THE University of Limerick has today announced a change in entrance criteria to a large number of Arts, Humanities and Social Science degree programmes, which will greatly increase access to university education. As of 2013, holders of a number of FETAC awards will be able to apply directly via CAO to study a degree programme in Arts, Humanities and Social Science at the University of Limerick.
While selection criteria will still apply, the move will allow up to 75 students with FETAC awards a chance of further study in the University of Limerick to degree level. 
Professor Tom Lodge, Dean, Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Science at the University of Limerick said the move was aimed at opening up access to third level education in Ireland. “The traditional student is changing, and the University of Limerick has always been at the forefront of change. This move is the first substantial move by any University in the country to embrace non-traditional students in such an innovative way. We are delighted to be able to open up our undergraduate programmes to FETAC award holders.  This is a major step forward in recognising that some students may require a second chance.”

Up to 75 students with FETAC awards will be able to take a university degree at UL from next year in programmes in the arts, humanities and social sciences including Arts (Joint Honours); History, Politics, Sociology and Social Studies and Journalism among others.  The University already accepts students with FETAC awards on its nursing and general business studies programmes.
The University of Limerick, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, is Ireland’s youngest university. Despite the challenging environment, UL's graduate employment rate has continued to rise and our 2011 figure for primary degree-holders is now 16 per cent higher than the HEA’s most recently-available national average figure, which is 46 per cent for 2010. A survey of UL’s 2011 graduates showed 88 per cent are either employed or pursuing further study.
For further information : www.artsoc.ul.ie
www.ul.ie/courses/FETAC