The University of Limerick is in Limerick, Ireland. It was founded in 1972 as the National Institute for Higher Education, Limerick, it became a 4-year university in 1989 and it was the first university established since Irish independence in 1922. The University of Limerick has over 16,500 students and ~1,700 staff.
Their mission is “to build on the expertise of our scholars in creating, harnessing and imparting knowledge for the benefit of our students and the enrichment of their community. The students and their future impact on society is at the heart of all they do.”
The campus has unrivalled sports and cultural facilities including:
- Ireland’s first Olympic-size swimming pool,
- Ireland’s largest indoor sports arena,
- Europe’s largest all-weather sports complex (supposedly)
- Ireland’s only indoor rowing tank, which can accommodate up to 8 rowers, (The tank
can simulate a variety of water conditions, providing training opportunities for rowers to reach international standards. The building also includes a launch jetty into the Shannon, a pontoon and a café.) - 1,100-seat University Concert Hall,
- Irish Chamber Orchestra Building,
- Irish World Academy and outdoor sculptures,
- National Self-Portrait Collection of Ireland and
- Water Colour Society of Ireland Collection,
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the pedestrian Living Bridge, with its light, undulating profile, is a connecting link between the university grounds on either side of the River Shannon.
The U. of Limerick Student Union (ULSU) Ents organizes entertainment for students throughout the year with most take place during Freshers Week and Charity Week.
The university is ranked fourth in attracting students who attain over 500 points on the Leaving Certificate (the final exam of the Irish secondary school system and the university matriculation examination in Ireland.) It is the only college in Ireland to receive a maximum five stars for its sports facilities. It is also Ireland’s only university to receive five stars for graduate employability and teaching. The school also received five stars for infrastructure, internationalization, innovation and engagement.
The University of Limerick’s notable alumni include many of the world’s best hurlers. 
Evidently, this is a sport mainly in Ireland and described as the fastest game on grass.
The University’s core values are:
› Creative and Innovative – Shape the future by looking at things differently to others. Appreciating risks but trusting our judgement.
› Inclusive and Diverse – Welcoming all. Rooted in Europe but global in reach.
› Ethical and Sustainable – Doing the right things, in the right way, for the right reasons. Tackling national and global challenges, and supporting sustainable goals.
› Supportive and Transformational – Empowering our students and staff to lead.
› Ambitious and Driven – Working with all to push the boundaries of knowledge.
Their Strategic Plan is impressive.
Deep Thoughts on Higher Ed 