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Activities for Cork, Ireland

Each term begins with welcome events and mandatory orientation sessions, hosted by USAC (all terms) and/or your host university (semester terms only). During orientation, you will learn vital information about living in Cork, immigration procedures, dealing with culture shock, the Irish higher education system, teaching and study methods, health and safety issues, and field trip opportunities.

Summer Program

Although most degree-seeking students will be away from campus during the summer term, there are plenty of ways for you to immerse yourself in the local campus, community, and culture. Discover cultural immersion opportunities, below.

Semester and Yearlong Program

Students are encouraged to join the host university's Student Union, which provides a comprehensive range of services, events, and student activities. UCC’s International Student Society organizes several social events, cultural activities, and excursions throughout the academic year, intended to immerse visiting students into local campus and community life. Over 100 clubs and societies are also available, focusing on interests that vary from canoeing to crocheting, horse racing to archaeology, dramatic pursuits to global justice. Joining a club allows you to meet local students and experience new things, while pursuing your own interests. You can enjoy field trips offered by the Archaeological Society, learn about Irish folklore by joining the Folklore Society, go on a food crawl hosted by the Foodies Society, or learn about Ireland’s farming community by joining the Macra na Feirme Society.

There is also a multi-faith chaplaincy on campus, which focuses on student well-being, offers support within the university community, and serves as a place of welcome for all. Many students visit its Tea Room/Lounge as a drop-in center for free coffee and to attend campus events and informal get-togethers. A wide range of sporting activities are also available at UCC, such as hockey, rugby, softball, squash, rowing, swimming, and volleyball.

Cultural Immersion Opportunities

  • Taste traditional Irish fare and a variety of global cuisines at the English Market, one of the oldest covered markets in Europe.
  • Listen to live performances at one of many music venues across the city.
  • Ring the Shandon Bells at St. Anne’s Church and enjoy spectacular 360° views of Cork and the surrounding area.
  • Visit a craft studio or art gallery to experience Cork's creative energy firsthand.
  • Attend a local cultural festival.
  • Immerse yourself in the region’s history and archaeology at the Cork Public Museum.
  • Take a riverside stroll among manicured gardens and public sculptures in Fitzgerald Park.
  • Learn about Cork's maritime history on a harbor cruise or kayak tour.
  • Attend Gaelic games such as hurling, football, and camogie.
  • Visit nearby Cobh and Kinsale, two of the region’s most historic coastal towns.
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