A University of Limerick initiative that values lifelong learning, inclusion, and engagement for older adults.
Welcome to the UL Age Friendly University
Overview
This initiative reflects the University’s commitment to inclusive education and lifelong learning, offering older adults a chance to explore new interests, engage with academic ideas, and connect with peers in a vibrant university setting. Whether pursuing a long-held passion or simply curious to learn something new, participants will benefit from a rich learning environment without the pressure of formal assessment. With access to campus resources and support services, students can fully immerse themselves in the university experience, fostering intellectual stimulation, personal growth, and a renewed sense of community.
It is specially designed for older adults who are retired and/or consider themselves to be in the ‘third age’ — a post-career phase of life focused on personal enrichment and lifelong learning. Open to individuals without any prior formal qualifications, the initiative offers a unique opportunity to engage in university-level study in a supportive and flexible environment together with undergraduate students. All modules are integral parts of UL's regular undergraduate and post-graduate programmes.
Participants may enrol in one module per semester; places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. We encourage you to apply for more than one module in case you do not get your first choice. Participation in assessments is optional. Regular attendance and engagement with course materials are expected, and students will enjoy full access to university facilities, including the library and sports amenities.
The modules offered are NFQ Level 8 and 9 undergraduate and postgraduate modules. They require no prior knowledge of the subject matter.
All modules are delivered in-person, on-campus. Students will require access to a smart and/or personal computer. The modules typically consist of three hours per week with a combination of lectures and practical, interactive tutorials, but this can vary from case to case.
Upon completion, a certificate of attendance will be awarded to those who participate consistently.
Below you will find more detailed information, provided by the lecturers, on each of the modules offered.
What will you study?
Please see the list of modules that will be running in January 2027
Applications are now open
Arts, Film & Design
| Module code | Module name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| AR4032 | History and Theory of Architecture 2 | Bauhaus and beyond: A series of weekly lectures provides a focused survey of buildings for architectural education throughout the twentieth century. This particular programme has challenged the respective architects to formulate their theoretical position more clearly than any other programme or budling type. These select buildings are discussed within their specific historical and theoretical contexts. |
| CU4026 | Introduction to Film Studies | This module aims to introduce the student to film studies as an academic discipline and above all, to inculcate and nurture a love of cinema and appreciate its role as an academic tool. The course introduces student to various cinematic genres e.g. Italian neo-realism, French new wave and aims to enable student to analyse and interpret a film in an academic setting by the end of the module. |
| CU4018 | History of European Cinema II | This module looks at cinema produced in Europe since the 1960s onwards, with specific emphasis on films produced in the 21st century. Lectures consider new trends in visual representation and avant-garde aesthetics, but they also explore the connections between selected films and the European societies in which they were produced. This approach pays attention to political, ideological, and cultural issues. No prior knowledge of cinema or history is required. Sessions are structured into lectures and seminars in which we closely discuss specific scenes from a selected corpus of films produced in a wide range of European countries. |
Health, Psychology & Wellbeing
| Module code | Module name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| EN4052 | Understanding Young People and How They Learn | What shapes the way children and young people think, grow and learn? Explore the psychology behind learning, motivation and development, and discover the many factors that influence young people's experiences. Gain fresh insights into how young minds develop and the different ways we can understand and support their learning journeys. |
History & Heritage
| Module code | Module name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| HI4066 | Absolutes and Revolutionaries: Europe in the Age of Enlightenment, 1688-1815 | Travel back to an age of revolutionary ideas, powerful monarchs and extraordinary change. Explore how new thinking about freedom, equality and government challenged Europe's established order. From the Enlightenment to the French Revolution and Napoleon, discover the people and events that helped shape the modern world. |
| HI4142 | Games of Thrones: Gender, Power and Identity, Ireland and the Wider World, 1500-1950 | The module examines conflict, power and identity in Ireland, Europe and the wider world in the early modern and modern periods. Its purpose is to examine power and conflict in past societies, and the impact violence and unrest had for men and women, families, localities, states and continents. The module will introduce students to key concepts including gender, representations of power and identity. |
