Bachelor of Arts in European Studies

Why study European Studies at UL?

European Studies in the University of Limerick is a broad and integrated world-class programme. It allows students an in-depth opportunity to study European languages and policy and equips them with highly sought-after digital and research skills. It is also the only European Studies programme in Ireland which includes Irish as one of its language options.

Brexit means more direct interaction with the EU and with individual member states on the continent. A better knowledge of the European Union, and Ireland’s place within it, is more needed than ever before. An understanding of Europe requires knowledge of its historical origins, of its economic, legal and societal aspects, and of its political institutions. The BA in European Studies develops knowledge and understanding of all of these areas linking them with knowledge of the cultures and languages of key member states. The University of Limerick has long led the way in Ireland in this field, with the result that this degree is one of the longest established European Studies degree programmes in Europe.

About you

There is no ‘typical’ European Studies student. The main qualities that you need for success in the field are;

• A healthy curiosity about how modern societies function
• An interest in the European Union, and the issues facing the Union and its member states
• a taste for languages other than your own
• An interest in developing digital and research skills
• An interest in working in teams and working independently
• an interest in other cultures and
• an ability to think independently and argue coherently for your ideas.

Neither do you have to know what you want to ‘be’ when you leave college in order to choose European Studies. The degree offers a very broad entrance into the worlds of Humanities, Languages and Social Sciences.

Jean Monnet European Studies Entrance Bursary

Students of the BA European Studies are eligible for the Jean Monnet European Studies Entrance Bursary. The Bursary to the value of €2,000 is awarded annually to an incoming student on this programme who achieves the highest CAO points.

Employability skills from this degree

• Gathering, assessing, and interpreting information
• Leading and participating in discussions and groups
• Developing opinions and proposing ideas
• Reading text to pick out the essential points
• Digital skills in research, communication and analysis
• Adapting to new and changing surroundings
• Working in teams and independently
• Verbal and written communication
• Organisation and working to deadlines
• Negotiation and management