student Elaine Rose
WE HAVE AN INCREDIBLE ARTS AND WE HAVE FOOD TO CATER FOR
PERFORMANCE SCENE EVERYONE’S TASTES!
Dublin has spawned jaw-dropping creative talent, and Dublin has a vibrant, young, multicultural population,
amazing authors such as James Joyce, Roddy Doyle, and and the city centre is packed with shops and restaurants
Anne Enright hail from the city. Dublin is also home to a to suit everyone’s budget and tastes. There is an Asian
multitude of world famous bands, including U2 and The strip just north of the River Liffey, home to many
Script, and actors such as Colin Farrell, Saoirse Ronan authentic and award-winning restaurants, and the many
and Domhnall Gleeson. supermarkets in the city centre stock ingredients from
around the world.
Storytelling is not just confined to books, music and
movies – Dublin has a vibrant stage scene and theatres EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
such as The Gate and The Abbey have performance runs Flanked by beaches to the east and mountains to the
throughout the year. You can also take many tours in south, and dotted with parks, Dublin boasts wonderful
Dublin, where the guides will make history come alive amenities for everyone to enjoy.
through their stories!
WE’RE ALL ABOUT THE CRAIC
(IT’S OUR WORD FOR FUN!)
The pubs, coffee shops, and music venues of Dublin are
important meeting and social venues for both Dubliners,
and visitors to the capital. You can enjoy coffee in a
bookshop, have a drink overlooking the city, or see
musicians perform any night of the week.40 University College Dublin
Ireland’s Global University
VISITINGUCD
BY PLANE The route 145 provides a direct route from Heuston
Dublin is served by Dublin International Airport, which is Station to Belfield via the city centre. If you wish to take
located north of Dublin City Centre. There are frequent a tour of the campus for details and bookings please visit
connecting buses from the airport to the city centre. www.ucd.ie/global
Aircoach operates a service (700) from Dublin Airport to
Leopardstown/Sandyford/Stillorgan which passes UCD.
Further details available at www.aircoach.ie. For further
How To VIDEOS
information on Dublin Airport and flights please visit
www.dublinairport.com We have created a bank of videos showcasing
the best ways to get to UCD, and these can be
BY TRAIN viewed on our YouTube channel.
Dublin is served by two main railway stations, Connolly www.youtube.com/ucdglobal
Station and Heuston Station. It is a short walk from
Connolly Station to O’Connell Street, where the Dublin
Bus numbers 2, 11, 39A and 46A can be boarded for UCD.You can also read