| HI4158 | Culture and Anarchy: Ireland in the Twentieth Century | This module charts the history of Ireland from the Gaelic Revival years, through to the establishment of a Free State within the British Empire, to the emergence of a republic, and up to the signing of the Northern Ireland peace agreements of the 1990s. |
Languages
| Module code | Module name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| BR4911 | Broadening: Beginners French | Discover the beauty of the French language in this introduction to everyday communication. Explore useful words, phrases and simple conversations while learning more about French language and culture. Whether you're dreaming of a trip to France or simply looking for a new interest, enjoy taking your first steps in French. |
| BR4921 | Broadening: Beginners German | German might be known as the language of Mozart, Goethe and Beethoven but it is also the most widely spoken native language in the European Union. It is an official language in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and beyond. What’s more, German is fun and not as difficult as you might think with many words related to English. The interactive classes focus on developing basic communication skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing), as well as giving an insight into cultural aspects of the German speaking regions. It is targeted at those who have not studied German previously. |
| BR4901 | Broadening: Beginners Japanese | Discover the language and culture of Japan in this introduction to Japanese. Explore everyday expressions, basic communication and the foundations of the Japanese language while gaining an appreciation of its rich cultural traditions. Whether inspired by travel, culture or curiosity, enjoy the experience of learning something completely new. |
Literature
| Module code | Module name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| EH4022 | Early Modern Poetry and Plays | Discover the drama, passion and creativity of early modern English literature. Explore the poetry and plays that captured the imagination of audiences centuries ago, uncovering timeless themes of love, ambition, power and human nature. Gain a fresh appreciation for the writers and works that continue to influence literature and theatre today |
| EH4046 | Introduction to Medieval Literature | Step back in time and discover the stories, legends and writings of medieval England. Explore a fascinating world of heroes, beliefs, traditions and changing societies through Old and Middle English literature. Gain an appreciation of how these early works helped shape the English language and storytelling traditions we know today. |
| GA4134 | LITRÍOCHT AGUS SAÍOCHT 2: 1940 I LEITH | Discover the richness of Irish-language literature and culture from 1940 to the present day. Explore the writers, stories and themes that reflect Ireland's changing society, identity and traditions. Gain a fresh appreciation for the creativity and cultural heritage of the Irish language and how it continues to capture and reflect life in modern Ireland. |
| CU4006 | Travel Literature | Exploring the Unknown – this module maps the genre of travel literature, giving a background to its origins as well as following developments up to the present day by examining different forms of travel literature such as Dervla Murphy’s A Place Apart and James Cameron’s Avatar. Analysing questions of identity, cross-cultural awareness and language as a communication tool, this module begins at home with varying experiences on the island of Ireland before going further afield to explore many different genres of travel literature including satire and science fiction to name but a few. |
Music, Dance & Performing Arts
| Module code | Module name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| MU4002 | Critical Encounters with Popular Music and Dance Studies | Most of us have soundtrack to our lives – popular songs and dances that emplace us and are part of our sense of self or group identity. Some critics argue that the pop music/dance industries exist primarily to sell us things and to keep the status quo. This class explores how popular music and dance outputs may be understood as sites of critical engagement, creative agency, and social transformation, even as we acknowledge the passive and nostalgic nature of some of our consumption practices. |
| MU4136 | Irish Traditional Music 2 | Immerse yourself in the rich sounds and traditions of Irish music. Explore the history, cultural significance and evolving styles of traditional Irish music, from its roots in local communities to its influence around the world. Discover the musicians, instruments and traditions that have helped keep Ireland's musical heritage alive. Please note, students will need to learn an instrument or dance (beginner level). |
Society, Culture & Geography
| Module code | Module name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| GY4012 | Migration, Mobility and Place | Migration, the movement of people between places, is an intrinsically geographical process. Through a range of Irish and international examples the module explores why people move, how movement impacts on places of origin and destination and how migration and mobility can shape our sense of identity, belonging and connection to place. |
| SO4088 | Sociology of Globalisation | Ever wondered how events on the other side of the world influence our everyday lives? Explore the forces connecting people, cultures and economies across the globe. Discover how globalisation shapes everything from work and technology to culture and identity, and consider its opportunities and challenges for communities worldwide. |
Applications for Spring 2027 are now open
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Apply
Step 1: Choose the Module
Browse the list above and select the module you wish to apply for.
