Undergraduate Studies

Founded in 1998, the undergraduate study abroad programme at the Keough Naughton Centre has seen almost 1000 students pass through its doors. One of Notre Dame’s most competitive programmes, the Keough Naughton Centre welcomes students from all disciplines. Students study at several of Ireland’s top universities, including Trinity College, Dublin; University College, Dublin; and the National College of Art and Design.

As international students, Notre Dame undergrads integrate themselves into their new universities, living and studying with their Irish classmates. Students remain connected with their Notre Dame classmates through courses at O’Connell House, where they learn about Ireland’s historical, philosophical, theological, and literary heritage. As part of their coursework they spend two weekends a semester learning ‘through the soles of their feet’ on programme trips to Giants Causeway, the Burren, the Aran Islands, the Northern Ireland Assembly, and other destinations throughout the country.

Beyond academics, the students involve themselves in various clubs and societies at Trinity and UCD, playing on sports teams and joining debate societies. Students also volunteer throughout Dublin by coaching basketball, working as tutors for unaccompanied minors, and visiting with the elderly. In 2008 a new community based learning aspect was added to the Introduction to Ireland course. This allows students to incorporate their service work into their research on modern day Ireland.