Summer Ecology of Ireland in Galway

Ireland Galway Quadrangle Building 77370622 Small
What's Included

We invite you to study abroad with API in Galway, the "Cultural Capital of Ireland," which has also been voted the friendliest city in Europe by Condé Nast magazine. This ecologically focused program offers practical experience within the natural environment in the west of Ireland. Designed to help students develop skills to evaluate sustainable use and conservation of Ireland’s ecological resources, this unique program is ideal for anyone looking to learn more about ecology and critical environmental issues.

Deepen your understanding of ecology, earn valuable academic credit, experience the warm and inviting hospitality of the Irish people, and explore the incredible natural beauty of western Ireland!

What's Included?

Highlights

Pre Departure Services

Advising

APIConnect Platform

Orientation Materials and Resources

Access to International Phone Plans

API Alumni Network

Social Networking

Scholarships

On Site Services

Airport Reception

On-Site Orientation

Housing

Tuition

Medical and Life Insurance

Excursions

Resident Directors

Social and Cultural Activities

Welcome and Farewell Group Meals

Volunteer Opportunities

Re-Entry Services

Re-Entry Materials and Support

Post-Program Evaluation

Transcript

Alumni Network and API Ambassador Program
View all opportunities and amenities

Application Requirements

  • Minimum 3.0 G.P.A.
  • Open to juniors and seniors
  • Open to students with previous coursework in ecology, environmental science, geography, botany, zoology, natural history, or natural heritage
  • Completed API application
  • University Approval Form
  • Official transcript
  • Copy of passport/birth certificate
  • Passport-sized photo
  • Entry requirements: valid passport with supporting documents
Dates & Fees
Session Program Dates Program Cost Application Deadline Extended Application Deadline Payment Deadline
Summer 1 Jun 17, 2023 - Jul 11, 2023 $6,900 Apr 28, 2023 No Extension May 28, 2023
Excursions

API students participate in excursions designed to help familiarize them with the culture and surrounding areas of their host city and country. The following is a listing of potential excursions for API Galway programs. API may need to modify the excursions offered in a given term due to travel restrictions or health and safety concerns.

  • The Burren

    The Burren, or “Great Rock”, is one of the largest karst landscapes in Europe and rich with historical and archaeological sites. There are more than 90 megalithic tombs in the area, portal dolmens, a Celtic high cross in the village of Kilfenora, and a number of ring forts. The Burren is renowned for its remarkable assemblage of plants and animals. The region supports many rare Irish species, some of which are only found in this area. This area also has a long history of traditional Irish music.

    This excursion is offered by University of Galway and is may be subject to change. Additional field trips may be available depending on courses chosen.

  • Limerick City & King John's Castle

    Students will get to enjoy the Medieval city of Limerick where we will sample the local cuisine at the Limerick Milk Market. The market has been selling food and goods since 1852 and is the heart of the city. Then we will explore the city centre by taking part in a walking tour full of Limerick’s medieval history. Our last stop will be one of Europe's best preserved Norman castles, King John’s castle. Students will get to explore the outdoor courtyard within the castle walls to get a sense of the activity that took place here many years ago!

    This is an API-led excursion and will be accompanied by additional group cultural activities and events.

Program Details

What You’ll Study

TOTAL CREDITS - 6 US credits

This program offers students practical experience of the natural environment in the west of Ireland. It provides students with survey skills to identify natural resources and develops their skills to evaluate the sustainable use and conservation of Ireland’s ecological resources.

County Galway, on Ireland’s Atlantic West Coast, is a land of contrasts. Influenced by its oceanic climate, glacial history, hydrology, geology and human habitation, it has developed a variety of beautiful landscapes with unique and fascinating habitats and species. From the fertile rocks of the Burren karst limestone to the raised bogs of the Midlands, the sheer cliffs of the Aran Islands to the salt marshes of Galway Bay, there is a wealth of natural history to explore.

TRANSCRIPTS

API students will receive their transcript from the University of Galway upon completion of their program.

  • Kelly Kennedy

    Kelly Kennedy

    Kelly Kennedy will be your Program Coordinator and will help prepare you for your API program!

    (she/her/hers)

  • RD picture

    Jessica McNamara

    Jessica will be your on-site Resident Director and will be a resource for you while you are in Ireland!
    (she/her/hers)

Courses
Click Here to Find Classes

COURSE OFFERINGS

This summer school course is designed to encourage a multi-disciplinary approach to study ecology, by looking at all aspects of how these habitats are created and maintained through natural processes and anthropogenic activity. It will also consider conservation and sustainability issues and how a sound understanding of these ecological processes is used to combat the challenges facing the environment.

Courses at University of Galway (Summer Ecology of Ireland)

For the most up-to-date course availability on this program, explore our Class Finder. Sort courses by term, area of study, and more!

Click here to find courses, syllabi, and more!

Highlights
  • Ecology fieldwork in Irish countryside
  • Special scholarships available through IIE (contact Program Manager)
  • University of Galway is ranked among the top 1 percent of universities worldwide
Housing

API students live in student accommodations located on the university campus. Apartments generally consist of 3-4 bedrooms (single and double occupancy), and a shared living area, kitchen, and bathrooms. Students will live alongside American and other international students. It is common for apartments to be co-ed.

Meals are not included in these housing options.

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