Note the specific module code (e.g., GY4051) — you’ll need this later.
Step 2: Start Your Application
Click Apply Now
If you're a first-time applicant
Click “New User” to create your account.
Choose a strong password (include uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols).
You’ll see a checkbox next to a Privacy Notice - check this box
Click CREATE USER to continue.
You’ll be redirected to the Application Page and receive an Account Creation Email. Check your email inbox.
If you encounter issues, try using a browser other than Google Chrome.
If you have issues with your online application, please contact us
If you are an “Existing User”, click Log In
Use your email address and password to log in.
Step 3: Complete Your Application
Enter the Module Code for your chosen course — this is required.
You can apply for more than one module, but will only be offered one per semester, based on availability.
Fill in each section of the form. A check mark will appear when a section is complete.
Step 4: Submit
Click SUBMIT to finish your application.
What Happens Next?
You will receive Submission Confirmation by email1.
Your application will be reviewed by our Admissions Team.
If successful, you will receive an offer letter by email typically within 1 week– this will include instructions of how to accept your offer with a link to our Acceptance Form
The fee is €100, payable upon acceptance. The payment instructions below will be included in your offer letter.
How to pay:
The University of Limerick operates an automated telephone payment system for the processing of payments. The amount that you are required to pay is outlined above.
To pay, please call +353-61-529097, and you will be asked for:
Application Number (indicated at the top of your offer letter)
Date of Birth
Bank Card Details
On approval of payment, you will be given a payment confirmation number which you should note and provide when accepting your offer.
You will receive an Acceptance Fee Receipt by email.
Click the link below to view screenshots of the Application Form. These visuals can assist in understanding the structure and content required when completing the form.
Fee Information
€100 per module.
Further information on fees and payment of fees is available from the Student Fees Office website. All fee related queries should be directed to the Student Fees Office (Phone: +353 61 213 007 or email student.fees.office@ul.ie.)
Common Questions
Application Queries
How do I know if my application was submitted successfully?
All applications completed will receive a Submission Confirmation email. If you have not received this, then your application is incomplete. Check your inbox (and spam folder) as you may have received an Application Reminder email prompting you towards completion.
I am having issues submitting my online application, who do I contact?
If you experience any issue when submitting your application online, please contact us to assist.
What is my Application Number?
You will be assigned an Application Number (Student ID number) when you are made an offer. This is an important number as you will need it to accept the offer.
How many modules can I apply for?
The online form allows for up to three modules to be entered, but we recommend that to get the most out of the learning experience to apply for one module at a time. If capacity is exceeded before your application is processed, we will contact you to ask you if you would like to apply for another module.
What technology will I need to complete my application?
After you have accepted your offer, you will need to activate and authenticate your student account. For this, you will need access to a smart phone.
I have accepted an offer on a module but now cannot attend due to medical reasons. What can I do?
We appreciate that this scenario may occur. If it does, please contact us via https://www.ul.ie/gps/contact for advice of how to withdraw your accepted place.
Will I receive a Student Card?
Yes, you have the option to request a Student ID Card when you are activating your Student Account. Instructions of how to request a Student ID Card will be emailed to you once you are a registered student.
Module Queries
When will the module be running?
Module timetables are confirmed 1-2 weeks before start of studies, though they don’t vary too much from year to year. These timetables are available here UL Timetable. If you have a specific query regarding the schedule, please contact the academic point of contact Email: Maria.Hickey@ul.ie
What technology will be required for my studies?
UL uses the virtual learning environment, Brightspace, to support face to face teaching and learning. You will require either a smart phone or laptop to engage with Brightspace….
Can I change my module after it has started?
Changing modules is not permitted due to the limited availability per module. We would ask that you only apply for a module if you plan to attend.
Do I have to do exams?
No. While we encourage you to participate in all the learning activities and tasks, you are not required to complete the assessment associated with the module. If you are interested in completed accredited forms of learning, have a browse of our [micro-credential listings] here https://www.ul.ie/gps/microcredential-topics.
Will I be studying alongside undergraduate students?
Yes, participants join regular undergraduate classes and benefit from the same academic environment.
What is the format of the classes?
Modules typically involve three hours per week, combining lectures and interactive tutorials.
Do I need prior knowledge of the subject?
No prior knowledge is required for any of the modules.
- Are the modules delivered online or in-person?
All modules are delivered in-person, on-campus at UL.
- How are places allocated?
Places are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with only limited places available on each module.
- What campus facilities can I access?
Participants have full access to library services, sports amenities, and other campus resources.
Guide to Information Technology (IT) Services
Getting Started with Information Technology at UL – Help is Here!
Whether you're 18 or 88, getting set up with technology at UL should be simple and stress-free. The New Students IT webpage is your go-to-guide for getting started with your student account, email and Wi-Fi.
It walks you through the first steps like:
- Activating your student account (see First steps to computing in UL)
- Setting up your email (see Email access)
- Connecting to Wi-Fi
- Accessing Brightspace, Office 365, and other learning tools
You’ll also find links to video guides on the ITD YouTube channel (@ITD_UL) videos like How to Set up the Authenticator App .
Need Help?
If you ever get stuck or need help, we are here to assist you:
- Online Help
Visit Topdesk to find answers to common IT questions. You can search for help without needing to log a support request. - In-Person Support
Drop by the ITD Service Desk on the ground floor of the Glucksman Library. Staff are available:- Monday to Friday: 9am–9pm (during term)
- Saturday: 10am–2pm (during term)
- Outside term: Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm
- Email Support
You can also email: service.desk@ul.ie
Are there opportunities to connect with other AFU learners outside of the classroom?
Yes! The Age Friendly University initiative is about more than learning. It's also about building connections, sharing interests and being part of a welcoming community.
As part of our AFU community, we run a weekly book club where learners can come together to discuss books, share perspectives and enjoy lively conversations in a relaxed, friendly setting.
The book club is open to current AFU learners. If you'd like to get involved or find out more, please contact Maria for further details.
Previous Module Offerings
Spring 2026
Arts, Culture and Humanities
| Module code | Module name | Refined description | Hours* |
|---|---|---|---|
| CU4011 | Crime Fiction and Critical Memory | Explore crime fiction from around the world and examine how stories, literature and film help us understand memory, identity and society. | 3 hours in total: 2 hour lecture, 1 hour tutorial |
| EH4073 | Drama: Medieval and Early Modern | Explore theatre and dramatic literature from the medieval and early modern worlds, while gaining insight into the culture and society of the time. | 3 hours in total: 2 hour lecture, 1 hour tutorial |
| AR4031 | History and Theory of Architecture 1 | Explore the history of Irish architecture through famous buildings, historical landmarks and the stories behind their design and development. | 2 hour lecture plus consultations and skills workshops, TBC |
| CU4037 | History of European Cinema | Explore the rich history of European cinema through classic films, influential directors and changing cultural trends across Europe. | 3 hours in total: 3 hour lecture |
| GA4105 | Irish Folklore 1 | Discover Ireland’s rich folklore traditions through stories, customs, beliefs and oral traditions that have shaped Irish culture and identity. | 3 hours in total: 2 hour lecture, 1 hour tutorial |
| MU5611 | Irish Traditional Music Practicum | An enjoyable introduction to Irish traditional music, with opportunities to explore performance, creativity and musical expression in a welcoming environment. | TBC |
| HI4063 | Nasty, Brutish and Short? Early Modern Europe, c.1450–1700 | Journey through the dramatic social, political and cultural changes that shaped Europe between the Renaissance and the modern world. | 3 hours in total: 2 hour lecture, 1 hour tutorial |
| HI4083 | Making Ireland British? Early Modern Ireland, 1536–1750 | Explore a period of Irish history marked by conflict, change, identity and the shaping of modern Ireland. | 3 hours in total: 2 hour lecture, 1 hour tutorial |
| HI4071 | Doing History: Past, Present and Practice | An introduction to how historians explore, interpret and present the past through discussion, research and practical activities. | 3 hours in total: 2 hour lecture, 1 hour tutorial |
| HI4247 | Empires, Nations and Union: Europe, 1848–1992 | Discover the major events, movements and cultural changes that transformed Europe from the nineteenth century to the modern era. | 3 hours in total: 2 hour lecture, 1 hour tutorial |
Languages and International Culture
| Module code | Module name | Refined description | Hours* |
|---|---|---|---|
| JA4001 | Introduction to Japanese Culture and Society | Discover Japanese culture, traditions, food, society and contemporary life through interactive and engaging learning activities. | 3 hours in total: 1 hour lecture, 1 hour tutorial, 1 hour lab |
| BR4931 | Introduction to Spanish Language and Culture | A beginner’s introduction to Spanish language and culture, with a focus on simple conversation, everyday communication and cultural discovery. | 3 hours in total: 1 hour lab, 2 hour tutorial |
| BR4022 | The European Union: Broadening the Perspective | Learn about the history, culture and future of the European Union while discussing important topics such as climate change, migration and Brexit. | 2 hours in total: 2 hour lecture |
Politics, Society and Global Affairs
| Module code | Module name | Refined description | Hours* |
|---|---|---|---|
| SO4056 | Hate Crime: Roots, Realities and Redress | Explore the social causes and impact of hate crime, and examine how communities, education and the law can respond to prejudice and discrimination in society. | 2 hours in total: 2 hour lecture |
| EC4437 | International Political Economy | Examine how politics, economics and global events influence the world around us, from trade and finance to international power and policy. | 2 hours in total: 2 hour lecture |
| PO4018 | International Relations | Examine the key issues shaping world politics, international cooperation and global affairs in today’s interconnected world. | 3 hours in total: 2 hour lecture, 1 hour tutorial |
| SO6081 | State and Society: Political Sociology in Action | Explore how politics, society and public life influence one another, from government and citizenship to social movements and global change. | 3 hours in total: 3 hour lecture |
Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences
| Module code | Module name | Refined description | Hours* |
|---|---|---|---|
| GY4001 | Introduction to Human Geography | Explore how people, places and societies are shaped by themes such as migration, community, cities, rural life and culture through Irish and global examples. | 3 hours in total: 2 hour lecture, 1 hour tutorial |
| GY4051 | Earth Science and Society | Discover how the Earth’s landscapes, geology and natural resources have shaped Ireland, society and everyday life through time. | 3 hours in total: 1 hour lecture, 2 hours lab |
Health, Wellbeing and Public Health
| Module code | Module name | Refined description | Hours* |
|---|---|---|---|
| BM6041** | Public Health Interventions | Discover how public health programmes and community initiatives are designed to improve health and wellbeing in society. | 7 hours in total: 3 hour lecture, 4 hours tutorial |
| FT4214 | Public Health Nutrition | Learn how nutrition, lifestyle and public health influence wellbeing, with discussion of topics such as heart health, diabetes and healthy ageing. | 3 hours in total: 1 hour lab, 2 hour tutorial |
Business, Work and Leadership
| Module code | Module name | Refined description | Hours* |
|---|---|---|---|
| PM6401** | Contemporary Human Resource Management and Sustainable Work | Explore how the world of work is changing and how workplaces are adapting to support wellbeing, inclusion and sustainable careers. | 3 hours in total: 3 hour lecture |
For all queries, please contact
Name: Maria Hickey
Email: Maria.Hickey@ul.ie
Name: Michaela Schrage-Frueh
Email: Michaela.SchrageFrueh@ul.ie
